As South Africa’s wedding season reaches its peak, brides and grooms are embracing individuality like never before. The country’s bridal fashion scene is evolving, moving away from traditional white gowns toward more expressive, personalised designs that reflect each couple’s story. From sustainable fabrics to bold colour palettes and modern silhouettes, this shift is redefining what “bridal elegance” looks like in 2025.
Leading this new wave of creativity is Cape Town–based designer Rose Molteno, whose timeless couture pieces and bespoke gowns celebrate both South African craftsmanship and contemporary global trends. With over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, Rose has dressed countless brides and red-carpet clients, helping them bring their dream looks to life. She joins us as she visits Johannesburg this week to share the latest insights on what’s trending in bridal fashion.

As South Africa&rsquo;s wedding season reaches its peak, brides and grooms are embracing individuality like never before. The country&rsquo;s bridal fashion scene is evolving, moving away from traditional white gowns toward more expressive, personalised designs that reflect each couple&rsquo;s story. From sustainable fabrics to bold colour palettes and modern silhouettes, this shift is redefining what &ldquo;bridal elegance&rdquo; looks like in 2025. Leading this new wave of creativity is Cape Town&ndash;based designer Rose Molteno, whose timeless couture pieces and bespoke gowns celebrate both South African craftsmanship and contemporary global trends. With over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, Rose has dressed countless brides and red-carpet clients, helping them bring their dream looks to life. She joins us as she visits Johannesburg this week to share the latest insights on what&rsquo;s trending in bridal fashion.

Cape Town designer Rose Molteno on the new era of modern romance and sustainable couture

The story of sixteen-year-old Ransford Owusu Ansah has shaken Ghana to its core. The young footballer’s dream of becoming a professional player turned into tragedy after allegations emerged that his coach at the Siano Football Academy repeatedly sexually abused him over several months. His mother says Ransford fell seriously ill and only revealed the abuse when his health began to fail despite her efforts to seek help and justice, her cries went unheard until her son’s death in March this year.
Across social media, the hashtag #JusticeForRansford has united thousands of voices demanding answers and change. From celebrities to human rights advocates, many are calling for stronger oversight in sports academies and for those responsible to face justice. Ghana’s Ministry of Gender and police have confirmed an investigation into the case, the coach has since been suspended but the public remains sceptical. We are joined on the line by Robert Amoafo, Human Rights advocate and Director of Amnesty International Ghana

The story of sixteen-year-old Ransford Owusu Ansah has shaken Ghana to its core. The young footballer&rsquo;s dream of becoming a professional player turned into tragedy after allegations emerged that his coach at the Siano Football Academy repeatedly sexually abused him over several months. His mother says Ransford fell seriously ill and only revealed the abuse when his health began to fail despite her efforts to seek help and justice, her cries went unheard until her son&rsquo;s death in March this year. Across social media, the hashtag #JusticeForRansford has united thousands of voices demanding answers and change. From celebrities to human rights advocates, many are calling for stronger oversight in sports academies and for those responsible to face justice. Ghana&rsquo;s Ministry of Gender and police have confirmed an investigation into the case, the coach has since been suspended but the public remains sceptical. We are joined on the line by Robert Amoafo, Human Rights advocate and Director of Amnesty International Ghana

How the death of Ransford Owusu Ansah exposed gaps in child protection in Ghana’s sports academies

Artificial intelligence is changing how people search for and discover brands online. Traditional search engine rankings are no longer enough as consumers increasingly rely on AI-generated answers from platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google Gemini. According to Leanne Levine, Local Digital Lead at Sauce Advertising, this new era of Generative Engine Optimisation, will determine which businesses show up in these AI-driven results
For South African brands, especially those with multiple locations, this shift presents both challenge and opportunity. Visibility now depends on trust signals, structured data and consistent local information rather than just keywords. She joins us on the line

Artificial intelligence is changing how people search for and discover brands online. Traditional search engine rankings are no longer enough as consumers increasingly rely on AI-generated answers from platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google Gemini. According to Leanne Levine, Local Digital Lead at Sauce Advertising, this new era of Generative Engine Optimisation, will determine which businesses show up in these AI-driven results For South African brands, especially those with multiple locations, this shift presents both challenge and opportunity. Visibility now depends on trust signals, structured data and consistent local information rather than just keywords. She joins us on the line

Why businesses must adapt to AI-generated results or risk being overlooked

Across South Africa, boys are still being raised under an outdated code of masculinity that tells them to hide their emotions, face challenges alone and see gentleness as weakness. From a young age, they’re taught that toughness equals strength and that showing empathy or fear makes them less of a man but this emotional repression comes at a high cost. Studies show that men are far less likely than women to seek help when struggling and South Africa’s male suicide rate remains alarmingly high.
The Character Company, a non-profit organisation working with boys who grow up without fathers, is helping rewrite that harmful script. For over a decade, founder Jaco van Schalkwyk and his team have paired boys with positive male mentors or “social fathers” who guide them toward a healthier understanding of strength; one rooted in emotional literacy, compassion and connection. He joins us on the line Jaco van Schalkwyk, founder of The Character Company

Across South Africa, boys are still being raised under an outdated code of masculinity that tells them to hide their emotions, face challenges alone and see gentleness as weakness. From a young age, they&rsquo;re taught that toughness equals strength and that showing empathy or fear makes them less of a man but this emotional repression comes at a high cost. Studies show that men are far less likely than women to seek help when struggling and South Africa&rsquo;s male suicide rate remains alarmingly high. The Character Company, a non-profit organisation working with boys who grow up without fathers, is helping rewrite that harmful script. For over a decade, founder Jaco van Schalkwyk and his team have paired boys with positive male mentors or &ldquo;social fathers&rdquo; who guide them toward a healthier understanding of strength; one rooted in emotional literacy, compassion and connection. He joins us on the line Jaco van Schalkwyk, founder of The Character Company

Why emotional repression among boys is fueling a mental health crisis

South Africa’s own comedy sensation Pele Pele, is bringing his quick wit and unmistakable charm to the Gibson Kente Theatre at Soweto Theatre on the 14th of November 2025. Known for his clever storytelling and lively stage presence, Pele Pele has spent more than 15 years perfecting his craft as a comedian, radio presenter and entertainer. From his early days writing for Desmond Dube’s Dube on 2 Reloaded to winning the Savannah Audience Choice Comedy Award, he has carved out a place in the hearts of audiences who appreciate authentic South African humor.
This one-man show promises an evening filled with laughter, relatable moments and unfiltered fun as Pele Pele takes audiences through his world of comedy and reflection. As Soweto’s only award-winning comedian, his energy and timing continue to set him apart in the entertainment industry. The man himself joins us instudio

South Africa&rsquo;s own comedy sensation Pele Pele, is bringing his quick wit and unmistakable charm to the Gibson Kente Theatre at Soweto Theatre on the 14th of November 2025. Known for his clever storytelling and lively stage presence, Pele Pele has spent more than 15 years perfecting his craft as a comedian, radio presenter and entertainer. From his early days writing for Desmond Dube&rsquo;s Dube on 2 Reloaded to winning the Savannah Audience Choice Comedy Award, he has carved out a place in the hearts of audiences who appreciate authentic South African humor. This one-man show promises an evening filled with laughter, relatable moments and unfiltered fun as Pele Pele takes audiences through his world of comedy and reflection. As Soweto&rsquo;s only award-winning comedian, his energy and timing continue to set him apart in the entertainment industry. The man himself joins us instudio

Award-winning comedian Pele Pele’s latest show brings the heat to the Gibson Kente Theatre

A major new global tourism event is making its debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this week. The TOURISE Summit, taking place from yesterday (11th) to the 13th of November, brings together ministers, industry leaders, investors and innovators to explore the future of global travel. With nearly 8,000 delegates and 140 speakers from around the world and hosted under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, TOURISE is designed to turn bold ideas into action.
South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, is among the leaders participating in this landmark event. She joins a panel discussion titled “Bridging the Skies: Unlocking Global Connectivity,” focusing on how to improve air travel access in developing regions like Africa, where limited routes continue to hinder growth. As the tourism industry recovers from the pandemic and adapts to new technologies and sustainability goals, TOURISE positions itself as a permanent platform for global collaboration. Joining us on the line is Paul Charles, CEO The PC Agency

A major new global tourism event is making its debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this week. The TOURISE Summit, taking place from yesterday (11th) to the 13th of November, brings together ministers, industry leaders, investors and innovators to explore the future of global travel. With nearly 8,000 delegates and 140 speakers from around the world and hosted under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, TOURISE is designed to turn bold ideas into action. South Africa&rsquo;s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, is among the leaders participating in this landmark event. She joins a panel discussion titled &ldquo;Bridging the Skies: Unlocking Global Connectivity,&rdquo; focusing on how to improve air travel access in developing regions like Africa, where limited routes continue to hinder growth. As the tourism industry recovers from the pandemic and adapts to new technologies and sustainability goals, TOURISE positions itself as a permanent platform for global collaboration. Joining us on the line is Paul Charles, CEO The PC Agency

Global leaders gather in Riyadh for the Inaugural TOURISE Summit to redefine the future of travel and tourism 

Africa’s next generation of tech innovators took bold steps toward shaping an inclusive AI-powered future as Meta announced the winners of the 2025 Meta Llama Impact Accelerator Program. The initiative brought together some of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most promising founders who used AI to address real challenges in healthcare, education, agriculture, public safety and public services. The program concluded with Demo Day events across Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya and South Africa, where national winners were unveiled and awarded a combined total of $50,000 in funding to grow their innovations.


From AI-driven medical record systems in Nigeria to digital learning platforms in Senegal, agricultural marketplaces in South Africa and localized public health tools in Kenya, the winning startups showcased the creativity and problem-solving spirit that continues to drive Africa’s AI revolution. These innovators went on to pitch at the AI Summit in Dubai, competing for up to $100,000 in regional funding. We are joined by Balkissa Ide Siddo, Director for Public Policy across Sub-Saharan Africa at Meta

Africa&rsquo;s next generation of tech innovators took bold steps toward shaping an inclusive AI-powered future as Meta announced the winners of the 2025 Meta Llama Impact Accelerator Program. The initiative brought together some of Sub-Saharan Africa&rsquo;s most promising founders who used AI to address real challenges in healthcare, education, agriculture, public safety and public services. The program concluded with Demo Day events across Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya and South Africa, where national winners were unveiled and awarded a combined total of $50,000 in funding to grow their innovations.
 From AI-driven medical record systems in Nigeria to digital learning platforms in Senegal, agricultural marketplaces in South Africa and localized public health tools in Kenya, the winning startups showcased the creativity and problem-solving spirit that continues to drive Africa&rsquo;s AI revolution. These innovators went on to pitch at the AI Summit in Dubai, competing for up to $100,000 in regional funding. We are joined by Balkissa Ide Siddo, Director for Public Policy across Sub-Saharan Africa at Meta

How Meta’s Llama Impact accelerator is powering Africa’s next generation of ai innovators 

As South Africa’s digital economy grows, a new wave of content creators and influencers is redefining how brands engage with audiences. With this growth, creators are no longer just social media personalities; they are small business owners navigating contracts, partnerships and financial responsibilities. Understanding tax compliance and managing income properly has become a critical challenge for many in the industry. The Business of Influence: Creator Tax & Compliance Seminar aims to address this need, bringing together creators, influencers and social media entrepreneurs to learn how to structure their earnings, meet SARS requirements, and operate with professionalism.

The seminar, led by influencers Penuel Maduna and Penny Ntuli, will provide practical guidance on managing taxes, working with corporate partners and building sustainable brands. It will explore SARS’s newly introduced tax segment for influencers, which formally recognizes income earned through social media as taxable revenue. The event will take place on the 27th of November 2025, at Lumo Lounge & Living in Johannesburg, offering creators tools to build careers with both purpose and responsibility. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Sibongiseni Mbanjwa, CEO Ambitious Business Consultants

As South Africa&rsquo;s digital economy grows, a new wave of content creators and influencers is redefining how brands engage with audiences. With this growth, creators are no longer just social media personalities; they are small business owners navigating contracts, partnerships and financial responsibilities. Understanding tax compliance and managing income properly has become a critical challenge for many in the industry. The Business of Influence: Creator Tax &amp; Compliance Seminar aims to address this need, bringing together creators, influencers and social media entrepreneurs to learn how to structure their earnings, meet SARS requirements, and operate with professionalism.
The seminar, led by influencers Penuel Maduna and Penny Ntuli, will provide practical guidance on managing taxes, working with corporate partners and building sustainable brands. It will explore SARS&rsquo;s newly introduced tax segment for influencers, which formally recognizes income earned through social media as taxable revenue. The event will take place on the 27th of November 2025, at Lumo Lounge &amp; Living in Johannesburg, offering creators tools to build careers with both purpose and responsibility. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Sibongiseni Mbanjwa, CEO Ambitious Business Consultants

Helping South African creators navigate tax compliance and build sustainable brands

South Africa’s property market in 2025 was expected to be shaped by shifting lifestyle needs and smarter investment choices. As interest rates stabilised and inflation cooled, the focus began turning from survival to strategic growth. Compact, energy-efficient homes and mixed-use developments gained popularity among younger buyers seeking affordability and convenience. Remote and hybrid work patterns continued to influence demand, with buyers showing renewed interest in suburban and smaller coastal towns offering better value and quality of life.

Sustainability and technology emerged as defining themes for 2026. Solar-powered homes, water-saving systems and smart-home integrations became more than luxury add-ons; they turned into essential selling points. The rental market remained robust, supported by strong urban demand and a growing number of professionals choosing flexible living arrangements over ownership.

South Africa&rsquo;s property market in 2025 was expected to be shaped by shifting lifestyle needs and smarter investment choices. As interest rates stabilised and inflation cooled, the focus began turning from survival to strategic growth. Compact, energy-efficient homes and mixed-use developments gained popularity among younger buyers seeking affordability and convenience. Remote and hybrid work patterns continued to influence demand, with buyers showing renewed interest in suburban and smaller coastal towns offering better value and quality of life.
Sustainability and technology emerged as defining themes for 2026. Solar-powered homes, water-saving systems and smart-home integrations became more than luxury add-ons; they turned into essential selling points. The rental market remained robust, supported by strong urban demand and a growing number of professionals choosing flexible living arrangements over ownership.

Why 2026 could be the turning point for South Africa’s residential property sector

The year 2025 marked three decades since the historic United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women, which took place in Beijing in 1995. The conference had produced the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework that reshaped the global agenda on gender equality and women’s rights. Africa’s leadership during that defining moment had been both visionary and bold. Honorable Gertrude Mongella of Tanzania, who served as Secretary-General of the conference, described it as the beginning of “a social, political, and economic revolution with no going back.”


To reignite that original spirit and assess how far the continent had come, the Beijing+30 Advocacy Group joined hands with the Pan-African Parliament for a sitting under the theme “Commemorating 30 Years of the Beijing Platform for Action: Accelerating Gender Equality in Africa.” The gathering took place on the 6th of  November 2025 at the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa. It brought together over 200 African women leaders, government officials, and global representatives to reflect on key issues such as gender-based violence, constitutional reforms and women’s economic empowerment. Joining us on the line is Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Chair and Convenor of Beijing +30 Advocacy Group.

The year 2025 marked three decades since the historic United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women, which took place in Beijing in 1995. The conference had produced the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework that reshaped the global agenda on gender equality and women&rsquo;s rights. Africa&rsquo;s leadership during that defining moment had been both visionary and bold. Honorable Gertrude Mongella of Tanzania, who served as Secretary-General of the conference, described it as the beginning of &ldquo;a social, political, and economic revolution with no going back.&rdquo;
 To reignite that original spirit and assess how far the continent had come, the Beijing+30 Advocacy Group joined hands with the Pan-African Parliament for a sitting under the theme &ldquo;Commemorating 30 Years of the Beijing Platform for Action: Accelerating Gender Equality in Africa.&rdquo; The gathering took place on the 6th of &nbsp;November 2025 at the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa. It brought together over 200 African women leaders, government officials, and global representatives to reflect on key issues such as gender-based violence, constitutional reforms and women&rsquo;s economic empowerment. Joining us on the line is Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Chair and Convenor of Beijing +30 Advocacy Group.

How Africa’s women are reigniting the spirit of Beijing thirty years later 

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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