What happens when people stop waiting for government to fix things and decide to take matters into their own hands? That is the question Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is putting on the table with his call for a Batho Pele Convention. In his recent proposal, he argues for a membership funded, self-sufficient movement focused on citizen agency, community action and rebuilding services from the ground up. It is an idea that connects closely with his work as a political thinker and researcher, including his book ‘Love and Violence: The Revolt Against Permanent Juniority’, which examines colonial violence, political identity and the experiences that shaped young people in the Vaal during the 1980s.
Ndlozi, who previously served in the National Assembly and held senior positions in the EFF, is now putting forward an argument that goes beyond elections and party politics. His proposal questions the role of political parties, funded activism and what he describes as a state that has abandoned many communities. So what exactly would a Batho Pele Convention look like, who would lead it and how would it work in practice? He joins us to further unpack

What happens when people stop waiting for government to fix things and decide to take matters into their own hands? That is the question Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is putting on the table with his call for a Batho Pele Convention. In his recent proposal, he argues for a membership funded, self-sufficient movement focused on citizen agency, community action and rebuilding services from the ground up. It is an idea that connects closely with his work as a political thinker and researcher, including his book &lsquo;Love and Violence: The Revolt Against Permanent Juniority&rsquo;, which examines colonial violence, political identity and the experiences that shaped young people in the Vaal during the 1980s. Ndlozi, who previously served in the National Assembly and held senior positions in the EFF, is now putting forward an argument that goes beyond elections and party politics. His proposal questions the role of political parties, funded activism and what he describes as a state that has abandoned many communities. So what exactly would a Batho Pele Convention look like, who would lead it and how would it work in practice? He joins us to further unpack

Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi wants citizens to take action, can communities rebuild what government has failed to deliver? 

What if your greatest inheritance is not what you received but what you decide to leave behind? This Heritage Month, Dr. Sonja Stribling is asking South African women to sit with a powerful question ‘What will they inherit because you lived?’ A retired U.S. Army Major, combat veteran, entrepreneur and business strategist, Dr. Stribling has brought her HERitage conversation to Johannesburg, challenging women to think about the wealth they build, the businesses they create, the opportunities they open and the patterns they have the courage to break.
Today, she works with entrepreneurs and business leaders on growth, leadership and turning their knowledge into income. So, what does it really take to build a legacy and how do we make sure the next generation inherits more than just our circumstances? She now joins us

What if your greatest inheritance is not what you received but what you decide to leave behind? This Heritage Month, Dr. Sonja Stribling is asking South African women to sit with a powerful question &lsquo;What will they inherit because you lived?&rsquo; A retired U.S. Army Major, combat veteran, entrepreneur and business strategist, Dr. Stribling has brought her HERitage conversation to Johannesburg, challenging women to think about the wealth they build, the businesses they create, the opportunities they open and the patterns they have the courage to break. Today, she works with entrepreneurs and business leaders on growth, leadership and turning their knowledge into income. So, what does it really take to build a legacy and how do we make sure the next generation inherits more than just our circumstances? She now joins us

From what was passed down to what we leave behind, Dr. Sonja Stribling on women, wealth, leadership and building a lasting legacy 

Can you be deeply in love with someone and still feel completely disconnected from them in the bedroom? For some couples, the issue is not a lack of love, attraction or commitment but simply wanting different things when it comes to intimacy. One partner may want sex more often, while the other rarely feels the need. One may want to experiment, while the other prefers to keep things familiar.
Over time, those differences can leave one person feeling rejected and the other feeling pressured, creating frustration and distance in a relationship. While we often use the phrase sexual incompatibility, experts say many couples are actually dealing with differences in desire, preferences and communication rather than being fundamentally incompatible. The real trouble begins when those differences are ignored, conversations are avoided and resentment starts to build. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Steph Jones, Relationship Expert

Can you be deeply in love with someone and still feel completely disconnected from them in the bedroom? For some couples, the issue is not a lack of love, attraction or commitment but simply wanting different things when it comes to intimacy. One partner may want sex more often, while the other rarely feels the need. One may want to experiment, while the other prefers to keep things familiar. Over time, those differences can leave one person feeling rejected and the other feeling pressured, creating frustration and distance in a relationship. While we often use the phrase sexual incompatibility, experts say many couples are actually dealing with differences in desire, preferences and communication rather than being fundamentally incompatible. The real trouble begins when those differences are ignored, conversations are avoided and resentment starts to build. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Steph Jones, Relationship Expert

One wants more while the other wants less, what happens when couples aren’t on the same page about sex? 

When was the last time you actually checked how much your investments are costing you? For many South Africans, investment fees are something that gets mentioned in the paperwork, accepted as part of the deal and then forgotten. A fee of one or two percent a year may sound small until you see what it can take away from your returns over many years. The concern is that many investors do not always know exactly what they are paying, while traditional fees are often linked to the amount of money sitting in their investment rather than the work being done.
That model is now being challenged as technology makes it possible to offer simpler ways of managing investments and charging customers. Fynbos Money says it has introduced a flat fee approach, where customers pay a transparent monthly membership instead of a percentage of their portfolio. The argument is simple: whether you have R100 or R1 million invested, the administration involved does not necessarily increase in proportion to your wealth. Joining us on the line is Adrian Hope-Baili, Co-founder of Fynbos Money

When was the last time you actually checked how much your investments are costing you? For many South Africans, investment fees are something that gets mentioned in the paperwork, accepted as part of the deal and then forgotten. A fee of one or two percent a year may sound small until you see what it can take away from your returns over many years. The concern is that many investors do not always know exactly what they are paying, while traditional fees are often linked to the amount of money sitting in their investment rather than the work being done. That model is now being challenged as technology makes it possible to offer simpler ways of managing investments and charging customers. Fynbos Money says it has introduced a flat fee approach, where customers pay a transparent monthly membership instead of a percentage of their portfolio. The argument is simple: whether you have R100 or R1 million invested, the administration involved does not necessarily increase in proportion to your wealth. Joining us on the line is Adrian Hope-Baili, Co-founder of Fynbos Money

Are you paying for your investment or paying for your wealth? Rethinking how investment fees work

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 

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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