I heart Market Saturday 1 June: 9am - 2pm Northlands Primary School, Durban North

Even though Durban barely has a winter, it’s time to stock up on those winter woollies, delicious comfort foods and holiday treats at the stylish artisanal I heart Market, on Saturday, 1 June, 2024, from 9am to 2pm at Northlands Primary School, Durban North.

This popular market, is a creative retail space where passion meets purpose. Here KZN “makers” come together to showcase their craft in a meticulously curated celebration of creativity, offering an array of exclusive, premium goods crafted by passionate individuals across various disciplines. 

“Think once off collections, small batches, and one-of-a-kind treasures you won't find in big malls - delicious artisan food, funky clothing, jewellery, kids clothing, doggie treats or couture.” says the manager of the market, Tanith Molliere.

“We pride ourselves in providing a platform for meaningful connections. Chat directly with the makers, get to know the stories behind their brands, and talk about new ideas and inspirations. So as customers meander through the stalls and invest in one-of-a-kind treasures, they can take pride in knowing that their support fuels the growth of our talented local creative community.”

Moliere and her Market team are passionate about developing and uplifting the local creative scene and entrepreneurs, and invite entrepreneurs who are launching a small, creative business, but are a little nervous to go full scale, to consider trading at the Market. Makers and Food Vendors can apply here: https://www.iheartmarket.com/apply/

There is a dedicated play area for small children, and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free retail experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.

There are areas for parking within the school grounds and the precinct is monitored by security guards.

For further details email info@iheartmkt.com.

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Celebrating Africa Month with Zoetheseed Luthuli Museum, Groutville Friday 24 May

Celebrated Durban songstress Zoetheseed is set to wow audiences this Africa Month with a live concert at the Luthuli Museum, Groutville on Friday 24 May at 7pm.

The concert is presented by Concerts SA in collaboration with iSupport Creative Business, with funding support from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (South Africa) - Mzansi Golden Economy, as part of ‘30 years of Democracy: A Celebration of African Music and Heritage’, a live music concert series with the underlying philosophy of Ubuntu, ‘I am because you are; you are because I am’.

Durban-based Zoetheseed, who trained at the world-renowned Music Department of the University of KwaZulu Natal, is a professional vocalist, composer and songwriter, and music educator.

Hailing from a Swazi background this dynamic performer incorporates her mother tongue in her original songs, and has performed with some local and international jazz great including SAMA award-winning Nduduzo Makhathini (RSA), Salim Washington (USA), Andile Yenana (RSA), Ernest Dawkins (USA), Neil Gonsalves (RSA). She has also participated in many festivals including  the Joy of Jazz, Essence Festival, Durban Jazz Festival and Imbokodo Jazz Festival.

“My inspiration to perform comes from incredible female vocalists like Gloria Bosman, ma’am Busi Mhlongo, Sibongile Khumalo and Rachelle Ferrell,” enthuses Zoetheseed who has also had the opportunity to be a drummer in the popular all female jazz band Heels Over Head that was nominated for the MTN 2011 SAMA awards, for best jazz album.

Dr. Salim Washington (USA) described her as having a “beautiful sound and energy” and that her “voice has the clarity and power of such superstars as Celia Cruz and Clementina De Jesus, Aretha Franklin, but not really like any of them,definitely her own sound.”

Catch Zoetheseed in concert at the Luthuli Museum, Groutville. Doors open at 6pm and the concert begins at 7pm. Tickets are R50  available on Webtickets or at the door.

For more information contact info@isupportdoyou.com

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Jazz, Music and Dance in Celebration of Africa Month at Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

Concerts SA in collaboration with Zimboni and iSupport Creative Business presents Afro-Jazz band Bantu's Clef, which headline a night of music along with guest performers Ikusasa Lethu at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music University of KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday 29 May as part of Africa Month celebrations.

The concert is funded by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (South Africa) - Mzansi Golden Economy, as part of ‘30 years of Democracy: A Celebration of African Music and Heritage’.

Bantu's Clef

Hailing from a dynamic musical crossroads, Bantu's Clef weaves together the rich tapestry of Afro-Jazz. Led by the masterful Mozambican guitarist Milton Chissano and the soulful South African tenor saxophonist Leon Scharnick, the band brings a unique sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and invigoratingly fresh.

Their music is a captivating exploration of Bantu rhythms, the lifeblood of sub-Saharan African music. These infectious grooves form the foundation upon which Chissano and Scharnick, along with their band members, Doc Vezi on electric bass and José Albert Chemane on drums, layer improvisational flourishes and sophisticated harmonies, all expressed through the universal language of Jazz.

Expect a riveting performance featuring a blend of original compositions, where the band pushes the boundaries of the genre, alongside treasured works by Mozambican and South African composers. Bantu's Clef promises a journey that will transport you to the heart of Africa, all while keeping you on the cutting edge of contemporary Jazz.

Ikusasa Lethu 

Vibrant dance and music ensemble Ikusasa Lethu founded by Dr Patricia Opondo, is comprised of African Music and Dance students from UKZN. This dynamic group that has the pulse of the country running through its blood, has captivated global audiences wherever they have performed or conducted workshops including in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Canada, Peru, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Seychelles, Thailand, Uganda, and of course right at home in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Grahamstown, and East London.

Tickets are R110, R80 (pensioners) and R50 (students) and can be booked through Webtickets or through zamat1@ukzn.ac.za. Doors open at 5pm and concert starts at 5.30pm.

For more information contact info@isupportdoyou.com

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Busiswa, Kings of the Weekend and The Kickstands for Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium: Sunday 23 June

Save some energy to celebrate in the finishing area at Hollywood Bets Kings Park Stadium outer fields, after participating in this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge on Sunday 23 June.

SPAR KZN has organised a fantastic line up of entertainment for runners with three acts penned to perform – dynamic duo The Kickstands, songstress Busiswa and Kings of the Weekend DJs SPHEctacula and Naves.

The Kickstands

Kicking off the after-race merriments, The Kickstands take to the stage with the dynamic duo of lead singer Ross Charles and lead guitarist Josh Swanson. Their infectious vibes have been tearing up stages since 2010, and they are renown as a top-notch opening act having warmed up the crowd for many a major act. The Kickstands covers a multitude of genres from Funk, Soul, Classic Rock to Folk.

Busiswa

Featuring after the local ban is songstress Busiswa. Hailing from the Eastern Cape, the singer, songwriter and performer combines her poetry with energising, irresistible beats. Making musical waves both at home and across the borders, she has collaborated with both African and American musicians, including American singer Beyonce Knowles Carter on the song My Power from The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack. Her tracks have featured in hits like the Black Panther and "Lahla" was used in the American dance film Honey 3.

Kings of the Weekend

Wrapping up the event, Kings of the Weekend will rock out the festivities. Comprising of DJs SPHEctacula and Naves, the two performers are rumoured to be party starters and huge crowd pullers. Their beats will begin shortly after the much-anticipated lucky draw give away.

To enter and be a part of this year’s SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, visit www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban/

 ENDS

Results SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Northern KZN Regional

Ferrum High School is back, reclaiming the title of the Northern KZN Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that took place on their turf on Saturday 11 May.

This is the ninth time they have raised the trophy since the tournament’s inception in 2011, with the last time being in 2019. In the regional final, the hosts met travelling team, a surprise package, Vryheid High School for the second time that day, having clashed earlier in their third pool game. A humdinger of a game took place midway through the fixtures, with the score ending 1 all.

Vryheid, led by feisty captain, Kunene Sphesihle, pushed hard during both games, keeping Ferrum on their toes. Kunene was never far from the action, with several exciting runs midfield, charging into her opponent's circle. Ferrum’s captain, Joey du Preez was equally involved, choreographing play from the middle, threading the ball up to her powerhouse forwards.

In the main game, Ferrum continued their momentum, threatening first earning the games first short corner with just 43 seconds on the clock. The locals had several set pieces during the game that were exquisitely defended by the visitors. In amongst the corners, both teams crafted some thrilling breakaways, piercing the oppositions’ circle. Nearing 7 minutes, Amahle Mbatha determinedly entered the Vryheid D after a short sharp run, wasting no time, she hammered in an unstoppable attempt that rocketed into the back of the net, taking her team up 1 nil and netting victory for her team.

In the build up to the final Ferrum met defending champions, St Dominic’s Newcastle who placed second in their pool. After a fast flowing, action packed game, both teams were unable to score and the game moved to an 8 second penalty shoot-out. Ferrum tipped off the action first, slotting in all their attempts, but St Dom’s were closed down in their second challenge, giving Ferrum the edge.

In the second semi-final, Vryheid took on one-time regional winners, Sarel Cilliers who had a spectacular day out, finishing on top in their pool. An on-her-toes keeper from Sarel, Jenor Joubert shut down a couple of Vryheid runs, bravely advancing off her line and blocking any chances. Similarly to the first semi, both teams were unable to edge the ball across the line, the score at full time sat on nil nil, and the game progressed, for the second time, to an 8 second penalty spot. After three rounds, the scoreboard hadn’t moved, and the game advanced to sudden death. Sarel went first and were unable to score. Kunene stepped up for her second attempt for Vryheid, running the ball goalwards, then drifting right to tap the ball past a charging Jenor to secure a spot in the final.

Umpire of the Day went to Lucrecia Struwig representing her Alma Mater. A 2018 Ferrum matriculant, Struwig has travelled four times to the Grand Finals, twice as a player in 2017 and 2018 and then with her whistle in 2019 and 2020.

All spots have now been filled for the Grand Finals that will be held at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. Ferrum joins the nine teams that have already qualified. They are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); Grantleigh School (KZN North Coastal Regional); St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional) and Ladysmith High School (uMvoti and oThukela Regional).

Results

Final

Ferrum High School 1 vs Vryheid High School 0

Semi Final

Ferrum High School 0 (3) vs Curro St Dominics Newcastle 0 (1)

Sarel Cilliers High School 0 (0) vs Vryheid High School 0 (1)

Pool A

1 Ferrum High School 14 points; 2 Vryheid High School 11 points; 3 Ferrum High School Inv 9 points; Pongola Academy 4 points; 5 Utrecht High School

Pool B

1 Sarel Cilliers High School 13 points; 2 Curro St Dominics Newcastle 12 points, 3 Dundee High School 8 points; 4 Newcastle High School 4 points; 5 Amajuba High School 1 point

ENDS

South African Online Contemporary Dance Conference Attracts Global Participation

The annual online South African contemporary dance conference JOMBA! MASIHAMBISANE DIALOGUES, hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Creative Arts’ JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience, taking place from 22 to 24 May, 2024, has attracted significant participation from around the globe.

This conference or academic colloquium, is now in its fourth edition and will feature dance-makers, academics, dancers, educators, and researchers from 11 countries including Brazil, Canada, Cape Verde, France, Germany, South Africa, UK, USA, and Zimbabwe. The theme or “provocation” this year is (RE)TURN TO THE DRUM? looking at contemporary dance’s engagements with traditions, cultures, memory, hybridity, and contested identities.

The conference which is free and open to all interested, features keynote addresses, panel discussions, as well as “abstracts or papers” presented by participants.  An opening keynote address will be made by steering committee member Dr Mbongeni Mtshali, a performance-maker, scholar, artist, and teacher based at the University of Cape Town,  in dialogue with the rest of the steering committee that includes dance-focussed academics, researchers, and practitioners: Clare Craighead (lecturer at the Durban University of Technology), David Thatanelo April (director, teacher, choreographer, and dance lobbyist), Gift Marovatsanga (CEO and Facilitator at Refined Images Studio), Dr Lliane Loots (lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal), Dr Sarahleigh Castelyn (Associate Professor/Reader University of East London UK), Thobile Maphanga (dance practitioner, scholar, creative collaborator, reading for her MA at UKZN) and Prof Yvette Hutchison (South African Reader/Associate Professor at the University of Warwick UK).

Dada Masilo

Keynote dialogues will be held with Dada Masilo, South African dancer and choreographer, known for her unique and innovative interpretations of classical ballets; SA-born, now France-based Robyn Orlin an internationally celebrated contemporary dance-maker, dancer and teacher; Mamela Nyamza award-winning choreographer and dancer who is known globally for her innovative and deeply intersectional and political dance-making; Vincent Sekwati Mantsoe, winner of international and national awards in performance and choreography, demonstrates that to be successfully integrated into the performance arena as a contemporary artist, one does not have to disavow one’s cultural heritage; Moeketsi Koena professional dancer, teacher and choreographer, and co-founder of newly incorporated Itrotra Art X Connection - a newly registered arts platform.

Additionally, Canadian Dena Davida introduces TURBA, a new journal that negotiates histories of the study and practice of live arts curation, and Thobile Maphanga chairs a fascinating panel with Albert Ibokwe Khoza (South Africa), Djam Neguin (Cape Verde) and Lorin Sookool (South Africa) titled where they will interrogate a possible common zeitgeist that is calling these contemporary artists from Africa, to dig up ‘past’ narratives and re-present them in the bold ways that they are.

Papers, digital engagements, and further dialogues open up important discussions around contemporary identity and how it relates to imagined and real histories as they intersect with culture and tradition in dance-making. The “(re)turn to the drum” is set up as both a question and as a tipping point to think about our futures.

Some of these  papers and engagements will be presented by:

Alexandra Gonçalves Dias,

Alexandra Gonçalves Dias, dance artist and Professor at UFPEL in Brazil, with a dedicated focus on decolonising narratives;

Claude Jansen, part of Dancing Instruments - In Conversation with Looted oBjeCts – a long-term journey with a team of Namibian and German curators, healers, artists and (O)Ngoma Drums;

Fabrice Mazliah, a choreographer and performer/dancer based in Germany/Switzerland, who has initiated long-term research into embodied knowledge and the heritage inscribed into dance practitioners;

Francesca Matthys, a South African Interdisciplinary dance artist, writer, facilitator and Kundalini yoga teacher based in London;

Kristi-Leigh Gresse

Kristi-Leigh Gresse, a South African dancer and choreographer known for her transformative impact on the arts.

Lara Barzon, an EUTOPIA co-tutelle PhD fellow with a joint PhD between Theatre and Performance Studies (University of Warwick) and Cultural Studies (University of Ljubljana);

Marcia Mzindle, a freelance writer, drama, and performance tutor at the University of KwaZulu Natal (Howard College), choreographer, and dancer;

Onalenna Sellwane, a writer, theatre maker, and digital marketing creative based in Johannesburg;

Rainy Demerson, a dance artist and scholar invested in global intersectional feminism and decolonial embodiments;

Saranya Devan, recognised for her versatility in drama, dance performance, and choreography and holds a Masters in Bharathanatyam from the University of Madras and a Masters in Dance from the UCT;

Moving into Dance

Sylvia “Magogo” Glasser, a cultural activist, teacher, choreographer, mentor, anthropologist, and writer, who founded Moving into Dance in 1978 as a non-racial dance company and training organisation and was director until 2013;

Tatenda Kanengoni, a Zimbabwean writer, researcher, and multimedia storyteller.

 The conference will be streamed live on YouTube on the following link https://www.youtube.com/jomba_dance. Participants will present on Zoom, and those who wish to apply to join in the “Zoom Room”, can contact Thobile Maphanga at thobimaphanga@gmail.com

For more information and news, as well as the schedule – go to:

https://jomba.ukzn.ac.za/masihambisane-dialogues/ 

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Results SPAR KZN Schoolgirls Hockey Challenge uMvoti and oThukela Regional

With back-to-back victories, Ladysmith High School defended their title in spectacular fashion at the uMvoti and oThukela Regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that took place at Greytown High School on Saturday 4 May.

Finishing second on the log after a rousing round robin stage, they met host school, Greytown High School in the regional final. Greytown topped the log with 18 points. They had a grand day out, winning all but two games. They drew against Wembley in their opening game and Wartburg. Ladysmith finished four points behind, having gone down to Greytown in their first meeting, and drawing against Estcourt High School and Domino Servite School.

Expressions. Ladysmith High School’s captain, Nkanyezi Gwija is pictured executing an attack as Hermannsburg’s School’s Kuhlekonke Mkhize desperately tries to intercept during their round robin game at the uMvoti and oThukela Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls Hockey Challenge held at Greytown High School on Saturday 4 May. Pic by Val Adamson

Perseverance was the name of Ladysmith’s game, spending majority of their final defending against the determined hosts. In a superb break 6 minutes in, their first attack of the game, Ladysmith spent 35 seconds crafting their attempt. Kiana Chedie fired in a shot from midway in the circle but the wily, on-her-toes keeper from Greytown, Luleko Nala pounced on the endeavour, but unfortunately sent the ball directly back to Chedie who with lightning-fast reflexes, returned the ball, sneaking it past an unbalanced Nala, netting the first goal against Greytown and Nala that day, and, of course, the crucial tournament winning goal.

The remainder of the game was played out in midfield with an occasional break on either side that didn’t amount to much. 13 minutes into the game Greytown had a scramble directly in front of the Ladysmith box, but the visitors managed to calmly evade an equaliser. Both teams earned a short corner, with Greytown blasting a rocket wide of Ladysmith’s goal and Ladysmith conjuring up a last-minute set piece that withered to nothing, but with their precious goal a quarter into the final meant they impressively keep the trophy and advance to the Grand Finals.

In the build up to the finals, all five previous champions were untiring in their attempt to advance. Going into the main game, a successful Wembley College would have progressed, knocking out Ladysmith on goal difference as they would have both been level on 14 points, but a resolute Wartburg Kirchdorf School held Wembley to a dramatic nil nil draw, extinguishing their golden ticket possibility.

Umpire of the Day went to recently matriculated Lisi Engelbrecht from Wartburg Kirchdorf School. Engelbrecht has played in this SPAR hockey regional since Grade 8, missing only one year due to CoViD. She has also been to a Grand Final with Wartburg in 2019 and now is proudly supporting her alma mater with a whistle.

Ladysmith High School is the ninth team to qualify for the Grand Finals that will be held at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. They join Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); Grantleigh School (KZN North Coastal Regional) and St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional).

The final team to join them will be revealed this weekend (Saturday 11 May) as ten teams gather for the Northern KZN Regional being hosted by Ferrum High School. All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey).  

Results

Regional Final

Greytown High School 0 vs Ladysmith High School 1

Round Robin Results

1 Greytown High School 18 points; 2 Ladysmith High School 14 points; 3 Wembley College 11 points; 4 Domino Servite School 11 points; 5 Wartburg Kirchdorf School 10 points; =6 Hermannsburg School 2 points =6 Estcourt High School 2 points

ENDS

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Northern KZN Regional Ferrum High School: Saturday 11 May

Concluding this year’s SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge regionals, Ferrum High School hosts ten teams for the Northern KZN Regional on Saturday 11 May.

The day gets underway with a cracker of a game, host school and eight times regional champion, Ferrum High School take on two times winner, Pionier Hoërskool. The challenge tips off at 8am, with games lasting 20 minutes only, and play running one way.

Step to it. St Dominic’s Newcastle’s Aphelele Mkhwanazi and Sphe Mabona are gearing up to defend their title at the upcoming Northern KZN Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that takes place at Ferrum High School on Saturday 11 May. Pic by Val Adamson

The ten teams participating have been divided into two pools. Ferrum High School leads Pool A, with Pionier Hoërskool, Utrecht High School, Vryheid High School and Pongola High School. Defending champions, St Dominic’s Newcastle heads up Pool B, together with Dundee High School, Amajuba High School, Newcastle High School and one time winner, Sarel Cilliers High School.

A successful team will earn themselves 4 points on the leaderboard, if two teams draw with goals, they both share 2 points, and if two teams draw but were unable to score any goals, they both will have 1 point added to their tally. A losing team will acquire zero points.

After the pool games, the top team in pool A will take on the second top team in pool B in the first semi-final. The first placed team in pool B will meet the second placed team in pool A in the second semi-final. Fifteen minutes later the winners of the cross-pool games will meet in the regional final to reveal who the 2024 champion will be, and the final team to qualify for the Grand Finals.

Nine teams from around KZN have already qualified for the Grand Finals that will be held at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. They are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); Grantleigh School (KZN North Coastal Regional); St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional) and Ladysmith High School (uMvoti and oThukela Regional).

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

ENDS

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge uMvoti and oThukela Regional Saturday 4 May

The penultimate tournament in the 2024 SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge heads to Greytown High School for the uMvoti and oThukela Regional on Saturday 4 May.

Seven teams will take to the Greytown pitch with the tournament running in a round-robin format. In the familiar style to the KZN SPAR hockey challenges, all games will be a quick-fire 20 minutes long, with play only going one way.

Focused on the task at hand. Ladysmith High School’s Deputy Head Girl, Anzel Warmenhoven and Angelique Adams gear up to defend their uMvoti and oThukela Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge being hosted at Greytown High School on Saturday 4 May.Pic by Val Adamson

Poi nts will be awarded after each game; the top two teams will then face each other in the regional final. For a win, 4 points will be awarded, a draw with goals will amount to 2 points each, and a goalless draw nothing up 1 point each. A loss will register zero points.

Joining host school, Greytown are Domino Servite; Estcourt High School; Hermannsburg School; Ladysmith High School; Wembley College and Wartburg Kirchdorf School. Taking to the field first are Greytown and Wembley College, tipping off at 8am, followed by Hermannsburg meeting Domino Servite in the second fixture.

 An array of teams have raised the regional trophy since the tournament’s inception in 2011 and gone on to the Grand Finals. Most recently, two times winner, Ladysmith High School is the defending champion, with their name engraved in 2012 and 2023 on the trophy. Wembley College also appear twice, for 2011 and 2021. Two teams’ names appear once, host Greytown were victorious in 2018 and in 2022, Domino Servite represented the area. Wartburg Kirchdorf have six wins under their belt, dominating from the years 2013 to 2017 and then again, in 2019.

The victorious team from this regional will meet nine other successful teams from around KZN in the Grand Finals that takes place at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. Eight teams have already qualified, they are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); Grantleigh School (KZN North Coastal Regional) and St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional).

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

ENDS

I heart Market, Durban North, Saturday 4 May: 9am - 2pm

The ever-popular I heart Market, Durban’s iconic monthly market with soul, will take place this month on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 9am to 2pm, allowing visitors an opportunity to indulge in a “shopaganza” a week before Mother’s Day.

The market, which is thriving in its new home at Northlands Primary School, Durban North has a wonderful selection of locally handmade, homemade, up-cycled, recycled, and beautifully designed crafts, art, fashion, jewellery, home-ware, artisanal foods, second-hand gems, and more.

As the May market is a week ahead of Mother's Day, shoppers can explore the myriad beautifully handcrafted goods, just perfect for gifting that special mom in their lives. 

With a focus on supporting local artisans and businesses, I heart Market encourages visitors to make a day of it and discover the unique offerings created by the skilled traders.

The I heart Market has become an important monthly event in the community, providing a vibrant space for artists, designers, and food vendors to showcase their creative abilities and helping to galvanize a warm community spirit. With its commitment to sustainability and promoting local talent, the market continues to attract visitors seeking unique and ethically sourced products.

For those with small children, there is a dedicated play area and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free retail experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.

There are designated areas for parking within the school grounds and precinct monitored by security guards.

For further details email info@iheartmkt.com.

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Veteran South African dance-maker, Robyn Orlin, named the 2024 JOMBA! LEGACY ARTIST

The 26th annual JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience, hosted by UKZN’s Centre for Creative Arts, has announced that it will honour veteran South African dance-maker Robyn Orlin as the 2024 JOMBA! Legacy Artist. 

Orlin’s work we wear our wheels with pride and slap your streets with colour… we said ‘bonjour’ to satan in 1820 … will feature at JOMBA! which takes place at The Sneddon Theatre in Durban from 27 August to 8 September, with a satellite festival at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg from 11 to 14 September 2024.

Robyn Orlin

Originally created in 2021 we wear our wheels …  is a collaboration with Johannesburg based Moving into Dance. This is a work that negotiates the complicated Durban rickshaw histories – and it finally comes to Durban.

Born in 1955 Johannesburg, Orlin’s vision of contemporary dance continues to be a kind of aesthetic eclecticism where she draws heavily on her own histories of ballet and modern, and a fascination with film and cinema. She has shifted the boundaries of what we consider dance to be, often falling into witty and biting political satire. Her love of kitsch, tutus and yellow plastic ducks has seen her creating iconic images that still haunt a South African dance landscape. 

we wear our wheels with pride and slap your streets with colour… we said ‘bonjour’ to satan in 1820 … 

Orlin was trained at the London School of Contemporary Dance (1975-1980), then at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (1990-1995). She began her career as a dancer, choreographer and teacher in South Africa, where she was quickly spotted, as much for the singularity of her dance making, as for the chaos that reigns in her creations.  Her (multiple prize-winning) dance piece Daddy, I have seen this piece six times before and I still don’t know why they’re hurting each other, which mocks the difficulties and shortcomings of the young rainbow nation, but also classical ballet as a trajectory of discrimination, enabled her to tour in Europe and brought her international recognition. France has since become a creative territory for her and she has made her first film, Hidden Beauties, Dirty Stories (Ina/Arte, 2004), her first opera, Handel’s L’Allegro, il penseroso ed il moderato (Opéra Garnier, Paris, 2007), and her first theatre production, Les Bonnes, by Jean Genet (Théâtre de la Bastille, Paris, 2019) in France. She continues to create work in South Africa.

Artistic Director and curator, Lliane Loots says, “The JOMBA! festival’s 2024 overall curatorial theme and provocation is “the memory of home” and we can think of no South African artist better suited to unpack both the simplicity and complexity of this in her work. Memories are about history, belonging, sometimes suffocating nostalgia, and maybe also about charting new futures … Robyn’s work is all of this and more”.

“Orlin’s work has not been performed in South Africa for many years, and so it is with great thanks for the support from IFAS (Paris) and IFAS (Johannesburg), that JOMBA! welcomes her back to South Africa as our 2024 JOMBA! Legacy artist.”

JOMBA! takes place at The Sneddon Theatre in Durban from 27 August to 8 September, and the satellite festival takes place at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg from 11 to 14 September 2024.

we wear our wheels …  will be performed on 7 and 8 September in Durban and on 11 and 12 September at The Market in Johannesburg.

For more information go to www.jomba.ac.za.

Dates Announced for Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Sunday 23 June

Entries are open for the 34th running of the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that takes place in and around the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Sunday 23 June. 

The success of South Africa’s Most Beautiful Road Race strides ahead, with entries for 2024 capped at 12000. The uplifting theme for this year’s race is #ChooseYou with the underlying message of motivating oneself, encouraging women to prioritize self-care, both for their mental and physical well-being. 

Sharing moments: Revealing the colour and theme for the 2024 Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that takes place at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Durban on Sunday 23 June. The theme, #ChooseYou encourages self-empowerment. Wearing this year’s race shirts at an intimate function at the Grand Exotic are SPAR KZN Retail Ops Advisor, Cindy Watridge with 2024 Race Ambassadors Former Protea’s Netball star, Baby Proteas coach and teacher, Precious Mthembu and Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist, Dr Marise Subrayan.

"Our theme “Choose You” amplifies our commitment to inspire a healthier community,” says Menelisi Luthuli, Marketing Executive, SPAR KZN. “In a world where external pressures often overshadow personal well-being, we encourage women to embark on a journey of self-care and self-discovery. SPAR advocates a balanced lifestyle where individuals prioritize their own needs alongside external demands, finding fulfillment in both. Ultimately, our theme this year emphasizes that self-care isn't selfish but rather crucial for lasting well-being and happiness.”

Two phenomenal strong local women are the 2024 Race Ambassadors. Inspiring youth wherever she goes, sporting star and role model Precious Mthembu is the current Baby Proteas Coach, she is an educator at Danville Park Girls’ High School and was a Protea Netball player, notching up 97 caps for South Africa. Joining her is Dr Marise Subrayan, an award-winning Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist based at Durban’s St Augustine’s Hospital, who is passionate about educating and empowering women and girls about female-related health.

The Challenge route remains unchanged from the 2023 event, with the fast and flat ‘out-and-back’ course starting under the shadow of the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finishing on the outer fields of this iconic Durban landmark. The 10km race begins at 8am and the 5km race at 9am. 

Entries for the 2024 edition of the Durban event are online at https://www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban/. Online entries close at midnight on 16 June. The online entry for the 10km run is R180, with a KZN Athletics licence, or R230 with a temporary licence, and for the 5km is R180. Entries at race registration are R200 (with licence) and R250 (without licence) for the 10km and R200 for the 5km. Bulk entry collections are also available.

At this Durban Challenge, a field of highly competitive runners will compete in the national SPAR Grand Prix Series that travels around South Africa. The total Series Prize Purse is sitting at over R1,68 million this year.

Prize money for the first female athlete crossing the line in Durban is R33,000 with the runner-up earning R25,000 and third place winning R20,000. The first South African woman across the line will also earn R10,000. There are also prizes for top age category runners.

A variety of lucky draw prizes will be awarded at prize giving, including a chance to win a car. All participants (18 plus and T&C’s apply) can enter the lucky draw where one race number will advance to the main draw for a Proton X50 valued at R449,000. Seven ladies from the seven races around the country must attend the glitzy SPAR Grand Prix prize-giving to qualify to win this car.

For more information visit the race website, like the SPAR Women’s Race KZN Facebook page (SPARWomens10and5kmRace), or follow on Instagram (sparwomenskzn) or Twitter (sparladiesrace).

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Results and wrap up Ugu and Sisonke Regional SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge

A new team will engrave their name on the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge trophy when host school, St Patrick’s College were victorious in the Ugu and Sisonke Regional that took place at their picturesque setting in Kokstad on Saturday 20 April.

St Patrick’s is the fifth team to be crowned in this region since the tournament’s inception in 2011, having defeated defending champions and one-time winners, Suid Natal Hoërskool in an enthralling final.

In the lead up to the regional final, both teams finished second in the logs after their four pool games. St Patrick’s finished two points behind a determined Port Shepstone High School who earned 12 points in Pool A. In Pool B King Edward topped the log with 13 points, followed by Suid Natal on 10 points.

After the pool games, the challenge progressed to a cross pool positional playoff. In a coastal derby - Sheppie met Suidies in the first semi-final, and in the second semi-final, an inland derby - King Edward took on St Patricks. At the conclusion of the semis, Suidies had a change to protect their title, meeting St Patrick’s in the regional final.

The conclusion of three of the four main games were decided on the spot, with three players from each team participating in an 8 second penalty shootout. In the first semi-final, Suid Natal and Sheppie drew 1 all at full time and Suid Natal went up by a single goal in their very first run, with no other goals being netted in the remainder of the penalty attempts.

In the bronze medal game, Sheppie found themselves for the second time at the spot, this time facing King Edward High School. The full-time whistle blew with both teams unable to slot the ball into the back of the box, drawing on nil nil. A jack-in-the-box keeper, Reitumetsi Pakkies from King Edward pulled out some awe-inspiring saves, closing down all of Sheppies runs, diving all over the place in some epic charge downs.

In the all-important final, St Patrick’s were first to score. 14 minutes into the game, Courney Kitching calmly slapped in the opening goal after a great attack down the right side. She was camped out at the goal mouth and was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, slotting in her teams first.

A minute later, St Patrick’s were brought back down to earth as Suidies also charged down the right, crossing the ball to an alert Luca Meyer who nailed in the equaliser. For the remainder of the final, both teams were unable to find a hole in their opponents defence, to get the challenge-winning goal. At the final whistle the score was 1 all with both teams gearing up for the penalty shootout.

Suid Natal’s keeper, Anrika Badenhorst did well in her first standing in the penalty shootouts, closing down all of Sheppie’s attempts. In the final a young, crafty St Patrick’s Rayne Kitching side stepped Badenhorst, rounding her to the left and then trickled the ball over the line for the only goal in the penalty shootout. St Patrick’s keeper, Sikhona Mcebesi kept a clean sheet in her first defence that day in a penalty shootout,

Most Promising Umpire went to Bergview High School’s Arne Pieterse who had a fantastic day officiating with the whistle.

St Patrick’s College is the eighth KZN  team to gain a spot at the Grand Finals that will be held in July at St Mary’s D.S.G. The seven other teams that have secured their spot already are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional) and Grantleigh School (KZN North Coastal Regional).

Results

1 St Patrick’s College, 2 Suid Natal Hoërskool, 3 King Edward High School, 4 Port Shepstone High School, 5 Southcity Christian School, 6 Kokstad College, 7 Curro Creston, 8 St Monica’s Diocesan, 9 Ixopo High School, 10 Bergview College 

Pool A

1 Port Shepstone High School 12 points, 2 St Patrick’s College 10 points, 3 Kokstad College 6 points, 4 St Monica’s Diocesan 6 points, 5 Ixopo High School 0 points

Pool B

1 King Edward High School 13 points, 2 Suid Natal Hoërskool 10 points, 3 Southcity Christian School 5 points, 4 Curro Creston 3 points, 5 Bergview College 1 point

ENDS

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Sisonke and Ugu Regional St Patrick’s College: Saturday 20 April

St Patrick’s College hosts ten schools in the upcoming Sisonke and Ugu Regional, the eighth regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that takes place on Saturday 20 April.

Joining hosts in the regional are Bergview College; Curro Creston; Ixopo High School; King Edward High School; Kokstad College; Port Shepstone High School; Southcity Christian School; St Monica’s Diocesan; and defending champions, Suid-Natal Hoërskool.

Got your back. Defending champs, Suid Natal Hoërskool’s Nikita Grobler (Captain) and Desi Du Plooy (Vice-Captain) gear up to take on schools in the upcoming Sisonke and Ugu Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that takes place at St Patrick’s College in Kokstad on Saturday 20 April. Pic by Val Adamson

The ten teams will be split into two pools with Pool A featuring St Patrick’s; St Monica’s; Kokstad College; Sheppie High and Ixopo High. Pool B has King Edward High, Suid-Natal; Bergview, Creston and Southcity. The duration of the matches is 15 minutes one way, with a win earning the successful team 4 points; a draw with goals, 2 points, a goalless draw 1 point and finally, a loss no points.

The first game tips off at 8am with host school, St Patrick’s meeting St Monica’s in the first game. Next up at 8.15am, from Pool B, Kokstad College will meet the travelling team, Sheppie High. After a game break, St Patrick’s are back on the turf facing Ixopo High at 8.30am.

At the conclusion of the pool games, if two teams find themselves on equal points, goal difference will come into play to see who finishes higher on the log. In the cross-pool games, drawn games will head to a 3 round penalty shootout.

In the 14 years since the tournament’s inception, there have been four teams that have raised the trophy. Recently the inland teams of Kokstad College and King Edward High School have dominated, after dethroning Creston after they won it twice in 2012 and 2013. Kokstad have victories in 2011, 2014 and 2019, with King Edward High School being crowned five times in 2015 – 2018, and 2022. Most recently, the newcomer to the group, Suid-Natal earned their first victory last year after defeating Kokstad College.

The challenge that travels to ten regions annually, has already had seven teams earning their spot at the Grand Finals that will be held in July at St Mary’s D.S.G. The teams are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional), The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional), St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regiona) and at the most recent regional, the winner for the Northern KZN Coastal Regional, Grantleigh School.

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

ENDS

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge KZN North Coastal Regional Grantleigh School: Saturday 13 April

An exceptional day of action ended with hosts, Grantleigh School raising the trophy for the sixth time in the KZN North Coastal Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that took place on their astro on Saturday 13 April.

Seven schools participated in a full day of round robin hockey, with Grantleigh finishing top of the log. A tussle for second place ensued, with two times winner, Felixton College, Eshowe High School and St Catherine’s School all competing valiantly for the ticket to meet Grantleigh.

The final round robin game was all to play for, to reveal who would advance to the regional final. St Catherine’s met Empangeni High School in the penultimate game of the day. Sitting on 11 points, St Catherine’s required a win that would add 4 points, to continue, watched keenly by Eshowe who ended on 14 points. Midway through the riveting game, St Catherine’s netted the all-important goal and then played out the game determinedly, not allowing Empangeni any room to equalise, and finishing their day on 15 points.

This was the first time that St Catherine’s have featured in this regional final, leaving everything on the turf during the day, playing their hearts out, they were thrilled to step onto the astro to meet Grantleigh.

From the whistle, a refreshed Grantleigh dominated. Having had a five game break, the tenacious hosts camped in St Catherine’s half, constantly building pressure. In the first minute, Pipa Saint opened Grantleigh’s account in the game’s first short corner.

The home team’s forwards peppered St Catherine’s courageous keeper, Phakade Mchunu who stood firm deflecting a barrage of attempts. Her gutsy defence wasn’t enough for a slick Grantleigh attack, as the defending champs boldly outnumbered the Saint’s defence, overwhelming them in the circle with a surge of spirited strikes. Nicole Klopper netted the second goal, followed by Lisa Mbhamali and then Klaradyn Kotze got back-to-back goals taking the score up to 5 nil. Three minutes before the final whistle, Amy Scalliet prowling at the goal post was on hand to redirect a fantastic pass that whisked across the goals, nailing in her teams’ sixth goal.

Former Grantleigh player, Beth van Onselen was awarded the Umpire of the Day. Van Onselen matriculated in 2020, having played in two SPAR challenges in her school career. This was her first time appearing at the challenge with a whistle.

Grantleigh is the seventh of ten teams to qualify for the Grand Finals that will be held in July at St Mary’s D.S.G. The six teams that have already secured a spot are Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional); The Wykeham Collegiate (Pietermaritzburg North Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); Our Lady of Fatima (Durban North Regional); St Mary’s DSG (Highway Regional) and Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional).

The next regional takes place this weekend (Saturday 20 April) at St Patrick’s College in Kokstad where ten teams will vie for the Sisonke and Ugu Regional title.

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

Results

Regional Final

Grantleigh School 6 vs St Catherine’s School 0

Round Robin Points

1 Grantleigh School 24 points, 2 St Catherine’s School 15 points, 3 Eshowe High School 14 points, 4 Felixton College 11 points, 5 Empangeni High School 7 points, 6 John Ross High 2 points, 7 Richards Bay Christian School 1 point

FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY 21st Birthday Season “JOURNEY”

Celebrating its 21st birthday, Durban's award-winning FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY presents a short season of contemporary dance that promises to nourish and enrich, at The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on 10 and 11 May.

Titled JOURNEY, the season features two new works, one by resident choreography and artistic director, Lliane Loots, and a another by special guest from Madagascar, Gaby Saranouffi. The season not only celebrates the 21-year journey of getting to this milestone, but it also delves into the head and heart of what it means to be alive at this point in history. 

Saranouffi's SORITRA (traces) opens the evening in a fast-paced journey of self in a search for “traces of where we come from and where we are going.” Inspired by a Malagasy indigenous abstract strategy board game called “diam-panorona”, the movement of stones on a board, horizontally, vertically, and diagonally are intriguingly replicated in a contemporary dance formation with bold athletic movements. Interestingly this work is now in its own 21st-year as Saranouffi has shared it in many spaces and places. She says, “I love letting it breathe new life when new dancer step in and learn it and make it their own. This is a work about the translation of culture, history and memory from one body to another and I am so excited to give it now to FLATFOOT on their 21st birthday.”

Loots's premieres a new work for FLATFOOT, titled the salt on your skin, and begins to journey to the cities (or sites?) of the interior in an often painful, always beautiful, look at intimacy. Referencing sweat and skin, and other acts of love and labour that make up the everyday of our lives, this work is co-created with the six resident FLATFOOT dancers (Sifiso Khumalo, Jabu Siphika, Zinhle Nzama, Ndumiso Dube and Siseko Duba). Drawing on deeply personal stories of love, loss, and ultimately hope, the salt on your skin sees Loots once again using dance to delve into the small stories to imagine; and thus change the bigger narrative that hold our lives. Loots says, “we often mistake intimacy as being only about romance and sex, and while this is also true, the intimacies of raising children, being a mother or father, of mourning lost family and friends, of waking up each day to come to work, of sweating in the studio as we dance through this all, is a shared intimacy that the FLATFOOT dancers have given me. This work, on our 21st birthday, is for the six dancers – it is a love song we created together”. 

the salt on your skin is made up of four sections that traverse a landscape of intimacies, loss, love, shame, and hope. With subtle and evocative lighting by Wesley Maherry, this is a surprisingly gentle dance work given the voracity and intimacy of the unfolding stories. 

JOURNEY is at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre for only 3 performances, 10 May @ 7pm, 11 May @ 2.30pm, and 11 May @ 7pm. Tickets cost R120 (R85 for pensioners, students, scholars and block bookings of 10 or more). 

Booking via COMPUTICKET: https://computicket.com/event/journey/6688047

This season is made possible through a special partnership with the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.

Thanks to Itrotra Art X Connection NPC.

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Animal Anti-Cruelty League calls for awareness and support during Animal Anti-Cruelty Month (April)

April is Animal Anti-Cruelty Month, and the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) is appealing to the public to increase their awareness of abandoned, harmed or injured animals, and support their organisation that provides a vital service to animals who are unable to fend for themselves.

The AACL currently looks after 44 stray cats and 34 stray dogs which have either been brought in by members of the public or rescued from cruel and unsafe environments.

Nomathembu Gumede, animal handler and volunteer Rachel Rabie at the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL),

Importantly the organisation also works tirelessly in economically disadvantaged communities and conducts sterilizations and vaccinations, deworming, and flea- and tick-dipping of dogs and cats supporting people who are unable to provide this kind of primary health care for their pets. They have a robust inspectorate that investigates acts of cruelty to animals, removing them, providing medical attention, and rehabilitating them. 

“Companion animals, like cats and dogs, are protected by the anti-cruelty provisions of Section 2(1) of the Animal Protection Act 1962,” explains GM of the ACCL (Durban and Pietermaritzburg), David Rogers. “We act as a compassionate and pro-active entity to intervene where we find animals being ill-treated, neglected, cruelly beaten, teased or terrified, or if it has been confined in a way that it is suffering, or neglected or abandoned in circumstances likely to cause unnecessary suffering.”

“It is often exhausting, sad, and emotionally draining working in this environment, but the rewards are big when we have the successes in our rehabilitation, and adoption processes,” says Rogers. “The service we provide is entirely dependent on the funds we can raise, and the wonderful support we have from a body of dedicated volunteers to help to make things easier for the animals.”

Visitor Jessica Jolley has some fun cuddles with some of the 44 cats housed at the AACL.

Rogers explains that all animals that can be rehabilitated, are up for adoption by the public, with necessary checks done on the new owners.. They also offer boarding facilities in their magnificent kennels at a reasonable price which helps towards their fundraising efforts.

Volunteer Reece Williamson cuddles a feline friend.

The facilities are set amongst the picturesque countryside in Hammarsdale, providing a safe, quiet space for animals to be rehabilitated, and treated. To help towards their fundraising endeavours the AACL has a bustling tea garden, a well-stock and beautifully curated charity shop, a large pool (for use for a R20 donation), and conference and function facilities for small groups.

Sibongakonke Khoza, kennel and dog handler at the AACL

Next weekend, on Sunday, April 14 the AACL hosts their highly popular Dog Walk and Market from 8am to 1pm at their premises, 53 Artesia Avenue, D657 Road, Hammarsdale. There is a R50 early bird entrance fee (R60 on the day) which includes the walk, a market with crafts, clothes, second-hand goods, food, and fun activities for children. (Children under 12 are free).

A well-stocked and curated charity shop at the AACL.

The League is appealing to the public, businesses, and corporates to donate to the organisation to support this vital work they do for animals, that are unable to fight for themselves. 

The Tea room is set in tranquil surrounds.

Donation information and more information about the work the AACL does can be found on https://www.aacl.co.za/branches-durban-pietermaritzburg/

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Umfula - Echoes of the River making an impact in Communities along the Mfolozi River

A Virtual Reality (VR) film Umfula - Echoes of the River , created by VR Capture and directed by Ballito-based Telmo dos Reis has been touring communities along the Mfolozi River in KwaZulu-Natal as part of the filmmakers’ aim to raise awareness about environmental conservation of this historic waterway.

The film takes viewers on a virtual reality journey along the river, highlighting its beauty, ecological significance, and the threats it faces. It offers a highly sensory experience of life on the river.

The screenings were recently held in various communities along the uMfolozi starting from its source in Vryheid northern KwaZulu-Natal and culminating at Isimangaliso Wetland Park including Nzamangamandla (Nongoma), Hlabisa, Somkhele, Sokhulu and St Lucia.

“We held these screenings over several weeks in February and March, with each community event serving as a platform for education, engagement, and dialogue about environmental conservation,” explains dos Reis. “Our goal was to raise awareness about environmental conservation while also creating job opportunities for local residents through the events. The project aimed to employ at least 33 people over this period, however, due to careful budgeting, they were able to employ around 60 people, providing some economic support to the communities.”

The screenings were made possible through a grant from PESP4 (Presidential Employment Stimulus Package) and the National Film and Video Foundation, and a collaborative effort between production company VR Capture and local community leaders. The community leaders who worked on the film represented the project as event hosts for their respective areas.

Producer Cheryl Tuckett from Light and Lion, reports that the screenings had a profound impact on the communities. “This was not only in terms of raising awareness of the challenges the river faces and the importance of clean freshwater but also in reigniting a pride in and ownership of their natural resources,” she says.  “The events were attended by a diverse audience, including local residents, community leaders, and environmental activists, who all came together to celebrate the beauty of the Mfolozi River and discuss ways to protect it.”

‘We did not just want to show the film in the communities we worked with during the making of it,” says dos Reis. ‘We wanted to use the opportunity to empower communities through fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. Through this project, we hope to inspire others to take action and protect our planet's precious natural resources.”

Umfula - Echoes of the River by VR Capture was made with the support of the Kwa-Zulu Natal Film Commission,  the National Film and Video Foundation, PESP4, and Light and Lion, providing development and funding for the production and community screenings of the film. 

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Toti regains Durban South Regional Title in SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge (Copy)

The wet drizzly weather did not dampen the spirits at the Durban South Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Saturday 6 April at New Forest High School which saw Amanzimtoti High School reclaiming the title.

After a long day of enthralling action, Toti met defending champs, Kuswag Skool, in a riveting regional final. The last time these two schools met in this regional final was in 2018, when Toti took the honours. In similar fashion to the 2018 scoreline, Toti High knocked in a solitary goal three quarters of the way through, clinching victory.

Captain for Toti, Katelin de Beer led her team to victory as she charged down the right, leaving a couple of Kuswag players in her wake. Entering the circle, de Beer faked an attempt to shake off an on-the-ball defender, taking a further two determined steps before discharging a gentle flick that wafted past the last lines of defence for Kuswag into the bottom left of the goals.

With the clock winding down, de Beer threatened again with another lone run down the middle. Flying into the circle and finding space, in her eagerness she unfortunately kicked the ball resulting in the whistle ruining her last-minute chance.

In 320 minutes of hockey, only 27 goals were scored. There was nothing between the top three schools on the log. Kuswag and Toti both ended on 15 points each, and Kingsway High School tallied 14 points, a mere one point behind. Kuswag netted an impressive 11 goals in their five round robin games, Kingsway and Toti both notched up 7 goals each.

 In previous years, the two finalists have raised the trophy 8 times, with Amanzimtoti dominating between the years of 2015 and 2019, Kuswag have their name engraved on the trophy three times, in 2011 and two back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023. The 2024 title gives Amanzimtoti their sixth win, and they now qualify for the Grand Finals that takes place in July at St Mary’s D.S.G.

 Five teams have already reserved a berth at the Grand Finals. The teams are Durban Girls’ College representing the Durban Central Regional, The Wykeham Collegiate who were crowned in the Pietermaritzburg North Regional; St John’s D.S.G. waving the flag from the Pietermaritzburg Central Regional; Our Lady of Fatima from the Durban North Regional, and most recently St Mary’s D.S.G. for the Highway Regional.

No stranger to the challenge, Kingsway High School’s Chris Clark was awarded at the Umpire of the Day. Clark has played various roles over his 8 years that he has been a part of this regional, including coach, manager and umpire.

The challenge heads to Richards Bay this weekend, with Grantleigh School hosting schools for the North Coast Regional.

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

Results

Regional Final

Amanzimtoti High School 1 vs Kuswag Skool 0

Round Robin

1 Kuswag Skool 15pts; 2 Amanzimtoti High School 15pts; 3 Kingsway High School 14pts; 4 New Forest High School 5pts; 5 Port Natal Skool 4pts; 6 Werda Skool 1pot

ENDS

Northern KZN Coastal Regional - SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge 13 April

The seventh regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge takes to the turf at Grantleigh School on Saturday 13 April.

The calm before the storm. Grantleigh College’s players Nkanyezi Xulu and Jessica Sparks take some time out ahead of defending their title at the Northern KZN Coastal Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that they are hosting on Saturday 13 April.

Seven teams will be gathering for the Northern KZN Coastal Regional. Tipping off the day’s action, the two teams that have dominated the regional since 2016, will be meeting in what could be the rehearsal for the regional final. Host school, Grantleigh School takes on Felixton College at 8am. Both teams have participated in the regional final for the last six years of the tournament.

Hoping to shine and release the dominating hold of the two defending champs are Empangeni High School who raised the regional cup from 2012 to 2015, Eshowe High School, John Ross College, Richards Bay Christian School and St Catherine’s School.

The tournament runs in a round robin format, with 21 games lasting a rapid 20 minutes with action only going one way. The top two teams on the log then will meet for the second time in the concluding game for the regional, the final. Points will be awarded to all teams after each game. 4 points goes to the winning team. 2 points to both teams if they draw having scored an equal number of goals. 1 point if both teams end their game on nil nil and of course, no points for a loss.

The challenge that travels to ten regions annually, has already had six teams reserving a berth at the Grand Finals that will be held in July at St Mary’s D.S.G. The teams are Durban Girls’ College representing the Durban Central Regional, The Wykeham Collegiate who were crowned in the Pietermaritzburg North Regional; St John’s D.S.G. waving the flag from the Pietermaritzburg Central Regional; Our Lady of Fatima from the Durban North Regional, St Mary’s DSG for the Highway Regional and at the most recent regional, the winner for the Durban South Regional, Amanzimtoti High School.

All games will be live streamed on SuperSport Schools. For more info like the tournament’s Facebook page (SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament) or follow on Instagram (sparkznhockey). 

ENDS