Support Act for Soul II Soul's Montecasino Concert Announced @MontecasinoZA @showtime_sa @Soul2SoulUK @SANBI_ZA

Hi Friends, 

CELEBRATED TKZEE ADDED TO THE BILL FOR POPULAR LIBERTY “AN INTIMATE EVENING” CONCERT SERIES IN FEBRUARY

This year’s Intimate Evening Series, a collaboration between Liberty, Griza Enterprises and leading local promoter Showtime Management – designed to usher in each new year with a symphony of hope – features Soul II Soul in Johannesburg for a celebration of reggae, R&B and neo-soul at Montecasino’s Outdoor Events Area on 01 February, before taking the show to Kirstenbosch in Cape Town on 08 February.

The British hitmakers, creators of the classic singles “Keep On Movin’” and the huge hit “Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)” – Number one in both the US and the UK in 1989 – will be supported by South African legends TKZee.

The trio – Tokollo Tshabalala, Kabelo Mabalane and Zwai Bala, who met at school in the early Nineties – became the biggest-selling kwaito band in South African musical history when their 1997 and 1998 singles “Palafala” and “Shibobo” (respectively) both earned sales more than 100,000 copies, making TKZee a household name across the African continent.

As their profile exploded, TKZee incorporated several different genres into their music – kwaito, hip-hop, classical, house and gospel – crafting what became known as “Guz” music, and instant (and massive) hit with young South African music fans. Their haul of five South African Music Awards in one year for their “Halloween” album (1998) was a record that stood for well over a decade. The group split in 2002 to pursue solo careers by reuniting for the 2009 album “Coming Home”, going on to be one of only six musical acts to represent Africa in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony in Johannesburg. After the sudden passing of Tokollo Tshabalala in 2022, his longtime friends and fellow band members Kabelo Mabalane and Zwai Bala continue with the legacy of TKZee.

Fans arriving to watch Soul II Soul and TKZee at the Montecasino Outdoor Events Area will experience a mini festival environment, with plenty of food and beverages available. Picnic baskets as well as food and beverages may not be brought to the concert venue. General Admission tickets offer limited unreserved, ad hoc seating, so don’t arrive too late. Alternatively, consider the option of tickets to the VIP Area, costing R1995 each, which includes access to a raised deck, seating pockets, shade, canapes, a private bar area and a private toilet area.

"At Liberty, we remain committed to being 'In It With You,' supporting South Africans through life’s complexities and shared experiences,” says Marees Bostander, Head of Brand Strategy and Sponsorships at Liberty. “The Soul II Soul concert series is a celebration of connection, resilience, and joy—an opportunity for audiences to relive cherished memories and create new ones through the timeless power of music.”

“We are delighted to bring Soul II Soul to South Africa as part of our highly successful partnership with Liberty and the Liberty Presents ‘An Intimate Evening’ concert series,” says Tony Feldman of Showtime Management. “The talents of TKZee and DJ’s Admiral and Jahseed Die Fireseed add local flavour to the line-up. It’s going to be a night to remember.”

General Admission tickets are on sale at showtime.co.za, webtickets.co.za and Pick ‘n Pay retail stores at a cost of R895. VIP tickets are available at R1995 each. Doors open at 5pm. Don’t miss the DJ partnership of Admiral and Jahseed Di Fireseed followed by TKZee before the legendary Soul II Soul featuring Jazzie B who brings nothing but good vibes and timeless grooves to Jozi. ENDS

______________________________________________________________________________

TOUR INFORMATION

JOHANNESBURG: Montecasino Outdoor Events Area

Saturday, 01 February 2025, 5pm

Ticket prices: General Access R895

VIP Area Tickets: R1995 per person include:

-Raised deck

-Seating pockets

-Shade

-Canapes

-Private Bar Area

-Private Toilet Area

CAPE TOWN: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Saturday, 08 February, 7pm

Ticket price: General Access R895

BOOKINGS: showtime.co.za and webtickets.co.za or at your nearest Pick ‘n Pay retail store.

_________________________________________________________

SOCIAL MEDIA

Instagram: @soul2souluk

Facebook: Soul II Soul

X: @Soul2SoulUK

Showtime Management

Website - showtime.co.za

FB - facebook.com/showtimemanagementsa

X - @showtime_sa

Instagram - @showtime_sa

Montecasino

Website - montecasino.co.za

Facebook – montecasino

X - @montecasinoza

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Website - sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/

Facebook - South African National Biodiversity Institute

X - @SANBI_ZA

Instagram - sanbi_za

_________________________________________________________

About SHOWTIME MANAGEMENT SA

Showtime Management SA, headed by Hazel Feldman and Tony Feldman, is a leading South African live entertainment show promoter and musical theatre producer, which has set the benchmark for the presentation of quality, international-standard shows and events, many of which have been presented throughout South Africa, Asia, Europe and Las Vegas. Musical Theatre productions include Fame; Chicago The Musical (2005, 2008 and 2018/9 International Tour); We Will Rock You (2006 & 2023); Beauty & The Beast; High School Musical; Rent; Mamma Mia! (2010, 2024); Dreamgirls; Menopause the Musical; Beautiful Creatures; Dirty Dancing; Jersey Boys; Annie; Priscilla Queen of the Desert; SA Representative for The Lion King Asia & International Tour. Concert productions and live shows include: The Rolling Stones; Frank Sinatra; Elton John; Rod Stewart; Pavarotti; Seal; Janet Jackson; Liza Minnelli; The 3 Tenors; Black Eyed Peas; Deadmau5; 50 Cent; George Benson; Swedish House Mafia; John Legend; Shakira; Tap Dogs; Eminem; Ultra Music Festival (2014 – 2020, 2023); Cirque Éloize iD (2014 & 2016); Disney On Ice (2014 – 2019); Jason Mraz; Russell Brand; Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre; Yusuf Cat Stevens; Slava’s Snow Show; The Illusionists; Dynamo, James Morrison, Monster Jam (2018 & 2023), Stomp, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Yo-Yo Ma, Ndlovu Youth Choir in Concert (2022 & 2023), Gregory Porter SA Tour, Candace Bushnell – True Tales of Success, Sex and Sex and the City. 2024: Lalah Hathaway SA Tour, Ultra Music Festival, MAMMA MIA!, The Magic of Rob Lake, Ndlovu Youth Choir, Freestyle Kings Live, Disney’s The Magic Box and Tyla. 2025: Ndlovu Youth Choir, Tyla, Dear Evan Hansen, Soul II Soul and more! For more information, go to showtime.co.za

About Liberty

Liberty is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Standard Bank Group and is currently one of the largest providers of long-term insurance solutions to South Africa’s retail affluent market. With a strong and relevant brand of more than 60 years, Liberty offers an extensive and comprehensive range of products and services to help clients build and protect their wealth and lifestyle. This is enabled by Liberty’s 3,000-strong tied distribution force that expertly equips customers with knowledge to make financial decisions. Liberty's incorporation into Standard Bank provides synergies and advantages not only in South Africa but across the African continent, positioning Liberty as an integral part of a universal financial services organisation focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences and superior value. Liberty's wholly owned asset manager STANLIB is one of the biggest retail unit trust managers (including money market) in South Africa, with award-winning capabilities in property and fixed income, who together with their offshore partners are able to provide unique investment opportunities for clients. Liberty Group Ltd is a licensed life insurer and an authorised financial services provider (no.2409).

About Griza Enterprise

Griza Enterprise is a brand solutions and creative content agency. Their work focuses on middle to affluent markets across the continent. Based in South Africa, their strategy development is enriched by our scholarship in African arts and culture, taking advantage of the golden thread running through the markets the company serves. Clients and partners include Liberty, Mercedes Benz, Reciprocal wines, Strauss & Co, Nedbank, Turbine Art Fair and the Stellenbosch Wine Route.

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join 

The Life's Way Blog: https://www.thelifesway.com/

Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join

If you like my content, please do support - https://www.patreon.com/TheLifesWay

Aum Namah Shivay!

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews

and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to other platforms - https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 12 Years!

Flip Flop Day – Friday, 14th February 2025: Love in Every Soleful Step

Hi Guys, 

Childhood cancer is a diagnosis no family should have to go through alone. Yet, every day across South Africa, countless families wake up to this life-altering reality. The journey is one of immense challenges—but it’s also one where love, community, and compassion can make all the difference.

This Valentine’s Day, Flip Flop Day 2025 offers South Africans a chance to stand in solidarity with children and teenagers who have been diagnosed with cancer. Let’s unite—sole by sole, flip flop by flip flop—and prove that together, we’re stronger than any challenge.

What the Flip?

Flip Flop Day, organised by CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, is an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer and their families.

For just R10, participants can purchase a sticker and wear their flip-flops with pride on Friday, 14th February 2025. This simple yet powerful gesture sends a message of hope and unity, showing children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer that they are not alone. It’s love in action, and compassion in every step.

Soulful Hearts Unite: Sole Mates Wanted

Flip Flop Day 2025 is calling for “Sole Mates” South Africans ready to step up for this life-changing cause.

Whether you’re an individual, a school, a corporation, or a volunteer, this Valentine’s Day is your opportunity to show love and solidarity with children and families facing the toughest battle of their lives. When we come together, our soles are unstoppable. Let's flip into action and prove that love truly conquers all, from bustling boardrooms to vibrant classrooms, from the seaside to the city.

Your R10 Can Change Lives

When a child or teenager is diagnosed with cancer, the difficult journey for the entire family begins. For Lebo, a bright 8-year-old who once spent her days running around her schoolyard, the diagnosis of leukaemia turned her world upside down.

The once-vibrant laughter in her home was replaced with worry as her parents struggled to understand the medical terms, treatment schedules, and the emotional toll. That’s when CHOC stepped in with psychosocial support, a foundation of their care.

Through counselling and emotional support, the CHOC team helped Lebo’s parents navigate the fears of treatment, providing them with tools to comfort their daughter through her toughest days. Lebo found ways to express feelings she couldn’t put into words, and her parents found strength in connecting with other families facing similar challenges.

“The psychosocial support we received gave us hope,” shares Lebo’s mother. “It taught us how to be strong for Lebo, how to bring laughter back into our home, and how to face each new day, together.”

This is the heart of CHOC’s work. Every sticker purchased for Flip Flop Day contributes to programmes like these—offering tailored emotional, social, and practical support that makes an immeasurable difference for children, teenagers, and their families.

Flippie, the SOLE-dier of Love

Leading the charge is Flippie, South Africa’s favourite and most beloved CHOC SOLE-dier. Flippie is passionate about spreading compassion and rallying support for children and teenagers taking on the toughest journey of their lives. Flip Flop Day is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of unity, empathy, and love.

What CHOC Stands For

The CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa is an internationally recognised non-profit organisation that supports children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer and their families.

CHOC provides life-changing services, including emotional and practical support, as well as education on the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer. With over 1,500 children and teenagers in their care at any given time, CHOC’s mission is to ensure that no family walks this journey alone.

A Message from CHOC CEO, Hedley Lewis

“Flip Flop Day is more than just a fun event—it's a movement of kindness and support," says Hedley Lewis, CHOC CEO. "By flipping on your flip flops and donating R10, you’re stepping up to make a real difference in the lives of children and teens battling cancer. It's a simple act that shows we care and that we stand together. Let's turn every step into a stride of hope and solidarity."

What our Retail Partner, Tekkie Town, have to say

"It is always our privilege to work with CHOC and support their annual Flip Flop Day in our stores nationally. Cancer and the effect thereof is a cause close to many of our hearts and if in this small way, we can amplify awareness and drive support for this team, we will. Tekkie Town is proud to partner with CHOC and our fellow partners to make this Flip Flop Day - on Valentine's Day for 2025 - the perfect way to show your love and care” - Julie Mostert, head of marketing for Tekkie Town.

How You Can Step Up

Flip Flop Day 2025 is bigger and better than ever.

Get your stickers at Tekkie Town, CHOC Regional Offices, or online at www.choc.org.za.

On Friday, 14th February 2025, wear your flip flops or Ipanema’s, and of course, your stickers to show your support. Whether you’re hosting a fundraiser at work, organising a school event, or simply stepping out in your flip-flops, your participation makes a world of difference.

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join 

The Life's Way Blog: https://www.thelifesway.com/

Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join

If you like my content, please do support - https://www.patreon.com/TheLifesWay

Aum Namah Shivay!

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews

and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to other platforms - https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 12 Years!

Stationery Review 130 - BIC My 4 Colours Box (ZAR 199)

Hi Friends,

BIC Pens needs no introduction and as a student, you must have had some exam written using the same. For me, BIC pens were a luxury in India as there are cheaper pens available in the market that we used to write with but then also BIC four-in-one pen was something I really wanted to own. The same came true when I came to South Africa and bought one from the Pick n Pay store at a discounted price. The one I got has a mechanical pencil also built into the same. The same has traveled with me ever since and I do use it if I have to do some forms for a VISA or any kind of government work. 

Last year I came across a unique packaging at the Pick n Pay store where the 4 Colours as they are called in South Africa, are in the pen shape pack. It was really a unique packaging and I bought it from the Pick and Pay at Nicole. This year I saw another kind of packaging at Makro which really inspired me to pick some more of them. This time the same was available in Tin packaging which was really awesome. 

Check out the video that I created of using the same and also doing a small unboxing for you guys. This packaging has 5 pens inside the box. There are 3 pens with metallic bodies in our normal ink colours - Red, Blue, Green and Black. The other two have Pastel coloured body designs and ink colours are also unique. I really love the smooth flow of ink on the paper. The great plastic quality on these pens and also the colours of inks that are available in this range. The best part is that you can use them for years and can carry them wherever you want. You can keep them in your backpack, pencil case or just randomly in your desk or table and they will start writing when you are ready to do so. 

Link to video - https://youtu.be/TL3silUcOgI

I got to meet the BIC Team at one of their events for Global Education Week. I showcased what I have collected over the years from the brand. This set is definitely going into the Stationery museum that I have created for myself. It brings me a lot of joy to not only use the pens but also to just admire the beautiful writing instruments in their resting place inside the tin box. I wish that along with the body colours they should have all 20 refills in different colours for a special edition packaging. I am sure it's going to happen soon as BIC have those kinds of refills available with them. 

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join 

The Life's Way Blog: https://www.thelifesway.com/

Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join

If you like my content, please do support - https://www.patreon.com/TheLifesWay

Aum Namah Shivay!

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews

and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to other platforms - https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 12 Years!

Huawei to Unveil Next-Generation Foldable Smartphone at Dubai Launch Event @HuaweiZA

Hi Guys, 

• Huawei Prepares to Revolutionise Mobile Tech with Dubai Launch of Foldable Smartphone
• Huawei to Introduce the Future of Foldable Smartphones at December Launch in Dubai
• HUAWEI Mate X6: A foldable smartphone featuring cutting-edge technology.
• HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4: Stylish audio wear with superior sound quality.
• HUAWEI nova 13 Series: Sleek smartphones that marry performance and aesthetics.

Huawei is set to host a highly anticipated launch event in Dubai this December, where the company will showcase a lineup of groundbreaking products poised to push the boundaries of innovation. The event marks a pivotal moment for the brand, unveiling groundbreaking products like the HUAWEI Mate X6, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4, and HUAWEI nova 13 Series. The new products will set new benchmarks for design, functionality, and user experience in the mobile and audio markets.

As Huawei continues to solidify its position as a leader in the tech industry, this launch will underscore the company’s expanding influence in international markets.

A New Era for Foldable Phones

Huawei’s latest flagship foldable, the HUAWEI Mate X6, will be unveiled during the Dubai launch. The phone is expected to redefine the future of foldable smartphone technology. It is among the company’s most advanced foldables to date. The Mate X6 is expected to once again raise the bar of mobile photography, building on Huawei’s legacy of pioneering smartphone cameras with its Mate Series.

Besides the Mate X6, Huawei will unveil its next-generation audio products, including the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4. These earbuds will be the first to feature HUAWEI SOUND, offering an immersive audio experience. They will also include AI-driven noise reduction technology, designed to isolate the wearer’s voice during calls while eliminating environmental noise—a feature that significantly enhances call quality, particularly in noisy environments.

Consumers can also look forward to the launch of the HUAWEI nova 13 series, a new midrange smartphone that brings a unique interweaving design and an array of exciting features. The HUAWEI nova 13 series offers significant upgrades over its predecessors, including enhanced camera capabilities, a performance boost, and more. Additionally, the new HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 will deliver a paper-like experience, perfect for light office productivity, efficient learning, and everyday tasks.

A Strategic Milestone

The Dubai event, scheduled for the 12th of December, will mark the global unveiling of Huawei's several innovative products. The MEA market is one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic regions for technology, and Huawei is committed to strengthening its regional presence. By continuing to introduce groundbreaking products, Huawei is positioning itself to shape the future of mobile technology while reinforcing its role as a global tech powerhouse.

Looking forward to using the products soon enough after the launch! Cheers!!!

All the very best to Huawei South Africa Team and people travelling to Dubai for this launch event! 

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join 

The Life's Way Blog: https://www.thelifesway.com/

Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join

If you like my content, please do support - https://www.patreon.com/TheLifesWay

Aum Namah Shivay!

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews

and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to other platforms - https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 12 Years!

rAge 2024: A GALAXY OF GAMING FASHION AND ART AWAITS

Hi Friends, 

The really Awesome Gaming Expo (rAge) - South Africa’s premier gaming and pop culture expo, is coming to the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec from November 29th to December 1st.

With its multiverse of gaming culture, rAge 2024 is not just about games and high tech—it’s about celebrating creativity in all forms, from fashion to bespoke handcrafted items. Visitors can spend the entire weekend exploring the planet of rAge, stocking up on one-of-a-kind festive season gifts, and immersing themselves in an unforgettable experience.

rAge Expo 2023 - Original Art at The Artist Alley

The Artists Alley

Artists Alley is set to be a major highlight of this year’s event. Whether looking for unique keepsakes, handcrafted cosplay accessories, or bespoke gifts, the Alley has it. Nadja Späth, Director of Legion Events SA and curator of Artists Alley, explains what makes this year special.

“We’ve rigorously vetted all vendors and artists to ensure that every item on sale is unique, tailored and handcrafted. There’s no room for mass-produced items here—everything you’ll find in the Alley has been made with passion and creativity.

“The Alley will feature more than 48 stands, expanding beyond last year’s success. Attendees can expect an eclectic array of items, from plushies and crocheted treasures to handmade tabletop role-playing accessories – such as resin cast dice and accessories like wooden dice towers and DM screens, sculptures, cosplay accessories, and custom jewellery. It’s the perfect place to find quirky, creative gifts that you won’t find in any retail store. Plus, on Black Friday (November 29th), Artists Alley will be offering exclusive specials—so be sure to grab those deals!”

In addition to shopping, the Alley will also feature a dedicated art area where visitors can purchase original artwork from local artists. With the rise of AI-generated art, the Artists Alley is doubling down on supporting human creativity. Artists will also offer merchandise like stickers, T-shirts, and mugs, and even take commissions for custom pieces. It’s a celebration of true craftsmanship.

For those looking for something fun and different, this area will also feature temporary airbrushed tattoos.

Nibble Gaming Fashion Show 2023 - model wearing top from Otaku Clothing and cap from Ivyson Army

A Gaming Fashion Show

Nibble Esports, is bringing something exciting to rAge expo with a gaming fashion show that merges cosplay, fandom merchandise, and street fashion into a dazzling display of style and creativity.

“This year’s fashion show is all about celebrating how gaming culture influences fashion in the real world,” says Ruth Bleeker, Managing Director at Nibble. “We’re showcasing everything from full cosplay outfits to more casual gaming-inspired streetwear, focusing on how fandom, identity, and style intersect.

“In addition, we’ll have SPOT (sophisticated agile mobile robot) from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) at the expo as well as participation from their dynamic Fashion Department – which is really exciting!”

Ruth explains that gaming fashion is more than just cosplay competitions—it’s about personal expression and identity. “Gamers are more than just players. They have interests in music, fashion, sports, and more. Through this show, we’re bringing that sense of identity and style to the forefront.”

The fashion show will not feature professional models. Instead, members of the gaming community will take centre stage, highlighting how fandom culture is accessible to everyone.

“At the end of the day, fashion is about community. We want to keep it community-centric, showcasing real gamers and cosplayers who represent what the gaming world is all about.”

This year’s theme is influenced by techwear, urban casual, and Afrofuturism. Expect to see a blend of streetwear fashion, with looks that are big on TikTok and Instagram, and rapidly making their way into South African culture.

And here’s the best part: many of the items showcased during the fashion show will be available at rAge! “We want people to be able to walk away from the show not just with inspiration but with the actual looks and accessories they loved!”

Whether you’re a gamer, fashionista, or someone who loves handcrafted art and unique gifts, rAge expo has something for everyone. Dive into gaming culture, explore innovative tech, celebrate creativity, and stock up on gifts for the festive season—all in one place!

Nibble Africa team. Left to right seated Ruth Bleeker, Aidan Kruger, Dharshan Moonasar, Lukhanyo Gqokoma. Standing Glenn Marc (CEOFounder)

Event Details:

Dates: November 29th – December 1st, 2024

Venue: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec

Tickets: Available via Howler

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join 

The Life's Way Blog: https://www.thelifesway.com/

Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-6P7TDOoCy8qCEQb7eUNw/join

If you like my content, please do support - https://www.patreon.com/TheLifesWay

Aum Namah Shivay!

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews

and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to other platforms - https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 11 Years!