Next Level: From the Stage to the Heart

Celebrate 30 years of “My African Dream”, the iconic anthem that captured the spirit of a nation, as Vicky Sampson and Thuba Myeki come together for a unique musical experience titled Next Level: From the Stage to the Heart. This one-night-only performance takes place at The Knoll on Thursday, 2 October 2025 at 19h00.

The powerful production brings together two generations of vocal talent: the legendary Vicky Sampson, whose soulful rendition of My African Dream became a defining moment in South African music history, and Thuba Myeki, the dynamic vocalist and former Idols SA finalist known for his versatility and magnetic stage presence.

A Journey Through Three Decades of Song and Story
Next Level: From the Stage to the Heart is more than a concert—it’s a journey through the soundtrack of South African life over the past three decades. Blending soaring vocals, heartfelt narrative, and evocative visuals, the show explores personal and national moments that shaped the artists’ paths and the music we’ve come to love.

Audiences will be taken on an intimate musical journey, where favourite songs meet behind-the-scenes stories, dreams, lessons learned, and cultural touchstones. The show weaves together the aspirational theme that “Everybody has a Dream,” inspiring audiences from all walks of life.

The duo is being brought to the KZN Midlands by well-known producer, Colin Law. “The energy between Vicky and Thuba is electric and deeply moving,” says local co-producer, Charles Webster. “They don’t just perform—they connect. This is a show that will stay with you long after the final note.”

The collaboration also reflects a full-circle moment. Thuba Myeki was born the very year Vicky Sampson captured South Africa’s imagination with her debut—adding a playful, intergenerational twist to their onstage chemistry.

Following a sold-out performance at the Redhill Arts Festival (#RedFest), where audiences praised the show as “truly superb,” the Midlands now has its chance to experience this unforgettable evening of music and meaning.

EVENT DETAILS
Venue: The Knoll
Date: Thursday, 2 October 2025
Time: 19h00 (Doors open 18h00)
Food and beverages available for purchase
Bookings: WhatsApp 082 331 7271
Thuba Myeki and Vicky Sampson in Next Level - YouTube

About Vicky Sampson
Vicky Sampson is one of South Africa’s most beloved vocalists, best known for her timeless hit My African Dream, written by Alan Lazar of Mango Groove. A defining anthem in post-apartheid South Africa, her voice continues to inspire hope and unity.

About Thuba Myeki
Thuba Myeki first won hearts as a top 11 finalist on Idols SA in 2009. Known for his genre-spanning vocal range and engaging stage presence, he brings fresh energy and contemporary flair to every performance.

‘STEPPING’ UP FOR CHANGE

On Mandela Day, we honour the legacy of Madiba by living the values we hold dear at St Anne’s — curiosity, integrity, respect, community, leadership, and excellence.

Let us continue to make a meaningful difference by actively engaging with our unique social responsibility programme, STEPP.

“STEPP is partnered with a number of primary schools that fall under the Department of Basic Education located in disadvantaged communities in the Mpophomeni, Lion’s River and Sweetwaters areas, and seeks to provide educational support to the teachers and learners in the Foundation and early Intermediate Phases (Grades 3 and 4).

The main focus of STEPP is early Language Literacy Development – a response to South Africa’s literacy crisis.”

- Dr Nicki Kirby, Head of Social Responsibility

'At the end of Term 2, our Grade 7 class enjoyed an unforgettable adventure to Bonamanzi Game Reserve and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. This a journey that combines fun, learning, and appreciation for God’s beautiful creation.

At Bonamanzi, you are surrounded by lush vegetation, birdsong, and breathtaking views whilst each guided game drive, offers you an opportunity (at Africa's oldest nature reserve) to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and antelope up close. Along with these, learning about the critical conservation work this park undertakes (especially for the white rhino) deepens our respect for the world around us.' updated Cowan House, a Co-Educational Independent Preparatory School based in Hilton, Kwazulu Natal. Grade RRR to Grade 7.

More about Cowan House

 

This Women’s Month, your power takes centre stage.

Join now and take advantage of this exclusive membership special — available for a limited time only!

(Men, want in on the special? Just make a small donation to Angel’s Care at the gym — strength with purpose.)

Find Velocity Gym at The Avenues Centre, Corner Hilton College Road & Elizabeth Drive, Hilton.

Call 033 343 0883 for more information.

More about Velocity Gym Hilton

Where can you meet with friends, enjoy great music in a beautiful environment with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar - all for just R50? Music in The Hills (MiTH) at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm in Hilton every second Wednesday! Your best bet for an affordable, soul-stirring musical experience with your friends.

MiTH – 16 July, 2025

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

Entrance: R50.00 (Cash or Zapper at the Door)

Info: 082 331 7271

*7pm - Bruere Venter*

Bruere Venter is a local singer and occasional songwriter who brings a warm blend of acoustic, folk, and pop to the stage. With smooth vocals and heartfelt guitar work, he performs covers inspired by artists such as Jack Johnson, John Mayer, Mumford & Sons, and The Beatles.

Classically trained in voice and playing guitar since the age of 10, Bruere has performed in school bands, like Pillar Box Red, and university groups, such as Fynbos Leopard. These days, he shares his music at intimate gatherings, weddings, and community events while studying towards a teaching degree and working as a teacher-intern.

For Bruere, music is a passion project—honest, soulful, and best enjoyed live.

*8pm – Skippy Kubheka, followed by The MMM Band*

Fresh from their wildly successful trip to Splashy Fen, The MMM Band is a crew of talented individuals who don’t just deliver top-notch service and expert repairs—they also know how to tear up a stage. Jamming is part of their workshop culture, and now they’re bringing that energy out of the shop and into the spotlight at MiTH.

On bass, the ever-chilled but deadly Aidan Compton locks in the groove with effortless cool. Josh White brings tight, punchy energy to the drums. And on guitar, bass, vocals—and the occasional surprise—Skippy Kubheka leads the charge with unmistakable flair. Expect soaring solos, raw vocals, and an infectious energy that pulls the crowd in.

The MMM Band draws from a vibrant mix of influences: Hendrix-style guitar licks, gritty blues textures, the storytelling soul of country, the punch of classic rock, and just a touch of Motown groove.

Don’t miss it.

ABOUT MiTH:

KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music. Every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton. Food and soft drinks for sale. Cash bar available.

Visit www.mith.co.za for more info or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to perform.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH:

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2km along Hilton Avenue, which becomes Dennis Shepstone Drive. Look for Knoll Drive on your right; the entrance to MiTH is the second left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

After 18 months of comprehensive research into how we operate at KSS, with a strong focus on understanding the real needs of both our staff and our clients, we are proud (and very excited!) to let you know that KSS is genuinely changing the face of private security in the SME space.

We have put ourselves out there, speaking to staff, clients, community members, suppliers and technology developers, to find out where we can improve, not just in service delivery, but also in how we show up for our staff and clients and hold ourselves accountable to high ethical standards.

We have partnered with some innovative technology suppliers to test and integrate cutting-edge tools to strengthen all our operations, in particular our control room operations. It is still a work in progress, but we are making progress, and we are committed to keep learning and growing.

Our entire KSS team, from leadership to frontline operations, has been on a journey of personal and professional growth over this time. With the help of an external facilitator, we have engaged face-to-face with many of our staff, aligned our strategies and grown as individuals and as a team, with the focus on delivering quality service to ensure client satisfaction.

KSS has recently launched our own App, which is fully integrated into the software platform used in our control room. Please click on this link below or scan the QR code in the image to download onto your phone.

https://onelink.to/knight_security

You might already feel the difference. We hope so. Because at KSS, people will always come first. We want to be the best at what we do, and we will be asking for your input in the next month or two. This is a work in progress, and we are not stopping at anything less than very satisfied staff and clients.

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As we approach Panic Awareness Day on 10 July, it's crucial to highlight "The Panic You Don't See." For many, Panic Attacks are visible symptoms but for some, they are silent internal battles that go unnoticed by those around them. SADAG aims to shed light on this through the campaign and online activities through discussions to deepen the understanding of how Panic appears differently, often hidden behind a calm exterior, and why care, understanding, and informed support is vital.

Panic Attacks are often recognised by a sudden intense fear or discomfort, and can be very disabling. These invisible symptoms might include a racing heart, overwhelming dread, a feeling of detachment, or intense physical sensations like dizziness or shortness of breath, all while the individual can appear composed. SADAG Board Chairperson and Clinical Psychologist, Dr Colinda Linde explains, “Panic doesn’t always look like gasping for air—it can be the quiet no shows, invitations declined, the life slowly shrinking behind closed doors. On Panic Day, let’s speak up about the Panic you don’t see, because naming it, is the first step to overcoming it”.

Often, people with Panic Disorder may experience the feeling of being trapped, a desperate urge to escape, or a fear of losing control – all while maintaining a calm outside. This silent struggle can make everyday activities like going to the shops, attending work meetings, driving, or going out with family or friends feel like a challenge. For those living with "The Panic You Don't See," seeking help is a courageous and an important step towards recovery. Understanding that these are treatable conditions and not personal failings, is the first step. Offering non-judgmental support to friends, family, or colleagues who may be silently battling Panic is equally vital.

“When it comes to Men and Mental Health in South Africa, we are facing a silent pandemic. Mental Health conditions such as Panic Disorder and other Anxiety-related conditions, are often hidden behind a mask of masculinity. As men, we suffer in silence because we fear the stigma - to be judged by society as not being a “real” man. We fear to be seen as weak. But Mental Health issues do not discriminate based on gender. It is not a weakness to suffer from Panic Disorder as a man — it's only human. We must continue to educate our society about Mental Health to ensure that we can create safe spaces where as men, we can speak openly about our emotional and psychological distress, seek help, and be supported without judgment. We have to end the stigma!”, says SADAG Board Member, Nkini Phasha.

SADAG would like to encourage the commitment to being more compassionate and informed to oneself and others. Zane Wilson, Founder of SADAG, who has a personal journey of Panic Attacks, inspired the start of the organisation 30 years ago, says "Panic Disorder can be a terrifying illness that can cause great distress, isolation, and limit your life. Don't suffer in silence alone. I experienced Panic for over 10 years, and I kept it a secret from most people. With the right treatment and support eventually, I was able to recover fully and take back control of my life. I started SADAG in 1994 to help patients living with Anxiety and Panic. I got the help I needed, and so can you!"

SADAG will be hosting a LIVE online Webinar on Thursday,10th of July, at 6:30pm where a panel of experts will be sharing vital information and coping strategies via Zoom and streaming live to SADAG’s Facebook page. To register for the free online Zoom Webinar, click here or visit SADAG’s Facebook Page to join in on the conversation. If you would like to access more information, visit our online toolkit on the website (www.sadag.org), you can access our brochures, handouts, a calendar of our online activities and videos to help you cope better.

SADAG invites you to join our online campaign to raise more awareness. , share your stories, reshare our information, and engage with our content. By encouraging open conversations and providing accessible resources, we can ensure that individuals battling with Panic can feel safe to share their experiences and access the free and caring help offered by SADAG. If you or a loved one needs support please give us a call on 0800 456 789 and 0800 70 80 90, or sms 31393 and Whastapp us on 087 163 2030, a counsellor is available 24 hours to help you.

From Pain to Perfect

An infected tooth doesn’t mean the end of your smile — that’s where a root canal comes in!

Here’s what the journey looks like:
We start with a damaged or infected tooth — often caused by deep decay, cracks, or trauma.
The inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped to remove bacteria and infection.
The empty root canals are then filled and sealed to protect against future infections.

Finally, a custom-made crown is cemented on top — restoring function, strength, and aesthetics!

Root canals are your tooth’s second chance.

Book your consult today!

Call 033 343 1677.

Hello Padel Family!

We’re gearing up for an action-packed July at LivPadel Hilton, and whether you’re sharpening your skills, chasing glory, or just in it for the fun and good vibes, there’s something for everyone this month. Here's a snapshot of what's coming up – mark those calendars!

Monday Mastery – 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th July
Start your week right! Join our Monday Mastery sessions throughout July and brush up on those padel fundamentals with our coaching staff. Perfect for players looking to improve footwork, positioning, or add a few tricks to their game. Open to all skill levels – just bring your energy and racket!

Men’s Social Americano – 11th July
Calling all beginner and intermediate male players – this one’s for you! Our Men’s Social Americano is all about friendly competition and good camaraderie. Rotate partners, play hard, and enjoy a great evening of padel and connection.

Kids' Holiday Clinic – 17th July
Coach Richard is back with a Holiday Padel Clinic for kids aged 10–17! This one-day workshop is the perfect chance for young players to build skills, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors during the school break. Spots are limited – pre-booking is essential.

Mixed Social Americano – 18th July
Our ever-popular Mixed Americano is back! This couples-based tournament is a hit every time – expect laughter, fast-paced action, and fierce-yet-friendly matchups. This one fills up fast, so grab your partner and secure your spot early!

Ladies Jackpot Americano – 25th July
Ladies, it’s your time to shine! The Jackpot Americano returns this month with a R1600 cash prize up for grabs! This format keeps things exciting and competitive – and that prize pot is getting juicy. Don’t miss out!

July’s Weekday Bounty Challenge – Ongoing (Mon–Fri, 7am–5pm)
Feeling brave? Take on our staff in the Bounty Challenge anytime during weekday hours. If you and your teammate beat our staff team, you’ll earn your portion of the booking fee right back into your club wallet. Fun, fast, and rewarding – will you take the challenge?

Questions or bookings?
Call Gareth (Manager): 081 500 4363
Call Club: 083 796 7793
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We can’t wait to see you on court this July. Let's make it a month to remember!

– Team LivPadel Hilton

School’s out but healthy habits don’t take a holiday!

For just R599 get a Consultation, Dental Cleaning & Full Mouth x-ray with Family Dental Care’s Winter Break Special.

Book your child’s appointment today!

Ts & Cs: Valid for kids aged 5 - 12

Book now on 033 343 1677

 

 

Treverton College and the Wits Adventure and Environmental Society Sodwana Bay Diving Trip Reflection

The Wits Adventure and Environmental Society (WAES) recently embarked on an unforgettable diving trip to Sodwana Bay as a combined trip with Treverton College which is based in the Midlands. This trip marked a series of firsts for many of our participants, including one member who saw the ocean for the very first time – a truly moving moment that reminded us of the privilege and power of outdoor exploration.

Over the course of the trip, we immersed ourselves in the natural beauty and ecological significance of the Sodwana coastline. We learned about local marine ecosystems and the importance of ongoing conservation initiatives, deepening our appreciation for the underwater world.

For those who earned their diving qualifications, the ocean offered unforgettable encounters: reef sharks gliding through the reefs, pods of dolphins swimming beside us, majestic loggerhead sea turtles, and even distant whale sightings that left us in awe.

Beyond the dives, the trip fostered new friendships and lifelong memories. The spirit of adventure, learning, and unity that defined this journey is something we’ll carry with us – and a standard for future Wits Adventure and Environmental Society and Treverton College adventures.

For further information on the Wits Adventure Club please visit @waeswits or email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and for info on Treverton College please visit www.treverton.co.za

Pictured below: Heinz Klingenberg, Michaela Takkos, John van Coller, Kehan Toerin, Andre Honiball, Gabi Takkos, Ruby Sproat, Kai Broom, Kgolagano Tlhalatsi and Tommy

There’s about one week left of school holidays - have you made sure your kids are booked for their back to school cuts?

Book at any of our branches …
Athlone 060 391 5084
Hilton 066 790 0198

More about Solé Hair & BeautySolé Hair & Beauty

Keep Your Lenses (and Eyes) Happy!

Did you know that proper lens hygiene is key to clear vision and all-day comfort?

Pair your contact lenses with Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution – specially formulated to match the pH of healthy tears, keeping your eyes hydrated and your lenses fresh!

Clean - Disinfect - Store with care - Always use fresh solution and discard any left in your lens case after use!

For expert eye care and personalised advice, book your appointment with John Meyer Optometrist today!

HOW TO CONNECT?

Call 033 343 0881 or Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
See our website www.johnmeyeroptometrist.co.za
Visit at 3 Monzali Drive, Hilton | Health & Wellness Centre | Suite 2B

 

Following the sold-out Durban race, the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge takes to the streets around Alexandra Park on Sunday 17 August.

Entries are open online for the #Run033. There are two distances that participants can select from; the social 5km race or double the distance for a more testing 10km run. Both races get underway at 8am on Princess Margaret Drive, near Maritzburg College, and finish on the fields of The Oval Cricket Stadium. The race is capped at only 3,500 entries.

Cut off times for the two distances; for the longer run athletes have 2.30 minutes to complete the route, while the shorter distance, if participants are not through the 4.5km mark after 50 minutes, they will be pulled aside.

After the race, SPAR KZN will be giving away various lucky draw prizes. Participants are encouraged to stay afterwards to stand a chance to win, as prizes will only be awarded to participants who are present at the lucky draw, For the competitive participants, the prize money for the top five runners is R25,500 in total for the open category, with the first across the line earning themselves R10,000. In each of the category prizes totals SPAR is awarding the athletes R4,500.

There are two ways to enter, the first is online for early bird entries - visit the race website at www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za/maritzburg. Online entries close on Monday 11 August. If there are still entries available, then manual entries can be done at Race Registration on the two days before Sunday’s run. Online entries will cost R180 regardless of distance. 10km runners/walkers without a KZNA / ASA club running license, must buy a temporary license for the 10km race which costs R55 when they do their entry. Late entries will cost an extra R20 if entered manually at Race Registration.

Teams of ten or more can do bulk entry options by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more details. Bulk entries close on Monday 4 August. Collection of race numbers and Goodie Bags must be done at Race Registration at The Oval Cricket Stadium on Friday 15 August from 10am to 5pm and on Saturday 16 August from 10am to 3pm. No race pack collections are allowed on race day or after the event.

The official race charity for the PMB SPAR Women’s Challenge is the Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, specifically CHOC House in Pietermaritzburg. CHOC is a non-profit organisation that and their families. Five Rand from each entry will be donated to CHOC.

Join thousands of women for this year’s Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge on Sunday 17 August.

For more information, follow the race on social media or visit the website www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za/maritzburg

Top image: Ssstretch! Limbering up for the running of the he Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/ 5km Challenge that takes place on Sunday 17 August are (left to right) Cindy Watridge (SPAR KZN Omni Channel Retail Operations Manager), learner from Pietermaritzburg Girls' High School, Abusiswa Mnguni, and Natasha Jeebodh (SPAR KZN Development Design Manager).

Photo credit: Val Adamson

Get Ready to Rewind at the 80’s MIX TAPE MUSIC SHOW on Saturday 2nd August at Crossways!

Big hair, leg warmers, neon dreams — and now a stage full of 80s magic!

Join us for a one-night-only music *play* that’ll take you straight back to cassette tapes, boomboxes, and questionable fashion choices.

Featuring the totally rad talents of: Paul Spence, Kath McClelland, Adrian Raman, Axl Forder & Jenna Hornby
(It’s like the Breakfast Club… but with more harmonies.)

Arrive at 5:30PM for dinner*
Fuel up with delicious Crossways classics before the show starts at *7PM sharp*

Expect iconic tunes, theatrical flair, and enough 80s nostalgia to short-circuit a Walkman.
*Leg warmers optional. Gees essential.*

Book your table, tease your hair, and we’ll see you on the dance floor (or at least singing from your seat)!

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
What’s App 079 439 5723

Mandela Day Call to Action!

This Mandela Day, help us to make 67 minutes of kindness count — one teaspoonful at a time!

We're calling on our amazing community to donate peanut butter to support our little ones.

Why peanut butter?

Because protein is powerful! It helps build strong bodies and sharp minds - supporting healthy growth, boosting energy, and helping our pre-schoolers stay fuller for longer so they can focus on learning through play.

Just 1 teaspoonful a day gives each child their minimum daily protein requirement, and it is one of the few proteins that doesn't need to be refrigerated.

We supply, on average, 110kg per term to the 38 creches we are currently working in. Just one jar can make a big difference.

Drop-off points: 5A Quarry Street, Hilton, 3245 or 1 Douglas Road, Bedfordview, 2008

Let’s support big futures this Mandela Day!

You’re our biggest fans — now it’s your turn to make your *mark* at Crossways!

We’re inviting YOU to create the next legendary burger on our menu. Whether it’s wild, cheesy, spicy or stacked sky-high… if you dream it, we’ll try it!

*Here’s how it works:*
1. Create your ultimate burger (send us details on how to create it)).
2. Send it to us via whats App or in-store.
3. We’ll shortlist the top creations and let the public vote!
4. The winning burger gets added to our menu — *named after YOU!* 

AS SIMPLE AS THAT

What’s App No: 079 439 5723

 

Competition ends : 6 JULY 2025