As household budgets remain under pressure, many shoppers are changing the way they buy clothes. Instead of paying full price, more consumers are looking for recognised brands at lower prices, while fashion companies are searching for better ways to deal with excess stock without hurting their brand value. That shift has helped create new opportunities in the retail space.

One company making the most of this trend is FARO, a South African off price fashion retailer that turns surplus branded inventory into affordable shopping opportunities. From strong store growth to plans for international expansion, the business believes the same challenges shaping South Africa's retail market are playing out around the world. Joining us on the line is Chris Makhanya, FARO’s Co-Founder and Chief Buying Officer

As household budgets remain under pressure, many shoppers are changing the way they buy clothes. Instead of paying full price, more consumers are looking for recognised brands at lower prices, while fashion companies are searching for better ways to deal with excess stock without hurting their brand value. That shift has helped create new opportunities in the retail space.
One company making the most of this trend is FARO, a South African off price fashion retailer that turns surplus branded inventory into affordable shopping opportunities. From strong store growth to plans for international expansion, the business believes the same challenges shaping South Africa's retail market are playing out around the world. Joining us on the line is Chris Makhanya, FARO&rsquo;s Co-Founder and Chief Buying Officer

What changing shopping habits mean for the future of fashion retail 

More than two million South Africans are living with diabetes, yet for many, the cost of treatment remains a major challenge. Now, a new partnership aims to make one of the world's most widely used diabetes medicines more accessible. Novo Nordisk has announced the launch of an authorised copy of semaglutide in South Africa, offering patients a more affordable treatment option without changing the medicine itself.

Unlike generic or compounded alternatives, an authorised copy is produced by the same manufacturer using the same active ingredient, manufacturing process and injection device as the original medicine, while meeting the same regulatory standards. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Sara Norcross, General Manger of Novo Nordisk South Africa

More than two million South Africans are living with diabetes, yet for many, the cost of treatment remains a major challenge. Now, a new partnership aims to make one of the world's most widely used diabetes medicines more accessible. Novo Nordisk has announced the launch of an authorised copy of semaglutide in South Africa, offering patients a more affordable treatment option without changing the medicine itself.
Unlike generic or compounded alternatives, an authorised copy is produced by the same manufacturer using the same active ingredient, manufacturing process and injection device as the original medicine, while meeting the same regulatory standards. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Sara Norcross, General Manger of Novo Nordisk South Africa

Why this new Semaglutide launch matters for everyone living with type 2 Diabetes 

For generations in Kenya, children have traditionally inherited their father's first name as their surname. Today more men are carrying their mother's name instead, particularly within the Kikuyu community. For some, it reflects the reality of being raised by strong single mothers while for others it is a deliberate choice to honour the women who shaped their lives.

The growing use of female surnames has sparked debate, with some celebrating it as a sign of changing attitudes towards women, while others argue it goes against tradition and even questions masculinity. As more public figures, musicians and politicians embrace their mother's names, the conversation is raising bigger questions about culture, absent fathers and gender roles. Joining us on the line Arnold Malimba, Kenyan based journalist

For generations in Kenya, children have traditionally inherited their father's first name as their surname. Today more men are carrying their mother's name instead, particularly within the Kikuyu community. For some, it reflects the reality of being raised by strong single mothers while for others it is a deliberate choice to honour the women who shaped their lives.
The growing use of female surnames has sparked debate, with some celebrating it as a sign of changing attitudes towards women, while others argue it goes against tradition and even questions masculinity. As more public figures, musicians and politicians embrace their mother's names, the conversation is raising bigger questions about culture, absent fathers and gender roles. Joining us on the line Arnold Malimba, Kenyan based journalist

The family name debate challenging long held ideas about masculinity and heritage in Kenya 

Our earliest relationships often become the blueprint for the way we love, trust and connect with others as adults. Across Africa, many people are raised in homes shaped by absent parents, migration for work, conflict, divorce, financial hardship or family members stepping in to raise children. While the phrases "mommy issues" and "daddy issues" are often thrown around casually, psychologists say they can point to deeper childhood experiences that continue to influence adult relationships, self-worth and emotional wellbeing.
Whether someone grew up with an emotionally distant mother, an absent father or inconsistent parental support, those experiences can affect how they communicate, set boundaries and form romantic relationships later in life. As conversations around mental health become more open across the continent, understanding how childhood shapes adult behaviour is helping more people break unhealthy patterns! Joining us is Tryphosa Siwela, Clinical Psychologist and Siweya Wellness Solutions Director

Our earliest relationships often become the blueprint for the way we love, trust and connect with others as adults. Across Africa, many people are raised in homes shaped by absent parents, migration for work, conflict, divorce, financial hardship or family members stepping in to raise children. While the phrases "mommy issues" and "daddy issues" are often thrown around casually, psychologists say they can point to deeper childhood experiences that continue to influence adult relationships, self-worth and emotional wellbeing. Whether someone grew up with an emotionally distant mother, an absent father or inconsistent parental support, those experiences can affect how they communicate, set boundaries and form romantic relationships later in life. As conversations around mental health become more open across the continent, understanding how childhood shapes adult behaviour is helping more people break unhealthy patterns! Joining us is Tryphosa Siwela, Clinical Psychologist and Siweya Wellness Solutions Director

The lasting impact of absent or emotionally distant parents on adult relationships

Financial pressure is becoming a growing concern for workers across Africa, as rising costs for essentials such as food, transport, housing and electricity continue to stretch household budgets. For many employees, money worries do not end when they arrive at work. They can affect concentration, productivity and overall wellbeing, prompting more organisations to recognise that supporting financial wellness is not just an employee benefit but an important investment in a healthier and more resilient workforce.
Across South Africa and the wider African continent, employers are taking a closer look at how they can help staff better manage their finances. Research shows that a large number of employees are living from paycheck to paycheck, with many unable to cope with unexpected financial emergencies. As organisations across the continent look for ways to build resilient and productive workplaces, supporting employees' financial wellbeing is emerging as an important part of the conversation. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Alex Cook, Chief Executive Officer of financial wellness fintech Wealthbit.

Financial pressure is becoming a growing concern for workers across Africa, as rising costs for essentials such as food, transport, housing and electricity continue to stretch household budgets. For many employees, money worries do not end when they arrive at work. They can affect concentration, productivity and overall wellbeing, prompting more organisations to recognise that supporting financial wellness is not just an employee benefit but an important investment in a healthier and more resilient workforce. Across South Africa and the wider African continent, employers are taking a closer look at how they can help staff better manage their finances. Research shows that a large number of employees are living from paycheck to paycheck, with many unable to cope with unexpected financial emergencies. As organisations across the continent look for ways to build resilient and productive workplaces, supporting employees' financial wellbeing is emerging as an important part of the conversation. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Alex Cook, Chief Executive Officer of financial wellness fintech Wealthbit.

Financial stress is following employees to work. How are companies responding? 

For more than six decades, the Mahotella Queens have been the soundtrack to South Africa's rich musical heritage and this Women's Month they are returning to the stage to celebrate an extraordinary milestone. Marking 62 years of music, the legendary mbaqanga group will embark on a local tour that honours the women who have shaped the country's cultural landscape while bringing their timeless sound to audiences old and new.
At the heart of the celebration is Mam' Hilda Tloubatla, the last surviving original member of the Mahotella Queens, whose commitment to preserving the group's legacy has seen her mentor a new generation of singers and musicians. Fresh from a tour of Japan, the group will perform at Untitled Basement on the 8th and 9th of August, showcasing not only the music that made them icons but also the future of mbaqanga through the younger Mahotella Queens and the Makgona Tsohle Band.

For more than six decades, the Mahotella Queens have been the soundtrack to South Africa's rich musical heritage and this Women's Month they are returning to the stage to celebrate an extraordinary milestone. Marking 62 years of music, the legendary mbaqanga group will embark on a local tour that honours the women who have shaped the country's cultural landscape while bringing their timeless sound to audiences old and new. At the heart of the celebration is Mam' Hilda Tloubatla, the last surviving original member of the Mahotella Queens, whose commitment to preserving the group's legacy has seen her mentor a new generation of singers and musicians. Fresh from a tour of Japan, the group will perform at Untitled Basement on the 8th and 9th of August, showcasing not only the music that made them icons but also the future of mbaqanga through the younger Mahotella Queens and the Makgona Tsohle Band.

62 Years of timeless music, The Mahotella Queens celebrate women's month with a tour honouring legacy and the next generation

South African music has always had artists whose voices speak to more than just entertainment and ZOLA has remained one of those figures for more than two decades. Known for telling stories that reflect everyday life and giving hope to communities through both his music and his work beyond the stage, the cultural icon is making a long awaited return with a brand new single. Titled She Nailed It (Amazipho), the song arrives on 31st of July and marks another chapter in the career of an artist whose message has continued to connect with generations of South Africans.

Produced by acclaimed hitmaker Almotie Mtombeni, also known as Alie Keys, She Nailed It (Amazipho) celebrates confidence, resilience and the determination to rise above life's challenges. It is also a tribute to women who continue to break barriers and succeed despite adversity, encouraging listeners to believe in themselves.

South African music has always had artists whose voices speak to more than just entertainment and ZOLA has remained one of those figures for more than two decades. Known for telling stories that reflect everyday life and giving hope to communities through both his music and his work beyond the stage, the cultural icon is making a long awaited return with a brand new single. Titled She Nailed It (Amazipho), the song arrives on 31st of July and marks another chapter in the career of an artist whose message has continued to connect with generations of South Africans.
Produced by acclaimed hitmaker Almotie Mtombeni, also known as Alie Keys, She Nailed It (Amazipho) celebrates confidence, resilience and the determination to rise above life's challenges. It is also a tribute to women who continue to break barriers and succeed despite adversity, encouraging listeners to believe in themselves.

More than two decades later, ZOLA's message still resonates across generations

Award-winning content creator, beauty entrepreneur and one of Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 honourees, Mihlali Ndamase continues to expand her impressive business portfolio. From becoming one of South Africa's most influential digital creators to building successful beauty and lifestyle ventures, she has now entered the luxury fashion space with the launch of Treasury Designs at The Marc in Sandton. The boutique offers elegant gowns for weddings, graduations, birthdays and other milestone celebrations, with custom designs and in-house tailoring to cater to women of every shape and style.

Mihlali's journey reflects a much bigger story unfolding across the continent, where young African entrepreneurs are using digital platforms to build businesses that create jobs, inspire innovation and reshape traditional career paths. As conversations around youth entrepreneurship, economic growth and African-owned businesses continue to gain momentum, we unpack what it really takes to transform influence into sustainable business success. She joins us instudio.

Award-winning content creator, beauty entrepreneur and one of Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 honourees, Mihlali Ndamase continues to expand her impressive business portfolio. From becoming one of South Africa's most influential digital creators to building successful beauty and lifestyle ventures, she has now entered the luxury fashion space with the launch of Treasury Designs at The Marc in Sandton. The boutique offers elegant gowns for weddings, graduations, birthdays and other milestone celebrations, with custom designs and in-house tailoring to cater to women of every shape and style.
Mihlali's journey reflects a much bigger story unfolding across the continent, where young African entrepreneurs are using digital platforms to build businesses that create jobs, inspire innovation and reshape traditional career paths. As conversations around youth entrepreneurship, economic growth and African-owned businesses continue to gain momentum, we unpack what it really takes to transform influence into sustainable business success. She joins us instudio.

From Digital Influence to Business Empire, how Mihlali Ndamase Is Redefining African Entrepreneurship 

Fiesta Black is back with a new single that celebrates confidence, individuality and the joy of living life on your own terms titled Yogueta featuring Bongani Mahlaole, the song blends Amapiano influences with Fiesta Black's distinctive style. Drawing inspiration from the guitar melody of Ebumnandini, she has reimagined the sound with her own creative touch while staying true to her musical identity.

Known for her commanding stage presence and powerful vocals, Fiesta Black continues to build a name for herself both at home and abroad. Having performed across Africa and received a standing ovation during a performance in Beijing, she is steadily expanding her reach as an artist.

Fiesta Black is back with a new single that celebrates confidence, individuality and the joy of living life on your own terms titled Yogueta featuring Bongani Mahlaole, the song blends Amapiano influences with Fiesta Black's distinctive style. Drawing inspiration from the guitar melody of Ebumnandini, she has reimagined the sound with her own creative touch while staying true to her musical identity.
Known for her commanding stage presence and powerful vocals, Fiesta Black continues to build a name for herself both at home and abroad. Having performed across Africa and received a standing ovation during a performance in Beijing, she is steadily expanding her reach as an artist.

Fiesta Black returns with an anthem of confidence and self-expression

Usher Takudzwa Nyambi is proving that African voices continue to shape conversations on the global stage. The Zimbabwean journalist, cultural commentator and creative strategist has been named to the Recording Academy's 2026 New Member Class, joining the organisation behind the GRAMMY Awards. It is a significant achievement, with only a small number of African professionals included in this year's intake, highlighting the growing influence of the continent's creative industry within one of music's most recognised institutions.

Nyambi's career has been built on telling African stories through music, fashion, sport and culture. As the former Southern African Editor of Rolling Stone Africa and the founder of Samora Central, he has worked with some of the continent's leading publications while covering major events that celebrate African talent. He joins us on the line.

Usher Takudzwa Nyambi is proving that African voices continue to shape conversations on the global stage. The Zimbabwean journalist, cultural commentator and creative strategist has been named to the Recording Academy's 2026 New Member Class, joining the organisation behind the GRAMMY Awards. It is a significant achievement, with only a small number of African professionals included in this year's intake, highlighting the growing influence of the continent's creative industry within one of music's most recognised institutions.
Nyambi's career has been built on telling African stories through music, fashion, sport and culture. As the former Southern African Editor of Rolling Stone Africa and the founder of Samora Central, he has worked with some of the continent's leading publications while covering major events that celebrate African talent. He joins us on the line.

An African voice at the Recording Academy, celebrating Usher Takudzwa Nyambi's global recognition

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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