News Bulletin of 16 June 2026, 8am

Roodepoort entrepreneur Chaythin Naidu has gained international recognition after his employment technology venture was named among the top 15 teams in the 2026 BeChangeMaker programme. The initiative, supported by UNESCO-UNEVOC, WorldSkills and the HP Foundation, recognises young innovators tackling social and economic challenges. Naidu's venture connects job seekers with opportunities, aligning with their skills, interests and career goals. He says this achievement has allowed him to expand employment opportunities in South Africa.
It celebrates a local entrepreneur making a global impact while creating innovative solutions to help more South Africans find meaningful employment.

Blanket Drive Jozi has launched its sixth annual winter outreach campaign. The event kicked off with a donation drive at Melville's Hotel Hope last week. The non-profit organisation donated 70 blankets, 70 cases of canned food and other essential supplies to help vulnerable community members cope with the cold winter months. Founder Beven Naidu said the initiative has grown significantly since it began as a small effort among friends and family. What started with a goal of donating 50 blankets in its first year has expanded to 850 blankets, reflecting growing community support for the cause.

The Africa Rally is gearing up for another exciting adventure, with teams from around the world preparing to travel thousands of kilometres across the continent. Running from 4 to 25 July, the event will see participants journey from South Africa to Zanzibar, while others follow a route through eSwatini. Rather than competing for speed, teams earn points through challenges and community impact. Each of the 19 teams supports a charity of its choice and raises funds along the way. Organisers are hoping to surpass last year's impressive total of R820,000 and reach the R1 million mark.