News Bulletin of 29 May 2025, 4pm

Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli is set to graduate from the University of Pretoria this autumn — at just 17 years old.
From Johannesburg’s Rosettenville, Hazel sped through school after showing early talent in maths, even writing higher-grade tests by Grade 3.
Starting university in 2022, she’s faced challenges being younger than her classmates but credits her mentors, friends, and strong faith for keeping her focused.
Now pursuing her honours degree, Hazel plans to become a qualified actuary and eventually earn an MBA.
As the first in her family to graduate, Hazel hopes her journey inspires other young people to stay determined and open to learning.

A piece of South African art history has made waves on the global stage. Vladimir Tretchikoff’s Lady from the Orient has sold for a record-breaking R31.8 million — that’s over $1.7 million — at a Johannesburg auction this week.
The 1955 portrait, famous for its glamour and bold colour, smashed the artist’s previous record set by his 1952 potrait, the Chinese Girl .
Strauss & Co says the painting is more than just iconic — it’s part of South Africa’s visual DNA and a global symbol of mid-century style.
Tretchikoff, once dubbed “the king of kitsch,” found worldwide fame through affordable prints sold in stores from London to Cape Town.

Professor Helen Rees received the World Health Organization’s prestigious Dr Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize this week for her outstanding contributions to global health.
Based at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Rees has dedicated her career to addressing major health challenges including HIV, tuberculosis, cervical cancer, and improving access to medicines in low- and middle-income countries.
She calls for a new global health model focused on smarter investments in immunisation, maternal and child health, and the use of innovative technologies such as digital health and AI.
Known for connecting research, policy, and community care, she remains a leading figure in vaccine development and health innovations serving the most vulnerable worldwide.