Three buses attack
unathi.obose@novusmedia co.za
At least 11 people were injured in three separate incidents following attacks on three Golden Arrow buses on Govan Mbeki Road between Philippi and Gugulethu on Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 July.
Bronwen Dyke-Beyer, spokesperson for Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS), said eight people were injured on Monday during two separate petrol bombing attacks. One bus was completely destroyed According to Dyke-Beyer attackers did not stop there and attempted again on Tuesday.
“Golden Arrow can confirm a failed petrol bombing on Tuesday 22 July in which three passengers were injured Injured passengers were transported to medical facilities. The motive is unknown at this stage
Each step feeds a child
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
“No child should have to choose between learning and hunger.”
So said Cheraldine Vanacore,
a Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk participant for over 10 years. The annual Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk is an initiative by the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), a 67-year-old non-profit organisation that aims to address hunger among learners.
It provides daily nutritious meals to learners in over 100 schools in the province
For Vanacore child hunger is a topic that lies close to her heart as she comes from a disadvantaged background. For her, taking part in the event is a way of giving back.
“This is personal to me I come from a background where I didn’t have much. It was exciting for me to go to school and to get a meal Taking part in the walk is a reminder to me that I can make a difference in a small way.”
Vanacore said she cannot wait for this year’s Blisters for Bread, which returns to the Green Point Common Sports Ground
on Sunday 31 August.
“I am looking forward to completing the walk again this year. I wish there were more organisations doing initiatives like this. It’s a reminder that hunger is real. I know how it feels to have nothing.”
Online entries are now open, and participation is limited to 8 000 walkers Registration closes at midnight on Sunday 17 August.
Every participant will be presented with a commemorative medal as a token of PSFA’s appreciation for taking part in this meaningful cause.
In addition, thanks to the generous support of its hydration partner, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, complimentary refreshments will be available to all walkers, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and energised throughout the day.
The Green Point Common Sports Ground will come alive with live music performances from Cape Town’s top local artists, family-friendly entertainment, food stalls and loads of activities for kids and grownups alike.
Petrina Pakoe, director of PSFA, said Blisters for Bread is more than just an event but a “heartfelt movement” Every Rand raised and every kilometre walked helps us ensure that no child has to learn on an empty stomach. We invite everyone – young and old – to walk with purpose and be part of this extraordinary cause.”
Measlesthreatlooms—getvaccinatednow
As measles cases surge in parts of the country health experts are urging residents to check their vaccination status and ensure their children are protected.
A current outbreak, although concentrated in Gauteng where 181 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported between January and mid-June, has induced public-health professionals to warn that under-vaccinated communities in the Western Cape remain vulnerable
Vaccinationkeytostoppingmeasles
Professor Talitha Crowley, a public-health expert and head of the academic division of the University of the Western Cape’s School of Nursing, said the best way to prevent measles from spreading is through high vaccination coverage
“To stop a measles outbreak we need 95% of the community vaccinated,” she explained. “Right now too many children in some parts of the country are going unvaccinated, and that’s dangerous.”
Understandingmeasles
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to medicine. It spreads through the air when an infect-
ed person coughs or sneezes and can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
The disease starts with symptoms such as fever, cough, a runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a red rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the person’s body
By the time the rash appears the person is already at the most contagious stage
“Measles can cause serious complications, especially in babies, malnourished children and people with weak immune systems,” said Crowley.
“These include pneumonia, diarrhoea, blindness, brain inflammation and even death.”
The good news, according to Crowley, is that the Cape Metropole increased its under-5-years-old immunisation coverage to 90% early this year. This was achieved through targeted catch-up campaigns in clinics and schools.
However, she cautioned that no community is completely safe until everyone is covered.
“Even one unvaccinated child in a class can lead to an outbreak.”
“We need to keep those numbers up and
reach the last 5 to 10% of families who may have missed a dose.”
Vaccination against measles is free at all public clinics and hospitals in Cape Town as part of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). Routine measles vaccines are given at 6 months and 12 months. Public-vaccination sites include City health clinics and district hospitals like Khayelitsha District Hospital, Mitchell’s Plain and Karl Bremer.
Vaccinesworkandsavelives
“Just one dose of the measles vaccine gives around 93% protection,” Crowley said “Two doses increase this to about 97%.”
While rare, vaccinated individuals can still get measles their symptoms are usually mild and far less contagious
With school holidays and winter illnesses on the rise, the public is being urged to stay alert.
“Measles is preventable. If we all do our part, Cape Town can avoid the suffering we're seeing elsewhere.”
For information on your nearest clinic, call 0800 923 922 or visit www.westerncape. gov.za/facilities.
Weoftenspendtoescape...notsolvescarcity
July is National Savings Month, a time when we are encouraged to reflect on our spending, tuck away extra rands, and develop better financial habits. But for many South Africans, the relationship with money is not just a matter of budgeting apps and side hustles. It’s personal. Emotional. Generational. And for some of us, it’s deeply painful
I'm a young adult, and lately, I’ve been taking stock of my life, including how I manage money. Some mornings I wake up proud of how far I’ve come. Other days, I’m haunted by financial decisions I regret, the times I borrowed to maintain appearances, gave when I didn’t have, or signed up for accounts I didn’t fully understand. And when I trace the roots of my money story, I realise, though my dad bought me a cash box that I didn't really use, or took out a R1 from it just to buy a packet of chips koo my friend I didn’t learn about money, I learned by watching my parents survive.
I'd stand with my mother in long queues, holding our place at a furniture store while she paid off what felt like never-ending instalments. She’d leave with little more than a stamped receipt and the worry of next month’s bill. My father, on the other hand, often believed in luxury often citing "its quality ntombam" even when it meant
going without. Their intentions were always good. But as a child, I internalised that money was stressful, unpredictable, and not something you talked about openly, unless you were desperate I’m not alone. Research shows that many South Africans carry emotional baggage around money. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority’s (FSCA) financial literacy baseline study revealed that only 38% of South Africans demonstrate basic financial knowledge, and just 49% of adults regularly track their expenses. And then there's the cultural pressure. In many of our households we are often the first generation with degrees, jobs in formal sectors, and access to credit. With that comes the expectation, sometimes unspoken, sometimes loud, to support extended family, help build back
what was denied to generations before us, and show signs of “making it.” But at what cost?
You spend your last few hundred Rand on takeaways or clothes, not because you needed them, but because you wanted to feel good, or more honestly, to look like you are doing okay. I’ve come to learn that this, too, is part of the psychology of money, when we haven’t healed from scarcity, we often spend to escape it, not solve it. We also inherit habits If your parents never saved because they couldn’t, you may struggle to understand how. If you never saw them budget, you might think it's something only “privileged” people do. There’s no shame in starting a small, quiet act of rebellion against everything you fear about money Start having honest conversations with friends, not just about income, but about debt, anxiety, and how we’re all trying to stay afloat.
We don’t talk about it enough, but the data shows the struggle is widespread I am learning to see money not as a source of shame, but as a tool. For peace of mind. For freedom. For choice
Money isn’t everything But it shapes everything, how we live, how we feel, and what we pass on Let’s choose to pass on better.
Namhla Monakali
Cheraldene Vanacore (front left) has been doing the Blisters for Bread Charity Fun Walk for over 10 years PHOTO: PRO ALLIANCE PHOTOGRAPHIC
FROMPAGE1
Domingo urged the government to dispatch more law enforcement officers to monitor the situation.
"It is unfortunate for the Golden Arrow to be targeted even though it has nothing to do with whatever was happening in that area. The worst part is that it is our people who are the victims. If Golden Arrow suspends its service on that route, our people will be affected. And most people who are using public transport are the working class."
Domingo urged the perpetrators to find a better way to resolve their problems.
Langa school gets makeover
UNATHIOBOSE
ix classrooms at Isilimela Secondary School in Langa got a facelift on Friday 18 Jul thanks to the South Afri
Golden Arrow bus set alight at Govan Mbeki Road near Gugulethu PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Create healthy financial habits
NAMHLAMONAKALI
As the cost of living continues to climb South Africans are being urged to take stock of their financial habits, particularly during July, National Savings Month.
Run annually by the South African Savings Institute (Sasi), the campaign aims to promote a culture of saving and long-term financial planning, particularly in lowerand middle-income communities where debt and unemployment remain high. This year focuses on small, but consistent actions that can improve household financial resilience.
Experts say that even modest savings can protect families during emergencies, reduce reliance on credit and help break intergenerational cycles of poverty
According to recent data from Statistics South Africa the personal savings rate in the country remains worryingly low, with many people spending more than they earn and struggling with high levels of consumer debt. Speaking to People’s Post, Gerald
Mwandiambira, Interim chief executive officer of Sasi and a financial wellness coach, said the message of National Savings Month is especially urgent this year.
“People are under pressure, especially with food prices, petrol costs and electricity bills going up,” he said. “But it’s still possible to save, even if it’s just R20 a week. The principle is about starting small and staying consistent.”
Mwandiambira said saving is not only about money, but about mindset. “We need to change the narrative that saving is only for the wealthy. It’s about building dignity, options and freedom from crisis living Saving R10 a day is better than nothing at all.”
Many South Africans, however, say the current economic climate makes saving seem impossible.
“I’m a single mother and don't always have extra money after rent, food and school fees,” said Sinazo Klaas from Newlands.
“But I've started putting coins in a bottle at the end of the day. It helped me cover
taxi fare last month when my child was sick.”
The South African Reserve Bank has also acknowledged the importance of household savings for long-term economic growth, noting that low savings rates make the country more dependent on foreign investment and vulnerable to global shocks
Local NGOs and financial-literacy organisations have used National Savings Month as an opportunity to host workshops in schools, churches and community centres. These sessions often teach budgeting basics, understanding credit and how to open low-fee bank accounts. Mwandiambira encouraged households to have open conversations about money
“Talk to your children, your spouse, even your friends. We need to normalise conversations about budgeting, debt and planning Financial literacy is a survival skill.”
National Savings Month is also a reminder that financial empowerment is tied to broader structural issues.
But while the challenges are many the call to action remains the same: start where you are, with what you have.
“It’s not about how much you save, but about starting,” Mwandiambira concluded.
“Saving, even in small ways, is a form of self-respect.”
Advocates say more needs to be done by government and private institutions to create jobs, reduce inequality and offer better consumer protection.
NewCitypropertytariffschallengedinHighCourtbySapoa
DESIRÉERORKE
Bringing an urgent application to the Western Cape High Court, the South African Property Owners' Association (Sapoa) is taking a stand against what it views as an unfair burden on ratepayers, challenging three property-linked tariffs recently introduced by the City of Cape Town in its 2025-’26 budget.
These include a new cleaning levy and fixed charges for water and sanitation services, all calculated based on the value of a property rather than actual usage. Sapoa argues this approach disproportionately affects certain property owners as well as the public at large and could set a troubling precedent. In approaching the court the organisation is encouraging other concerned parties to join the case as friends of the court.
Sapoa has requested an early court date to ensure clarity before the City begins preparing its 2026-’27 budget on Monday 1 September. The case is backed by influential property owners in Cape Town, among them owners of TygerValley, Cape Gate and Canal Walk shopping centres as well as Table Bay Mall and V&A Waterfront. Other Sapoa members consist of smaller businesses with only a handful of properties in their portfolio. In its supporting affidavit the non-profit contends its members' property rights were being infringed on under Section 25 of the Constitution. It was bringing the challenge on behalf of its members and in the public interest.
“It would not be reasonable and effective for affected ratepayers to bring the challenge on their own,” said Nilesh Ambaram
Gopal of Sapoa “The City has vast resources to defend the three items of its budget, something that is far beyond the financial capabilities of the thousands of ratepayers who objected to the budget to bring multiple legal challenges
“Some of the people affected by the three items are vulnerable, in the sense that the effect of the budget may be that they may have to sell their properties as they cannot afford to pay the three items."
The first draft budget was published for comment on Thursday 27 March, introducing the three fixed charges, which caused a public outcry. Sapoa objected on several grounds, along with a protesting petition of more than 10 000 signatures that was submitted to the City. No fewer than 14 000 comments were made in the public-participation period. Virtually all commentators strongly objected to the first draft budget, mostly against the fixed charges.
Changes were made to the first draft budget in May by the City, resulting in the publication for comment on the revised draft budget.
In the revised draft budget passed on Thursday 26 June the City stated it sought to alleviate the impact on lower- and middle-income households by the introduction of rebates.
However, Sapoa holds that these reductions and rebates do not detract from the fact that the fixed charges are unlawful and should not have been introduced in the first place.
Sapoa says a continued rise in municipal costs has a significant detrimental effect on the costs of occupancy faced by tenants in commercial retail properties. If munici-
pal costs push charges past a certain limit, tenants struggle and landlords must help, but their options are limited. Leases can become unaffordable, leading tenants not to renew. According to its Operating Costs Report, by June last year, electricity made up 29% of total operating costs, while municipal charges accounted for a staggering 60%.
According to Sapoa, the tariffs linked to property values do not comply with the Property Rates Act.
It points out that the three tariffs are not based on consumption It is not a surcharge based on a basic charge nor a municipal tax. Sapoa considers the tariffs a form of property rates as they are linked to property value, but points out that they do not comply with the Property Rates Act.
Sapoachallengeslegalityofvalue-based cleaninglevy
The cleaning levy will be funding general cleaning on council property, litter picking and providing other services such as illegal dumping removal and informal settlements.
“The question to be answered is whether it is legally permissible to levy tariffs against property owners for cleaning services based on the value of their properties,” states Gopal, “regardless of whether the property owner actually receives such services at the property or in the area of his property.”
Section 229(1) of the Constitution says a municipality may impose rates on property and surcharges on fees for services provided by the municipality, and submits that the cleaning tariff has not been adopted as a property rate in terms of applicable rates legislation.
“The cleaning tariff is not a consumption-based charge for a service nor can it be any other type of charge levied in exchange for a service as it is linked to property value.”
Furthermore, Sapoa states a surcharge is an additional percentage “profit” on the consumption tariff and not a tariff linked to property value
Waterandsanitation
The organisation further holds that fixed water charges are also irrational, arbitrary and contrary to the rule of law Until now the fixed water charge was based on the pipe-connection diameter, and the fixed sanitation charge was tied to water usage. The new system breaks this link to actual consumption.
Sapoa argues that property owners who invested in alternative water systems to reduce consumption after the Day Zero crisis are now being penalised. These improvements raise property values which, under the new tariff system, results in higher water charges, a move Sapoa calls irrational. The old, traditional methods, calculating usage “as a percentage of the relevant property's water consumption charges... meant there was some correlation between the property's water use and its sanitation use. There is, however, no rational connection between the cost of delivering sanitation services to residents and property value."
'Sapoaprotectsprofitsoverpeople'
In response to the High Court application, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said Sapoa’s attempt to stop Cape Town's pro-poor budget is to put profits ahead of people “Sapoa represents the country's wealthiest and largest property owners, mainly shopping-mall owners The City simply cannot agree that wealthy property owners should be charged the same as lower-income or middle-class households. This would be regressive, placing a disproportionate burden on ordinary families...” This, Hill-Lewis said, is why fixed charges apply, because all must contribute, not just those who can't invest in alternative water and electricity sources
July marks National Savings Month
PHOTO: PIXELS
To celebrate the legacy of the late Nelson Mandela, Gugulethu police officers gave warm meals to residents on Friday 18 July (Madiba Day) The event took place in front of the police station at NY 1
Surge in rape cases reported
STAFFREPORTER
Police in Lwandle said there has been an increase in rape incidents reported in the policing precinct.
Sgt Mthokozisi Gama, communications officer at Lwandle Police Station, urged parents to be more vigilant and look after their children following the recent reports of rape cases where minors were the victims.
He said in the recent reported cases, the alleged suspects are either close family members or known to the victims Officers appealed to young people to share their locations with relatives whenever they leave the house.
Recommendationsforvictims:
• Seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
• Report with the police for the case to be opened.
• Tell the first person you encounter, should this person be a stranger, ask for a name and contact number as they may be asked to testify in court.
• Get to a safe place.
• Do not go shower or wash as this will destroy evidence of the crime
• If you have bathed already, place the clothing you were wearing in a plastic bag as the evidence.
• Do not drink tea or sugar water as DNA samples will need to be taken from your mouth.
• Parents must check and monitor their
TLwandle Police Station spokesperson Sgt Mthokozisi Gama PHOTO:SUPPLIED
children’s behaviour.
• Parents must always check on their children when playing outside.
He urged anyone who has been a rape victim to contact the PATCH or Rape Crisis centres.
Gama said the victim friendly room at Lwandle Police Station is also available and is operational 24 hours a day.
According to Gama police will transport the rape victim to PATCH and the Rape Crisis centre.
i l d i G l th
ThreepeoplekilledinHarare
UNATHIOBOSE
Khayelitsha Development Forum (KDF) leader has expressed concern over the rising crime in the area, stating that it drives away potential investors. The remarks came after three men were gunned down at Ntlazanae Road near Nkanini in Harare, Khayelitsha on Thursday 17 July.
A KDF leader who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, cited that there were two shooting incidents that occurred in the area on the same day
“Nkanini is becoming a problem. There were two incidents that occurred in that area on Thursday 17 July. First incident occurred at about eight in the evening and one person was shot and killed. And the second incident occurred at about 22:00, three men were also killed We are not sure if there is a link between the two incidents. Our areas are not safe anymore,” he said He suggested that the government deploy more boots on the ground to curb crime. He mentioned that extortion and murder
are the most reported cases in Khayelitsha as a whole.
“I can’t assume, but when people are ambushed like that it raises eyebrows. Especially when the deceased are young men. The way they were killed caused us to be suspicious,” he stated.
Provincial police spokesperson Col Andre Traut said a police investigation is underway following a shooting incident in Harare on Thursday17 July that claimed the lives of three men aged 29, 30, and 43. Traut saud detectives from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit are pursuing leads that could assist in identifying and locating the suspects responsible for the triple murder.
“At approximately 22:00 officers were alerted to the scene in Ntlazane Road, where the bodies of the victims were discovered with multiple gunshot wounds,” said Traut. He added that the motive for the attack is yet to be determined, and all investigative avenues are being explored to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.
JobseekersgetSMSnotices
STAFFREPORTER
Jobseekers will now receive SMS notices informing them they have been selected for Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) work opportunities
This initiative, piloted by the City’s Urban Waste Management Directorate, aims to improve communication and accessibility to jobseekers on its database. Since Wednesday 16 July some jobseekers received SMS notifications, which include their ID number and the project they had been selected for. To verify they had to
contact the EPWP Helpdesk on 021 400 9406 or visit their nearest subcouncil office. The City covers the cost of SMS replies.
“We want to ensure those seeking work have the best chance of receiving and responding to opportunities timeously,’ said Mayco member for Urban Waste Management Grant Twigg. Those receiving the SMS are encouraged to respond within 24 hours to confirm their interest.
Jobseekers can register or update at the subcouncil office or library SmartCape Centre weekdays, 08:00-15:30, not public holidays. Or, EPWP.Help@capetown gov.za
Sneakers restore dignity in Nyanga
UNATHIOBOSE
Excitement was evident to the faces of a group of men in Nyanga when they received pairs of sneakers donated by members of Nyanga Men Empowerment (NME) organisation from that area on Friday 18 July.
The event which held at Ny Arts part son NME works responsible men benef ent The struggling is I was rain.
life won’t be the same. It means a lot to me because I couldn't afford it. Even if it was sold for R20 I couldn’t afford it because I don’t have money," said Tatsi.
He said he survives by selling scrap. NME chair, Xolani Feni said he saw a need to donate the sneakers to the needy people in his area He said most of the beneficiaries l who used to attend his sessions.
Walkway cleanup promotes pride in the community
UNATHIOBOSE
Concerned residents from Gugulethu rolled up their sleeves and cleaned the walkway at NY 1 on Saturday 19 July in an effort to promote the nature conservation.
They said the initiative was in honour of Madiba, late former statesman Nelson Mandela, whose birthday was marked the previous day.
The initiative was organised by residents of NY1, NY145 and NY146, with a special focus on two walkways, the Ithemba Walkway and the as-yet-unnamed one from NY1 to NY146.
NY1 chair Phyllis Sono said there was a need to clean the walkways as they were filthy. She said they had been ignored for
so long.
“We decided to act and organise a deep clean of the walkways. This initiative aimed not only to beautify them, but also to promote community pride and ownership. As we approached Mandela Day we sought meaningful ways of celebrating it, which is how we decided on a clean-up.”
Resident Sahluko Konco urged the community to be more proactive and take ownership of civic responsibilities in their area He described the campaign as part of nature conservation awareness. “It is heartbreaking to see our community being disrespected in this way “But today we took a stand and showed we care about our community’s beauty and well-being.”
The unnamed walkway, from NY 1 to NY146, after it was cleaned PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Funds needed for mobile clinic
KEANANHARMSE
An Ottery-based animal rescue organisation is appealing for funds to help cover their costs to build another mobile clinic.
Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO) recently launched a fundraising drive to help fund a brand-new ARO Mobile Vet Clinic, their third one so far.
ARO, originally known as the Voluntary Animal Rescue Organisation (VAR), was established in 1986 to combat the neglect and abuse of animals in the Old Crossroads area.
Founder Lindsey Concer hopes the new clinic can expand their services and allow them to support more communities where animals need vaccinations and sterilisations.
"A third clinic is an urgent need that we identified during our recent outreach efforts in communities like Jim se Bos, Lekkerwater, Egoli, Phumlani, Siqalo, and most recently, Smallville," said Concer
The animal rescue organisation recently welcomed a new veterinarian as the new leader of the hospital team, Dr Esté Spies. So far they have received some donations, but their financial goal they hope to reach is around R1 million.
"With the cost of the vehicle, the conversion into a working mobile clinic, as well as medications and running costs our budget sits well over R1 million," Concer said.
The new mobile clinic will offer various services for sick animals which include: vaccinations, parasite treatment, basic consultations, and sterilisation referrals.
"The animals are collected by the mobile clinic and brought back to our hospital for sterilisation or any further treatment that may need to be performed by a vet.
Ottery-based animal rescue, Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO), hosting one of their vaccination and sterilisation campaigns using one of their mobile clinics
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Mobile Clinics are run by Animal Welfare Assistants (AWA's). Our goal is to bring essential veterinary care directly to under-resourced communities many of which have no access to vet services at all," she explained.
When asked why she thought the third clinic was a critical need for ARO, Concer said: "We've found that many pet owners in nearby informal settlements struggle to
reach us or don't even know we exist.
"The response during our sterilisation drives has been overwhelming, proving there's a need. The new unit will allow us to expand our reach, respond faster to urgent cases, and prevent suffering."
"Demand often outweighs our resources Many of the animals we see are in need of urgent care, and while we do everything we can, resources and manpower are al-
ways stretched.”
She said they would love to have the clinic active next month. “So we can have the clinic operational before the end of the year.However, the running costs will continue, so we ask the public to continue to support," she concluded.
For more information about ARO, visit their website at: https://www.animalrescue.org.za
Busisiwe Govane, Youth Bridge Assistant and Liqhawe Dlokweni, Youth Bridge graduate, and Adri Marais, Christel House SA CEO PHOTO: SUPPLIED
40 youth do bridging course
An Ottery-based school demonstrated its wider (community-based), holistic educational focus recently when 40 young adults completed a bridging course and were awarded certificates at a recent ceremony, which was held at the school Christel House South Africa (CHSA) is a non-profit, no-fee-paying school that serves about 1 000 students from under-resourced communities in Cape Town, providing top-quality, high-impact and rounded education.
The course the young people were on enatailed 18 weeks of structured support, including mentorship and placement assistance. The Youth Bridge, a CHSA postschool bridging programme, seeks to address youth unemployment, said school spokesperson Megan Losper.
“This ambitious group of young people from Langa completed the character-based, career-focused readiness programme and they are now equipped with the skills, confidence and support to step boldly into the world of work and opportunity.”
Liqhawe Dlokweni of Langa 2, a graduate, said: “Youth Bridge helped me a lot with CV writing and interviewing skills. Not only that, but also in terms of changing my mindset and taking full responsibility for my future. For that I’m very grateful.”
The Youth Bridge supports unemployed youth aged 18 to 35, helping them bridge the gap between their untapped ambitions and the opportunities that await them It builds on securing employment by addressing key barriers to it through character-based, career-readiness capacity building
Through meaningful connections with mentors in industry Youth Bridge ensures young people are set on a path to stable employment and upward economic mobility. Looking ahead, the next three Youth Bridge cohorts for 2025 will take place in Khayelitsha.
For more info on The Youth Bridge programme please contact Louise de Marillac St Julien, Career Development Manager at Christel House SA at ldmsjulien@ sa.christelhouse.org or on 021 704 9400.
A plea to help fund Londeka
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Londeka Phakathi is breaking new ground in the world of social work. As one of the few deaf South Africans pursuing a professional qualification in this field, she is not only working towards her own future, but toward building a more inclusive support system for the deaf community Now, with just one semester to go, her dreams are on hold due to financial constraints.
Londeka is a final-year Bachelor of Social Work student at UKZN. She currently owes the university about R400 000 in tuition and residence fees. Without settling this amount, she will not be able to return for her final semester In a bid to raise funds, she has launched a campaign on BackaBuddy and is calling on the public for support
"I've worked hard to get to this point," she says. "But now I'm stuck. I've come so far, not just for myself, but for my community."
She is currently working at DeafSA in the Western Cape as a student social worker, where she provides support to deaf clients, particularly young people navigating trauma, family struggles, and emotional challenges Phakathi says being deaf allows her to connect with deaf clients. "Even with interpreters doing amazing work, there's something powerful about connecting with someone who communicates in your first language," she explains. "As a deaf person, I can offer that emotional resonance and cultural understanding."
She explained that her own childhood was marked by a lack of support.
"I often wished there were deaf professionals who understood what I was going through," she says. "That's exactly who I now hope to become for others."
While her campaign has started gaining attention, she still has a long way to go
"Even R50 or R100 can make a difference," she says. "What I need more than anything
right now is support, someone to believe in what I'm trying to do."
Phakathi's mission is rooted in empathy and lived experience. Her goal is to reshape how deaf individuals are supported in the mental health and social services system.
"I want to be the social worker I never had," she concludes
To support Londeka's journey, contact her directly on Whatsapp on 063 561 8303.
Londeka Phakathi
Women’s Humanity fest returns
As violence, war, and division continue to threaten communities across the globe, Artscape and Woman Zone proudly announce the 2025 Artscape Women's Humanity Festival under the theme: 'Peace in Action – Working Together'.
Running throughout Women's Month, this year's festival calls on women and men alike to come together in the spirit of humanity, collaboration, and courageous compassion.
The official launch event started on Thursday 10 July.
The 2025 edition of the festival is a powerful tapestry of voices, arts, music, literature, and lived experience, with programming that speaks directly to the pressing need for healing and hope.
From feminist theatre and literary activism to community exhibitions, story cafés, and inclusive interfaith ceremonies, every event is a step toward building bridges in our divided world.
This year, the festival honours six Icons of Peace: Judge Albie Sachs, Virginia Davids, Thembi Mtshali-Jones, Sue Williamson, Fahruq Valley-Omar and the late Professor Nomvula Mthethwa
These icons will be celebrated through keynote events, performances, and conversations—anchoring the festival's values in the lived wisdom of changemakers.
Dr Marlene le Roux, chief executive officer of Artscape Theatre, said: "In a world scarred by conflict and separation, we are choosing to listen, to care, and to work together. Artscape, in partnership with Woman Zone, is fully committed to fostering peace through action, not only to honour women and their journeys but to unite all people in the struggle against violence in all its forms."
Festivalhighlightsinclude:
•Journey Through Song – a powerful musical theatre piece inspired by Ernestine Nur Stuurman (25– 26 July).
•This bra is a psycho – a provocative play exploring trauma, love, and queer identity (28 July– 2 August).
Artscape CEO Dr Marlene le Roux and Vianola Makan are flanked by the Ubuntu Rural Women and Youth Movement and communities affected by extractive industries on the West Coast PHOTO: SUPPLIED
•I Want To Call You Daddy – a one-woman performance that fuses poetry, storytelling, song, and movement (6–9 August).
•Discussion with Marlow Valentine of IAM "Celebrating 30 years at the intersection of faith and queerness", Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) has grown from a lone voice to a leading force for queer faith inclusion in Africa—now partnering with Artscape to honour queer women's stories of resilience, resistance, and truth (8 August).
•Short Film and Q&A - Screening of Sister Dinges and Mr Isaacs preceded by a panel discussion with the film maker and directors (8 August).
•Woman Zone Woman s Day Programme
on FMR 101.30 from 12:00 to 13:00 (8 August).
•1000 Women Event
•Please don't call me moffie – a thought-provoking and powerful one-man performance (8 – 9 August).
•Women's Day, 9 August event – with a full-day programme including the opening address by Dr Marlene le Roux and Judge Albie Sachs.
•Voices in Unison choral performance (10 August).
•Three Unique Generations, One Stage Pass the Flame– a once-in-a-lifetime music event with Mabongi Thusi featuring Thembi Mtshali-Jones accompanied by Bheki Khoza and KUJENGA (15–16 August)
•Woman Zone Book launch & book swap celebrating literary activism and 10 years of The Women's Library (16 August)
•Radio Tygerberg Sisters Women's Conference (16 August)
•Story Café: Ode to Sara and Isidudla: Sara Baartman and Cultural Body Image (23 August).
Running throughout the festival in the Theatre Foyer Well, visitors will find an interactive exhibition space with community stalls, health screenings, and activations including the Cancer Alliance, Knit & Natter, and more
For more information visit www.artscape.co.za and tickets are available via Webtickets.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FORM 3A - NOTICE OF APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENCES IN TERMS OF SECTION 37(1) OF THE WESTERN CAPE LIQUOR ACT,2008 – [REG 10(1)]
Notice is hereby given that the following applications for liquor licences have been lodged with the Western Cape Liquor Authority (the Authority) and with the designated liquor officers at the indicated South African Police Service offices The applications concerned may, up to and including the 28th day from the date of publication of the application upon request and free of charge be inspected by any person at the offices of the Authority or the designated liquor officer listedhereunder Copies of an application can be obtained from the Authority after payment of the prescribed fee Objections and representations must be lodged in writing with the Authority and the designated liquor officer in accordance with section 39 of the Act
VORM 3A - KENNISGEWING VAN AANSOEKE OM DRANKLISENSIES INGEVOLGE ARTIKEL 37(1) VAN DIE WES-KAAPSE DRANKWET,2008 – [REG 10(1)]
Hiermee word kennis gegee dat die volgende aansoeke om dranklisensies ingedien is by die Wes-Kaapse Drankowerheid (die Owerheid) en] by die aangewese drankbeamptes by die aangeduide Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantore Die betrokke aansoeke kan tot en met die 28ste dag vanaf die datum van publikasie van die aansoek, op versoek en gratis deur enige persoon besigtig word by die kantore van die Owerheid of die aangewese drankbeampte hieronder gelys Afskrifte van ’n aansoek kan by die Owerheid verkry word na betaling van die voorgeskrewe fooi Besware en vertoë moet ooreenkomstig artikel 39 van die Wet skriftelik by die Owerheid en die aangewese drankbeampte ingedien word
IFOMU 3A - ISAZISO SOKUFAKWA KWESICELO SEPHEPHA MVUME NGOKWECANDELO 37(1) LOMTHETHO WOTYWALA WENTSHONA KOLONI KA-2008 – [UMGAQO 10(1)] Isaziso siyanikezelwa ukuba ezi zicelo zilandelayo zamaphepha mvume otywala zifakiwe kwabasemaGunyeni ezoTywala eNtshona Koloni (abasemaGunyeni) nakumagosa ajongene nemiba engotywala kwii-ofisi ezixeliweyo zeeNkonzo zamaPolisa aseMzantsi Afrika Izicelo ekubhekiselelwa kuzo zingakwazi kwiintsuku ezingamashumi amabini anesibhozo (28) ukususela ngomhla wokupapashwa kwesi sicelo xa eceliwe kwaye simahla ziye kuhlolwa nguye nawuphi umntu okwi-Ofisi esemaGunyeni okanye yegosa elijongene nemiba engotywala elixelwe apha ngezantsi Iikopi zesicelo zingafumaneka kwabasemaGunyeni emva kwentlawulo emiselweyo Uchaso neengxelo ezixhasayo ezibhaliweyo zingafakwa kwabasemaGunyeni nakwigosa elijongene nemiba engotywala ngokwecandelo 39 loMthetho
No Full name of applicant
Volle naam van aansoeker
Igama elipheleleyo lomfaki-sicelo
Name under which business will be conducted
Naam waaronder besigheid bedryf sal word
Igama ishishini eza kushishina phantsi kwalo
Address of the proposed premises
Adres van die voorgenome perseel
Idilesi yesakhiwo
Kind of licence applied for Tipe lisensie waarom aansoek gedoen word
Uhlobo lwephepha mvume olucelayo
South African Police Services designated liquor officer office where the application has been lodged
Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantoor van die aangewese drankbeampte waar die aansoek ingedien is i-Ofisi yeGosa elijongene nemiba engotywala yeeNkonzo zamaPolisa eMzantsi Afrika apho isicelo sifakwe khona
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