News Bulletin of 11 January 2026, 10am

From the small Limpopo town of Roossenekal, Reuben Lefa Masia has shown that even tiny places can produce giants. Determined to become a doctor from a young age, he set his sights on Stellenbosch University, attending a fully sponsored medical camp during matric that confirmed his path. Reuben excelled in both medicine and music, performing with SU’s world-renowned choir and touring internationally, including Tokyo. Masia has gained global medical experience, presenting in Austria, completing a summer programme at King’s College London, doing a trauma surgery elective in Chicago and presenting his neurosurgery research at major South African conferences.

South Africa’s Junior Proteas are set to showcase their talent at the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup, starting 16 January in Windhoek. Captain Muhammad Bulbulia leads the squad, which will face Afghanistan, West Indies and Tanzania in Group D.The team recently completed a Youth ODI series against India, sharpening skills and building confidence.
Head coach Malibongwe Maketa says the team has focused on training and match preparation to strengthen performance ahead of the tournament:

Guided hikes, heritage trails and storytelling sessions have returned to the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and Heritage Site following its reopening after the festive season.
The Koppies are open on Sundays between 08:00 and 11:30. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including a 5km self-paced hike, a self-guided heritage trail, or exploring the reserve using available maps. Guided activities include 90-minute tours on Sundays at 08:00, an 8km group hike held on the last Sunday of each month, and a children’s storytelling session on the second Sunday of every month.