News Bulletin of 18 February 2026, 6am

Headline 1
Santa Shoebox Project marks 20 years
Story 1
The Santa Shoebox Project is marking 20 years of providing essential items and treats to children in need.
Since launching in 2006, the organisation has distributed more than 1.3 million shoeboxes filled with essential items to underprivileged children across the country.
The organisation has also made a plea for volunteers to help share the joy in their local communities.
CEO Deb Zelezniak says volunteers are a big part of the work they do:
*sound*
Story 1 category
Headline 2
Learners in rural schools gain access to science lessons
Story 2
Learners in rural and under-resourced schools are gaining access to science lessons through mobile laboratories delivered to their communities.
Converted vehicles now serve as travelling labs, allowing pupils to conduct experiments and take part in practical learning without leaving their schools.
The initiative by the Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company also provides girls with sanitary pads, helping them attend classes consistently and continue their education.
Story 2 category
Headline 3
SPAR Women’s Challenge
Story 3
Around 18-thousand women and girls will take part in the SPAR Women’s Challenge in Green Point, Cape Town in March.
The 10km Run, 10km Walk and the 5km Fun Run and Walk are open to various age groups.
Participants will compete for prizes including R35,000 in vouchers and a brand new car, while supporting local charities through the SPAR Petals Project.
Under this year’s theme #CelebrateHer, the event highlights women’s strength, resilience, and community, creating a space for fitness, recognition and joy.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 15.98 to the US Dollar, 0.00 to the British Pound, and 0.00 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,953.04 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at Error per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 67,627.00.
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
J. Cole to perform at the FNB Stadium in December
Teaser / Tailpiece story
American rapper and record producer J. Cole will perform at the FNB Stadium on 12 December 2026 as part of his The Fall-Off Tour.
Promoter Big Concerts announced the Johannesburg show, marking the rapper’s first performance in the region in a decade and the final stop of his global tour, which runs from July to December 2026.
Artist and Mastercard pre-sales open on 18 February, followed by a Big Concerts Fan Club sale on 19 February. General ticket sales open on 20 February through Ticketmaster.
Split analysis
Local: 0 words (0%), National: 222 words (100%), International: 0 words (0%)