Skin brightening focuses on reducing excess melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour, to create a lighter and more even complexion. The aim is to gradually fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma and acne scars while enhancing the skin’s natural glow. Unlike harsh bleaching methods, skin brightening treatments work gently to target uneven pigmentation without damaging healthy skin.

Joining us to unpack the science and safety behind skin brightening is Martha Shiloane, Founder of Luxe Glow Aesthetics. With more than 15 years of experience as a medical aesthetician and wellness and skin health specialist, she combines medical grade skincare with a holistic understanding of factors such as stress, hormones and lifestyle. Martha works alongside dermatologists and other health professionals to guide clients through personalised skincare journeys that prioritise long term skin health. She joins us instudio

Skin brightening focuses on reducing excess melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour, to create a lighter and more even complexion. The aim is to gradually fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma and acne scars while enhancing the skin&rsquo;s natural glow. Unlike harsh bleaching methods, skin brightening treatments work gently to target uneven pigmentation without damaging healthy skin.
Joining us to unpack the science and safety behind skin brightening is Martha Shiloane, Founder of Luxe Glow Aesthetics. With more than 15 years of experience as a medical aesthetician and wellness and skin health specialist, she combines medical grade skincare with a holistic understanding of factors such as stress, hormones and lifestyle. Martha works alongside dermatologists and other health professionals to guide clients through personalised skincare journeys that prioritise long term skin health. She joins us instudio

Understanding the science of skin brightening and why it is not the same as harmful bleaching practices 

While the continent is home to a rich literary tradition and a growing community of readers, publishers continue to face high production costs, VAT on books in some countries, expensive imports and complex distribution networks that make access uneven. Printing is often costly, shipping across borders can be more difficult than exporting overseas, and infrastructure gaps continue to shape how books reach readers. At the same time, digital publishing has opened new pathways, with mobile technology creating fresh opportunities for ebooks, audiobooks and online platforms, even as data costs and limited connectivity remain barriers.

For the first time, a comprehensive mapping of the book industry across 54 African countries has been conducted by UNESCO, offering a detailed picture of both the sector’s strengths and its structural weaknesses. The findings show that Africa accounted for 5.4 percent of the global publishing market in 2023, generating an estimated 7 billion US dollars in annual revenue. With the right policy reforms, investment and stronger distribution systems, the continent’s book industry could unlock opportunities worth up to 18.5 billion US dollars, with educational publishing alone representing a potential 13 billion dollar market. Joining us instudio is Rose Francis, founder of African Perspectives Publishing.

While the continent is home to a rich literary tradition and a growing community of readers, publishers continue to face high production costs, VAT on books in some countries, expensive imports and complex distribution networks that make access uneven. Printing is often costly, shipping across borders can be more difficult than exporting overseas, and infrastructure gaps continue to shape how books reach readers. At the same time, digital publishing has opened new pathways, with mobile technology creating fresh opportunities for ebooks, audiobooks and online platforms, even as data costs and limited connectivity remain barriers.
For the first time, a comprehensive mapping of the book industry across 54 African countries has been conducted by UNESCO, offering a detailed picture of both the sector&rsquo;s strengths and its structural weaknesses. The findings show that Africa accounted for 5.4 percent of the global publishing market in 2023, generating an estimated 7 billion US dollars in annual revenue. With the right policy reforms, investment and stronger distribution systems, the continent&rsquo;s book industry could unlock opportunities worth up to 18.5 billion US dollars, with educational publishing alone representing a potential 13 billion dollar market. Joining us instudio is Rose Francis, founder of African Perspectives Publishing.

From printing press to smartphone screen how digital publishing is reshaping access to books across the continent

What happens when archives are no longer silent collections stored behind glass but spaces you can walk through, hear and experience for yourself? From September to December 2026, audiences across South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi will encounter immersive exhibitions that transform historical records into living encounters. Futures_Past Amplifying Memory with Immersive Technologies is led by the French Institute of South Africa in partnership with Electric South and a network of cultural institutions and archives. Supported by the Embassy of France in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi and funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the project brings artists and archivists together to reimagine how memory is shared.

Over several months, creative teams will work with six archives, including the !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre, GALA Queer Archive, Iziko Museums of South Africa, Music Crossroads Malawi, National Film, Video and Sound Archives and the Royal Archives, Museum and Information Centre. Using virtual and augmented reality, spatial sound and interactive installation, the teams will create exhibitions that explore themes of exile, activism, water, oral tradition, apartheid history and royal memory. Joining us on the line is Lauren Fletcher, Audiovisual Project Manager at IFAS.

What happens when archives are no longer silent collections stored behind glass but spaces you can walk through, hear and experience for yourself? From September to December 2026, audiences across South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi will encounter immersive exhibitions that transform historical records into living encounters. Futures_Past Amplifying Memory with Immersive Technologies is led by the French Institute of South Africa in partnership with Electric South and a network of cultural institutions and archives. Supported by the Embassy of France in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi and funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the project brings artists and archivists together to reimagine how memory is shared.
Over several months, creative teams will work with six archives, including the !Khwa ttu San Culture &amp; Education Centre, GALA Queer Archive, Iziko Museums of South Africa, Music Crossroads Malawi, National Film, Video and Sound Archives and the Royal Archives, Museum and Information Centre. Using virtual and augmented reality, spatial sound and interactive installation, the teams will create exhibitions that explore themes of exile, activism, water, oral tradition, apartheid history and royal memory. Joining us on the line is Lauren Fletcher, Audiovisual Project Manager at IFAS.

Futures_Past initiative reimagines Southern African archives as immersive spaces of memory, public engagement

The South African Chefs Association has outlined an ambitious agenda for 2026, led by the return of the African Culinary Cup to home soil and a renewed focus on education, professional recognition and industry collaboration. Speaking at a recent networking breakfast, SA Chefs President Chef Coo Pillay welcomed honorary presidents, board members and partners, describing the gathering as a moment to connect and shape the future of the profession.

The year ahead will see SA Chefs deepen international ties through global platforms such as the Worldchefs Congress in Wales and host the African Culinary Cup from 10 to 12 June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, in partnership with the Africa Food Show. Alongside this flagship event, SA Chefs continues to invest in youth development, regional programmes and bursaries, positioning 2026 as a defining year for the growth of South Africa’s culinary profession. He Joins us on the line.

The South African Chefs Association has outlined an ambitious agenda for 2026, led by the return of the African Culinary Cup to home soil and a renewed focus on education, professional recognition and industry collaboration. Speaking at a recent networking breakfast, SA Chefs President Chef Coo Pillay welcomed honorary presidents, board members and partners, describing the gathering as a moment to connect and shape the future of the profession.
The year ahead will see SA Chefs deepen international ties through global platforms such as the Worldchefs Congress in Wales and host the African Culinary Cup from 10 to 12 June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, in partnership with the Africa Food Show. Alongside this flagship event, SA Chefs continues to invest in youth development, regional programmes and bursaries, positioning 2026 as a defining year for the growth of South Africa&rsquo;s culinary profession. He Joins us on the line.

SA Chefs unveils ambitious 2026 programme with African Culinary Cup returning to South African soil

Today marks the final day of Meetings Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre, where KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, through its Durban KZN Convention Bureau, has been engaging international buyers, association planners and corporate decision makers. Hosted by South African Tourism under its National Convention Bureau, the platform has once again brought together destinations from across the continent to compete for high value business events.

In collaboration with the Durban International Convention Centre, the delegation also hosted a structured stakeholder session aimed at converting discussions into firm commitments. With tourism revenue reaching R21.8 billion in 2025, the province is focused on increasing the contribution of business events over the next three years. Joining us on the line is Pinky Radebe, Head of PR and Communications at KZNTAFA.

Today marks the final day of Meetings Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre, where KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, through its Durban KZN Convention Bureau, has been engaging international buyers, association planners and corporate decision makers. Hosted by South African Tourism under its National Convention Bureau, the platform has once again brought together destinations from across the continent to compete for high value business events.
In collaboration with the Durban International Convention Centre, the delegation also hosted a structured stakeholder session aimed at converting discussions into firm commitments. With tourism revenue reaching R21.8 billion in 2025, the province is focused on increasing the contribution of business events over the next three years. Joining us on the line is Pinky Radebe, Head of PR and Communications at KZNTAFA.

Final day of Meetings Africa 2026 sees KZN strengthen its bid pipeline for international congresses

The AJABU Cocktail & Spirits Festival returns to Johannesburg and Cape Town this March with its most expansive edition yet. Since launching in 2024, AJABU has grown into a key gathering for Africa’s hospitality community, pairing leading international bartenders with African talent to create cocktails that celebrate indigenous ingredients, regional spirits and the continent’s rich bar culture. Co-founded by Colin Asare Appiah and Mark Talbot Holmes, the festival continues to build global connections while investing in education, mentorship and skills development across the trade.

This year’s programme features pop ups, tasting tables and workshops at venues including Sin+Tax and the Cape Town International Convention Centre precinct, alongside collaborations with acclaimed bars from New York, Mexico City, Nairobi and Accra. Through its AJABU Scholarship Programme, the event continues to open doors for emerging African bartenders, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders. Collin joins us

The AJABU Cocktail &amp; Spirits Festival returns to Johannesburg and Cape Town this March with its most expansive edition yet. Since launching in 2024, AJABU has grown into a key gathering for Africa&rsquo;s hospitality community, pairing leading international bartenders with African talent to create cocktails that celebrate indigenous ingredients, regional spirits and the continent&rsquo;s rich bar culture. Co-founded by Colin Asare Appiah and Mark Talbot Holmes, the festival continues to build global connections while investing in education, mentorship and skills development across the trade.
This year&rsquo;s programme features pop ups, tasting tables and workshops at venues including Sin+Tax and the Cape Town International Convention Centre precinct, alongside collaborations with acclaimed bars from New York, Mexico City, Nairobi and Accra. Through its AJABU Scholarship Programme, the event continues to open doors for emerging African bartenders, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders. Collin joins us

AJABU Cocktail, Spirits Festival returns to Johannesburg and Cape Town with expanded global bar collaborations

One Groove has announced the official line up for the 2026 AmaGroove Residency, set to take place from 22nd to 29th of March at the Kromdraai Impact and Co Creativity Hub in South Africa. Now in its third year, AmaGroove has grown into a respected songwriting residency that brings together artists, producers and vocalists from South Africa, Denmark and beyond for a week of shared creation and cultural exchange. Supported by AUTOR, The Riky Rick Foundation, the Embassy of Denmark in South Africa, Kromdraai Impact Hub, ALTBLK and One Groove, the programme continues to build bridges between music communities across borders.

This year’s participants include South African talents Dhahabu, Q2K, Sandiile, Yolophonik, Gemma Fassie and DrexxBeats, alongside Danish artists Jaya May, Jonas Rendbo, GIMI, Fanny Wree, SSMA and FVN. Over the seven days they will take part in writing sessions, discussions, masterclasses and wellness activities, before presenting new work at an exclusive listening session. Joining us on the line is Rusmus Allin, CEO and Co-Founder of One Groove.

One Groove has announced the official line up for the 2026 AmaGroove Residency, set to take place from 22nd to 29th of March at the Kromdraai Impact and Co Creativity Hub in South Africa. Now in its third year, AmaGroove has grown into a respected songwriting residency that brings together artists, producers and vocalists from South Africa, Denmark and beyond for a week of shared creation and cultural exchange. Supported by AUTOR, The Riky Rick Foundation, the Embassy of Denmark in South Africa, Kromdraai Impact Hub, ALTBLK and One Groove, the programme continues to build bridges between music communities across borders.
This year&rsquo;s participants include South African talents Dhahabu, Q2K, Sandiile, Yolophonik, Gemma Fassie and DrexxBeats, alongside Danish artists Jaya May, Jonas Rendbo, GIMI, Fanny Wree, SSMA and FVN. Over the seven days they will take part in writing sessions, discussions, masterclasses and wellness activities, before presenting new work at an exclusive listening session. Joining us on the line is Rusmus Allin, CEO and Co-Founder of One Groove.

Inside the 2026 AmaGroove Residency as global songwriters gather for a week of cultural exchange and creative collaboration

The South African Broadcasting Corporation is celebrating a major milestone as its OTT platform, SABC Plus, as it reaches 2 million registered users. Since its launch, SABC Plus has become a central part of the broadcaster’s strategy, offering South Africans access to a wide variety of local and international content. From popular television shows to music, comedy, reality TV and short films, the platform provides viewers the freedom to watch anytime.

It marks a moment in which SABC Plus has redefined what public service media can look like in the digital age, ensuring communities across South Africa, including rural areas, have access to entertainment and information. The platform combines inclusivity with innovation, empowering young people, offering choice through free and subscription content. SABC Plus now stands as a key example of how South African broadcasting is evolving to meet the needs of viewers today.

Joining us on the line is Khanyisa Melwa, SABC’s Marketing Manager for Digital.

The South African Broadcasting Corporation is celebrating a major milestone as its OTT platform, SABC Plus, as it reaches 2 million registered users. Since its launch, SABC Plus has become a central part of the broadcaster&rsquo;s strategy, offering South Africans access to a wide variety of local and international content. From popular television shows to music, comedy, reality TV and short films, the platform provides viewers the freedom to watch anytime.
It marks a moment in which SABC Plus has redefined what public service media can look like in the digital age, ensuring communities across South Africa, including rural areas, have access to entertainment and information. The platform combines inclusivity with innovation, empowering young people, offering choice through free and subscription content. SABC Plus now stands as a key example of how South African broadcasting is evolving to meet the needs of viewers today.
Joining us on the line is Khanyisa Melwa, SABC&rsquo;s Marketing Manager for Digital.

SABC Plus reaches 2 million users as SA’s public broadcaster expands its digital footprint 

South African music icon Sipho Hotstix Mabuse is set to lead the Unity Soweto Concert 2026, taking place on 14th of June at Orlando Stadium. Born and raised in Soweto, Mabuse has spent more than five decades shaping the country’s sound, first as a young drummer with The Beaters, later known as Harari and then as a solo artist whose music became part of the soundtrack of a generation. His presence at this year’s concert connects today’s audiences with a powerful chapter in South Africa’s musical and political history.

Known for timeless songs such as Burn Out and Jive Soweto, Mabuse earned his nickname Hotstix for his skill on the drums, but his talent stretches across multiple instruments and genres. Beyond the stage, he has also inspired many through his personal journey, returning to complete his matric at the age of 60 to fulfil a lifelong goal. He joins us instudio.

South African music icon Sipho Hotstix Mabuse is set to lead the Unity Soweto Concert 2026, taking place on 14th of June at Orlando Stadium. Born and raised in Soweto, Mabuse has spent more than five decades shaping the country&rsquo;s sound, first as a young drummer with The Beaters, later known as Harari and then as a solo artist whose music became part of the soundtrack of a generation. His presence at this year&rsquo;s concert connects today&rsquo;s audiences with a powerful chapter in South Africa&rsquo;s musical and political history.
Known for timeless songs such as Burn Out and Jive Soweto, Mabuse earned his nickname Hotstix for his skill on the drums, but his talent stretches across multiple instruments and genres. Beyond the stage, he has also inspired many through his personal journey, returning to complete his matric at the age of 60 to fulfil a lifelong goal. He joins us instudio.

Life, career of Sipho Hotstix Mabuse explored as he headlines a historic commemorative event 

A personal statement has been issued by Dr Lindelani Mkhize in his capacity as a founding member of Joyous Celebration. This follows recent media reports, including an article published in the Sunday Times on 14 February 2026, referencing allegations about the finances and governance of the organisation. Dr Mkhize has firmly rejected any suggestion of improper or unlawful conduct, stating that the matters raised stem from longstanding governance disputes that date back several years. He maintains that he has never transacted on the company bank account and has not exercised control over payments, noting that payment administration was conducted through the Joyous office under its duly appointed bank transactor.

In his statement, Dr Mkhize outlines efforts he says he has taken to seek clarity on accumulated liabilities and financial controls, including requesting historical bank statements and instructing an independent accountant to review records. He confirms that the matter is now subject to formal arbitration and says he will not litigate governance disputes in the media.

While continuing to serve as Creative Director and production leader, he describes his recent administrative oversight as interim measures aimed at stabilising operations pending a structured resolution. He now joins us on the line.

A personal statement has been issued by Dr Lindelani Mkhize in his capacity as a founding member of Joyous Celebration. This follows recent media reports, including an article published in the Sunday Times on 14 February 2026, referencing allegations about the finances and governance of the organisation. Dr Mkhize has firmly rejected any suggestion of improper or unlawful conduct, stating that the matters raised stem from longstanding governance disputes that date back several years. He maintains that he has never transacted on the company bank account and has not exercised control over payments, noting that payment administration was conducted through the Joyous office under its duly appointed bank transactor.
In his statement, Dr Mkhize outlines efforts he says he has taken to seek clarity on accumulated liabilities and financial controls, including requesting historical bank statements and instructing an independent accountant to review records. He confirms that the matter is now subject to formal arbitration and says he will not litigate governance disputes in the media.
While continuing to serve as Creative Director and production leader, he describes his recent administrative oversight as interim measures aimed at stabilising operations pending a structured resolution. He now joins us on the line.

Dr Lindelani Mkhize issues personal statement rejecting allegations, addressing governance dispute at Joyous Celebratio

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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