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KZN Science Centre Head returns from YALI Fellowship Programme

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Chief Executive Officer of the KZN Science Centre, Candice Potgieter, has arrived back in South Africa after participating in US President Barack Obama’s inaugural Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) fellowship programme.

Potgieter was one of eight from KwaZulu-Natal and one of 46 candidates nationally selected from a list of 4 000 South African applicants and 49 000 Applicants throughout Africa between the ages of 25 and 35. All are active in the fields of entrepreneurship, public administration and community service.

She spent six weeks doing academic coursework and training at the Notre Dame University in Indiana and, together with 500 fellow candidates from across Africa, participated in the Presidential Summit convened by President Obama in Washington DC at the end of July.

Launched in June last year, the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the new flagship program of President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) which he launched in 2010 to support a new generation of African leaders. This latest initiative brought 500 of them to the United States for academic coursework and leadership training. Fellows are expected to put their new skills to practical use in leading organizations, their communities and countries.

As head of the KZN Science Centre, a registered section 21 non-profit organisation and leading educational centre focussed on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Potgieter shares the US President’s passion for education and his vision that this will lead Africa out of poverty.

Back home, the educational crisis at school level is well documented, which has significant repercussions when it comes to both tertiary education and employment.

President Jacob Zuma has repeatedly added his voice to calls for improvements in science and maths education in order to address critical skills shortages in professional fields such as engineering, medicine and information technology which are critical to growing the economy.

“The KZN Science Centre’s mission is to inculcate the importance of education in learners, educators and the general public using funded learning projects, curriculum based resources and interactive exhibitions.  The KZN Science Centre implements projects that aim to create awareness of science, technology, engineering and mathematics whilst fostering a culture of giving back through our non-profit status,” she says.

Since leading the organisation from October 2010, Potgieter has played an integral role in the redevelopment and reorganization of The KZN Science Centre. Her strong creative and insight into the inner workings of the organization has grown its beneficiary base from 40 000 to over 160 000 each year. Over eighty percent of all visitors are from previously disadvantaged and rural backgrounds.

She has been at the forefront of researching, creating and implementing highly successful school programmes. Her expertise extends from scientific research to business development, financial management, marketing, communications, government relations and fundraising.

Academically, she holds a postgraduate degree in Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She was also part of The National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme at The University of Cape Town.

Her list of awards for her work is significant – the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans You Should Meet in 2013, the Future Leaders Award for Science & Innovation as well as The KZN Young Achievers Award in Science & Technology for 2013. Potgieter was also named one of Cosmopolitan Magazine’s Most Awesome Women of 2013.

Following on from her work in KwaZulu-Natal, Potgieter was appointed as an executive member on the Advisory Committee to the MEC of Education in KwaZulu-Natal for Career Support and Guidance in 2013. She is also a non-executive director on the board of The Southern African Association of Science and Technology Centres (SAASTEC).

 

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Art

SAVE THE DATE for the 2025 East Coast Radio House & Garden Show

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Pull out your diaries and a Big Red Pen.
East Coast Radio House & Garden Show 2025 is coming to town!

From the 28 June to 6 July 2025

fresh spaces. bright living – that’s the dynamic theme of this year’s East Coast Radio House + Garden Show. It’s the time and place to focus on our spaces and surrounds, and the endless opportunities for renewal and fresh energy. Come look at your home through fresh eyes! fresh spaces. bright living is designed to colour your world bright, set fire to your imagination, and equip you with all the tricks and tools to transform a tame house into a truly terrific one! The Show takes place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 28 June to 6 July. It’s right here where you’ll uncover the very latest décor trends, innovative products, quick fixes and slow burns. Whether you’re up for a simple refresh or a major makeover, the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2025 has got you covered.

Happily for everyone, the Show will feature your absolute favourites… alongside some exciting newcomers! The Show Team is finalising fresh, fabulous Show elements, so to tantalise you… think super-legendary competitions with monumental prizes; foodies uniting in the kitchen over big brand names, and maybe a few famous faces; outdoor adventure products and activities climbing to new heights; and so, so much more marvellous kiddies’ entertainment than before.  The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is designed for families… just wait until the kids see what’s in store for them!

Eating in and dining out is a silver thread which runs through the Show, and this year promises some BIG foodie names… and equally, some famous little firecracker ones. And remember, as we get closer to Showtime, ticket specials will pop up here and there, so keep a sharp lookout for those great offers.

fresh spaces. bright living introduces a new energy to the Show, an irresistible one which will have you rethinking what makes a house your kind of home. The Show is the perfect blend of creativity and enjoyment, with wonderfully curated experiences for every member of the family. This is Durban’s longed-for house and garden hub under one roof, where you’ll discover dynamic new products and concepts, connect and converse with the country’s experts, and gather everything possible to create and enjoy fresh spaces and bright living. Pull out that diary!

Mark your calendars: The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2025 runs from 28 June to 6 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre.
For more information and updates, visit www.housegardenshow.co.za

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Attractions

On The Lawn music festival with Matthew Mole, Hollow Coves (AUS) and Amistat (AUS) comes to Durban for Valentine’s Weekend!

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Celebrate love, music, and connection this Valentine’s weekend with the highly anticipated On The Lawn Music Festival! Whether you’re planning a romantic day out with your special someone or simply looking to enjoy world-class music with loved ones, this festival promises an unforgettable experience at the beautiful Durban Botanic Gardens.

Taking to the stage is South Africa’s beloved singer-songwriter Matthew Mole, whose infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics have captured the hearts of fans nationwide. Known for hits like Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine and Run, Matthew Mole is a chart-topping sensation who blends folk, pop, and electronic sounds to create a unique musical experience. His ability to connect with audiences, whether through soulful ballads or upbeat anthems, has made him a household name and a festival favourite.

Joining him on stage are the internationally acclaimed indie-folk duo Hollow Coves from Australia and the talented twin brothers of Amistat, bringing their soulful sounds and inspiring messages to South African shores. There are more announcements to be made, so keep an eye on socials!

Globally celebrated indie-folk duo Hollow Coves bring their organic, acoustic-driven sound to South Africa as part of their Nothing to Lose Tour. The tour supports their critically acclaimed album Nothing to Lose, produced by Matt Corby and released via Nettwerk Music Group. Hailing from the Gold Coast, Matt Carins and Ryan Henderson craft music that celebrates life, nature, and human connection. Their introspective lyricism and serene melodies have garnered over half a billion streams worldwide and widespread acclaim from outlets like Billboard and Clash. From their debut EP Wanderlust to their certified Gold hit Coastline, Hollow Coves has become synonymous with soulful indie-folk anthems.

Prepare to be mesmerized by their ethereal harmonies and uplifting message as they perform in the lush surroundings of the Durban Botanic Gardens—a perfect setting for their serene and inspiring music.

Amistat. Twin brothers Josef and Jan Prasil, better known as Amistat, channel the heartfelt storytelling of Simon & Garfunkel with modern influences from Ben Howard and Kings of Convenience. Known for their seamless harmonies and emotional depth, Amistat’s music offers a unique connection that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their brand-new single, Loveblood, a collaboration with South African favourite Jeremy Loops, showcases their ability to blend raw emotion with dynamic soundscapes. Grab the chance to witness this extraordinary duo as they captivate the crowd with songs that inspire love, hope, and togetherness.

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s weekend in the most magical way—surrounded by music, nature, and loved ones.

For more information and to secure your tickets, visit onthelawn.co.za.

—–

Date: Saturday 15th February 2025
Venue: On The Lawn, uMphafa Field, Durban Botanic Gardens
Address: 9A John Zikhali Road, Berea, Durban 4001
Line up: Matthew Mole, Hollow Coves, Amistat and more to be announced

Times: 11:00 – 18:00

Ticket prices:
Early Bird: R295 excl R30 Fee
Phase 1: R345 excl R35 Fee
Phase 2: R395 excl R35 Fee

Children aged 5 and under enter FREE.
Food is welcome (no own drinks permitted).
Food vendors and bars will be available on-site.
Camping chairs and small umbrellas are allowed (no gazebos).

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Attractions

Let’s Rock – Concert in the Park on Valentine’s Weekend

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Breakout Events is counting down the days as Let’s Rock, the UK’s most iconic 80s music festival, is making its highly anticipated debut in South Africa in just a few days! Known for its stellar lineups and incredible 80s nostalgia, Let’s Rock is bringing two unforgettable events to Johannesburg and Durban, featuring a mix of international legends and local icons from Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure (Ultravox/Visage), PJ Powers, Just Jinjer and many more.

Event Dates:
● Let’s Rock Johannesburg – Saturday, 15 February 2025 at Marks Park, Emmarentia
● Let’s Rock Durban – Sunday, 16 February 2025 at Durban Botanic Gardens

Tickets are on sale here.
Get ready to experience a full day of music that will take you back to the best of the 80s and beyond!

Known for leading the charge since 2009 in 80’s music festivals, Let’s Rock is renowned for its fun, family- friendly atmosphere, offering something for every generation to enjoy.
Headlining both shows are 80s music icons, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey and Midge Ure (Ultravox/Visage), who will perform their timeless hits that shaped a generation. These legendary
performers are set to bring the true essence of the 80s experience straight from the UK to South Africa’s
stages!

Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey

For nearly three decades fans of the Thompson Twins have waited for more live performances from one of the most iconic bands of the eighties. Now The Thompson Twins’ vocalist Tom Bailey, with a new band, is touring and performing the big Thompson Twins hits and more. The Thompson Twins had huge hits on both sides of the Atlantic. Songs such as ‘Hold Me Now’, ‘Doctor Doctor’, ‘You Take Me Up’ and ‘Love On Your Side’ provided the soundtrack for so many people’s lives worldwide in the mid-eighties. In 1985 The Thompson Twins played ‘Hold Me Now’ at Live Aid in Philadelphia and also performed the Beatles‘Revolution’ with Madonna and Nile Rogers. The Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey features Tom Bailey on vocals, keyboards, guitar, harmonica, and percussion. His all-female band features Charlotte Raven on vocals and keyboards, Vicky Warwick on bass, vocals and keyboards, and Paulina Szczepaniak on electronic drums.

Midge Ure

Multiple award-winning, platinum-selling Midge Ure is an artist who needs very little introduction. Musical success is seldom measured in periods of more than a few years, if not Andy Warhol’s often quoted “fifteen minutes”, so the fact that by the time Midge’s single “If I Was” went to the No 1 spot in 1985 he had already crammed several musical lifetimes into a 10-year professional career with bands like Thin Lizzy, Visage, the legendary Ultravox and of course the most famous one-off group in musical history Band Aid, writing and producing one of the world’s most recognised songs ever with “Do they know it’s Christmas.”

Local Legends:
South Africa’s own music heroes will also be lighting up the Let’s Rock stages, including:

● Steve Louw’s Big Sky (Joburg show only)
● Just Jinjer
● PJ Powers
● Cindy Alter (from Clout)
● John Ellis (from Tree63)
● James Stewart (from The Usual)
● Brent Harris and Thee Jam

This epic lineup ensures an electric celebration of music from the past and present, making Let’s Rock the ultimate party you won’t want to miss.

Don’t miss out on the chance to relive the magic of the 80s and 90s with unforgettable performances, great vibes, and incredible artists. Grab your tickets and get ready for an exciting trip down memory lane!

Date: Sunday 16 February 2025
Time: 13h00 – 19h00
Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens
Address: Umphafa Field, 9A John Zikhali Road, Berea, Durban, 4001
Line-up: Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure, Just Jinjer, PJ Powers, Cindy Alter (Clout), John Ellis (Tree63), James Stewart (The Usual), Brent Harris and Thee Jam
All Ages. Children under 5yrs old enter for free.

Tickets:

General Admission (Ages 5 – 17 yrs): R195 (excluding ticket

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