Gqeberha – Thursday, 27 February 2025 – Umhlobo Wenene FM is thrilled to announce the pilot event for 123Pholaz Unplugged on Tour, an exciting new format that takes the station’s beloved Unplugged sessions hosted by Amaza Ntshanga and Lusanda Mbane beyond the SABC building foyer and into unique venues across the country. The first instalment of this initiative will take place on Friday, 28 February 2025, at Capsicum Culinary Studio and the IIE School of Hospitality and Service Management (IIEHSM) in Rosebank.
As the station closes off Love Month in style, this exclusive event promises an afternoon of music, food, and immersive experiences, setting the stage for a potential monthly series launching in the new SABC fiscal year. This special edition of 123Pholaz Unplugged will feature:
- A live stream from 12:00 – 15:00 and a dynamic live broadcast (OB) from 13:00 – 15:00, with engaging interviews, interactive cooking sessions, and live entertainment.
- A curated culinary experience, led by professional chef, Andile Magwaza where guests will enjoy a live cooking session culminating in a delectable food-tasting segment on-air.
- Mocktail-making activities led by Simphiwe Dlamini and entertainment, featuring a special performance by the sensational Lwah Ndlunkulu and a feature with Donald and Mthandazo Gatya, who will be part of the interactive sessions.
To make this event even more memorable, Unplugged on Tour will provide a unique platform for brand collaboration and industry networking, immersing like-minded brands and partners in an engaging and experiential setting.
Loyiso Bala, Business Manager of Umhlobo Wenene FM, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating: “Unplugged on Tour is a bold step towards redefining how we engage with our audience and create experiences beyond the traditional studio space. Partnering with Capsicum Culinary Studio and the IIE School of Hospitality & Service Management allows us to blend the best of entertainment and hospitality, offering an immersive experience that speaks to our listeners and partners alike.”
The Head of Capsicum Culinary Studio and IIEHSM Rosebank Campus, Nicole De Jager, added: “We are delighted to partner with Umhlobo Wenene FM on this exciting initiative. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to provide experiential learning opportunities that connect students with industry leaders and real-world experiences. Hosting ‘Unplugged on Tour’ at our campus is a fantastic way to showcase the synergy between music, food, and hospitality.”
Umhlobo Wenene FM remains committed to elevating the live music and cultural experience for its audience, and Unplugged on Tour is the next step in this journey. Stay tuned for more updates as the station takes this unforgettable experience on the road!
ABOUT UMHLOBO WENENE FM
Umhlobo Wenene FM is one of South Africa’s leading radio stations, renowned for its culturally vibrant content and commitment to promoting local talent, indigenous language and the spirit of friendship. Broadcasting in isiXhosa to over 4 million listeners nationwide, Umhlobo Wenene FM carries a legacy of connecting communities and enriching lives, while never leaving them behind. 123Pholaz is a vibrant, lifestyle, arts and entertainment midday show that airs Mondays to Friday between 13:00 and 15:00pm. It caters to both the young, progressive listener, and by virtue of its feature of the popular drama, “Ithini na Lento”, it also caters to the older, loyal and nostalgic listener. The show engages listeners through a mix of content including the live performances through the Unplugged Sessions which feature every Friday between 14:00 and 15:00pm.
ABOUT CAPSICUM CULINARY STUDIO & IIE SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY AND SERVICE MANAGEMENT
Capsicum Culinary Studio is South Africa’s leading culinary school, accredited by QCTO, CATHSSETA, City & Guilds (UK), SA Chefs, and WACS. As part of the ADvTECH Group, the school provides industry-focused, globally recognised training across seven campuses nationwide.
The IIE School of Hospitality & Service Management (IIEHSM) is a centre of excellence in both hospitality and service management education. They offer industry-aligned qualifications that combine practical expertise with strong commercial foundations, preparing graduates for successful careers in these dynamic sectors. Their qualifications are registered and accredited, ensuring students receive high-quality, career-ready education. Programmes are available in full-time contact learning and some via online/distance learning, providing flexibility to study in a way that suits individual needs through their two Johannesburg and Cape Town campuses.
ENDS
Media Enquiries:
Issued By: Group Communications
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)
NgubaneMV@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590
