Archive for 2020

Home Archive for 2020

When Brotherhood Is At War With Itself

The suspense is over, the much talked about ‘Kings of Joburg’ series will premiere on Netflix on the 4 December 2020. The most recent African series to land on the service, is an exciting first for the brand as it partners with South Africa’s adored ‘first family’ of TV production, Connie and Shona Ferguson alongside Samad Davis of U.S based Visionary Media Inc.

In this thrilling test of loyalties under the gritty, concentrated populous of the crime-ridden streets of the city of Johannesburg, unravels another first for local audiences, a palpable action-drama series with a layer of dark fantasy and a sinister aspect of the African occult.

Shona Ferguson stars as Simon “Vader” Masire, a member of the KOJ brotherhood and the eldest of the Masire siblings. As the smoother and charming brother, prolific businessman Simon leads the family business. However, under the lavish suits and ties is a man hiding a deep dark secret. Zolisa Xaluva portrays the role of Mogomotsi “Mo” Masire, Simon’s young brother and an ex-convict who finds himself having to choose between the life that got him in jail, and honouring his responsibilities to the legacy of a crime family and older brother he loves.

Joining the ensemble cast is TK Sebothoma as the spoilt and privileged Tlotlo Masire, Buhle Samuels as the gorgeous and supportive wife to Simon, Angela Masire, and Tsholofelo Matshaba as the straight-talking detective who’s obsessed with bringing down the Kings of Joburg. Adding to the impressive cast is SK Khoza as Cyrus, Abdul Khoza as Lester, Nnekwa Tsajwa as Sting, Thembi Seete as Keneilwe and Cindy Mahlangu as Phumzi.

Executive producer, Shona Ferguson, speaks on this first-time partnership with Netflix. “When I created KINGS OF JOBURG I wanted to root the show in elements of love, family, conflict and power. The premise of the series is centred around the question, “Am I my brother's keeper?” and this narrative is explored in all 6 episodes. The mystical and thriller side of the story is inspired by the folk tales that I grew up learning about from my late father, Peter Harry Ferguson. These stories kept me up at night and gave me nightmares but I had to bring them to life in a tale of human conflict. Audiences will be surprised to learn that despite the darkness of this story, Kings of Joburg, paints a beautiful picture of the city of Johannesburg. I am also grateful to have worked with such an amazing cast and crew who gave it their all and helped bring my vision to life. ‘’

Connie Ferguson adds, “We’re living in exciting times where the world is becoming smaller and smaller. What used to be out of reach is now a stone throw away! With Kings Of Joburg, we are taking South Africa and Africa to the world and bringing the world to South Africa. It’s a United States Of The World show, bringing together talent from America and the continent! It was an honour to work with Netflix to bring to life this passion project we are truly proud of.”

“Working between Hollywood and across Africa over the decades, I’ve been able to see first-hand the enormous influence and impact Hollywood has had on the hearts and minds of people across Africa. I am honored to be part of Kings of Joburg because through it and through our partnership with Netflix, we are providing African talent, both in front of the camera and behind it, the opportunity to be a part of their own ‘Hollywood’ production’’, says Samad Davis

The 6-part series delves into legacy building, fragmented family structures, treacherous brotherhoods and the effects of crime and African masculinities on families and society at large. Loyalties will be tested, with long held secrets threatening to shatter the fragile facade.

Watch the official trailer HERE

After years of circulating the entertainment space with style and flair, fashion pundit and media personality - Leroy Marc together with business partner, Billy Bokako announced the launch of their underwear line in September called House of Basil (Premium Wear for Him). Their aim is to create fashion items that men want to wear, garments that are an experience to exist in. Yah man!!!

The co-founders… The qualified Lawyer turned TV and Radio Presenter announced his underwear line with his Industrial Engineer partner, Billy Bokako. Being friends that met in the corporate world many years ago with dreams beyond what they were trained to do, this milestone sets as a creative and entrepreneurial dream for both of them. Bokako is now a Senior Manager for Climate Innovation at The Innovation Hub, while Marc is vastly known for his rounds of being a TV personality for BET Africa and MTV Base, as well as Radio plugs on TransAfrica Radio and Power FM.

The Inspiration behind the name? House of Basil was inspired by Mr Basil Kate, the grandfather to founding CEO Bokako, who was a gentleman with a taste for the finer and more quirky things in life. ‘Dads’ was his alias on the streets of Port Elizabeth and his ability to turn a phrase and dress snappily earned him much favour amongst the ladies in his day. The gents say that Mr Kate’s motto was simple: “Style is not only about price and appeal, but quality and feel.” In tribute to a man who made enviable fashion choices that steered Billy to take after him, The House of Basil, Premium Wear for Him was born.

How to get your hands on this premium wear for him… The very first collection from the brand – which is doing quite well I believe, judging from the socials - is ready and available at www.HouseofBasil.co.za. Orders can also be placed via email on sales@houseofbasil.co.za or via their WhatsApp and Text line: +27 73 715 1639. For more Information, please contact: Leroy Marc or Billy Bokako Tel: +2778 451 9402 Email: Billybokako@rocketmail.com \Info@houseofbasil.co.za Social Media platforms: • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram

Nothing beats a stylish picnic in a natural environment, with an awe inspiring backdrop and if you add dedicated service to that, Quoin Rock in Stellenbosch is a winning destination for a pleasurable, safe day out.

With its extraordinary cuisine, much has been said about this Knorhoek Valley estate’s Gåte restaurant. As such, Gåte’s outdoor Picnic Experience marries together a gourmet meal of the highest standard with private settings located away from the restaurant area.

These custom-made picnic pergola’s feature comfortable seating spaced more than 10 meters apart for privacy. Only 8 Pergola’s are available, making this casual fresh air picnic option an excellent choice during the cautionary period of COVID-19.

What also makes Quoin Rock’s Picnic Experience different from other picnic alternatives, where you are simply handed a basket and left to your own devices, at Quoin Rock, a waiter services your table with fresh ice, more wine and even a portion of oysters or Espresso after your lunch.

This unique touch sees clients receive a walkie talkie on arrival, enabling them to communicate with their waiter to tend to their needs and service the table with additional Gåte treats.

Every little detail at Quoin Rock is characterised by high-end luxury, and this translates to picnics, where glassware and crockery have been sourced to fit the location and offering - hence no plastic forks or plates.

Picnickers can relax in the garden after lunch, either on a picnic blanket or fat sac or alternatively enjoy the various lawn games provided, making this a truly leisurely excursion.

The Picnic Experience Menu at Gåte

A basket includes freshly baked French baguette with chef choice artisanal butters; basil and pesto cream dip; foie gras pâté; fresh snoek pâté, and a local cheese and charcuterie selection.

To add to the delight, a basket also features a butternut, baby mix leaves and feta salad; beetroot, baby mix leaves and goat cheese; a fresh poke bowl; smoked salmon wrap; delicious roasted lamb on Moroccan couscous; as well as Pina Colada and coconut panna cotta; and unlimited still and sparkling water.

A children’s basket includes rootstock crisps; a chocolate or strawberry milkshake; a handmade cookie and seasonal berries. Children also have the option of selecting a ham and cheese baguette, a cheese baguette, or a mac and cheese.

Note that chefs at Gåte are also able to create a delectable vegan, vegetarian, or gluten free version of the menu, with prior notice.

Picnics are priced at R400 per person, and R180 per children’s basket. They are available from Thursday to Sunday, from 1 October 2020 to 30 April 2021. Booking is essential, with a deposit payable to secure the booking.

Bookings:http://www.quoinrock.co.za/wine-lounge-experience/

Information: 021 888 4740, winelounge@quoinrock.co.za

Quoin Rock Wines: Knorhoek Road, Knorhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Website: https://www.quoinrock.co.za/

Comedian and TV personality, Donovan Goliath has joined forces with Africa’s biggest premium beer brand, Castle Lite to South Africa’s first-ever YouTube news talk show which launched this past Friday. This is off the heels of global trends seeing streaming platforms achieve record increases in traffic and giving brands like Castle Lite the opportunity to keep content rolling.

The show will focus on wrapping up the weekly headlines in a light-hearted way giving South Africans the opportunity to stay abreast of the latest news while enjoying a good laugh. While South Africans continue to play their part and stay safe by observing lockdown regulations, they can now enjoy great content that will give consumers energy and a splash of hope during these uncertain times from the comfort of their own homes.

Clearly Castle Lite knows how to continue to unlock new ways of keeping consumers entertained by giving them experiences that they can easily enjoy at home.

Each week, Donovan will host the show from the comfort of a beautifully styled home in Johannesburg and will open each episode with a short musical interlude by himself and his partner Davina. Donovan will unlock the week by touching on some of the weekly headlines before moving to the extra cold interview segment where he will interview South Africa’s most topical stars while they play fun games and get to know each other better. Surviving the New Normal with Lihle Msimang, Retweet or Like by Mojak Lehoko and the Rap Up by rapper Rouge kept viewers entertained.

It definitely would not be a Castle Lite show without musical performances from the country’s most talented artists. Viewers can expect the same light-hearted and fun energy that Donovan is known for, while also giving a roundup of the most entertaining headlines of the week.

You can check out the premiere episode here: https://youtu.be/gUdgcob-ZXY

Remember to catch The Lite Show every Friday at 9:00 on Castle Lite’s official YouTube channel, CastleLiteSA via https://www.youtube.com/user/CastleLiteSA

For more information check out www.castlelite.co.za or follow the official social media pages:

Facebook: Castle Lite

Twitter: @CastleLiteSA

Instagram: @CastleLiteSA

The old adage 'a problem shared is a problem halved' has never been more powerful than now. I can certainly agree to this as difficult as it has been for me to reach out to loved ones and talk about my anxieties, jeopardizing a lot of relationships. I’m sure a lot of other people are also going through the same. It is something that I need to do more of (reaching out without feeling ashamed), instead of allowing my demons to push me back into a dark corner where I sometimes feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel (at a particular moment when that darkness suddenly knocks on my door unannounced).

According to a recent survey on Covid-19 and mental health conducted by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), 65% of the 1214 respondents admitted to feeling stressed as a result of South Africa’s lockdown, while more than half (55%) said that anxiety and panic were challenges they had personally experienced.

That is why during June and July, Metropolitan is encouraging South Africans to talk about their experiences linked to the pandemic through their new campaign called ‘Three Word Stories’, providing easy-to-use steps that will help consumers navigate the “new normal”.

Each week, Metropolitan will use the airwaves as well as print and digital media to enable dialogue on a variety of issues, ranging from education to parenting in the time of Covid-19.

“With so much responsibility on their shoulders, people may feel incapable of vocalising their own fears and anxieties. We wanted to remind our audience that their voices are powerful, and that by sharing these stories, they will encourage others to do the same,” explains Llewellyn Allen, Head of Marketing: Metropolitan.

Well-known personalities such as Dr Musa Mthombeni and motivational speakers Malibonge Xaba, Hector Mathebe, Keabetswe Jan, Lehlohonolo Thoabala and Abongile Mangala will spearhead the campaign in partnership with radio personalities, who will take to the airwaves and facilitate the conversations.

Keabetswe Jan, a student nurse from Bloemfontein known for her Ö jewa ke eng?" tweet that broke the internet.

These personalities will share the headline story for each week of the campaign, with listeners invited to weigh in on what the words mean to them and how they relate to their personal narratives.

‘Am I Okay?’ is an example of a three word story used to spark a conversation with consumers. The motivator will then offer three concrete and practical steps to help consumers navigate their specific concerns, such as: ‘If you’re not okay, acknowledge that feeling; do things that make you happy and bring you joy; and lastly, be careful of the type of content you consume to keep a healthy state of mind.’

The brand believes that through facilitating new connections and conversations, they hope to empower people by creating a much-needed platform for them to share their lived experiences. Nontokozo Madonsela, Chief Marketing Officer: Momentum Metropolitan Group adds that “Despite the challenges we all face, we have the ability to look beyond the now through our innate resilience as a community. Together we can overcome our challenges, while offering a helping hand and a comforting, motivating voice.”

“This campaign aims to inspire mental strength so that we can all cope better with life in a Covid-19 world. South Africans are facing tremendous challenges, and understand that life will never be the same,” she concludes.

For more information check out www.metropolitan.co.za or follow the official social media pages:

Facebook: MetropolitanZA

Twitter: @MetropolitanZA

Instagram: metropolitan_za

#TogetherWeCan

While South Africa’s government and all its essential care providers are hard at work, leading the fight against Covid-19, it’s quite sad to know that civilians are in another battle… a battle against Gender Based Violence. Statistics show that since the national lockdown was implemented, reported cases of Gender Based Violence have spiked from less than 1500 to over 5000 per week.

This spike has rightfully raised the ire of government and civic organisations and prompted a response from various organisations, including the #NoExcuse initiative which is driven by Carling Black Label.

It is certainly a very concerning development which not only the brand is faced with, but the country in its entirety as nobody knows how many cases remain unreported.

As a brand that is committed to recognizing the champion within, Carling Black Label wants to encourage people to be brave and give them a way to get help. The WhatsApp line they have recently launched will give victims of abuse (men or women) a way to get counselling silently.

Their new approach is simple, really. People can send the word BRAVE to 0800 150 150 via WhatsApp and get in touch with the right organisation to get the help they need. They will also be partnering with other corporate entities, government departments as well as affiliates such as Takuwani Riime and the Men’s Sector to grow awareness of the service and remove barriers to getting assistance.

While #NoExcuse has always encouraged victims to be brave and report immediately, there are other socio-economic problems that need to be considered. Given the various circumstances people find themselves in during the lockdown, it may prove to be difficult for victims of abuse to call for help. So, the text-based service will enable them to silently send a text for help, without being detected.

As a person who has experienced Gender Based Violence first-hand as a kid (like many others have), I am appealing to everyone to help:

1. raise awareness about this Helpline number, as people should know there is help available to them (both men and women)

2. 2. provide people (not just victims) with insight on the WhatsApp functionality and that help is only one Brave text away (BRAVE to 0800 150 150 via WhatsApp)

For more information, you can visit the #NOEXCUSE website on www.noexcusesa.com or follow the conversation by visiting the Carling Black Label verified pages on social media.

There is #NoExcuse for men to abuse women, and #NoExcuse for men to stand by and do nothing when others abuse women and children!

An extra-cold battle is coming your way on Wednesday 29 April 2020 as Castle Lite puts two of the biggest music producers in South Africa against each other on the third instalment of Castle Lite Unlocks In Bed With.

For this episode, the brand is switching things up and bringing you a fierce row in a battle of the beat-makers that will send chills down your spine. Come Wednesday, 19:30 on the CastleLiteSA YouTube channel, DJ Tira and DJ Maphorisa will go head to head during this epic star-studded livestream hosted by DJ Zinhle and a performance by 2019 breakout star.

DJ Tira and DJ Maphorisa will step into the ring, each with an armour of their own unique sounds bringing influences from two distinct parts of the country into one livestream. Episode 3 of Unlocks In Bed With promises to be an extra-cold battle as both producers are highly accomplished musicians, record label owners, DJs, hitmakers, have both been a part of a musical group and are known to sing/rap on their songs.

South African musical icon DJ Tira not only makes hits, but his record label has also introduced South Africans to more hitmakers than be can counted. He is the personality of any song he is featured on and with a 20-year strong career that boasts awards, chart-topping hits year after year and record-smashing sales, Tira is sure to be a fierce component.

Not to be outdone, DJ Maphorisa has not only churned out the biggest hits of the past 2 years, he too can boast about discovering the nation’s most sought-after producers and DJs. Maphorisa has recently come to be affectionately known as Lawd Phori, a name that tells you just how revered he is. Since his breakout moment in 2013, he has worked with, and performed alongside top-rated musicians around the world and also produced countless hits including his collaboration with American super group, Major Lazer on the 2017 African anthem Particula, which topped the charts across 17 countries in Africa and saw the official music video garner over 22 million views on YouTube.

But before they take each other on, the fun starts with a man who Okay Africa describes as “one of the most complete artist packages we have seen in SA”. Pretoria-born superstar, Focalistic brings his unique and ground-breaking fusion of Hip-Hop, Amapiano and Kwaito sounds to the show as he sets the scene for the night. Focalistic is armed with new hits from his recently-released EP, Quarantined Tarantino which has become one of the dance music anthems of the lockdown.

And who better to host and referee this extra cold battle of beats than “her majesty, the queen”, DJ Zinhle. Sitting on 16 years of a successful career, Zinhle is a prolific DJ, producer, businesswoman and author. Having spent years grooming the next generation of female hit-makers through her FUSE Academy, Zinhle has a refined ear for what makes a good hit. And not only will she host the show, she will also close off the episode with a performance of her own.

Fans are encouraged to back their favourite producer between DJs Tira and Maphorisa and show their support via social media. It’s all up to the fans to determine who wins the battle and who’s name can climb up the trends list first.

Make sure to catch this very special edition of Castle Lite Unlocks in Bed With on Wednesday, 29 April 2020, streamed live to you at 19:30 (SAST) on Castle Lite’s YouTube channel, CastleLiteSA.

And once again, Castle Lite will match the number of livestream viewers in monetary value by making a R1 per live view donation to the SA COVID-19 Solidarity Fund.

For more information check out www.castlelite.co.za or follow the official social media pages:

YouTube: CastleLiteSA

Facebook: Castle Lite

Twitter: @CastleLiteSA

Instagram: @CastleLiteSA

Jozi get ready, you’re getting a taste of SA’s biggest urban music experience at Ellis Park stadium from 3-4 October, featuring a super-hot international offering!

Celebrating 15 years of SA’s most iconic music festival, Rocking the Daisies is travelling to Johannesburg to give Gauteng a taste of Daisies with a two-day event headlined by Stormzy (UK), alongside Ari Lennox (US), YBN Cordae (US), Col3trane (UK), and MORE!

Stormzy - UK (image supplied)

The Cape Town and Johannesburg shows will take place simultaneously, with the Cape Town leg of the festival kicking off on Friday 2 October at Cloof Wine Estate, Darling, and Johannesburg joining in on the action from Saturday the 3rd.

Ari Lennox - USA (image supplied)

Nampak Bevcan’s consumer-facing brand CAN DO! returns as the festival’s official headline sponsor for the third year in a row, and will headline sponsor both #Daisies15 in Johannesburg and in Cape Town. Rocking the Daisies will carry its exceptional world-class production and international artists across two provinces for the first time in the festival’s history, along with Africa’s biggest manufacturer of aluminium beverage cans.

Cole3trane - UK (image supplied)

#Daisies15 ticket registration for Johannesburg and Cape Town is officially open and Phase 1 tickets will go on sale on Wednesday 26 February at 9AM SAST on www.RockingtheDaisies.com for R695.

YBN Cordae (image supplied)

Please note that festival tickets do not include camping (the Johannesburg show does not have camping).

As a reminder, check out the different dates for Cape Town and Johannesburg:

#DAISIES15 CAPE TOWN

Date: 2-4 October 2020

Venue: Cloof Wine Estate, Darling

Line-up: Stormzy (UK), Ari Lennox (US), YBN Cordae (US), Col3trane (UK), and MORE!

Tickets: R695 excluding camping, tickets on sale 26/02 on www.RockingtheDaisies.com

#DAISIES15 JOHANNESBURG

Date: 3-4 October 2020

Venue: Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg

Line-up: Stormzy (UK), Ari Lennox (US), YBN Cordae (US), Col3trane (UK), and MORE!

Tickets: R695, tickets on sale 26/02 on www.RockingtheDaisies.com

FOLLOW US & JOIN THE CONVERSATION!

Facebook: /rockingthedaisiesfestival

Twitter: RockingTheDaisy

Instagram: rockingthedaisies

Youtube: Rocking the Daisies TV

Hashtag: #Daisies15

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KINGS OF JO'BURG, A FERGUSON PRODUCTION, IS COMING TO NETFLIX THIS DECEMBER

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KAYLOW DELIVERS ANOTHER SULTRY DANCE CLASSIC WITH ROOTS OF AZANIA

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Unique Quoin Rock picnics re-launch in October

CASTLE LITE LAUNCHES THEIR YOUTUBE TALK SHOW WITH DONOVAN GOLIATH

SOUTH AFRICANS ARE REMINDED THAT A BURDEN SHARED IS A BURDEN HALVED WITH METROPOLITAN’S ‘THREE WORD STORIES’ INITIATIVE

CARLING BLACK LABEL INTRODUCES A WAY TO GET HELP FOR VICTIMS OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE DURING LOCKDOWN...

SA’S BIGGEST HIT-MAKERS GO HEAD-TO-HEAD LIVE ON CASTLE LITE UNLOCKS IN BED WITH…

ROCKING THE DAISIES ANNOUNCES 3 INTERNATIONAL ACTS & SECOND FESTIVAL IN JOBURG!