Health and gender equality are indivisible and fundamental human rights. “Right to health cannot be dislocated from gender equality and human rights. We have to ensure that gender equality and human right to health are recognised as fundamental human rights in all countries,” said Shobha Shukla, who was the Lead Discussant for SDG-3 (health and wellbeing) at the United Nations intergovernmental High Level Political Forum (HLPF 2025) at UN HQ in New York (14-23 July 2025). She was speaking on behalf of Asia Pacific Regional Civil Society Engagement Mechanism.

The theme of HLPF 2025 is “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for leaving no one behind”.

The 2025 HLPF with full appreciation for the integrated, indivisible and interlinked nature of the Sustainable Development Goals, is conducting in-depth reviews of: SDG 3 (ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages); SDG 5 (achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls); SDG 8 (promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all); SDG 14 (conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG 17 (strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).

Progress on SDG-3 is stunted in Asia Pacific

“Progress towards SDG3, continues to be stunted in the Asia Pacific region, such as on universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights; communicable and noncommunicable diseases; universal health coverage; and access for all to safe, effective, quality and affordable disease prevention tools like vaccines, diagnostics and medicines,” said Shobha Shukla, who earlier taught physics at Loreto Convent College and leads CNS as Founder Executive Director.

“Gender disparities significantly impact health outcomes and evidence shows that SDG 3 goals cannot be realised without addressing SDG 5 on gender equality. Rise of anti-rights and anti-gender ideologies, including the regressive Geneva Consensus Declaration, the most recent trend of defunding development assistance for gender equality and health, the impact of austerity measures in debt-ridden countries, deprioritisation of health spending, and poor domestic resource allocation on health, are contributing to reversal in progress towards SDG3,” she added.

Sexual and reproductive health and bodily autonomy are critical to deliver on SDG3 and other SDGs

“Essential health services must include sexual and reproductive health services – including safe abortion and post-abortion care, menstrual health hygiene, and mental health services, with particular attention to women, adolescent girls, persons with disability, indigenous peoples, gender diverse communities, older people, young people, migrant workers, refugees, people living with HIV, sex workers, people who use drugs, among others. They must also include all health and social support services for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence,” said Shobha Shukla.

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is not about coverage alone it is essentially about care, justice and equity. So, we need to reach the unreached – with standard healthcare services in a right-based, gender transformative and person-centred manner. More importantly, there is no UHC if we do not deliver fully on sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice – including abortion rights. There is no health without rights – without bodily autonomy and without justice.

Save the medicines that protect us

“All countries must stop misuse and overuse of medicines in all sectors and prevent antimicrobial resistance using the One Health approach,” said Shobha Shukla who serves as Chairperson of Global Antimicrobial Resistance Media Alliance (GAMA).

“WHO FCTC Articles 5.3 and 19 empower governments to make tobacco and nicotine industries liable and pay for the harm they are causing to human health and our planet. All forms of corporate capture of public health policy must end and corporations that are causing harm to human health and the environment must be held liable,” she said.

Gender-transformative reforms of global financial architecture is vital

Gender transformative economic system that is based on rights to justice, care, and equality for everyone urgently. Because most of the countries in the Global South are in the cycles of perennial debt – which they have to keep servicing to international financial institutions. This results into austerity measures which include countries cutting down on public services, access to health services, education services, social protection services, among others.

UN Charter along with other legally binding treaties or agreements such as CEDAW, WHO FCTC, ICDP 1994, Beijing Declaration 1995, must primacy over trade deals – we cannot let profit override people’s interests.

We cannot forget that during COVID-19,  Global North heavy multilateralism had failed the Global South. Vaccines were piled up and thrown after expiry by some rich nations when there were Global South nations who had no dose for example. We cannot have Global North heavy multilateralism.

When 183 countries (including the European Union) have policies to stop industry interference in public policy and make Big Tobacco pay as part of their commitment to global tobacco treaty (formally called the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control or WHO FCTC) then why cannot we adopt this as a standard across the UN treaties, policies, agreements, guidelines and processes, as a mandatory binding rule?

Governments must suspend patents and lift trade rules that impede access to medicines and medical technologies, said Shobha Shukla.

“Governments also need to address occupational health and provide meaningful ‘right to know’ to workers, prioritise prevention, and establish exposure limits protective of the most vulnerable populations. All SDG 3 targets must be fully-funded and DAC countries (30 developed nations that give aid to developing nations) should fulfill their commitment to official development assistance (ODA) for gender equality and health. At the same time countries must mobilise domestic resources for health,” she added.

Talk of peace & increasing defence budgets do not go together!

We cannot have double standards. last month NATO countries agreed to raise defence budget by 5% and 4th Financing for Development Conference failed to deliver on feminist agenda – and declining financial aid to finance SDGs continue to be a major impediment. This is compounded by a US$ 4 trillion annual investment gap for SDG achievement in developing countries. Shobha Shukla calls upon governments to fund people’s priorities. Global peace is an essential cog in the wheel for SDGs.

Health responses and all public services must be person-centred, gender transformative and rights-based

“We have to ensure that health responses and all public services are people-centred, gender transformative and rights-based for all, without any condition or exclusion,” said Shobha Shukla, lead discussant for SDG3 at HLPF 2025.

“With less than 5 and a half years left to deliver on SDG3, we appeal to governments to step up their actions on gender equality and right to health – where no one is left behind,” she concluded.

The High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is the United Nations platform for the follow-up and review of SDGs. The HLPF was established at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in 2012 in its outcome “The Future We Want”.

After an explosive reunion, The Real Housewives of Durban overtook The Mommy Club as the most streamed reality series on Showmax this year.

The Showmax Original reality series is up for three awards at this weekend’s Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards: Best TV Production (Let It Rain Films), Best Use of KZN as a Filming Location, and Best Use of Cinematography (Lee Thomas Doig).

As Glamour says, “Season 5 of The Real Housewives of Durban delivered all the glitz, drama, and jaw-dropping moments fans have come to expect, only this time, the tension was dialed all the way up. From the fiery fallout between Minnie and Londie to the shocking dissolution of Joku, emotions ran high and alliances crumbled in real-time. Just when we thought we’d seen it all, the highly-anticipated reunion dropped, and let’s just say, no one was prepared.”

Katlego Molubi recently caught up with Londie, who opened up about her side of the story, where she stands with the other ladies and the overwhelming support she’s been receiving from fans.

How do you feel now that the season has wrapped?
I feel amazing. Returning to the show was such a fulfilling experience. Yes, there were a few challenges along the way but the positives far outweighed the negatives. I’m genuinely grateful for the journey.

What went through your mind watching the argument with Minnie play out on screen?
It was definitely surreal seeing that scene again. But honestly, I was proud of how I handled myself. I didn’t allow myself to be baited into anything that doesn’t reflect who I am. I always carry myself with intention: I’m a mother, a daughter, and a businesswoman. So maintaining my composure, even in a heated moment, was a big win for me.

Have you spoken to Minnie since the reunion aired? What’s your relationship like now?
No but she did try to reach out via a text message apologising in private. Which is quite different from the statement she released. It is quite disappointing that I was humiliated in public but I’m not getting a proper apology directed to me in public.

What did this season of The Real Housewives of Durban teach you about yourself?
Whew, where do I start? This season reminded me just how strong I am. Life has thrown so much at me but I always come out stronger. I’ve realised that I’m incredibly resilient and that I won’t be easily shaken by outside noise.

Fans (and Sorisha) are calling for you to return full-time. Is that something you’d consider?
Absolutely. I’ve always loved being part of the show. It’s not just about the cameras, it’s about the real relationships I’ve built with some of the women. There’s genuine history and love there, and I’d be open to continuing that journey.

What message do you have for the people who have been supporting you throughout the season?
My heart is so full. The amount of love and support I’ve received has been truly overwhelming, in the best way. I’m so grateful to every single person who’s stood by me and sent messages of encouragement. I’ve never experienced this kind of warmth before, and I don’t take it for granted.

About The Real Housewives 

The Real Housewives is distributed internationally by NBCUniversal Formats, which is part of Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group.

The Real Housewives of Durban and The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip – South Africa were two of Showmax’s 10 most-streamed titles in 2024. Other Showmax Originals include editions in Abuja, Lagos and Nairobi.

Showmax is also the streaming home of the Cape Town, Gqeberha, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Wynlande franchises, as well as Atlanta, Beverly Hills, Dubai, Miami, New Jersey, New York City, Orange County, Potomac, and Salt Lake City editions.

Watch the trailer:

This Mandela Day, Fabiani is proud to introduce Fabiani Café, a unique lifestyle café experience that brings together community, culture, and conscious living. Designed as more than just a café, this mobile activation is a celebration of style and substance, offering guests the opportunity to engage with the brand in a relaxed yet elevated setting.

From 17 to 20 July 2025, Fabiani Café will travel across Cape Town, creating space for connection, reflection, and impact through food and experience.

Fabiani Café Activation Schedule

• 17–18 July: Food truck pop-up at TFG Head Office
• 18 July – Mandela Day: Food packing with FoodForward SA
• 19–20 July: Food truck pop-up at V&A Waterfront

In partnership with Cedar Coffee, the café will serve a curated menu and premium brews made with locally sourced ingredients and served in eco-conscious packaging. A celebrated local chef will lead the culinary direction, ensuring each meal not only satisfies but uplifts.

Guests can look forward to curated coffee moments, exclusive merchandise, and thought-provoking conversations over good food. In true Fabiani fashion, Fabiani Café will feature a fusion of fashion-forward design details, from tailored staff uniforms to custom café accessories, capturing the brand’s signature aesthetic.

Hosted at various key locations across the city, the café will welcome friends of the brand, media and the public for a first-hand experience of Fabiani in lifestyle form.

In the spirit of Mandela Day and giving back, the initiative also includes a meaningful partnership with the Red Cross, contributing to ongoing efforts to support real community needs.

Join us as we serve purpose with style—one cup, one moment and one connection at a time.

While the world’s eyes were fixed on Centre Court in London, Johannesburg served up its own grand slam moment as the Stella Artois Soirée: Tennis Edition transformed James & Ethel Gray Park into the city’s most stylish arena of self-expression this past Saturday.

Timed to coincide with the Wimbledon Finals weekend, the event delivered an unforgettable cultural spectacle, blending rhythm, elegance, and play for a crowd ready to rally in style.

From the moment the music kicked off, it was clear this wasn’t just an event – it was a cultural happening. The mesmerizing Lloyiso, soulful Ami Faku, captivating Manana, ever-electric Lamiez Holworthy, and enchanting Azana all delivered standout performances – with Azana’s set made even more unforgettable by a surprise guest appearance from fan favourite Big Zulu, which sent waves of excitement through the park. The musical journey reached new heights with an electrifying surprise set by multi-award-winning artist Shekhinah, rounding off a lineup that kept the crowd in rapt attention from start to finish.

Each performance struck a delicate balance between intimacy and exhilaration – emotional, electric, and utterly unforgettable.

“This was about more than just being on stage,” said Manana. “It felt like performing for a city that wanted to celebrate itself – to dance, to feel something real, and to make a memory.”

Fashion, meanwhile, wasn’t just a feature, it took center court as acclaimed creative, Keneilwe Mothoa, unveiled a limited-edition, tennis-inspired capsule collection that echoed the boldness of the day. Her visionary pieces punctuated the park with a sense of elevated self-expression, giving attendees yet another reason to lean into the moment and dress with intention.

In between sets and style moments, guests indulged in curated culinary offerings including bao buns, dim sum, seafood by The Prawnery, and crowd-favourite wings and ribs from The Wing Republic. A standout element was the thoughtfully executed Food I Love You pairing experience – a seamless fusion of gourmet bites and perfectly poured Stella Artois, which was met with rave reviews from attendees.

The park buzzed with energy throughout the day – including lively table tennis tournaments and immersive moments at The Perfect Serve station, which invited guests to experience Stella Artois’ iconic five-step pouring ritual firsthand. It was an interactive homage to precision and ritual – a nod to the brand’s Belgian heritage and timeless quality.

“This edition of The Soirée captured everything we love about Joburg right now — its creativity, its elegance, its expressive edge,” said Estee Burger, Marketing Manager at Stella Artois. “And with the Wimbledon Finals as our backdrop, it gave tennis culture a distinctly South African twist as a moment worth more.”

Wimpy has launched its proudly South African Two Tiger Deals – a deliciously local campaign where R19.90 (or “two tiger” in SA slang) unlocks a variety of delicious, feel-good menu items. From half waffles with ice cream, filter coffee, soda floats, shakes, and more – all for just Two Tiger.

To bring this celebration of local flavour, language, and lekker vibes to life, Wimpy partnered with viral duo Judy and Addi of Logan Fam, fame – known for their hilarious cross-cultural commentary and infectious family dynamic. In their latest video, shot at Mall of Africa, the couple dives headfirst into the quirks of South African lingo:

Watch the video here.

At its heart, the Two Tiger Deals campaign is a love letter to South African charm – our sayings, the family moments, the shared meals, and the way we turn something as simple as R19.90 into an experience worth remembering, at a place where everyone’s welcome.” says Cathy Qama, Marketing Manager at Wimpy.

The branded content piece is a heartwarming exploration of Mzansi-isms – from “serviette vs napkin” to the mysterious meaning of “just now”,  all wrapped around a table of joy.

As the family tucks into their Two Tiger spoils, the film bursts with flavour, love, and local pride. The classic “chips vs fries” debate gets rehashed, and Addi tries (and fails) to say “tomato sauce” with a Joburg accent.

Available Two Tiger Deals (R19.90 each):

• Half waffle & ice cream
• Short filter coffee
• Small classic shake
• Small soda float
• Ice cream delight

Let’s face it winter with kids can be magical… and a little bit maddening. Shorter days, cabin fever, and endless cries of “I’m bored” can turn even the warmest home into a frozen warzone of screen-time negotiations. But don’t worry, the antidote isn’t complicated, it’s cozy, creative, and comes with snacks (and plushies).

ZURU’s Winter Survival Kit: is a playful, practical toolkit to help families thrive through winter holidays and long, chilly afternoons indoors. And yes, the latest range of plush toys are leading the charge.

“Parents are craving unplugged moments and kids are craving connection,” says Glenn Ambrose, Country Manager at ZURU South Africa. Plush toys, whether cuddly or chaotic, offer comfort, imagination, and a little lighthearted weirdness, which is exactly what winter needs.”

What to Pack in Your Cozy-Time Toolkit:

Plush Power-Ups
Start with personality-packed plush toys. Whether it’s the mischievous Fugglers, the super-soft weighted Hug-a-Lumps (now in 3 sizes), or the snack-loving Snackles Series 3, there’s a cuddly companion for every kid and mood. Use them to create storytelling prompts, plushie picnics, or just as a comforting bedtime buddy.

Books for Blanket Forts
Add age-appropriate reads that spark giggles or wonder. Pair them with plushies to bring the characters to life or let kids invent their own sidekick stories.

Snack Attack Station
Snackles are plushies with a foodie twist so why not build a winter-themed snack bar? Think popcorn, fruit slices, mini marshmallows, and hot cocoa served in fun mugs for a cozy treat break.

Screen-Free Fun
Break out puzzles, crafts, or even plush-themed scavenger hunts. Create a “No Screens Until Sunset” rule and fill the hours with make-believe play powered by their plush pals.

Movement Moments
Cold weather doesn’t mean total hibernation. Try plush toy yoga, dance-offs, or follow-the-leader with Hug-a-Lumps as team mascots.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection. By building a winter survival kit that encourages imagination, warmth, and shared fun, families can turn chilly days into cherished memories.

So, this winter, skip the screen battles and bring on the blanket forts. With a little creativity and a few fuzzy friends from ZURU, your home might just become the coziest (and happiest) spot on the block.

For more information visit: www.zurutoys.com.

Converse is writing a bold new love letter to self-expression, individuality, and cultural impact with its latest global campaign: Love Chuck. Featuring international icons Tyler, the Creator, Vince Staples, and Charli XCX, the campaign is a celebration of the iconic Chuck Taylor, the sneaker that started it all and continues to influence generations through music, fashion, and art.

In Mzansi, Love Chuck finds a powerful local voice in Usimamane, a genre-bending artist, fearless creative, and voice of the youth. Known for defying convention and leading with authenticity, Usimamane embodies everything the campaign stands for.

Thursday the 10th of July the brand welcomed Usimamane into the Converse Love Chuck family with an event held at the YFM studios. Usimamane was joined by industry friends including, Tony Dayimane, Qwellers and Blaq Diamond to celebrate not only his partnership with Converse, but his latest achievements, which include his Metro FM Award for Best Male Artist and a platinum plaque for his album. The night, hosted by YFM DJ Sinaye, was a true celebration of self-expression, and cultural impact with Usimamane performing an exclusive track and YFM DJs delivering the hottest sets.

“Love Chuck is about paying homage to those who have not just walked in our sneakers but the places and movements that have supported us and left an indelible mark in society.  ,” says Tebogo Motlhamme, Marketing Manager at Converse South Africa. “Usimamane is the perfect local catalyst because he lives this ethos. His energy, creativity and fearless individuality make him a true representation of what Chuck Taylor stands for today.”

More than a shoe, the Chuck Taylor continues to shape and reflect culture, proving its relevance across time and trends. From underground movements to global stages, it influences art, music and fashion, all while remaining a true symbol for those who create, who lead, and who never follow. The Love Chuck campaign is Converse’s tribute to that legacy, and to the individuals who keep writing it.

For Usimamane, the campaign is a deeply personal reflection of his journey; “It feels so surreal to collaborate with such an iconic brand as Converse. It’s been the backdrop for many kids growing up in South Africa – from pantsula dance culture to high fashion aficionado in the townships. Converse, the All Star skew remains a cultural imprint in South Africa & globally. It completely mirrors my musical aspirations. It was a no-brainer for me to partner with a brand that shares the same ethos as me. It’s such an honor and thank you Converse.”

The Love Chuck campaign will come to life through bold visuals, creative collaborations, and a series of local activations that invite fans to wear their hearts on their soles and celebrate the shoe that’s been there through it all.