Better Together with Ntombi M

Joburg is buzzing this weekend! We chat to Belu Mabandla, Executive Head: Destination Marketing & Events at the Johannesburg Tourism Company, about the tourism impact of Joy of Jazz and the Proteas vs Australia ODI, and what visitors can explore while they’re in the city

September is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to encourage women to prioritise screening and learn more about preventing cervical cancer. Screening can help detect changes in the cells of the cervix and identify cervical cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms appear.

 What’s something that’s completely normal in your relationship, but other people might find unusual?

What does self-defence mean in South African law and when can it become a criminal offence?

How did you find out you were being cheated on, and when you found out, did you leave immediately or did you stay?

Ntombi and your listeners, am I being selfish, or is it reasonable for me to want my wife and children to prioritise spending some family time with me too?

 How do you handle rejection, in any area of your life?

As we continue our build-up to the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, we’re joined in studio by pianist, composer and educator Yonela Mnana. Yonela has become an important voice in South African jazz, with a musical journey shaped by his work as a performer, composer and collaborator. His music draws from jazz while reflecting his own experiences, influences and South African musical heritage. This year, he takes his music to the Diphala Stage at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz.

I would like to believe that I am fairly healthy but one thing that consistently knocks my body is Tonsillitis.

Some conversations make us laugh, some make us think, and others make us look at life a little differently. After Dark with Kayise creates space for those conversations - honest, vulnerable and deeply human. Kayise Ngqula started the podcast in 2020, and over the years it has grown into a platform for conversations around the experiences that shape us - from identity and healing to parenting, relationships and breaking generational cycles. Now, Season 1 of After Dark with Kayise is entering a new chapter as it comes to SABC + on the 17th of September.

Anneline Mathiba is an albinism advocate, model, actress, presenter and founder of Proud Albinism, a platform that uses modelling, entertainment and awareness to create visibility and confidence for people living with albinism.   Through her advocacy, Anneline works to challenge misconceptions, tackle stigma and highlight the realities faced by people with albinism.   She has also used her voice to advocate for greater inclusion and access to healthcare and opportunities.

Should South Africa bring back the death penalty?

September celebrates Heritage Month, a time to reflect on and celebrate the history, culture and traditions that make us who we are. Mothong African Heritage is dedicated to preserving and celebrating our African heritage, keeping our stories, culture and traditions alive for generations to come.

I found out recently that my 18 year old daughter is not biologically mine.

The safety of women remains a serious concern in South Africa, with women continuing to face the threat of violence simply while going about their daily lives. This comes amid the discovery of the bodies of four women in Kempton Park over the past two months. While police have not confirmed that the deaths are linked, the similarities in the cases have prompted a dedicated multidisciplinary investigation.  Police are urging women in the area to avoid walking or running alone, particularly in isolated areas.

Gurulogic is known for bringing together jazz and deep house in a way that feels fresh, current and very much their own. They’ve been building their sound over the years, and it’s a sound that really comes to life when you experience them live. And now they’re getting ready for the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, happening on the 25th and 26th of September at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Readings with Mkhulu Manzolwandle.

When I told my little sister that the man I met lives with his child’s mother, she said she was judging me.

At 25, she survived a suicide attempt. Now, at 30, she is still carrying the weight of judgement from the people closest to her. Why is there so much stigma around suicide attempts, and why do we sometimes judge people when they need compassion the most? This Suicide Prevention Month, we’re having an honest conversation about stigma, healing and the importance of responding with empathy rather than judgement.

Mel Tlhapi is an entrepreneur, model, tourism advocate and former Mrs Soweto who has spent years using her platforms to showcase the beauty, culture and possibilities of Soweto through her tourism business, Soweto Travel Shop.   Her journey is also one of resilience, having survived a stroke and navigated recovery while continuing to pursue her passions, grow her business and create opportunities for others.

Get it off your chest, how are you?

I know I made mistakes as a partner, but I have never abandoned my responsibilities as a father. I’ve tried reaching out in every way I can.

Mr and Mrs Sehloho celebrate 12 years of marriage through song

I have one daughter who is 34 years old, she has 3 kids with different fathers out of wedlock, I don't even know the fathers of these kids.

 The Organisation for Young Women’s Dignity is an NPO that aims to uplift and restore the dignity of young women in South Africa.   GBVF and HIV awareness is provided through community outreach programmes using existing networks of community educators, peer educators, in-person, and virtual peer-to-peer support groups.   The Organisation facilitates access to licensed social workers, social auxiliaries, provides referrals for biomedical services so that professional services are provided by licensed and qualified practitioners.

Anonymous is married to a breadwinner whose two sisters rely heavily on him financially, including for their children. She feels the pressure is affecting their own family of five and questions whether she was wrong for setting boundaries when one sister sent her children to visit without consulting her.

What challenges have you faced being married to a breadwinner?

Readings with Thembi Mabena

Anonymous has been in a relationship for almost five years, and they share a daughter. Their relationship was strong until her partner discovered conversations with a male DJ she had never mentioned. The argument turned physical, and although they’ve tried to move forward, the issue remains unresolved.

I’m a 37-year-old man with two kids. I have been dating a 28-year-old woman who has three kids with two different baby daddies.   We started dating two years ago, and at first, the relationship was the best I had ever had. When the relationship was still fresh, I asked my girlfriend if she wanted another child in the future. She said no because she is not working, and the fathers of her children are giving her a hard time when it comes to child maintenance.   I also told her that I didn’t want another child because I might lose my job at any time. The company I work for was firing employees almost every month.   The sad part is that she has never worked a day in her life, and I have been helping her wherever I can, both with the kids and with her needs.

Dr Mahlatse Thosago, a member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists unpacks the growing use of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro for weight management. While these medications can have significant benefits when appropriately prescribed, psychiatrists are warning that we also need to consider what happens to a person’s mental health as their weight, relationship with food, self-image and even relationships change.

Kele Lekalake is the Managing Director of Harvey World Travel Southern Africa and a woman helping shape the future of tourism across the continent.   Through her work, she is championing a more connected Pan-African travel industry, creating opportunities for travel entrepreneurs and encouraging collaboration across borders.   This Tourism Month, we’re celebrating Kele and the mark she is making in an industry with enormous potential across Africa.

Why is being a Girl Dad celebrated, while being a Boy Mom can sometimes be taken somehow?

I am a 40-year-old man and I want to apply for a protection order against my 25-year-old little sister. I would like to understand how a protection order works and whether I can apply for one against a family member.

It’s wedding season and we are doing things a little differently. If you, a loved one, a friend or someone close to you is getting married this wedding season, we want to hear from you.

I was today years old when someone from my husband's neighbourhood showed me that my husband was once gay.

Wheeling Towards Success is a skills development and inclusion-focused organisation committed to creating opportunities for persons with disabilities and young people. Through skills development, workplace readiness, employment opportunities and disability inclusion initiatives, the organisation is helping people unlock their potential and participate meaningfully in the economy.

Lorcia Cooper is a dancer, choreographer and award-winning actress whose career has spanned decades. From the Cape Flats to the stage, television and beyond, she has built a remarkable career defined by talent, versatility and resilience. From Backstage to some of South Africa’s most memorable productions, Lorcia has seamlessly moved between dance and acting, while continuing to use her experience and passion to inspire and mentor others.

When should one appease and honour their ancestors?

I don't know why I cheated; it was a demon in me

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a rare and potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause severe damage to the skin and mucous membranes. It is often triggered by medication, and early recognition is critical. August is SJS Awareness Month and we chat to Charity Gumede, who has been living with SJS and is using her experience to raise awareness about the condition and the challenges survivors face. We’ll also be joined by Dr. Olehile Quin Kgabale, who is a dermatologist and Head of the Clinical Unit for Dermatology at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital who will help us better understand this little-known condition and why greater awareness around SJS is so important.

Kganya Ramoshaba-Bbenkele is the Managing Director at In-Touch, an organisation committed to empowering and supporting women, young people and people living with disabilities.   Through her work, Kganya is helping create opportunities, raise awareness and address some of the challenges that continue to affect vulnerable communities.   She is also behind Run for Your Mind, a mental-health-focused fun walk taking place in October, aimed at encouraging conversations around mental wellbeing and challenging the stigma that often prevents people from seeking help and speaking openly about their experiences.

 Is the grass greener outside of South Africa when it comes to employment opportunities, salaries and quality of life?

Registered social worker, mental health therapist, motivational speaker, mentor, life coach, actress and CEO & Founder of Health Culture Consulting. She brings her expertise, heart and passion for empowering women to HER 2000 FeMme Fest! 💜

My husband and I are currently renting in a complex and he has brought up the fact that he wants a stand-alone house but I am not really convinced.

 Phalatsi and Itumeleng have been together for three years and are officially getting married in October ❤️💍

Men, do you find it difficult to set boundaries with your own family when your wife is being disrespected?

My son is marrying my daughter, and neither of them know that they are siblings

Do you have children who don’t know about each other?

Mediumship with Mkhulu Manzolwandle