The countdown is on for the next TINMAN races in Johannesburg and Durban, and there has never been a better time to challenge yourself. Whether you’re a first-timer looking for a fun and friendly introduction to multisport, or a seasoned athlete chasing a personal best, TINMAN has a race with your name on it. Winter training is where champions are made. Every early morning swim, every chilly bike ride, and every kilometre on the road is building the strength, confidence, and fitness you’ll need when race day arrives. From the Mini and Super Sprint to the Sprint, Challenge, and Sprint Duathlon, there is an adventure waiting for everyone. So set your goals, trust your training, and commit to the journey. The finish line, the medal, and the incredible feeling of achievement are closer than you think. Train hard. Trust the process. Make history. https://entry.bactive.com/ #WeAreTINMAN #TINMANTriathlon #BecomeALegend BECOME A LEGEND. BECOME A TINMAN.

In an emergency, every second counts. Whether it is a medical crisis, a security threat, a vehicle accident, or a personal safety concern, having immediate access to assistance can make all the difference. This is where the MC911 Mobile Panic App and Device from Mobi Ventures provides a vital lifeline when it matters most. For nearly a decade, MC911 has been dedicated to delivering reliable emergency response management solutions that help protect individuals, families, employees, and businesses across South Africa. As the company approaches its 10-year anniversary in 2026, it continues to innovate and strengthen its commitment to safety and rapid response. A Simple Device with Powerful Protection The MC911 Mobile Panic Device is designed for simplicity and effectiveness. With the press of a single SOS button, users can instantly alert emergency response teams, providing a fast and efficient way to call for help when faced with danger or distress. The device works alongside the MC911 mobile application, creating a comprehensive safety solution that ensures users are never alone in an emergency situation. Whether at home, on the road, at work, or travelling, assistance is always within reach. Why Emergency Response Matters Emergencies are unpredictable. In many situations, finding a phone, searching for a contact number, or explaining your location can waste valuable time. The MC911 solution removes these barriers by enabling immediate activation of emergency protocols, allowing response teams to act quickly and effectively. Benefits include: Instant SOS activation Rapid emergency response coordination Enhanced personal and family safety Increased security for employees and lone workers Peace of mind wherever you are Easy-to-use technology designed for all ages Supporting Individuals and Businesses MC911 is more than a personal safety device. It is a comprehensive emergency management solution that supports businesses, organisations, and communities. Employers can provide staff with an additional layer of protection, particularly for employees working in remote locations, travelling frequently, or operating in high-risk environments. For families, the device offers reassurance that loved ones can quickly access assistance whenever needed. Celebrating a Decade of Service As MC911 marks 10 years of protecting South Africans, the company continues to focus on delivering dependable emergency response solutions backed by professional support and advanced technology. Its mission remains clear: to provide immediate access to help when every moment matters. When emergencies strike, preparation can save lives. The MC911 Mobile Panic App and Device is designed to bridge the gap between crisis and response, ensuring that help is only a button press away. Trust us when seconds matter most. For more information about MC911 Emergency Response Management, visit: Mobi Ventures MC911 #MC911 #EmergencyResponse #PersonalSafety #PanicButton #SecuritySolutions #MobiVentures #EmergencyManagement #TrustUsWhenSecondsMatterMost

By Sameer Kumandan, MD at SW360 South African businesses do not need to look far for a cautionary tale. The fallout from the Steinhoff scandal continues to reveal how weak governance, inadequate scrutiny of business relationships, and unchecked transactions can destroy billions in shareholder value. What began as aggressive growth ultimately became one of the country's most expensive lessons in the cost of insufficient oversight. Whether it is a merger, acquisition, investment, supplier agreement, or joint venture, businesses are under increasing pressure to move quickly on strategic deals. But speed without proper risk intelligence can expose organisations to significant financial, regulatory, and reputational fallout. We have seen this play out repeatedly both locally and globally. In South Africa, regulatory scrutiny around financial crime compliance continues to intensify, with multi-million Rand penalties being issued against organisations that failed to identify suspicious activity, beneficial ownership risks, or conduct adequate ongoing due diligence. These incidents are not just compliance failures. They are warnings about what happens when businesses enter relationships without fully understanding who they are dealing with and how those risks evolve over time. One of the biggest misconceptions in corporate due diligence is that risk checks are a once-off exercise completed before signing a deal. In reality, risk is dynamic. A company that appears compliant today can become a liability tomorrow through changes in directorships, sanctions exposure, politically exposed person (PEP) links, adverse media, or hidden ownership structures. This is particularly concerning in an environment where shell companies, shadow directors, and unclear ownership arrangements are increasingly being used to conceal financial crime, corruption, and illicit activity. Businesses that fail to detect these warning signs early enough can find themselves entangled in investigations, facing regulatory penalties, reputational damage, or significant financial losses. The true cost of a bad partnership goes far beyond the immediate transaction value. It can disrupt operations, erode investor confidence, damage customer trust, and place entire organisations under scrutiny. In some cases, businesses spend years trying to recover from the reputational consequences of a single poorly vetted relationship. Businesses need access to continuous, real-time risk intelligence that allows them to monitor counterparties long after the initial onboarding phase. We believe the future of compliance and corporate risk management lies in intelligent ongoing monitoring. Like ours, there is a need for solutions that use real-time, rule-based risk rating technology to help businesses identify and respond to changes in risk profiles as they happen, not months later when the consequences have already escalated. Importantly, this is not only relevant for accountable institutions under FICA. Any organisation engaging in corporate transactions, supplier onboarding, procurement processes, or investment activities should be asking tougher questions about who they are partnering with and whether those risks are being continuously monitored. The reality is that corporate ecosystems are becoming more interconnected and more vulnerable to hidden risk. A single compromised supplier, investment partner, or acquisition target can expose businesses to fraud, corruption, regulatory breaches, and operational instability. As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, businesses can no longer afford a reactive approach to due diligence. Ongoing risk intelligence must become part of everyday corporate governance and decision-making. Strong partnerships remain one of the most valuable drivers of growth. But in today’s business environment, trust without verification is no longer a strategy. The organisations that will be best positioned for sustainable growth are those that understand that due diligence is not a checkpoint. It is a continuous process of protecting corporate value, reputation, and resilience. About SW360 SW360 is South Africa’s leading data intelligence platform, empowering businesses to verify, assess, and manage risk confidence. At the core of its offering are two powerful products – Searchworks and VOCA, each playing a key role in delivering real-time, verified data across industries. Find out more at www.sw360.co.za. Sameer Kumandan, MD at SW360 For further information: Monica van der Spuy | GinjaNinja | M: +27 71 685 6476 | E: monica@ginjaninja.co.za

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH A strategic partnership between Ensure Ubuntu and eThekwini Municipality is delivering tangible improvements in safety, cleanliness, and social upliftment in Durban’s inner city. Through a co-ordinated, multi-faceted approach, the initiative is supporting the City’s vision of a revitalised urban hub that is inclusive, secure, and economically vibrant. Ensure Ubuntu is proving to be a force to be reckoned with as they work to improve safety in the inner city. Central to this progress is a strong focus on visible safety and proactive intervention. Ensure Ubuntu’s deployment of trained street ambassadors, supported by structured operational teams, has enhanced on-the-ground presence in key inner-city precincts. This visibility plays a critical role in deterring criminal activity, while also strengthening relationships between communities and safety structures. “There has been a 28 percent reduction in visible serious crime, and 19 percent faster response times resulting in a lower crime rate in the Durban Central Business District. In the past year, 101 incidents were responded to, and more than 259 arrests were made,” said Kyle Connolly, Chief Executive Officer of Ensure Ubuntu. Through ongoing clean-up campaigns and co-ordinated maintenance efforts, public spaces are being restored, reducing conditions that enable crime, creating safer environments for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Connolly said this success is built on their close partnership with the South Africa Police Service, the Metro Police, and Municipal departments. “We work hand-in-hand every day, supporting each other through integrated operations, rapid response, and shared intelligence to deliver real impact on the ground,” he said. In the last year, Ensure Ubuntu teams collected approximately 416 tons of waste collected, and collected more than 90 000 waste bags, through daily street cleaning, clearing of illegal dumping, and general infrastructure management. The partnership also recognises the importance of addressing the social drivers of crime. Proactive interventions assist vulnerable communities through food support, medical assistance, and referrals to shelters and social services. Collaboration remains at the heart of this success. Nkululeko Mkhize, from the City's Economic Development Directorate, said: “EThekwini Municipality welcomes the positive impact of the Ensure Ubuntu partnership in strengthening safety, improving urban management, and supporting vulnerable communities in Durban’s inner city. This collaborative approach is not only enhancing safety and cleanliness but is also contributing to economic revitalisation by creating a more attractive and secure environment for investment, trade, and small business growth. The City remains committed to sustaining and scaling such initiatives to drive long-term urban renewal, economic vitality, and inclusive growth.” Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.

Final Call for Entries: KZN Top Business Awards 2026 Time is running out for businesses across KwaZulu-Natal to secure their place among the province’s leading companies as entries for the 2026 KZN Top Business Awards officially close on 12 June 2026. Brought to you by Standard Bank and the Women of Africa Group, and in association with East Coast Radio, the awards continue to celebrate the innovation, resilience and leadership driving economic growth and transformation across KwaZulu-Natal. Businesses and organisations operating in the province are encouraged to take advantage of this final opportunity to enter and gain recognition for their achievements, impact and contribution to the regional economy. The awards recognise businesses that demonstrate excellence while embracing ethical leadership and proactive business practices aligned with the principles of King V corporate governance. The 2025 category winners reflected the depth and diversity of business success in the province, including: Arena Trims – Standard Bank Client of the Year (SME) Natal Joint Municipal Pension Fund – Standard Bank Client of the Year (Larger Enterprise) Hulamin Limited – Manufacturing Sector Avemel Logistics – Transport & Logistics Sector Meondo Holdings Pty Ltd – Franchising Sector Siyaka – Family-Owned and Managed Business GreenHill Laboratories – Agriculture and Agri-Processing Sector Royal Tyres – Business, Finance and Education Sector aQuellé – Community Upliftment and Improvement Brahman Hills – Renewable Efficiency and Green Initiatives Beekman Group – Employee Wellness Durban Direct – Partnership Award SA Home Loans – Top Brand Award To encourage wide participation from across KwaZulu-Natal’s business community, entry to the awards is free of charge. Companies with a registered office in the province may enter up to two categories. Entrants are required to complete the relevant submission documentation, providing supporting information and motivation that demonstrates their suitability for their chosen category or categories. Adv Pria Hassan, Women of Africa Group said, “The KZN Top Business Awards are about recognising the companies and leaders who continue to innovate, create opportunities and strengthen the economy of KwaZulu-Natal. We encourage businesses of all sizes to submit their entries before the closing date of 12 June and showcase the work they are doing to make a meaningful impact.” In addition, public voting for the sought-after Top Brand Award is underway and attracting strong support from across the province. Grant Adlam, CEO of KZN Top Business, said, “The public vote is an exciting opportunity for businesses to showcase the support they have earned from their clients, staff, suppliers and communities. We encourage all finalists to spread the word through their social media channels and digital platforms and rally their networks to get involved. Every vote counts in recognising the businesses that are making a real impact in KwaZulu-Natal. Only one vote per email address is permitted, and voting closes at 10 pm on 28 June.” To vote for your top brand, and general submission requirements, visit www.kzntopbusiness.com Finalists and winners will be announced at the prestigious gala awards dinner taking place at the Durban ICC on 16 July 2026. For more information contact Gayle Adlam on 083 653 0465 or via email at editorial@mweb.co.za. 2026 KZN Top Business Awards, Brought to you by Standard Bank and the Women of Africa Group, and in association with East Coast Radio

By Chelsea Brand The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), under the leadership of MEC Rev. Musa Zondi, has officially established a strategic operational presence at Dube TradePort, marking a significant shift in how the department engages with business, investors and stakeholders. Speaking at the official opening, MEC Rev. Zondi emphasised that the move is not merely a relocation, but a carefully considered strategic decision designed to improve accessibility, efficiency and cost-effectiveness while strengthening the department's connection to one of the province's most important economic hubs. Situated adjacent to King Shaka International Airport, Dube TradePort offers a convenient location for both local and international stakeholders conducting business with the department. The proximity to the airport allows business leaders, investors and government representatives to travel in and out of KwaZulu-Natal with greater ease, reducing travel time and improving operational efficiency. The relocation also addresses longstanding logistical challenges associated with the department's previous offices. Limited parking availability and growing safety concerns had become a source of frustration for visitors and staff alike. Reports of vehicle break-ins and insufficient parking created an environment that was increasingly impractical for conducting business. The new location provides a safer and more accessible alternative. The move comes at a time when government departments across South Africa are being required to reduce expenditure and operate more efficiently. According to MEC Rev. Zondi, the relocation forms part of a broader effort to navigate budget constraints while maintaining service delivery standards. The department continues to face financial pressures, including the need to revisit previously approved expenditures as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures. Importantly, the MEC stressed that the relocation does not signal a shift away from Durban's role as the department's primary administrative centre. While EDTEA maintains offices in both Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the Durban offices remain the department's main operational base. He reassured stakeholders that there would be no disconnect within the administration and that services would continue to function seamlessly across both locations. Hamish Erskine, CEO of the Dube TradePort Corporation in KwaZulu-Natal; MEC Rev. Musa Zondi The decision has also been welcomed by members of the business community, many of whom have long advocated for improved accessibility to government services. Travelling between various administrative centres often incurs significant costs in both time and money. Locating key departmental functions within Dube TradePort places the department closer to the economic activity it seeks to support. MEC Rev. Zondi noted that Durban continues to attract people and businesses from across South Africa and beyond, reinforcing its position as a key economic gateway for the province. With Dube TradePort already serving as a major centre for trade, logistics, manufacturing and investment, the department's presence within the precinct aligns closely with its mandate to drive economic growth and development. The relocation represents a practical response to operational challenges while positioning EDTEA closer to the heart of KwaZulu-Natal's economic ecosystem. By improving accessibility, enhancing safety, reducing costs and responding to the needs of the business community, the move to Dube TradePort appears to be a strategic step towards a more efficient and business-friendly future. EDTEA Establishes Strategic Presence at Dube TradePort Watch the short here: https://youtube.com/shorts/qtU9ck9TZFA?si=IrSQRQK3dnLy4ffC

The EaziSoak is a revolutionary plug and play soak away system that replaces the conventional (and often expensive) geotextile fabric, stone and perforated pipe soak away system. Our modular chamber system provides a much larger and more effective percolation area compared to conventional soak away systems, therefore delivering a far superior solution on every front - from ease of installation, system reliability and (most importantly) cost effectiveness. The EaziSoak system has multiple applications including being used to effectively disperse effluent from typical septic tanks, it can be installed behind retaining walls to relieve ground water pressure or as a storm water control solution.

By: South African Tourism Press Release The United States remains one of South Africa’s most valuable overseas source markets, recognised for its high visitor volumes, strong spending power, and longer lengths of stay. However, American travellers are evolving, and so are their expectations. As destinations around the world compete for high-value international visitors, understanding these changing expectations has become increasingly important for tourism businesses seeking growth. To help the tourism sector better understand and attract this important market, South African Tourism has completed a comprehensive USA Market Segmentation Study as part of its ongoing Insights and Analytics program. The research delivers practical guidance for tour operators, destination management companies (DMCs), accommodation providers, attractions, airlines, experience creators, and travel marketers looking to grow their share of the American market. One message emerges clearly from the research: today’s American traveller is looking for more than just safari. While South Africa’s wildlife remains a powerful drawcard, travellers increasingly want immersive experiences that combine culture, cuisine, adventure, nature, history, and authentic local connections. The study identified three emerging traveller segments: Cultural Connoisseurs, Experiential Trailblazers, and Modern Memory Makers, each with distinct motivations, planning styles, and travel preferences. All three segments are high-income earners, with annual incomes exceeding USD 95,000. They possess varying levels of experience with long-haul travel and tend to travel during the winter months, particularly December. These travellers engage in extensive planning, utilising a combination of online resources and destination-specific plans within three months before departure. They actively seek information on accommodation, attractions, activities, and local weather. Their research methods include search engines, AI-enabled tools and applications, social media, and reviews on platforms such as Expedia, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com. Experience is king The “Experiential Trailblazers” segment comprises younger, affluent travellers who prioritise adventure, cultural engagement, discovery, and authentic local experiences. This group, which includes singles and couples, is motivated to explore new destinations, participate in engaging activities, and immerse themselves in diverse cultures. This segment is highly experience-driven, willing to invest in unique travel opportunities, and actively seeks destinations that offer distinctive experiences. The study indicates that they value cultural landmarks, local lifestyles, lesser-known attractions, and meaningful community interactions. For South African tourism stakeholders, this represents a significant opportunity, as positioning South Africa solely as a wildlife destination is insufficient. Travellers now seek multi-faceted itineraries that integrate culture, cuisine, nature, urban experiences, adventure, and storytelling. Culture, Scenic Beauty, and Local Experiences Matter The study identifies “Cultural Connoisseurs” as a significant segment. These older travellers prioritise cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and memorable experiences. These travellers are particularly interested in: Cultural and historical landmarks, local cuisine, scenic beauty of the outdoors, relaxation combined with exploration and an authentic storytelling journey with heritage experiences. The study recommends that South African tourism products for this segment should emphasise; township and heritage experiences, exploring different cultures and traditions across provinces, once-in-a-lifetime journeys and experiences and memory-making experiences in beautiful settings. For tourism product owners, there is growing value in providing experiences that enable travellers to meaningfully connect with South Africa, rather than merely observe it. Families Prioritise Ease, Safety, and Lasting Memories The study identifies a significant “Modern Memory Makers” segment, comprising travellers who seek enjoyable, family-oriented, and meaningful shared experiences. These travellers favour: Family-friendly itineraries, all-inclusive packages, trusted brand and chains of accommodation (preferably hotels), convenience and ease of travel. Activities that combine fun with culture and discovery of the hidden and unexpected along the way. Safety, quality cuisine, ease of travel, and scenic beauty are key decision factors for this group. For South African tourism stakeholders, clear communication, efficient logistics, curated packages, and trusted reviews are essential to attract the American family market. Reviews, AI, and Digital Discovery Are Reshaping Travel Decisions The findings point to a broader shift in traveller behaviour. Today's traveller is mobile-first, digitally connected, and increasingly seeking personalised experiences throughout the travel journey. As a result, tourism businesses must embrace digital intelligence, data-driven insights, and personalisation as core elements of their tourism and marketing strategies. South African Tourism is increasingly exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance traveller engagement and trip planning. One example is Siyanda, an AI-powered travel assistant developed by the South African Tourism North America team. Designed to support both travellers and the travel trade, Siyanda provides real-time, personalised itinerary recommendations focused on South Africa, spanning safaris, heritage, hiking, gastronomy, wine regions, and cultural experiences. Rather than replacing travel advisors, tools such as Siyanda are designed to strengthen destination knowledge, inspire travellers during the planning phase, and support more informed travel decisions. To chat with Siyanda, visit www.southafrica.net/us/en/travel What This Means for South African Trade The research offers clear practical implications for the tourism industry: American travellers are willing to spend significantly on travel. They are looking for diverse itineraries that combine multiple experiences. Authenticity and storytelling are increasingly important. Ease of planning and trusted information sources influence conversion. Reviews and digital presence directly affect purchasing decisions. Different traveller segments require different messaging and product strategies. For South African tourism businesses, the opportunity is clear. American travellers continue to view South Africa as a desirable long-haul destination, but they are increasingly seeking richer, more diverse experiences that go beyond traditional wildlife offerings. Success in this market will depend on creating compelling multi-experience itineraries, telling authentic local stories, maintaining strong digital visibility, and making it easy for travellers to plan and book with confidence. In short, the modern American traveller is looking for “safari plus”: wildlife combined with culture, people, food, scenery, adventure, and meaningful local connections. Tourism businesses that can deliver this broader experience will be best positioned to attract and convert one of South Africa’s most important international visitor markets. The USA study is part of a broader international segmentation program that includes India, China, Kenya, and the United Kingdom. This initiative helps the South African tourism sector better understand traveller motivations, booking behaviour, media consumption, and the experiences international visitors seek. The full research study is available on the South African Tourism website at the link below. Source: https://live.southafrica.net/media/308811/07apr26_sat-segmentation-study_segment-personas_usa.pdf?downloadId=437464 Image provided by South African Tourism

By Chelsea Brand In a province rich with talent, ambition and entrepreneurial potential, a new youth-led movement is working to ensure that young people are not merely spectators in the economy but active participants shaping its future. The KwaKha Collective, founded by a team of young professionals from diverse fields including law, finance, accounting and entrepreneurship, is on a mission to drive meaningful youth economic participation throughout KwaZulu-Natal. At its core, the organisation believes that sustainable economic growth can only be achieved when young people are equipped with the networks, opportunities and relationships necessary to thrive. "We want to preach the gospel of youth economic participation," says Co-Founder and Executive Chairman, Londa-izwi Gumede. "We want young people to participate in the mainstream economy. We want them to network sustainably here in this province." The organisation is led by a board of accomplished young professionals, including Londa, Deputy Chairperson and Stakeholder Relations Head Thembalethu (Thembz) Shange, CEO Lwazi Mkhwanazi, Secretary General and admitted attorney Siyethaba (Sithembile) Nyawose, and Treasurer General Bawinile Nkosingiphile Gwala, a chartered accountant. Together, they bring a combination of professional expertise and lived experience to a challenge that affects thousands of young South Africans: accessing opportunities. Bridging the Gap The KwaKha Collective was established to address a gap that many young people experience when entering the professional world. While talent and ambition are abundant, access to influential networks, mentors and decision-makers often remains limited. Through stakeholder engagement sessions, networking events, masterclasses and strategic partnerships, the organisation creates opportunities for young professionals, entrepreneurs and students to connect directly with industry leaders, business owners, investors and government stakeholders. According to Thembz, these engagements are designed to serve as a bridge between potential and opportunity. "We often talk about taking someone from point A to point B," he explains. "Many young people simply don't have access to the rooms where important conversations happen. We create opportunities for them to be in those rooms." Recent stakeholder engagements have demonstrated the value of this approach. Young attendees have had the opportunity to engage directly with established business leaders, gaining access to insights, relationships and opportunities that may otherwise have remained out of reach. For the KwaKha Collective, these interactions are not simply networking exercises. They are catalysts for collaboration, mentorship, business development and long-term economic participation. More Than Empowerment While "youth empowerment" is a phrase frequently used across many initiatives, the KwaKha Collective intentionally focuses on participation rather than empowerment alone. The distinction is significant. Empowerment can often become an abstract concept, whereas participation requires action, involvement and measurable outcomes. The organisation's vision is centred on creating sustainable futures for young people, whether they choose careers in corporate environments, professional services, entrepreneurship or other sectors of the economy. "We want young people to actively participate," says Thembz. "Whether they're securing a new contract, finding employment, building a business or learning from others, participation means being involved in the economy in a tangible way." This philosophy underpins every initiative the organisation undertakes. Your Network, Your Power The KwaKha Collective's motto, "Your Network, Your Power," encapsulates its belief that relationships are among the most valuable assets a young professional can possess. The organisation sees networking not as a transactional activity but as a foundation for sustainable growth. Mentorship, collaboration, partnerships and shared knowledge all emerge from meaningful relationships. By facilitating these connections, the KwaKha Collective aims to strengthen the economic ecosystem for young people across the province. The organisation's name itself reflects this commitment. KwaKha, derived from the isiZulu word meaning "to build", represents the collective's purpose: building sustainable futures, building businesses, building careers and building pathways to opportunity. "We are the building collective," explains Thembz. "We want to be part of building sustainable futures for the youth of KwaZulu-Natal." Challenging Perceptions Beyond creating opportunities, the organisation is also committed to challenging outdated perceptions of youth capability. Londa believes that many young people continue to face what he describes as the "infantilisation" of youth, where their abilities and potential are underestimated despite their qualifications, expertise and entrepreneurial drive. The KwaKha Collective aims to change that narrative by showcasing young people who are capable of leading businesses, creating employment and contributing meaningfully to economic development. "We want stakeholders to see that there are young people who are capable of building big businesses and participating sustainably in the economy," says Londa. A Call to Action As the organisation continues to grow, its message to young people remains clear: participation requires action. Opportunities do not emerge in isolation. They are often discovered through engagement, consistency, ambition and the willingness to step forward. Through strategic partnerships, including collaborations with KZN Top Business and Business Sense, the KwaKha Collective is working to create practical pathways for mentorship, compliance support and business development. For Thembz, the challenge to young people is simple. "Be active. Be ambitious. Be consistent. Opportunities are there, but you have to participate." As KwaZulu-Natal looks toward a future shaped by innovation, entrepreneurship and inclusive growth, organisations such as the KwaKha Collective are proving that meaningful change can begin when young people are given not only a voice, but a seat at the table. And for the KwaKha Collective, that journey begins with a simple belief: your network is your power. For more information londaizwi@kwakhacollective.co.za https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-kwakha-collective/

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA INVITATION 09 JUNE 2026 ETHEKWINI LAUNCHES YOUTH MONTH AND AFRICA DAY CELEBRATIONS EThekwini Municipality invites the media to the official launch of Youth Month a key highlight of the City’s Africa Month programme. Hosted in partnership with the International and Intergovernmental Relations Directorate, this year’s event is guided by the theme: “RESERT@50: The Future Call.” Event Details Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026 Time: 09:00 Venue: Church Walk, Durban City Hall Members of the media can send their RSVP & enquiries to Mlungisi.Dlamini@Durban.gov.za or 083 7474 377 ENDS Issued by eThekwini Municipality Marketing and Communications Directorate.

By: Ethekwini Municipality Press Release EThekwini Municipality is ready to welcome the 21 600 athletes participating in the 99th Comrades Marathon, along with an anticipated 65 000 spectators travelling from across South Africa and around the world to witness the Ultimate Human Race. The Comrades Marathon takes place on Sunday, 14 June. This year’s event is an “up run”, with runners making the challenging journey from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. BOOST FOR LOCAL ECONOMY The Comrades Marathon continues to be a significant economic driver for eThekwini, attracting thousands of visitors whose spending contributes substantially to the local economy through accommodation, transport, hospitality, retail, and tourism-related activities. Small businesses are expected to benefit from the increased visitor numbers during the marathon weekend, with approximately 1 300 temporary job opportunities anticipated to be created. CITY’S READINESS To ensure the city is fully prepared for the event, a comprehensive operational plan has been activated as part of eThekwini Municipality’s readiness programme. The plan is being coordinated across multiple Municipal directorates to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for athletes, supporters, and visitors. Teams from the Waste Management Directorate are working diligently to maintain cleanliness along the race route and in key public areas. The Directorate has been appointed as the official waste management service provider for the Comrades Marathon. On race day, cleaning teams will be deployed along the eThekwini section of the route, from the starting point at Durban City Hall to Cato Ridge (R103), to facilitate the efficient collection and disposal of waste and recyclable materials. Waste receptacles will also be strategically positioned along the route to encourage responsible waste disposal by spectators. *SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES * The safety and security of participants and spectators remain a priority. Metro Police officers will be deployed at strategic locations along the route and at key gathering points to ensure the smooth running of the event and to assist with traffic and crowd management. FAN PARKS To enhance the race-day experience, eThekwini Municipality will host a Comrades Marathon fan park at Kings Park Athletics Stadium from 04:30 to 17:30. The fan park will provide residents and visitors with an opportunity to watch live race coverage and support participants throughout the day. Attendees can also look forward to a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere featuring live entertainment, interactive activities, food vendors, and recreational experiences suitable for all ages. ROAD CLOSURES The public is advised of the following road closures on Sunday, 14 June: * Dr Pixley KaSeme Street * Joseph Nduli Road * N3 West Off-Ramp to King Cetshwayo Highway contra-flow via 45th Cutting to the M13 and Cowies Hill * Josiah Gumede Road, Pinetown * M13 through Kloof, Gillitts and Old Main Road into Hillcrest * R103 towards Cato Ridge via Doonrug Road All affected roads will reopen once the last runner has passed through the respective areas. Get ready for the 99th comrades marathon!

By: Timothy Isabirye: Marketing Manager | Husqvarna South Africa Press Release Some people discover their path early in life and pursue it with determination. They get up early, they get their hands dirty, and they figure it out. At Husqvarna, we’re celebrating all young South Africans who pursue their passions with purpose, and on Youth Day we're proud to introduce you to one of them. Meet Christoff Grobler, a 15-year-old farm boy from Lydenburg, Mpumalanga. Homeschooled and deeply rooted in the land, Christoff describes himself simply as “a farm boy” whose only desire is to farm. Most afternoons, when the books close, you’ll find him working alongside his dad, tackling whatever tasks the farm demands. Sometimes that means clearing trees with his favourite tool: a Husqvarna chainsaw. The origin of his relationship with chainsaws came unexpectedly. His father's old machine had stopped working, and Christoff, who was just a little boy at the time, decided to fix it… and succeeded. "That was when I realised this was something I really liked," he says of his passion for trees, logging and saws. “I think cutting trees must be in my blood,” Christoff adds. “My grandfather once mentioned that my great-great-grandfather was a logger.” Whether it's heritage or hardwiring, he has always been drawn to the weight and purpose of a chainsaw. Permission to use one didn’t come easily, though. His mother, understandably cautious, worried he was too young. But Christoff never stopped asking, and eventually his persistence paid off. His mom finally agreed, on condition that he would only operate it under parental or adult supervision and follow strict safety rules. At just nine years old, he bought his first chainsaw, a Husqvarna 130. "It was exciting,” he recalls, “knowing it could be the start of a business." Even at such a young age, he was already thinking about the future. Christoff Grobler holding the Husqvarna Chainsaw Funding it was a lesson in itself. His parents helped him start a small cattle herd, built from two orphaned calves. Christoff describes how they had to be bottle-fed, and from there, the herd grew. "I work for my money," he says plainly, "and I'm proud that I can buy my own things." He admits he felt both nervous and excited the first time he fired up his new machine, despite having used his father's chainsaw before. “This was different though,” he shares. “This one was mine.” His father taught him how to use the tool, but what was passed down went beyond technique. Christoff made his parents a promise: to be careful, to respect the tool, and to respect the land. He has kept it, wearing proper PPE and never operating his saw alone. As he grew older and stronger, he began using his father's Husqvarna 61, a more powerful model, which meant getting more done. Recently, he bought his own Husqvarna 61. The reason was simple: "I loved my dad’s; that’s why I chose the same model. I know it will go a long way because it's built to last." He mainly uses his chainsaw to clear farm roads and cut firewood for winter, but he is already planning to expand into cutting wood for resale. For now, Christoff is content with his machine and doesn’t envisage upgrading it anytime soon. But when he does, he emphasises that he will never change to anything else. “When I buy another, it will definitely be a Husqvarna.” His eyes are now firmly set on the future. He wants to become the best farmer he can be, raising cattle and growing crops. When asked what advice he would give to other young South Africans on Youth Day, his answer is simple and, at just 15, is something that he lives by: "Pray about everything. Work hard. Never give up. Believe in yourself. And don't waste your money; try and save towards something meaningful." “On Youth Day, as South Africa celebrates the courage and potential of our young people, Husqvarna is proud to stand behind the generation shaping the country’s future,” says Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager at Husqvarna South Africa. “It’s a reminder of what our youth are capable of achieving given the chance. Christoff is living proof of that, and his is a story worth telling.” If you would like to know more about Husqvarna’s range of chainsaws, go to https://www.husqvarna.com/za or visit your nearest dealership.