News Bulletin of 1 May 2026, 11am

A new travel series, Hidden Gems South Africa, is set to showcase some of South Africa’s most remarkable yet lesser-known destinations. Produced by BBC the show follows six travel influencers as they explore untouched luxury locations across the country. Over five episodes, the “gem-fluencers” and their partners visit ten unique destinations — from the lush landscapes of Skukuza to the mountains of Winterton and the desert scenery of the Cederberg. Each location highlights a different theme, revealing bucket-list-worthy experiences that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism. The series premieres on BBC Lifestyle on May 6, with viewers also able to vote weekly for their favourite hidden gem.

The annual Wiphold International concluded at the University of Pretoria Tennis Club after two weeks of competition. The tournament featured a combined 15 000 dollar prize pool for men and women. Four of South Africa’s top players, Alec Beckley, Marc van der Merwe, Thando Longwe-Smit and Connor Doig — all of whom have represented the country in the Davis Cup, took part in the tournament. They competed not only for prize money but also to earn valuable ITF ranking points. Players from other African countries, as well as countries such as Belgium, Germany, China, Russia, Turkey and Costa Rica were among the participants competing for the prize money.

A new judo dojo has opened in Blairgowrie, focused on discipline, respect, and community development. Co-founder of Kokoro Judo, Dimakatso Rakaki, officially launched the club on on April 18. The initiative reflects her long-standing passion for judo and belief in sport as a tool for shaping stronger individuals. Rakaki’s involvement in judo began in 2016 while working with refugees and asylum seekers through a non-governmental organisation. Rakaki encourages the community to come give judo a chance, as Kokoro Judo has sessions for all ages. She added that judo really helps grow confidence in a person, that self-defence is crucial nowadays, and judo assists with that.
(Rakaki’s experience shows how mentorship and open-mindedness can change a life, and how one person’s passion can be turned into a community space that teaches discipline, confidence, and respect to others.)