News Bulletin of 1 May 2026, 12pm

A cross-continental mission is underway to help create what could become Uganda’s largest skatepark, aimed at giving young people a safe and empowering space through skateboarding. Now in Johannesburg, skateboarder and activist Jason Vanporppal is travelling from East to Southern Africa as part of a purpose-driven journey focused on community development and youth opportunity.The project was inspired through friendships formed with Ugandan skaters Isaac and Ephraim, growing from shared passion into a larger initiative to build a lasting skate space.Beyond sport, the initiative aims to show how skateparks can help strengthen communities by offering young people a positive outlet, structure, and sense of belonging.

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.

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.)