People's Post Athlone|Lansdowne E-edition 21 October 2025
Residents of Manenberg are now experiencing an event which their grandparents were familiar with in their youth, namely, open air cinema or drive-ins.
It is known as Movie Night in Manenberg and screenings take place in Thames Walk, in the heart of Manenberg and residents are invited to join on Saturday 25 October
This is a community-driven arts initiative that creates access to creativity and imagination in spaces that are often limited by social and structural challenges
The Art in Manenberg (AIM) Society began in 2023 by Darion Adams, a dancer, choreographer and arts facilitator from Manenberg and AIM’s mission is to use art – through performance, film, dance and workshops – as a tool for transformation, storytelling and connection
“At its heart, AIM is about reclaiming joy and imagination in Manenberg and using the arts to reimagine what is possible for our communities I am deeply passionate about how art can be used to rebuild narratives and create opportunities for growth and belonging,” he says
The first community Movie Night took place two years ago featuring films by local filmmakers – short films to screen dance works – including Net Ons by Nadine Cloete, Stories in die Wind by Deidre Jantjies, and his own film Reclamation: Home, which was shot in Manenberg
“Watching local children and families see themselves reflected on screen was a deeply moving experience and confirmed my belief that storytelling through art has the power to transform perspective and com-
joy in Manenberg
Darion Adams, founder and director of Arts in Manenberg (AIM)
AVRIL FILLIES
Cableway forWTA again
Table Mountain and the Cableway are once again in the spotlight as they compete for top honours at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA).
These world-famous attractions are nominees in their categories, but bringing the prestigious titles home depends on public votes
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has been nominated in the World’s Leading Cable Car Ride category, while Table Mountain has been nominated as World’s Leading Tourist Attraction
These are the only South African nominees in the world categories this year
TMACC boasts an impressive track record at the World Travel Awards, having secured the title of Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction five times, in 2014, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022
Now celebrating its 96th year of operation, the cableway remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s tourism industry, having safely carried over 32 million visitors to the top of one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature since opening on 4 October 1929
The attraction continues to play a pivotal role in positioning Cape Town and South Africa as leading global destinations, contributing significantly to the visitor economy while promoting sustainable tourism and local employment
Wahida Parker, Managing Director of TMACC, says being recognised again at the World Travel Awards is an “incredible honour”
“This competition is our industry’s version of the Oscars and is widely respected as a contest that recognises commitment to excellence ”
She says the nominations reaffirm their
commitment to being a responsible operator that prioritises safety, honours the mountain’s unique flora and fauna, and delivers world-class service to both local and international visitors
Parker encourages South Africans to get behind the Cableway and Table Mountain by casting their WTA votes in the two categories
“Every visitor, every team member and every partner has played a role in this success We’re calling on South Africans to help us bring these awards home ” TMACC has consistently earned nominations for World’s Leading Tourist Attraction and World’s Leading Cable Car Ride, reflecting its commitment to creating positive experiences and driving innovation on the international stage
Parker says the company is proud to fly the South African flag and hopes to make the country proud once again
“These nominations reflect our journey, from the very first trip in October 1929 to the millions who continue to make memories atop
Table Mountain We have never won in the world categories before, and it would be incredibly special if we could make it happen this time around ”
Members of the tourism and hospitality sector can also cast their votes, and they are given double the weighting to votes cast by members of the public
Voting for the 2025 World Travel Awards closes on Sunday 26 October
Supporters can cast their votes at www worldtravelawards com/vote
SANParkshitsR4billionrevenuemarkforthefirsttime
South African National Parks (SANParks) reported strong financial and operational results for the 2024-'25 financial year, marking the first time revenue exceeded R4 billion
Addressing the Portfolio Committee on Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment,
SANParks Chief Executive Officer Hapiloe Sello said revenue increased by 11%, from R3,67 billion to R4,1 billion
She highlighted that 75% of revenue came from commercial activities, including tourism and park-related services, reflecting the effectiveness of the organisation’s commercial strategies
SANParks maintains a net cash balance of R2,7 billion and a positive solvency position, with total assets exceeding total liabilities by R3,7 billion, underscoring its strong financial health The organisation also received an unqualified audit outcome for the past year, confirming the robustness of its financial governance and management practices
“The positive results reflect our ongoing efforts to strengthen internal controls and improve governance, ” Sello said The auditor-general’s report highlighted improvements in the quality of the annual financial statements and in supply chain management, with no material findings identified, an improvement from the previous year She noted that continued work to strengthen internal controls is expected to deliver further improvements in the coming
period
On the operational front, SANParks achieved 86% of its performance targets, meeting 24 out of 28 goals Notably, 18 of these targets were exceeded, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to efficiency and operational excellence These results reflect SANParks’ focus on conservation, sustainable development and community empowerment
Sello said the landmark revenue milestone and robust financial position enable SANParks to continue delivering high-quality conservation initiatives and improve the visitor experience across its parks nationwide She said the results also show the organisation’s dedication to sup-
porting local communities through tourism-related employment and development projects
“These accomplishments demonstrate the dedication of our team and stakeholders’ efforts to manage our national parks sustainably for future generations while promoting inclusive growth and transformation,” Sello said SANParks’ achievements position it as a cornerstone of South Africa’s environmental and socio-economic landscape By combining financial stability, operational efficiency and community engagement, SANParks continues to strengthen its role in preserving biodiversity, fostering sustainable tourism, and the country’s development objectives
Even blocking spammers does not help
an urgent call
It feels like there’s no escape Blocking one number doesn’t help I’ve tried that They just use another
What’s more frustrating is that spam callers are breaking the rules by using mobile numbers for call centres that operate from fixed locations, making it increasingly difficult to spot and avoid these calls
The result? More unsuspecting people are picking up, only to be met with unwanted sales pitches or robocalls
This goes against the Numbering Plan Regulations of 2016 and is also seen as unfair competition
As I typed this, I declined three consecutive calls Two popped up as spam the other didn’t But I knew it was
This is incredibly frustrating when you ’ re on deadline, in an important meeting or expecting
have access to Most days, I stay on the line long enough to politely let the agent know I’m not interested in whatever they’re pitching At times, you can even hear the desperation in their voices and I genuinely sympathise with them
Downloading “ spam alert” Apps seems pointless when enforcement is weak or non-existent
The lines between legal telemarketing and outright harassment are becoming dangerously blurred
What’s needed is stronger regulation and actual consequences for the companies violating the rules not just the agents who are often just trying to get by
There should be more transparency, proper identification, and respect for our time We shouldn’t have to live in fear of our own phones ringing
For now, we ’ re left managing issues as they pop up, one after another, with our peace and productivity paying the price
Table Mountain and the Cableway are once again in the spotlight as they compete for top honours at the 2025 World Travel Awards PHOTO: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
A JOURNO’S VOICE
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
South African National Parks reported strong financial and operational results for the 2024-’25 financial year, marking the first time revenue exceeded R4 billion PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Learners speak about Islam
Learners from high schools are from left: Zainab Rahim, Bushra Chohan, Sa’ada Yahaya, Malikah Roberts, Nebat Mohammed and Rashail Shahid Imran
The rest of the high school learners are from left: Saadique Akter, Ziyaad Kagee, Ramiz Joseph and Ruqayyah Agherdien PHOTOS: AVRIL
ProfessoronaSTEMlabsmission
Night School is changing lives
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Most brides spend their wedding night basking in newlywed bliss but not Margo Hendricks.
Hendricks got married on Tuesday 14 October and later that evening she was in night class, proving that no ring on her finger could outshine the dream in her heart: to finish her matric
She is one of thousands of adults registered at the Hopeful Leaders Night School in Manenberg
The non-profit company (NPC) is the brainchild of Manenberg resident Yumna Alexander Alexander, who knows the challenges of leaving school early firsthand, started the night school five years ago to support others on their journey back to education
Today the school has expanded to several areas on the Cape Flats, including Manenberg, Hanover Park, Bonteheuwel, Bishop Lavis, Delft, Mitchells Plain, Lavender Hill, Steenberg, Ravensmead and Elsies River
She opened another branch in Gauteng a month ago
“The institution was birthed through personal challenges to help the marginalised communities and empower them with education so that they can have better opportunities When we produce better parents, we will produce better children,” explained Alexander Hendricks explained that she lost her mother at a young age, left school in 2009, and faced many challenges, including becoming a mother at just 16
She shared that, during this difficult period, she also became addicted to drugs
Hendricks said she decided to turn her life around following the death of her father “I left drugs when my father passed away deciding to be there for my child I gave my heart to God and that changed my whole life ”
Determined to start a new chapter, Hendricks
enrolled into the night school last year, failed a subject and decided to return this year
“I got married on Tuesday 14 October at Home Affairs We went to eat food and then we came home, and I went to night school that evening I want to achieve my goals in life and better myself Want to be an example for my daughter ”
She expressed her gratitude to Alexander for helping her enrol into the night school
Hendricks encouraged others to have faith in themselves despite the circumstances
“Never lose hope You can be successful in everything that you do, you must just be determined Sometimes you don’t feel like continuing but you must have faith ”
Another learner Naasiha Hassen explained
that since enrolling into the night school and obtaining her matric in 2020, many other opportunities have come her way
She applied for a position at a hospital, where she was hired as a hostess Hassen has now been working at the hospital for four years and is permanently employed
Since then, she has also completed a Home-
Based Care/Caregiver course at the Robert Sobukwe Nursing Academy, further advancing her skills in the healthcare field
According to Alexander, they receive no funding from government or organisations They are entirely dependent on donations and learner fees
Learners pay R15 a class and a once-off registration fee of R100
Alexander explained that all fees go back into the programme covering the cost of essentials such as copy paper and ink
“We are doing this solely by grace and by faith in the Almighty It’s been such a blessing ”
She noted a growing need due to the annual rise in registrations
“Each year the number of people who shows interest in doing their matric, grows You need to have a Grade 9 or above to complete your matric
“I am asking myself, ‘what is going to happen with the number of school dropouts from Grade four to Grade 8 What does their future look like?’
Alexander said despite the challenges facing the school, it has 41 students that went on to study at university
She said classes are open to anyone over the age of 19 years “They must have a Grade 9 pass or any grade above Or even if they just want to improve their matric marks, they are welcome to join us ”
She expressed her gratitude to the learners and staff for their hard work and dedication despite teaching under trying circumstances
Alexander said she is living proof that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams
“I am a product of getting my matric at a later age I am now a qualified teacher Life has changed for me, and I have access to more things This is something that you should strive for, if you want to better yourself you need to do better for yourself If you want change It starts with you ”
Final chapter for matric class
As the Class of 2025 reaches the final chapter of their school journey, emotions run high a mix of pride, excitement, and reflection.
After years of hard work, growth, and countless memories, these learners now stand at the threshold of a new beginning They’ve faced challenges, embraced opportunities, and
Ashton Jantjies said: “I’m hella excited to be done with school, tbh! (to be honest) I’m optimistic about the future because I’ve got a solid plan in place, and I’m stoked to start applying all the skills and knowledge I’ve gained Bring it on, future!”
Nieschen Adams said: “I’m very nervous about what’s before me – my national exams as this is my last chance to give my best and make the most of it I’m also nervous about the adult world because everyone always warns that it’s hard and we have no experience. I’m also excited and looking forward to the new normal I’ll do my best for the last time!”
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Nerves and excitement fill the air as thousands of learners across the country sit down to write the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams starting today (21 October)
In the Western Cape, 77 442 candidates are registered to write the exam; these include 67 606 full-time matric learners and 9 836 part-time or repeat candidates
The tests start with 12 736 candidates writing the Computer Applications Technology (CAT) practical
According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), the subject with the largest number of candidates is mathematical literacy, with 53 206 candidates writing paper one on Friday 31 October, and paper two on Monday 3 November
David Maynier, provincial education minister, said the implementation of the exam is a mammoth administrative exercise with candidates writing at over 400 exam centres across the province
“Candidates will write at 473 exam centres, with 2 046 trained invigilators appointed to keep a close eye on
formed friendships that will last a lifetime This milestone marks not just the end of a school career, but the beginning of endless possibilities
As they prepare to step into the next phase of their lives, the Class of 2025 carries with them the lessons, values, and resilience shaped by their school years People's Post caught up with a few learners to hear how they’re feeling about the upcoming exams and what lies ahead
Embo Magengelele said it’s a bit surreal to think it’s
Shunique Demingo said: “Now that we have reached the end of our school career, there is a mix of excitement and tension. On one hand, we are proud of how far we have come and look forward to the future and the new opportunities after matric On the other hand, there is a lot of pressure and uncertainty about the national exams, as they determine our future and whether we will gain access to university or work The workload is heavy, but it also motivates us to give our best It is therefore a time of emotions joy, stress, hope, and pride all at once.”
proceedings Marking will take place at the beginning of December, with 954 000 examination scripts being marked by 4 190 markers ”
People’s Post caught up Rayyan
Ebrahim, the top matric learner in the country last year to share some helpful tips with the matriculants
“My advice to the Matric class of 2025 is to work smartly during the exam period You would have already studied most of the content already, so use this time to brush up on those topics that you found the most difficult in the trial exams
“The exam period is also quite long, so make sure to look after yourself physically and mentally by eating well, sleeping well and exercising Try not to isolate yourself during this time - you may not be attending classes at school anymore but you will still need the support from your peers Forming study groups with them is a really effective way to study ” He advised them to practice selfcare
“Be kind to yourself throughout the exams You may be feeling a lot of
Mary-Ann Kleindsmidt said: “I’m feeling very happy and sad at the same time. I met wonderful people at high school, like my teachers and fellow learners, who inspired me. And now, when I walk away, I feel very empty because they meant a lot to me. Just not every day would go smoothly I will miss the motivational pieces that they gave me. The national exam that is now staring me in the face makes me a little bit nervous Because everyone says it’s hard, but if you’ve worked hard all year then it’s not really hard Because I work through old papers, I get extra resources, I watch YouTube, and this makes me a little happy because I’m no longer nervous like people make me feel nervous.”
of
Ockers said reaching the
to
feelings, but it’s a significant milestone that opens up a world of possibilities, and many are optimistic about the future “This optimism often comes from a sense of accomplishment and the anticipation of new experiences, whether that includes pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or exploring different paths ”
THERE IS A LOT OF PRESSURE AND UNCERTAINTY ABOUT THE EXAMS,AS THEY DETERMINE OUR FUTURE
Megan Patterson said: “I’m feeling bittersweet about leaving school, but I’m excited for the new opportunities and experiences ahead I’m optimistic about the future and ready to take on new challenges with confidence and determination Bring it on ”
pressure to do well, but seek contentment in doing your best, rather than in getting good marks
Ebrahim said that during the final stretch of exams, fine-tuning his knowledge proved to be the most effective way to study
“For the final stretch of exams, I found that fine-tuning my knowledge was the most effective way to study The main method I used to study was to teach myself and my friends the content I was learning Putting the content in your own words really helps you retain the information better and builds a deeper understanding of the material
“I also made sure to go into each exam with a clear strategy of which questions I would start answering first, based on the topics I was the most comfortable with I planned the amount of time I would spend on each question and timed myself when doing past papers This allowed me to walk into the exam room with confidence ” Nicholas Schreiber was one of the top quintile-five learners in the province last year
The former Rondebosch Boys’ High School learner encouraged learners to stay focused
“You’ve put in all the hard work and now you ’ re so close to the finish line, but it’s important to not take your foot off the pedal now and really make sure to give these exams your all ”
He urged them to prioritise subjects in which they want to boost their results “You should know roughly where your strengths and weaknesses are after prelims, so really focus on the areas of subjects where you can have a good improvement to get the most out of your finals marks ”
Schreiber said learners should remember that marks alone don’t define them or the year they’ve had and encourages them not to put too much pressure on themselves
“Try to make consistent time for every subject and try to revise cleverly, being time and energy efficient Take regular breaks and make sure to get enough sleep every night, have a good general diet and get plenty of fresh air and sunlight in between study sessions ”
He also shared some helpful study tips
“I was always a fan of flashcards for memorising definitions or key topics, as well as doing as many past papers as possible to see how topics get asked in papers, and to see where the gaps in my knowledge lie ”
Schreiber is currently a first-year student studying a BCom in Chartered Accountancy at the University of Cape Town
Maynier wished learners well for their exams and expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped prepare the learners
“We appreciate the incredible work that our examination officials do each year to ensure that the exam runs smoothly
“Our matrics and their teachers have also put in a tremendous amount of work to prepare for this exam ”
The national education minister will announce the national and provincial pass rates on Monday 12 January 2026, and candidates will receive their individual results the following day
Qaaid Carelse I feel mostly nervous but optimistic
When Jason Poleman, coach of Just Planting Seeds in Manenberg, undertook to use sport to better the lives of girls in the community, he set his sights on participating in tournaments to empower them to make better choices than gangsterism and drug abuse
From Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October, the team took part in the Knysna 7s Tournament at the Loerie Park Sports Grounds and was crowned the champions
“For the past three years, we wanted to participate in the inaugural George Tens Tournament, but it was unfortunately cancelled this year and rescheduled for 2026 This setback could have easily dampened the spirits of our u-16 girls, but rather than allowing disappointment to take over, we worked hard and be disciplined throughout our preparation We dis-
covered the opportunity to compete in Knysna and came home victorious,” says Poleman
For many learners the trip was their first-ever visit to Knysna, and the journey along the scenic Garden Route was an unforgettable experience
“What made the weekend truly special was the unity and emotional strength displayed by the team The girls dedicated this tournament to one of their teammates who had tragically lost her father before departure With heavy hearts but unwavering determination, they played every game in his memory, and their performances reflected both their pain and their passion,”
Poleman says
The weekend was more than rugby It was about resilience, teamwork and pride to represent Manenberg, a community that continues to rise above the odds “Our learners once again demonstrated that they are not defined by circumstance but by their courage, character and commitment to rise above from where they come from,” he says
A heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who played a role “This achievement stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when passion meets purpose, when young people are given the platform to dream beyond their circumstances to make their dreams a reality
Our girls did their part by showing gratitude, appreciation and unity during the entire trip, proving that when a community stands together, beautiful things can grow from even the most challenging circumstances Just Planting Seeds is nurturing hope, builds character and growing dreams in Manenberg,” Poleman says
Jason Poleman, coach of Just Planting Seeds, the u-16 Girls team from Manenberg, with the trophy they won at the Knysna 7s tournament PHOTO: SUPPLIED
