Behind every beautifully plated meal is a chef working in one of the most demanding professions in the world. Long hours, high pressure service, constant creativity and the responsibility of leading a team can take a serious toll on both physical and mental wellbeing. While diners experience the excitement of a busy restaurant, many chefs are navigating stress, fatigue and the challenge of maintaining a healthy work life balance behind the kitchen doors.
 
Today we explore how chefs can protect their mental health while thriving in a fast paced industry. Joining us on the line is Chef Rumasha Beni to unpack stress triggers and building healthy habits to prioritising sleep, exercise along with open communication.

Behind every beautifully plated meal is a chef working in one of the most demanding professions in the world. Long hours, high pressure service, constant creativity and the responsibility of leading a team can take a serious toll on both physical and mental wellbeing. While diners experience the excitement of a busy restaurant, many chefs are navigating stress, fatigue and the challenge of maintaining a healthy work life balance behind the kitchen doors. &nbsp; Today we explore how chefs can protect their mental health while thriving in a fast paced industry. Joining us on the line is Chef Rumasha Beni to unpack stress triggers and building healthy habits to prioritising sleep, exercise along with open communication.

When the kitchen never sleeps, the challenges facing modern chefs

KwaZulu-Natal is gearing up for what could be one of its busiest winter tourism seasons yet. More than 920 000 visitors are expected to travel to the province during the upcoming school holidays, bringing an estimated R1.9 billion into the local economy. From Durban's beaches and the North Coast to the Midlands and the Drakensberg, tourism operators are reporting encouraging booking trends as travellers continue to choose experiences despite ongoing economic pressures.


The province's packed winter calendar is expected to play a major role in attracting visitors, with events such as the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the Ballito Pro, the Durban International Film Festival and a range of cultural and sporting attractions drawing crowds from across South Africa and beyond.

To further unpack we are joined on the line by James Seymour, Chairperson of the Drakensberg experience committee.

KwaZulu-Natal is gearing up for what could be one of its busiest winter tourism seasons yet. More than 920 000 visitors are expected to travel to the province during the upcoming school holidays, bringing an estimated R1.9 billion into the local economy. From Durban's beaches and the North Coast to the Midlands and the Drakensberg, tourism operators are reporting encouraging booking trends as travellers continue to choose experiences despite ongoing economic pressures.
 The province's packed winter calendar is expected to play a major role in attracting visitors, with events such as the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the Ballito Pro, the Durban International Film Festival and a range of cultural and sporting attractions drawing crowds from across South Africa and beyond.
To further unpack we are joined on the line by James Seymour, Chairperson of the Drakensberg experience committee.

KwaZulu-Natal set for a tourism boom as more than 920 000 visitors expected this winter 

Many people live with symptoms such as constant fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, anxiety, poor sleep, brain fog or difficulty concentrating without fully understanding what is causing them. Often, these experiences are attributed to stress, a demanding lifestyle or emotional strain. While these factors can certainly play a role, health professionals are increasingly drawing attention to the impact of a dysregulated nervous system, a condition where the body's stress response remains activated long after a perceived threat has passed.


At the same time, neurological symptoms can be difficult to identify and diagnose because they often overlap with many other health conditions. Symptoms such as dizziness, numbness, memory problems, chronic exhaustion and unexplained pain may persist for years before an underlying neurological or nervous system related issue is recognised.

Today, we explore how the nervous system influences both physical and mental health with Dr Nancy Waiganjo, Medical doctor.

Many people live with symptoms such as constant fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, anxiety, poor sleep, brain fog or difficulty concentrating without fully understanding what is causing them. Often, these experiences are attributed to stress, a demanding lifestyle or emotional strain. While these factors can certainly play a role, health professionals are increasingly drawing attention to the impact of a dysregulated nervous system, a condition where the body's stress response remains activated long after a perceived threat has passed.
 At the same time, neurological symptoms can be difficult to identify and diagnose because they often overlap with many other health conditions. Symptoms such as dizziness, numbness, memory problems, chronic exhaustion and unexplained pain may persist for years before an underlying neurological or nervous system related issue is recognised.
Today, we explore how the nervous system influences both physical and mental health with Dr Nancy Waiganjo, Medical doctor.

How the nervous system influences both physical and mental health

For many families, one of the most challenging questions at the end of a busy day is simply, "What’s for dinner?" Between work commitments, school activities, traffic and packed schedules, finding the time and energy to prepare a home cooked meal can feel like an impossible task. As a result, many households find themselves relying on takeaways, drive through meals, or last minute food choices that may not always be the healthiest or most affordable option.


More people are discovering simple recipes that are quick to prepare, easy to transport, and suitable for busy family lifestyles. From meals that can be made in under 30 minutes to dishes that are perfect for eating on the go between activities, there are plenty of ways to save time without sacrificing flavour or family mealtime.

Joining us instudio Chef Faaiza Jamal, Sous Chef.

For many families, one of the most challenging questions at the end of a busy day is simply, "What&rsquo;s for dinner?" Between work commitments, school activities, traffic and packed schedules, finding the time and energy to prepare a home cooked meal can feel like an impossible task. As a result, many households find themselves relying on takeaways, drive through meals, or last minute food choices that may not always be the healthiest or most affordable option.
 More people are discovering simple recipes that are quick to prepare, easy to transport, and suitable for busy family lifestyles. From meals that can be made in under 30 minutes to dishes that are perfect for eating on the go between activities, there are plenty of ways to save time without sacrificing flavour or family mealtime.
Joining us instudio Chef Faaiza Jamal, Sous Chef.

Tired of asking “What’s for dinner?” Simple and delicious meal ideas for busy families on the go

For many years, conversations about township tourism have often focused on history, culture and community experiences, but a growing number of entrepreneurs are working to expand that narrative. As tourism continues to grow in South Africa, with more than 10 million international visitors recorded in 2025 and increasing numbers of domestic travellers exploring new destinations, there is a renewed opportunity to showcase townships not only as places of cultural significance, but also as destinations capable of offering world class hospitality experiences.


One of the latest developments comes from Khayelitsha, where local businessman Luzuko Mteto is preparing to launch Mteto’s Child Villa, a luxury accommodation venture designed to attract both local and international visitors.

The development aims to combine high end comfort with an authentic township experience, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the culture, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Khayelitsha. He joins us instudio.

For many years, conversations about township tourism have often focused on history, culture and community experiences, but a growing number of entrepreneurs are working to expand that narrative. As tourism continues to grow in South Africa, with more than 10 million international visitors recorded in 2025 and increasing numbers of domestic travellers exploring new destinations, there is a renewed opportunity to showcase townships not only as places of cultural significance, but also as destinations capable of offering world class hospitality experiences.
 One of the latest developments comes from Khayelitsha, where local businessman Luzuko Mteto is preparing to launch Mteto&rsquo;s Child Villa, a luxury accommodation venture designed to attract both local and international visitors.
The development aims to combine high end comfort with an authentic township experience, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the culture, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Khayelitsha. He joins us instudio.

Can high end hospitality thrive in a township? Khayelitsha 3 

Over the past few years, Kizomba has grown from a popular Angolan social dance into a global phenomenon, attracting dancers from all walks of life. Known for its smooth movements, close connection between partners and deeply expressive style, Kizomba has become a favourite on dance floors around the world. While it may appear effortless when performed by experienced dancers, the dance requires a strong understanding of rhythm, timing and communication between partners.


At the heart of Kizomba are a series of basic step patterns that serve as the foundation for more advanced movements and creative expression. From simple side to side steps to more complex sequences that challenge a dancer's timing and coordination, Kizomba offers both a rewarding learning experience and a unique cultural connection to its Angolan roots.

 Joining us on the line is Seloane Mosala, Kizomba Instructor at BailaAfrika.

Over the past few years, Kizomba has grown from a popular Angolan social dance into a global phenomenon, attracting dancers from all walks of life. Known for its smooth movements, close connection between partners and deeply expressive style, Kizomba has become a favourite on dance floors around the world. While it may appear effortless when performed by experienced dancers, the dance requires a strong understanding of rhythm, timing and communication between partners.
 At the heart of Kizomba are a series of basic step patterns that serve as the foundation for more advanced movements and creative expression. From simple side to side steps to more complex sequences that challenge a dancer's timing and coordination, Kizomba offers both a rewarding learning experience and a unique cultural connection to its Angolan roots.
&nbsp;Joining us on the line is Seloane Mosala, Kizomba Instructor at BailaAfrika.

Why Kizomba is one of the fastest growing social dances in the world today 

South African music trio WTF is back with a brand new single titled Mawungekho, set for release on 29th of May 2026 and this time they are bringing together the worlds of Trap, Amapiano and Maskandi in a way only they can. Featuring the soulful voice of uZondi, the song tells a deeply familiar story about love, pressure, timing and the fear of losing someone special to another person. It unfolds like a conversation between friends encouraging each other to step up and commit before it is too late, while also carrying the emotional weight of someone admitting that life simply feels incomplete without the person they love.

Known for creating and shaping the Gqomtrap sound, WTF continues to push South African music into exciting territory while staying connected to its roots. Formed in Durban in 2013 by Mnqobi Charles and Lindokuhle Gcwensa, the group has built a reputation for energetic performances and fearless experimentation, working with artists including AKA, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Maphorisa, DJ Tira, KO, Blxckie as well as the late Riky Rick. With Mawungekho, the group once again proves that South African music can honour tradition while still sounding fresh, bold and completely original.

South African music trio WTF is back with a brand new single titled Mawungekho, set for release on 29th of May 2026 and this time they are bringing together the worlds of Trap, Amapiano and Maskandi in a way only they can. Featuring the soulful voice of uZondi, the song tells a deeply familiar story about love, pressure, timing and the fear of losing someone special to another person. It unfolds like a conversation between friends encouraging each other to step up and commit before it is too late, while also carrying the emotional weight of someone admitting that life simply feels incomplete without the person they love.
Known for creating and shaping the Gqomtrap sound, WTF continues to push South African music into exciting territory while staying connected to its roots. Formed in Durban in 2013 by Mnqobi Charles and Lindokuhle Gcwensa, the group has built a reputation for energetic performances and fearless experimentation, working with artists including AKA, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Maphorisa, DJ Tira, KO, Blxckie as well as the late Riky Rick. With Mawungekho, the group once again proves that South African music can honour tradition while still sounding fresh, bold and completely original.

WTF returns with a powerful new love anthem rooted in culture and modern sound

Soosi, also known as Galandi Shafiq, has become one of Uganda’s fast rising online entertainers through his weekly “This Is How I Died” skits and his now famous bread munching antics during Premier League matchdays. Born and raised in Kampala, the former meteorologist has built a strong social media following by turning ordinary everyday experiences into comedy that resonates with audiences across Africa and beyond.

Through platforms like TikTok, Instagram and X, Soosi’s sharp humour and relatable storytelling have attracted millions of views and a rapidly growing fanbase across the continent and in the diaspora. His rise in the comedy space has also opened doors for major collaborations, including working alongside Nigerian comedy star Sabinus. As his online presence continues to grow, Soosi is using social media as a powerful launchpad to build a long term career in entertainment while bringing Ugandan humour to a wider audience.

Soosi, also known as Galandi Shafiq, has become one of Uganda&rsquo;s fast rising online entertainers through his weekly &ldquo;This Is How I Died&rdquo; skits and his now famous bread munching antics during Premier League matchdays. Born and raised in Kampala, the former meteorologist has built a strong social media following by turning ordinary everyday experiences into comedy that resonates with audiences across Africa and beyond.
Through platforms like TikTok, Instagram and X, Soosi&rsquo;s sharp humour and relatable storytelling have attracted millions of views and a rapidly growing fanbase across the continent and in the diaspora. His rise in the comedy space has also opened doors for major collaborations, including working alongside Nigerian comedy star Sabinus. As his online presence continues to grow, Soosi is using social media as a powerful launchpad to build a long term career in entertainment while bringing Ugandan humour to a wider audience.

Ugandan Comedy star Soosi turns everyday life into viral entertainmen

Fresh off reaching the African National Top 200 All Genres Chart, Calvin Fallo returns with a brand new single titled Everybody Wanna Be In Love. Born Katlego Mashilane in Pretoria, widely recognised as the birthplace of Amapiano, Calvin has spent more than a decade helping shape the sound and direction of the genre. From the township streets to international audiences, his music continues to carry the soulful energy and rhythm that have made Amapiano one of Africa’s biggest cultural exports.

His latest release Everybody Wanna Be In Love blends smooth Dance production with Swahili lyrics, creating a musical connection between South Africa and East Africa. The track is built for both radio listeners and dancefloor crowds, while still holding onto the authentic township influence that defines Calvin’s sound. Alongside new work such as the Afro House collaboration If Its Not Broken Dont Fix It EP, Calvin Fallo continues to show his range as an artist and producer while strengthening his influence across the African music scene.

He joins us instudio.

Fresh off reaching the African National Top 200 All Genres Chart, Calvin Fallo returns with a brand new single titled Everybody Wanna Be In Love. Born Katlego Mashilane in Pretoria, widely recognised as the birthplace of Amapiano, Calvin has spent more than a decade helping shape the sound and direction of the genre. From the township streets to international audiences, his music continues to carry the soulful energy and rhythm that have made Amapiano one of Africa&rsquo;s biggest cultural exports.
His latest release Everybody Wanna Be In Love blends smooth Dance production with Swahili lyrics, creating a musical connection between South Africa and East Africa. The track is built for both radio listeners and dancefloor crowds, while still holding onto the authentic township influence that defines Calvin&rsquo;s sound. Alongside new work such as the Afro House collaboration If Its Not Broken Dont Fix It EP, Calvin Fallo continues to show his range as an artist and producer while strengthening his influence across the African music scene.
He joins us instudio.

Fallo brings Pretoria soul,  East African rhythm together in a new love anthem

Following the success of his month of love anthem Bang’bonile, Xduppy returns with a brand new single, Lwetse. Released earlier this year, Bang’bonile became a major talking point after surpassing 2 million streams and inspiring nearly 20,000 TikTok creations within its first week.

Now, Xduppy is shifting the focus toward ambition, hunger and the pursuit of success with Lwetse. Borrowed from the Sesotho word bolwetse, meaning illness, the song compares the drive to chase money and success to something impossible to shake off. Built as both a club anthem and a street soundtrack, the single is already gaining momentum online through a growing TikTok dance challenge.

With playlist support across Apple Music in South, West and East Africa, as well as the top cover spot on Spotify’s New Amapiano playlist, Xduppy continues to cement his place as one of the rising names shaping the future of the genre.

Following the success of his month of love anthem Bang&rsquo;bonile, Xduppy returns with a brand new single, Lwetse. Released earlier this year, Bang&rsquo;bonile became a major talking point after surpassing 2 million streams and inspiring nearly 20,000 TikTok creations within its first week.
Now, Xduppy is shifting the focus toward ambition, hunger and the pursuit of success with Lwetse. Borrowed from the Sesotho word bolwetse, meaning illness, the song compares the drive to chase money and success to something impossible to shake off. Built as both a club anthem and a street soundtrack, the single is already gaining momentum online through a growing TikTok dance challenge.
With playlist support across Apple Music in South, West and East Africa, as well as the top cover spot on Spotify&rsquo;s New Amapiano playlist, Xduppy continues to cement his place as one of the rising names shaping the future of the genre.

Xduppy turns the hustle for success into a street anthem with Lwetse 

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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