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Kadia Banyini on his breakthrough as a Mazambane in Youngins

LnT Desk
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Kadia Banyini on his breakthrough as a Mazambane in Youngins

In the first nine episodes of Youngins S2, Kadia Banyini has become the teen drama’s undeniable scene-stealer as Mazambane, the troublemaker and bully at Olifantsfontein High who’s unapologetically himself.

Recently named Best South African Streaming Series at the Behind the Scenes Awards, Youngins has set the streets buzzing, with Season 2 racking up the most-first day views of any title on Showmax since the African streamer’s relaunch in February in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky. This after #YounginsShowmaxS2 trended at #1 on X on its launch day and its trailer topped a million views in under 24 hours online.

Watch the trailer for Youngins S2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEM0fsY5fQQ&t=7s

To find out more, Xabiso Ngqabe sat down with the 19-year-old rising star from Dobsonville Gardens in Soweto.

How did you feel booking this role?

After my part in the Mzansi Magic movie Indoda Must, booking Youngins felt like a breakthrough – a recognition of my talent and a sign that there’s so much more room for growth. Just last year, I was studying through Star Quality Creative Arts, and by the grace of God, I landed this role right before finishing my course.

Tell us about the character you’re playing in Youngins?

I play Mazambane, a kasi boy and troublemaker from Olifantsfontein. He loves girls but never manages to win them over. A class clown and relentless bully, Mazambane always keeps everyone on their toes.

Are there any similarities between you and your character?

There’s a lot of me in Mazambane – except for the part where he’s failing at school! Like him, I’m from kasi. We both don’t take kindly to being taken for granted. We’re outspoken, confident, and maybe a little arrogant at times, but that’s just part of the charm.

How was watching yourself on screen for the first time?

I remember when I watched myself for the first time, I was alone and I kept thinking about how nervous I was when we shot the scenes. When I watched it, it felt surreal. Since then it’s been so great. My family is proud of me and my friends are happy to see me doing what I love.

What have you learnt from playing this character?

I’ve learned how important it is not to judge people based on how they present themselves. There’s so much depth to this character, and he’s invited me into his world, a truly incredible experience. Portraying him has been nothing short of amazing.

Since the start of S2, we see Mazambane more often than before. 

In Season 1, viewers got a glimpse of him, but they didn’t see the full picture. Season 2 is where he truly comes to life and shows not just his goofy, carefree side, but the other layers that make him who he is. I wouldn’t say Mazambane has changed or grown, but beneath the clowning, he knows when to get serious and draw the line on making light of personal matters.

How was it reuniting with your co-stars?

It was an amazing experience. Every day, I was excited to go to set because of the incredible people I worked with. It felt more like home than just a job. Even off set, we hang out all the time – we’re like family.

It’s no secret that Youngins is a phenomenon. How has being part of the hit show changed your life?

Youngins has changed my life in a good way, introducing my craft to people who didn’t know me before. It’s a big platform and an incredible opportunity to tell stories that resonate with my experiences as a young person. The journey has been amazing.

What do you think viewers will enjoy the most this season?

A lot! Credit to the writers that not only entertain but also tackle important issues young people face today. What happens in Youngins is mostly things happening in our schools, so the young people relate.

Stream Youngins S2 now on Showmax, with new episodes every Friday.

FACTBOX: 

Age: 19 years old

Born and bred: Dobsonville Gardens, Soweto

Sports he has played: Soccer, cricket and basketball

Languages: Zulu, English and Setswana

Actor he looks up to: S’dumo Mtshali

Summer gardening: Multiply your plants without multiplying costs

LnT Desk
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Summer gardening: Multiply your plants without multiplying costs

As we enter the December holiday season, much of our time will be spent outside in the garden with family and friends – braaing, playing garden games and swimming in the pool. So, it’s natural to want our gardens to look their best. Yet with Christmas expenses and back-to-school essentials looming, buying new plants often takes a back seat.

Head of Gardens for Brahman Hills, Abongile Majola, shares a cost-effective solution: propagation! Majola, who currently leads a team of 12 to manage an impressive 1,000 hectares of property and 26 internationally acclaimed garden rooms, says, “The wonderful thing about summer propagation is that you can create a beautiful garden using plants you already have. Nature has provided the timing – summer- ideal for semi-ripe cuttings when shoots have matured at the base but remain flexible at the tips.”

He adds that anyone can create new plants from existing ones. “You don’t have to be an expert gardener. It’s like allowing plants to create little offspring- nature does most of the work, we just need to set up the right conditions and use a little patience.”

Majola offers the following tips on how to make new plants for FREE:

  1. Start with easy plants: Rosemary, lavender, and shrubby perennials propagate readily and will give you the confidence to expand your skills.
  2. Timing is Key: Work in the cool hours of the early morning or late afternoon when plants are well-hydrated.
  3. Technique Is Everything: A messy, crushing cut can damage plant tissue and invite disease. A clean, angled cut made with sharp scissors or secateurs just below a leaf node (those knobbly bits where leaves grow from the stem) gives your new plant cutting the best chance of developing strong roots.
  4. How to Propagate

From Cuttings (Making Plant Clones): 
•    Select a healthy parent plant
•    Cut a section of the stem about as long as your hand
•    Remove the bottom leaves
•    Place the cut end in a pot with soil, deep enough to stand upright
•    Water lightly and then maintain a consistent level of moisture in the soil without overwatering
•    Put a clear plastic bag over the cutting to keep it humid (like a mini greenhouse)
•    Situate it in a bright spot but not in direct sun
•    In about 4-6 weeks, give it a gentle tug – if it resists, you’ve got roots and it’s ready to be transplanted into a pot or your garden.

From Runners (Known as Stolons – Long Stems that Grow Along the Ground)

  •    Look for baby plants growing along stems that touch the ground, such as strawberries.
    •    Pin each baby down into its own pot of soil while still attached to the parent.
    •    Keep the soil moist and once they’ve grown roots (in about 2-3 weeks), cut them free from the parent plant and transplant as desired.

From Division (Splitting Up Big Plants)

  •    Select a healthy, mature plant—for example, a daylily—that is ready for division.
    •    Dig up carefully and separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots and shoots.
    •    Replant the divisions immediately in new locations and water thoroughly.

“Always ensure you use clean gardening tools to prevent diseases,” advises Majola. “By choosing the right propagation method, regularly checking their progress and maintaining proper care and patience, you can successfully grow healthy and vibrant new plants.”

For a dose of inspiration from a world of botanical beauty and creativity, visit the award-winning gardens at Brahman Hills, nestled in the rolling hills of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Whether you’re escaping the Durban heat (it’s just an hour away) or visiting from Gauteng for the holidays, these magnificent gardens provide a peaceful refuge to see propagation techniques in action—and maybe gain a few tips from their passionate gardening team

The importance of distribution in energy delivery in shaping the future of sub-Saharan Africa

Lee Mbenge, Divisional Chief Executive Officer at ACTOM (Pty) Ltd
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The importance of distribution in energy delivery in shaping the future of sub-Saharan Africa

The Transmission and Distribution (T&D) of energy are the critical links connecting power generation facilities to consumers. In sub-Saharan Africa, the quality and capacity of T&D infrastructure significantly impact economic development and quality of life. While progress has been made in expanding electrical grids, the region’s infrastructure remains inadequate to meet growing demands, leading to inefficiencies and frequent disruptions. Improving T&D infrastructure is central to the region’s economic development and population wellbeing and only by overcoming existing challenges and investing in modern, efficient systems, can the region unlock its full potential and achieve sustainable growth.

The role of T&D in economic development and quality of life
Stable energy delivery is essential for supporting industrial and commercial activities, encouraging investment, and fostering innovation. For households, dependable electricity access enhances living standards by powering access to vital services such as healthcare, education, and communication. Communities with reliable power have shown better health outcomes, increased educational opportunities, and enhanced economic prospects.

However, sub-Saharan Africa faces near-insurmountable challenges in its T&D sector. Key issues include ageing infrastructure and a lack of preventative maintenance, which leads to frequent breakdowns and increased maintenance costs, along with high transmission losses that exacerbate the supply-demand imbalance. All of this adds up to frequent power outages that disrupt daily life and business operations, whether planned or unplanned. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts between governments, private sector stakeholders, and international organisations to mobilise resources, implement technological advancements, and establish robust regulatory frameworks.

Challenges aplenty in Sub-Saharan Africa
One of the most pressing challenges facing T&D infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa is the ageing and deteriorating state of existing equipment. Many transmission and distribution lines are outdated and in need of replacement or refurbishment. This leads to frequent breakdowns, power losses, and increased maintenance costs. To address this issue, governments and utilities need to urgently prioritise investments in infrastructure upgrades and modernisation, while at the same time maintaining existing infrastructure throughout the transition. This includes replacing old equipment with more efficient and reliable technologies, such as smart grids and advanced metering, monitoring and control infrastructure.

Another significant challenge is high transmission losses. Energy is lost during transmission due to factors such as resistance in conductors and leakage currents. These losses reduce the amount of electricity available for delivery to consumers and increase the cost of energy. To mitigate transmission losses, utilities can implement measures such as improving conductor materials, reducing line lengths, and optimising network configurations. Additionally, investing in energy efficiency programmes can help reduce overall energy consumption and alleviate the strain on the generation system. Optimising the cost of ownership by utilising the most efficient equipment with lowest possible losses will have a huge impact on the overall demand requirement.

Frequent power outages are a common occurrence in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Whether load shedding, or unscheduled, these outages can have severe consequences for businesses, households, and the overall economy. To improve power reliability, utilities must focus on enhancing grid resilience, investing in backup generation capacity, and implementing load management strategies. Additionally, addressing issues such as theft and vandalism of T&D infrastructure can help reduce the frequency and duration of outages.

Embracing technology and innovation to overcome obstacles
Technological advancements offer promising solutions to the challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa’s T&D sector. Smart grids, which integrate digital technologies with traditional power grids, can improve efficiency, reliability, and grid management. By enabling real-time monitoring and control, smart grids can help identify and address issues promptly, reducing power outages and improving system performance.

Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, must also play a vital role in enhancing energy security in such a way as to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Integrating renewable energy sources into the T&D system requires careful planning and investment in grid infrastructure to ensure grid stability and accommodate variable power generation.

Looking forward with optimism
Improving the T&D infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa is essential for unlocking the region’s economic potential and improving the quality of life for its people. By addressing the challenges of ageing infrastructure, high transmission losses, and frequent power outages, governments, utilities, and private sector stakeholders can create a more reliable and efficient energy delivery system. Investing in modern technologies and implementing innovative solutions will enable sub-Saharan Africa to harness the power of energy to drive sustainable development and prosperity.

What to do if you get sunburnt this summer

Lamelle Research Laboratories
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What to do if you get sunburnt this summer

When it comes to sunburn, prevention is better than cure. The sun’s rays are incredibly dangerous, and for those of us living on the African continent, summer can be brutal on our skin. Not only are we at risk of getting a painful sunburn, but we are also at risk of developing skin cancer.

Each of us should do everything we can to prevent getting sunburnt, particularly during summer, when we are most at risk. This includes applying SPF daily, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours. However, we are only human, and even the most diligent of us slip up sometimes.

Developing a sunburn should not be a part of your annual summer holiday, but if you do get one, it’s essential to know how to ensure your skin heals quickly.

Why does our skin get sunburnt?

When our skin is exposed to too much UV (ultraviolet) light, it results in sunburn. The primary source of UV light is the sun, however, artificial sources such as tanning beds may also burn the skin. The sun’s UVA rays can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, leading to premature ageing and DNA damage. On the other hand, UVB rays penetrate the skin more superficially and are responsible for sunburn.

When exposed to the sun, we are at risk of developing sunburn, long-term skin damage, and skin cancer. Everyone can get sunburnt, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, so it’s essential to take steps to protect yourself when you go outdoors.

What are some of the symptoms of sunburn?

The most apparent symptom of sunburn is redness, particularly in fair skin tones. The skin may feel hot to the touch, painful, itchy, or tender, and in severe cases, there may be swelling or blistering.

When does a sunburn require medical attention?

Do not underestimate the power of the sun. A bad sunburn can be life-threatening if not treated. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as chills or fever, headaches, blistering, nausea, muscle cramps or dizziness.

How can you treat a sunburn at home?

In most cases, a sunburn can be treated at home, but the discomfort will take some time to be alleviated. Here’s what to do:

Stay out of the sun—This may seem obvious, but the worst thing you can do is expose your sunburnt skin to further damage. Stay indoors while your skin heals, or wear protective clothing if you need to go outside.

Drink lots of water – Sunburnt skin draws fluid to the skin’s surface, so your body will need more water than usual to avoid dehydration.

Take cool showers or baths – The cold water will help soothe your skin. Don’t rub your skin when you get out; pat it dry gently to avoid further pain and irritation. Do not apply ice as it may worsen the damage.

Take painkillers if necessary. Ibuprofen or aspirin can be taken to relieve pain and swelling.

Wear loose clothing – Tight-fitting clothing irritates burnt skin and may cause unnecessary friction.

Avoid perfumed products – Fragrances, scented soaps, or lotions should not be applied to sunburnt skin as they may cause irritation.

Apply a cooling gel with healing properties – Lamelle Research Laboratories recently launched Helase Rescue Repair Gel, an after-sun skin saviour that can be used by the whole family.

Helase Rescue Repair Gel is intended to nourish, repair, and soothe sun-exposed skin. The product’s potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cooling agents work rapidly to reduce the extent of the injury. It reduces and soothes redness, heat, and irritation and turns off damaging free radicals if you’ve been overexposed to the sun. Not only does it offer immediate relief from discomfort, but it also limits the damage done by sun exposure.

Directions for use: Apply the required amount of product to the affected area two to three times a day until the redness has subsided. In severe cases of sun exposure, there may be a slight stinging sensation that quickly subsides. Once the Rescue Repair Gel has fully absorbed, additional moisturisers should be added to the affected area over it. Lamelle Serra Soothing Cream is an ideal option for extremely dry, inflamed, and sensitive skin.

Be patient – Sunburn is uncomfortable and takes time to heal. Allow your body to heal naturally – do not pick at your skin or blisters, and once it begins to peel, do not rub, tug at or pull the skin.

Protecting your skin from the sun should be a priority all year round, but it becomes increasingly important during summer when the sun’s UV rays are at their most dangerous. Be vigilant regarding sun protection, especially with young children whose skin is highly vulnerable.

Does workplace mindfulness really reduce stress? Emerging research suggests otherwise

Patronella Sono, Staff Volunteerism Portfolio (SVP) Specialist at Momentum Group Foundation
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Does workplace mindfulness really reduce stress? Emerging research suggests otherwise

In our fast-paced, high-stress work environments, mindfulness training has been hailed as the go-to solution for improving focus and productivity while reducing stress. Guided meditation Teams classes, breathing apps and mindfulness workshops are widely embraced by corporates aiming to support employee well-being. But is mindfulness truly the silver bullet for workplace stress? Emerging research suggests otherwise. Volunteering or the act of connecting with others through meaningful acts of service may provide even greater benefits for an individual’s mental well-being, encouraging a sense of purpose and fulfilment that mindfulness alone cannot achieve.

Escape or active engagement?

Mindfulness training became popular as a response to mounting stress in the modern workplace. By helping employees focus on the present moment, mindfulness practices aim to reduce anxiety and increase resilience against the demands of work. But does mindfulness truly deliver on these promises?

According to an article in Psychology Today, workplace mindfulness training may not be as effective as previously perceived. Studies have shown that while mindfulness can improve certain aspects of focus and provide short-term relaxation, its effects on long-term stress reduction are limited. The article suggests that mindfulness may not address the root causes of workplace stress – such as job insecurity, long hours, surviving a toxic work environment or a lack of support from management. All of which require structural or systemic solutions rather than individual coping mechanisms.

Why volunteering may prove a bigger solution

So if mindfulness falls short, what can companies do to support their employees’ mental well-being? Engaging in selfless acts of service has been shown to improve mood, increase feelings of fulfilment, and, perhaps most importantly, reduce stress.

Volunteering promotes a sense of connection and purpose beyond one’s immediate work environment. This can be especially valuable for employees who feel isolated or undervalued in their day-to-day roles. Taking the focus off self and onto others can help alleviate personal stress and improve overall mental health. The happiest people often aren’t those chasing personal gains or perfection but, are the ones who give back. Studies consistently show that volunteers report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. By focusing on helping others, they build meaningful connections, find a sense of purpose, and gain a deeper appreciation for their own lives and the blessings they already possess. Furthermore, volunteering can provide a sense of independence and accomplishment, two factors which directly counteract common workplace stressors.

How corporate SA can encourage volunteerism

By offering employees opportunities to participate in community service or company-sponsored volunteer events – not just at Mandela Day, businesses can help entrench the spirit of volunteerism and build a sense of camaraderie amongst colleagues.

A few practical ways to encourage volunteerism include:

  • Distributing volunteer days evenly across the calendar and aligning these to measurable KPIs to track impact
  • Partnering with local non-profit organisations – creating structured volunteer opportunities through partnerships with local charities such as the ones listed on the forgood platform, corporates can make it accessible for employees to participate in and feel connected to their communities or causes that they are especially passionate about
  • Charting a different course by empowering employees to lead their own projects: sanctioning employees to create and lead their own volunteer projects can prove powerful as this encourages a sense of ownership and motivates teams to champion causes which are close to their hearts. Separately, this approach builds other facets of an employees life such as camaraderie, boosts morale and places a higher sense of worth on the person.

Khiosk: Empowering Local Creators, Connecting Communities, and Transforming Shopping

Khiosk
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Khiosk: Empowering Local Creators, Connecting Communities, and Transforming Shopping

Khiosk is South Africa’s very first Video Commerce marketplace founded by Zuko Tisani a
seasoned entrepreneur honorary of the Forbes 30 under 30 list and winner of Consumer
Excellence Awards.

Khiosk allows the consumer to click on a product onscreen whilst watching and have it delivered to the consumers doorstep within two days. Khiosk has released its first blockbuster short film starring Leno Tsepang (who plays Shaka on Shaka ilembe); Mihlali Ndamase; Katlego Danke (iconic actress) and others who are wearing local brands such as Rich Mnisi, Tshepo Jeans and Thebe Magugu.

Khiosk mission is to now empower all its users to make money for themselves by uploading
videos onto the platform of products they own and can tag then in turn other users can buy. This capability solves a massive gap specific in the South African economy. There is a massive supply of content on WhatsApp status; Instagram Stories; TikTok etc. however the ability to make money from your content is very limited. Shoppable videos make an earning opportunity for what South Africans do on an everyday basis already.

The system is broken today in that the only way to make money from content is when you have a large audience and your presented with a brand deal with a retailer Lux; HandyAndy etc. however that is unsustainable to live off as a creator and few and far between depending who you are.
We want to empower the user and empower local brands to generate money from their content on a daily basis.
Khiosk then sets up the delivery and facilitates the transaction for this all to make sense and becomes a space for free entertainment to watch short films by Khiosk and other users but also to purchase.
Shop now on www.khiosk.com

iSchoolAfrica Disability and Inclusion Programme Wins Prestigious Global Zero Project Award 2025

iSchoolAfrica
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iSchoolAfrica Disability and Inclusion Programme Wins Prestigious Global Zero Project Award 2025

Johannesburg, 3 December 2024 – With today marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, iSchoolAfrica has been named one of the winners of the Zero Project Award 2025 for its transformative Disability and Inclusion Programme. Announced on this important day for Disability Awareness, the Zero Project recognised iSchoolAfrica among 77 innovative solutions from 45 countries out of 522 nominations across 90 nations.

The programme’s recognition reflects its significant contributions to advancing inclusive education through Apple technology and built-in accessibility features, empowering learners with disabilities in South Africa. The programme currently operates in 36 schools, addressing diverse needs such as autism, low vision, deafness, cerebral palsy, and dyslexia.

The award specifically recognises iSchoolAfrica’s Deaf Developers Programme, that has trained eight Deaf youth to become iOS app developers. The iSchoolAfrica team designed the Deaf Developers Programme to transform the narrative of disabled youth unemployment in South Africa. An innovation of this programme also included the introduction of various coding terms into South African Sign Language. The programme has been funded by a grant from SAB Foundation, as well as supported and funded by Core Group.

“We are honoured to be recognised by the Zero Project for our Disability and Inclusion Programme. This award highlights the power of technology in transforming education for learners with disabilities. At iSchoolAfrica, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities that empower every learner to reach their full potential,” said Michelle Lissoos, Executive Director of iSchoolAfrica.

Awardees of the Zero Project will be showcased at the highly anticipated Zero Project Conference (#ZeroCon25) at the United Nations Office in Vienna from 5 to 7 March 2025, where they will present their innovative solutions and be featured in the annual Zero Project Report shared globally with disability inclusion experts. Michelle Lissoos has also been invited to speak at ZeroCon25.

Michael Fembek, Member of the Board of the Essl Foundation and CEO of the Zero Project, praised the Awardees, saying: “Zero Project Awardees are leading the way in harnessing ICT and AI to remove barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities across the globe. Their work is not just about technological advancement; it is about building an inclusive future where technology works for everyone.”

iSchoolAfrica’s win underlines its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).

The Zero Project’s selection process is renowned for its thoroughness, involving over 300 hours of peer reviews and the collaboration of more than 350 global experts—with and without disabilities—who evaluate nominations based on innovation, impact, and scalability.

The Zero Project Award further amplifies iSchoolAfrica’s ability to scale its impactful work, with access to initiatives such as the Zero Project Scaling Solutions Programme, the Zero Project Technology Forum, and the Inclusive Arts Community.

About iSchoolAfrica

Since 2009, iSchoolAfrica has provided over 100 000 South African learners, from ECD to Grade 12, with state-of-the-art  technology and education practices. Together with our partners, school leaders and educators, we have changed teaching and learning in the most under resourced and vulnerable communities across South Africa, giving youth the opportunity to learn, create and succeed. Please donate here to change the future of South Africa. If you are a corporate who would like to be involved as part of your Social Economic Development contribution, please contact; [email protected]

Empowering African retail during the festive season with a data-driven approach External Inbox

The Hive Group
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Empowering African retail during the festive season with a data-driven approach External Inbox

The festive season is an important time for retailers across Africa to engage consumers and give sales a much-needed boost. The Hive Group, a leading Pan-African data and consumer insights performance agency, leverages data-driven strategies and innovative technologies to help brands connect with their audience during this peak period.

Success in Africa’s festive retail market hinges on delivering value, providing cultural relevance, and offering consumer convenience. Retailers must align their campaigns with the unique needs and expectations of African consumers. Think of it as delivering promotions that resonate at a cultural level while offering a seamless shopping experience that puts the spotlight on accessibility and personalisation. Through this, brands can build lasting connections and improve customer loyalty during a critical time of year.

The Hive Group uses advanced Martech tools like Brandwatch and GWI to analyse consumer behaviours and predict seasonal trends. By examining historical data, browsing patterns, and purchase behaviours, the agency can assist retailers in anticipating the expected shifts in demand and identifying popular products more effectively during the shopping season. Adopting such a proactive strategy enables brands to adapt their offerings and stay ahead of consumer expectations during the festive rush.

A practical demonstration

One example of how Martech can be used to drive customer loyalty is at Munhowen, the largest beverage wholesaler in Luxembourg. The company turned towards Martech tools to help it run a loyalty programme that would increase customer satisfaction and engagement with one of its new brands.

By integrating a customer data platform with dynamic content capabilities, it was able to deliver personalised and engaging campaigns. This approach led to increased engagement rates and a significant rise in conversions, demonstrating the effectiveness of data-driven personalisation during peak shopping periods.

Personalising diverse shopper segments

The Hive Group tailors its personalisation strategies based on shopper habits. For example, for high-volume shoppers, the agency leverages behavioural data and predictive analytics to reward loyalty with exclusive offers, early sale access, and recommendations based on past purchases. For occasional or seasonal buyers, the focus shifts to engaging content like festive gift guides and time-sensitive promotions to create urgency. Retargeting ads and personalised email campaigns keep these consumers engaged and motivated to complete their purchases.

To assess the effectiveness of festive campaigns, retailers should monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) that are aligned with their specific goals. These include total sales revenue, customer engagement metrics such as social media interactions, conversion rates from Web site visits or app sessions to purchases, return on investment (ROI) on paid media campaigns, and customer retention metrics like repeat purchase rates and customer lifetime value. Focusing on these KPIs allows retailers to refine strategies and optimise performance in real-time.

Emerging trends in African festive retail

Several trends are shaping consumer expectations during the festive season in Africa. The rise in smartphone penetration is driving mobile commerce, making mobile-optimised campaigns essential.

Hybrid shopping experiences, such as ‘click-and-collect’ services, are gaining popularity, integrating online and offline shopping. Economic challenges in some regions highlight the need for promotions and discounts to attract budget-conscious shoppers. Additionally, African consumers increasingly expect personalised shopping experiences with customised recommendations and exclusive offers.

Staying ahead of the festive curve

“The future of customer engagement lies in real-time personalisation and omnichannel integration,” says Yaw Dwomoh, CEO of The Hive Group. “At The Hive Group, we are dedicated to staying ahead of these trends, ensuring our clients are not just keeping up with the market but leading it.”

By combining deep insights, advanced technologies, and a commitment to the African retail market, The Hive Group empowers brands to maximize the festive season’s potential. Whether delivering personalised experiences or predicting market shifts, their tools and expertise drive results that resonate long after the holidays.

Win or Lose, There’s No Excuse for Gender-Based Violence

 Carling Black Label
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Win or Lose, There’s No Excuse for Gender-Based Violence

 Carling Black Label reaffirms its commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) with the launch of its 2024 #NoExcuse campaign, aligning with South Africa’s 16 Days Against Gender-Based Violence.

This year, the campaign calls on soccer fans to stand united and demonstrate that champions of the stadium can become champions for change by protecting and uplifting both on and off the field.

At the heart of this year’s message is a clear and direct call to action, spotlighting that the real injuries happen off the field. Win or lose, there’s #NoExcuse for gender-based violence. Football fans and consumers are invited to take the Champions for Change course at NoExcuseSA.com, a program accessible both online and through manual training sessions, designed to inspire men to challenge harmful behaviors, become agents of change in their communities, and embody positive masculinity.

The #NoExcuse campaign, launched in 2017, has consistently used football’s power to address one of South Africa’s most urgent social issues. Past initiatives such as the “Soccer Song for Change,” the “Bride Armour” campaign, and the “63 Second Final” activation have inspired action and fostered meaningful dialogue on GBV. This year, the campaign builds on this legacy by deepening its connection with soccer fans and enduring partnership with the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

Soccer is more than just a sport in South Africa—it’s a shared passion that unites communities. Recognizing this, Carling Black Label has affectionately positioned champion fans as key agents in driving meaningful societal change. Through stadium activations, impactful storytelling, and grassroots engagements, the #NoExcuse campaign aims to empower fans to spread the message that GBV has no place in society and to take action against it.

One of the campaign’s most impactful tools is the Champions for Change course, which equips participants with the skills to identify and reject harmful behaviors and challenge perceptions around women and masculinity. Past participants have shared how the course transformed their perspectives, with one stating: “The Champions for Change course taught me that being a champion means standing up for what’s right—not just for myself, but for others too.”

Carling Black Label Brand Director, Kerryn Greenleaf emphasized the brand’s focus on empowering men to lead the fight against GBV. “Our focus is not on shaming but on equipping men with the tools to be better versions of themselves. The Champions for Change course is a crucial step in building a more respectful and accountable society, both on and off the field,” she added.

In 2024, the campaign’s presence at PSL matches will amplify its message through “injury time” activations, matchday media pop-ups, community workshops, and partnerships with influential soccer figures. These collaborations highlight the shared responsibility of the soccer community to drive positive change and serve as a force for good.

Statistics reveal the urgency of this work: a woman is murdered every three hours in South Africa, and an average of 116 rapes are reported daily. These numbers underline the importance of collective action. Carling Black Label calls on soccer fans to join the movement, take the Champions for Change course, and prove that true champions stand against violence.

Looking ahead, the campaign is paving the way for a groundbreaking program within football, set to launch in January 2025. This initiative will deepen the #NoExcuse movement’s impact, reinforcing the message that there is no excuse for abuse.

For more information and to take the Champions for Change course, visit NoExcuseSA.com

The importance of balancing innovation with tradition in education

LnT Desk
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The importance of balancing innovation with tradition in education

In an era where technological advancements are transforming every aspect of our lives, the educational sector is no exception. While innovation and technology have the potential to revolutionise learning, it is crucial to remember that not all change is inherently good, and tradition plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of education, an education expert says.

“Despite the rapid evolution of educational technologies, certain foundational skills and knowledge remain indispensable. Reading, writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving are timeless components of education that transcend technological advancements. These skills are essential for students to navigate a complex and ever-changing world,” says Dr Andre Abrahams, Deputy Dean: Academic Development and Support at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s leading private higher education provider.

Dr Abrahams recently delivered the keynote address at the International Conference on Education Research (ICER), hosted by The IIE, wherein he made the case for the importance of balancing innovation with tradition.

Technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), has the potential to significantly enhance learning outcomes. AI tools can automate administrative tasks, provide personalised learning experiences, and make education more interactive and engaging. For instance, AI-powered adaptive learning platforms can identify knowledge gaps and offer customised content to students, improving their learning outcomes, he notes.

“But while technology can replicate and supplement traditional methods, it cannot replace the human touch that is essential for holistic education. Good pedagogy, which includes building positive relationships with students, providing emotional support, and fostering critical thinking, remains at the core of effective teaching.

“Activities like read-aloud with physical books, for instance, continue to hold a special place in education, promoting a unique connection with literature and fostering a sense of community among students.”

On the other hand, traditional educational practices do have their limitations, says Abrahams.

“They often fail to engage students with varied learning preferences, leading to a one-size-fits-all approach that can leave some students behind. Additionally, traditional methods can sometimes hinder the discovery of new information and solutions to fundamental issues, and they may control who is allowed to produce ideas and what is considered scholarly knowledge.

“These shortfalls highlight the need for innovation and adaptation in the educational system.”

BLENDING TRADITION WITH INNOVATION

The key to effective education lies in striking a balance between tradition and innovation, says Dr Abrahams.

“Blended learning environments, which combine traditional teaching methods with modern technological tools, are showing promising results. These environments allow teachers to focus on complex teaching duties and direct student interaction while leveraging AI to handle repetitive tasks such as grading and tutoring.

“Tradition serves as a reminder that not all change is good simply because it is new. It cautions us against the allure of novelty and fashion, encouraging us to evaluate technological advancements based on their true value rather than their novelty. This balanced approach ensures that we do not sacrifice the essential elements of education in the pursuit of innovation.”

By leveraging the best of both worlds, we can create an educational system that is both modern and inclusive, ensuring that students receive the foundational knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world, says Dr Abrahams.

“Tradition is not a hindrance to progress but a guiding light that helps us navigate the complexities of modern education with wisdom and caution. As we embrace technological advancements, it is crucial to do so with caution to promote equity, fairness, and inclusion. Development and progress should be accessible to all, not just a select few.

“By designing technology with diverse students in mind, we can ensure that digital fairness and inclusion are prioritised. This approach emphasises that the goal should not be to be the first or the fastest but to create a system that is equitable and beneficial for everyone.”

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