As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on women whose work is changing industries, opening doors and creating opportunities for others. Throughout this month, we are giving flowers to female game changers whose journeys remind us that leadership is built through vision, resilience and a commitment to making a difference. Today, we celebrate a woman who has turned insight into impact, helping businesses and brands connect with people across Africa while championing innovation and meaningful growth.

Mbali Ndhlovu is an award-winning pan African growth strategist, market intelligence expert and founder whose work has influenced some of the world's biggest brands. With more than 15 years of experience spanning technology, media and digital innovation, she has built thriving communities, shaped successful campaigns, and strengthened partnerships across the continent. Her achievements have earned recognition from leading organisations and respected media platforms but at the heart of her work is a passion for understanding people and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on women whose work is changing industries, opening doors and creating opportunities for others. Throughout this month, we are giving flowers to female game changers whose journeys remind us that leadership is built through vision, resilience and a commitment to making a difference. Today, we celebrate a woman who has turned insight into impact, helping businesses and brands connect with people across Africa while championing innovation and meaningful growth.
Mbali Ndhlovu is an award-winning pan African growth strategist, market intelligence expert and founder whose work has influenced some of the world's biggest brands. With more than 15 years of experience spanning technology, media and digital innovation, she has built thriving communities, shaped successful campaigns, and strengthened partnerships across the continent. Her achievements have earned recognition from leading organisations and respected media platforms but at the heart of her work is a passion for understanding people and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

From community builder to continental changemaker, celebrating Mbali Ndhlovu's impact across Africa

Hair loss affects millions of people and can have a significant impact on confidence, self esteem, and overall wellbeing. While it is often associated with ageing, hair loss can also result from genetics, medical conditions, hormonal changes, stress or years of wearing hairstyles that place excessive tension on the scalp. As more people look for solutions, interest in hair restoration procedures has grown, along with important conversations about choosing safe treatments and qualified medical professionals.
Advances in modern hair restoration have made it possible to achieve natural looking results through minimally invasive techniques that prioritise precision and recovery. Alongside surgical procedures, there is also growing awareness of non-surgical treatments that help preserve existing hair and improve scalp health. Joining us on the line is Dr. Kiéra Moodley, certified hair transplant surgeon specializing in Direct Hair Implantation at DHI South Africa

Hair loss affects millions of people and can have a significant impact on confidence, self esteem, and overall wellbeing. While it is often associated with ageing, hair loss can also result from genetics, medical conditions, hormonal changes, stress or years of wearing hairstyles that place excessive tension on the scalp. As more people look for solutions, interest in hair restoration procedures has grown, along with important conversations about choosing safe treatments and qualified medical professionals. Advances in modern hair restoration have made it possible to achieve natural looking results through minimally invasive techniques that prioritise precision and recovery. Alongside surgical procedures, there is also growing awareness of non-surgical treatments that help preserve existing hair and improve scalp health. Joining us on the line is Dr. Ki&eacute;ra Moodley, certified hair transplant surgeon specializing in Direct Hair Implantation at DHI South Africa

The truth about hair transplants and why choosing the right surgeon matters

Managing money is about far more than knowing what to do. Most people understand the importance of saving regularly, reducing debt, budgeting wisely and planning for the future. Yet good financial intentions are often challenged by everyday temptations, rising living costs, easy access to credit and the constant pressure to keep up with lifestyles presented on social media and in advertising.
This pattern is known as self-control bias, a behavioural tendency that makes it difficult to stay committed to financial goals even when we know they are in our best interest. Emotional spending, delaying savings and prioritising immediate wants over future needs can quietly shape our financial future. Joining us is Dr. Frank Magwegwe, Senior Lecturer at GIBS Business School (Gordon Institute of Business Science)

Managing money is about far more than knowing what to do. Most people understand the importance of saving regularly, reducing debt, budgeting wisely and planning for the future. Yet good financial intentions are often challenged by everyday temptations, rising living costs, easy access to credit and the constant pressure to keep up with lifestyles presented on social media and in advertising. This pattern is known as self-control bias, a behavioural tendency that makes it difficult to stay committed to financial goals even when we know they are in our best interest. Emotional spending, delaying savings and prioritising immediate wants over future needs can quietly shape our financial future. Joining us is Dr. Frank Magwegwe, Senior Lecturer at GIBS Business School (Gordon Institute of Business Science)

Why knowing better does not always lead to better money decisions

As more women excel in their careers, build successful businesses and achieve financial independence, the conversation around modern relationships continues to evolve. While professional success is widely celebrated, many accomplished women have shared experiences of feeling that their achievements sometimes influence how they are perceived in the dating world. Traditional expectations around gender roles, success and financial status continue to shape relationship dynamics, even as society becomes more progressive.
Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, shared values and the ability to celebrate one another's achievements rather than compete with them. Confidence, emotional maturity and security often play a greater role in lasting partnerships than job titles or income. As more women continue to break barriers across every industry, the idea that success and love cannot coexist is increasingly being challenged by relationships. Joining us on the line is Frank Adolfi, Marriage And Relationship Counsellor

As more women excel in their careers, build successful businesses and achieve financial independence, the conversation around modern relationships continues to evolve. While professional success is widely celebrated, many accomplished women have shared experiences of feeling that their achievements sometimes influence how they are perceived in the dating world. Traditional expectations around gender roles, success and financial status continue to shape relationship dynamics, even as society becomes more progressive. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, shared values and the ability to celebrate one another's achievements rather than compete with them. Confidence, emotional maturity and security often play a greater role in lasting partnerships than job titles or income. As more women continue to break barriers across every industry, the idea that success and love cannot coexist is increasingly being challenged by relationships. Joining us on the line is Frank Adolfi, Marriage And Relationship Counsellor

Celebrating strong women while rethinking modern dating expectations

Nhlanhla Kunene has become one of South Africa's most recognisable actors, captivating audiences through his performances in productions such as Skeem Saam, Adulting, The River, Queendom, The Life of Mandoza and several other acclaimed television dramas. Beyond his work on screen, he is equally passionate about celebrating African culture, identity and heritage. Proud of his Zulu roots, Nhlanhla has consistently used his platform to encourage meaningful conversations about the values, traditions and philosophies that continue to shape African communities.
Among the ideas he believes deserve a fresh perspective is the meaning of "African Time," a phrase that has long been reduced to a stereotype about lateness. Nhlanhla sees it instead as a philosophy centred on community, human connection, respect, and being fully present in life's important moments.

Nhlanhla Kunene has become one of South Africa's most recognisable actors, captivating audiences through his performances in productions such as Skeem Saam, Adulting, The River, Queendom, The Life of Mandoza and several other acclaimed television dramas. Beyond his work on screen, he is equally passionate about celebrating African culture, identity and heritage. Proud of his Zulu roots, Nhlanhla has consistently used his platform to encourage meaningful conversations about the values, traditions and philosophies that continue to shape African communities. Among the ideas he believes deserve a fresh perspective is the meaning of "African Time," a phrase that has long been reduced to a stereotype about lateness. Nhlanhla sees it instead as a philosophy centred on community, human connection, respect, and being fully present in life's important moments.

Nhlanhla Kunene challenges the way we think about African time and cultural identity

Chef Buhle Amina Mlotshwa has built Dreamland Delight Bakery Events and Catering Company into a brand that celebrates life's special moments through handcrafted desserts, elegant catering, and personalised dining experiences. From luxury celebration cakes and dessert tables to private chef services, her work is driven by the belief that food has the power to create lasting memories.
As South Africa's dessert industry continues to evolve, more people are looking for unique flavours, customised creations and memorable culinary events. The founder and head chef of Dreamland Delight Bakery Events and Catering Company, Chef Buhle joins us

Chef Buhle Amina Mlotshwa has built Dreamland Delight Bakery Events and Catering Company into a brand that celebrates life's special moments through handcrafted desserts, elegant catering, and personalised dining experiences. From luxury celebration cakes and dessert tables to private chef services, her work is driven by the belief that food has the power to create lasting memories. As South Africa's dessert industry continues to evolve, more people are looking for unique flavours, customised creations and memorable culinary events. The founder and head chef of Dreamland Delight Bakery Events and Catering Company, Chef Buhle joins us

How luxury baking is transforming South Africa's most memorable celebrations 

Africa's tourism industry continues to attract visitors from around the world but behind every booking is a payment system that can have a major impact on businesses. For many hotels, safari lodges and tour operators, high transaction fees and complex cross border payments have reduced profits for years. As technology reshapes the way businesses operate, financial innovation is helping travel companies keep more of what they earn while making it easier for international visitors to pay.
South African fintech company TurnStay has reached a major milestone by processing more than R1 billion in travel payments in just six months, only three years after launching. By providing lower cost payment solutions for travel businesses across the continent, the company is helping to reduce the cost of doing business while supporting the growth of Africa's tourism sector. Joining us on the line is Alon Stern, CEO and co-founder of TurnStay

Africa's tourism industry continues to attract visitors from around the world but behind every booking is a payment system that can have a major impact on businesses. For many hotels, safari lodges and tour operators, high transaction fees and complex cross border payments have reduced profits for years. As technology reshapes the way businesses operate, financial innovation is helping travel companies keep more of what they earn while making it easier for international visitors to pay. South African fintech company TurnStay has reached a major milestone by processing more than R1 billion in travel payments in just six months, only three years after launching. By providing lower cost payment solutions for travel businesses across the continent, the company is helping to reduce the cost of doing business while supporting the growth of Africa's tourism sector. Joining us on the line is Alon Stern, CEO and co-founder of TurnStay

The billion Rand milestone changing the future of African travel payments

As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on the achievements of women who continue to lead and break barriers across every sector. While more women are stepping into executive offices, boardrooms and leadership roles than ever before, many still face challenges that are not always visible. Beyond unequal opportunities and workplace barriers, there is another reality that often goes unnoticed: the mental and emotional responsibility of managing households, caring for families and balancing countless demands outside of work.

Today, we bring together a panel of phenomenal women from different industries to explore what continues to stand in the way of women reaching executive and decision making positions. From the impact of the invisible mental load and the role of technology to workplace culture, entrepreneurship and shared responsibility at home, this conversation looks at what needs to change so that more women can lead

Our panel includes broadcaster, entrepreneur, legacy coach and author Khanyisa M, whose work explores women's leadership, identity along with personal growth

Executive leadership strategist Dr Siphiwe Wendy Mbatha, founder of the SWM Leadership Institute and an advocate for inclusive African leadership

 Sara Norcross, Vice President and General Manager of Novo Nordisk South Africa, who brings global leadership experience in healthcare and patient access

Author, communications specialist and ocean advocate Veruska De Vita, whose career demonstrates the power of purpose-driven leadership and creating impact across different industries.

As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on the achievements of women who continue to lead and break barriers across every sector. While more women are stepping into executive offices, boardrooms and leadership roles than ever before, many still face challenges that are not always visible. Beyond unequal opportunities and workplace barriers, there is another reality that often goes unnoticed: the mental and emotional responsibility of managing households, caring for families and balancing countless demands outside of work.
Today, we bring together a panel of phenomenal women from different industries to explore what continues to stand in the way of women reaching executive and decision making positions. From the impact of the invisible mental load and the role of technology to workplace culture, entrepreneurship and shared responsibility at home, this conversation looks at what needs to change so that more women can lead
Our panel includes broadcaster, entrepreneur, legacy coach and author Khanyisa M, whose work explores women's leadership, identity along with personal growth
Executive leadership strategist Dr Siphiwe Wendy Mbatha, founder of the SWM Leadership Institute and an advocate for inclusive African leadership
&nbsp;Sara Norcross, Vice President and General Manager of Novo Nordisk South Africa, who brings global leadership experience in healthcare and patient access
Author, communications specialist and ocean advocate Veruska De Vita, whose career demonstrates the power of purpose-driven leadership and creating impact across different industries.

Breaking barriers or carrying burdens? The real cost of women's leadership

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 

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

1,145 clip(s)