News Bulletin of 28 June 2025, 7am

Sandton hosted the media launch for the Imbawula Music Festival, a cultural celebration that blends heritage, diversity, and healing.

The festival, inspired by traditional “imbawula” gatherings, emphasizes music, community empowerment, and conversations around GBV.

Guests were treated to an engaging panel discussion exploring music as a storytelling medium, followed by soul-stirring teaser performances by rising and iconic local artists.

The Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture has set aside R90 million to introduce the Video-Assisted Referee system to professional South African football.

The push for V.A.R in the country, intensified following decisions during high-profile matches, which sparked nationwide calls for improved match officiating standards.

The system will assist referees in making more accurate decisions on critical incidents such as goals, penalties, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity.

The integration is expected to boost officiating credibility, improve transparency and bring South African football in line with international best practices.

South African social entrepreneur, youth activist, and writer Michael Mayalo has made his literary debut with the launch of his first book, “China Through My Eyes”, at the China–South Africa Youth Night in Pretoria.

The book, which has been three years in the making, reflects Michael’s personal journey and cultural awakening during his short-term studies in China.

The book explores themes of global identity, youth empowerment, and intercultural understanding.