SABC introduces #DepartmentalShowcase, a campaign meant to recognize the internal divisions’ contributions to the overall broadcast mandate meant to serve the South African public. This month, we zoom into the Employee Wellness department; which provides comprehensive and holistic Health and integrated Wellness Services and Benefits to the employees of the SABC. The benefits of the department consist of clinics available across our provincial sites which include primary and occupational Health Care Services that are rendered by professionals.

The department also provides Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which comprises counseling, advisory, and support services available 24/7, 365 days a year. The EAP services include psychosocial, legal, and financial support and advisory services and benefits which also extend to the direct dependants of the SABC employees. The Employee Wellness Department has also implemented bespoke wellness initiatives that are trending and meet best practice standards in the industry, these initiatives include but are not limited to stress management components, such as mindfulness sessions, stress-reduction workshops, and coaching. Our wellness initiatives strive to include educational components relating to personal development and skills enhancement. Continuous learning opportunities can stimulate intellectual curiosity and provide employees with the tools and knowledge to approach challenges in novel ways

From a physical well-being perspective, SABC also has an on-site gym that provides a comprehensive fitness program offering a variety of aerobic and spinning classes which are now available virtually.  Aside from this, the Employee Wellness Department has launched an innovative APP that allows to complete wellness assessments, track your fitness and book an appointment with a wellbeing professional.

Through these various initiatives, the department strives to enhance employee engagement and productivity by promoting employee well-being at all levels (employee, management, and executive), making services easily accessible, and implementing bespoke wellness initiatives that are customized to suit the needs of each employee. This overall leads to increased engagement and job satisfaction as healthier employees are likely to be more productive, which aligns with achieving higher efficiency, output, and overall success of the SABC.

SABC1 is thrilled to introduce the new reality series Vusi Nova Unprovoked on Saturdays at 20:00, starting 2 March 2024. 

The reality series Vusi Nova Unprovoked, follows musician Vusi Nova on his journey of conquering life stages with the fervour of his performances. 

The series takes the viewers through his unstoppable journey from a life of fame on the Fastlane to gate-crashing into grandfather hood, a life-changing spiritual odyssey and business ventures, where surrender is not an option, and every challenge is a stepping stone to extraordinary triumphs.

Vusi Nova’s life punctuated by soul-stirring music sessions and high-stakes business deals, all set against the backdrop of luxurious locales. Amid the glitz of fame and the glamour of fortune, he remains a young Xhosa man at heart, deeply connected to his cultural roots. This world is an intricate blend of modern extravagance and traditional values, where spiritual journeys and ancestral ties are as significant as his next chart-topping hit or business venture.

The series invites Vusi Nova fans into his universe, a kaleidoscope of relentless ambition and boundless creativity, moments of vibrant tapestry woven with threads of fashion-forward trends and exotic travel destinations. 

Episode highlights: 

Episode 1 – 2 March 2024

Vusi grapples with the shock of becoming a grandfather while preparing for a gig and dealing with the loss of his dog. A surprise visit from Dezz with news of his child and a candid conversation with friend Somizi sets the tone for Vusi’s multifaceted life.

Episode 2 – 9 March 2024

Vusi explores acting, revealing his vulnerability during an audition. Personal reflections surface during a nail session, and a team-building meeting exposes internal group tensions. Discussions with Somizi about spirituality hint at deep personal journeys, intertwining fame with introspection and friendship.

Episode 3 – 16 March 2024

Vusi delves into the alcohol business, meeting suppliers and blending unique flavours. Family ties explored through candid conversations with Dezz about fatherhood and a dog funeral reflects Vusi’s compassionate side. Consultations with a Sangoma mark a spiritual turn, deepening his connection with ancestral roots.

Episode 4 – 23 March 2024 

Emotions run high at an all-white party, where Vusi performs and confronts past heartbreaks. Shopping at Sandton City highlights his fashion sense. Intimate discussions with Sulezi about his spiritual journey and therapy considerations reveal his inner struggles and resilience.

Episode 5 – 30 March 2024

Tensions and emotional complexities surface as Vusi deals with the dynamics of grandfather hood, navigates his role in the family, and prepares for a ceremony. Candid discussions about relationships, combined with therapy, unveil layers of Vusi’s character, balancing public image with private vulnerabilities, layers of Vusi’s character, balancing public image with private vulnerabilities.

Episode 6 – 6 April 2024

The episode showcases a lively PJ party hosted by Brinette, where Vusi’s friends gather. In a different setting, at Vusi’s house, the boys throw a wild party in his absence, leading to dramatic confrontations and a surprising visit from a relationship expert.

Episode 7 – 13 April 2024

Vusi faces a tense situation at East London airport, avoiding Nathi due to a personal conflict. Vusi performs at the Umhlobo Wenene FM event, marked by a blend of professional dedication and personal strife, with attempts to resolve issues with Nathi.

Episode 8 – 20 April 2024

After his performance, Vusi and Sipho debrief, navigating the complexities of his relationship with Nathi. Vusi’s day includes a haircut session interrupted by issues with his bodyguards and a poignant visit to the graveyard, reflecting on life transience.

Vusi Nova Unprovoked will not broadcast on 27 April due to the broadcast of the Metro FM Awards. 

Episode 9 -4 May 2024 

Vusi makes a bold move, fires Sipho and appoints Stu as his temporary manager. The episode follows Dez and Stu’s efforts to mend fences, Vusi’s home exercises, and a failed meeting with Nathi, showcasing the challenges of managing personal and professional relationships.

Episode 10 – 11 May 2024

This episode revolves around a significant family function, with Vusi and his relatives engaging in traditional rituals and dealing with family dynamics. Tensions and emotions run high as Vusi navigates the complexities of his cultural heritage and family. 

Episode 11 – 18 May 2024

The day of Umcimbi brings Vusi closer to his family with heartwarming moments and cultural celebrations. Vusi’s conversation with his uncle about his readiness to have a child marks a pivotal moment in his personal life, reflecting his deep desire for family. 

Episode 12 – 25 May 2024

Vusi attends the Deborah Cox concert, finally meets Dez’s baby mama, and deals with the aftermath of a stabbing incident involving his bodyguard. The episode also covers a legal consultation regarding event organization issues, highlighting the ongoing challenges in Vusi’s career and continuity expectations.

Episode 13 – 1 June 2024 

The season finale unfolds with Vusi tackling financial disputes in Motherland and seeking personal evolution through therapy. He navigates the poignant aftermath of Cooper’s funeral, reflecting the depth of his emotional world. A mysterious, unresolved air hangs over his relationship with Phindile, particularly their discussions about having a baby, a topic shrouded in secrecy and past attempts. The episode reaches a crescendo with a dramatic kitchen brawl among the boys, a vivid showcase of the high stakes and raw emotions that define Vusi’s life.

For more information, interview opportunities, and publicity images, contact the SABC1 publicity team. 

Angeke Bas’khone with Vusi Nova: Unprovoked on Saturdays at 20:00 from the 2nd of March 2024, only on SABC1 Mzansi FoSho!

trufm, the Eastern Cape’s leading youth-centric radio station, is thrilled to present truTalent 2024, an initiative aimed at discovering the region’s most creative and talented radio presenters and DJs aged between 18 to 34. This initiative represents a significant move towards diversifying the station’s talent pool while providing a platform for young individuals to showcase and nurture their skills.

Since its debut in 2012, truTalent has remained committed to engaging and connecting with the youth of the Eastern Cape. This year, the campaign expands to six different towns within the region, calling on listeners to audition in three exciting categories: Radio Presenter, Sport Presenter, and DJing.

The categories and corresponding prizes are as follows:

A fortunate listener, who votes the most in any category, will also receive a cash prize of R5,000.

Mr. Loyiso Bala, Business Manager of the Eastern Cape combo which includes trufm expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “truTalent has always been about discovering and empowering young talent in the Eastern Cape. This year, we are taking it a step further by collaborating with Vodacom and the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA). We believe these strategic partnerships will not only elevate the truTalent campaign but also significantly contribute to the growth and exposure of local talent in the region.”

Mr Bala added that “Vodacom’s collaboration with truTalent extends beyond sponsorship. The telecommunications giant will play a crucial role in digitising the campaign, providing a messaging platform, online registration, judging systems, and data for the winners. This digital support is particularly significant in the Eastern Cape, where low digital penetration poses a challenge. Ms. Dora Francis, Executive Head of Division – Eastern Region, expressed, “We are excited to be part of truTalent 2024, bringing digital solutions to a talent campaign. Our commitment is not only to sponsor but also to empower the youth digitally, ensuring their voices are heard and talents recognised on a broader scale.”

truTalent is also proud to partner with the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), with a focus on community radio stations within the Eastern Cape. Community radio stations often serve as fertile ground for talent development, and MDDA’s involvement will further amplify the exposure and opportunities for emerging talents in the region. Some of trufm’s on-air talent from regional radio stations, who had previously won or came second during the competition include Boyz Mpunzi, who came from BayFM; Hlumela from Mdantsane FM; Slujah from Mdantsane FM;  Ntombozuko from Mdantsane FM, and Sima Fiyo, who came from Nkqubela FM to name a few.

Mzuvukile Kashe,  Executive Manager of Projects at the MDDA stated that, “The Media Development and Diversity Agency is thrilled to support truTalent 2024, especially in our commitment to community radio development. This collaboration not only provides a platform for aspiring talents but also strengthens the role of community radio in nurturing and showcasing local talent.”

TruTalent officially launches on 9 January 2024, with the following dates being key to the project:

• Audition phase: 18 January  to 10 February 2024, in six towns across the Eastern Cape are scheduled as follows:
  • Friday, 19 January 2024:  Matatiele
  • Saturday, 20 January 2024:  Bizana
  • Saturday, 27 January 2024: Mthatha
  • Friday, 2 February 2024: East London
  • Saturday, 3 February 2024: Komani
  • Saturday, 10 February 2024: Gqeberha
• Workshops: 17 February 2024.
• Voting: 19 February to 14 March , 2024.
• truTalent Announcement: 15 March 2024, on trufm Drive 326

truTalent 2024 is not just a talent search, but it is a life-changing opportunity, providing hands-on experience and employment opportunities to winners. To register to be part of auditions, entrants are encouraged to click on this link https://tru.5v.co.za that can also be found on trufm’s website, which is  www.trufm.co.za as well as on trufm’s social media platforms @trufm on Facebook, X  (formerly Twitter) and Instagram | @trufmza on Tik Tok.

END

For media inquiries, please contact:

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

**About trufm:**

Trufm is the only radio station that targets the youth (15-35) of the Eastern Cape. It is the second biggest regional radio station in the Eastern Cape, spanning 262 000 audiences, a figure above some of Johannesburg’s hottest frequencies. Prior to the launch of the new transmitter, the station reached as far as Bizana in the eastern-most part of Eastern Cape, Makhanda (former Grahamstown) in the southern-most part and Queenstown in the northern-most part of Eastern Cape. The station prides itself as being the fertile ground that produced several well-known personalities and professionals who are now serving in more established radio brands. The station’s music format offers a diverse range of upbeat urban contemporary music. The brand’s tone and sound is upbeat, positive, inspiring, empowering, interactive and encapsulates the aspirations, style, language, lifestyle and future of the Eastern Cape youthful audience. The station’s premise is that they do it #LikeNooneElse

Home cooks with a passion for food can now throw their name in the pot to be chosen as a contestant on the fresh new season of MasterChef South Africa, sponsored by Pick n Pay and broadcast on S3 (formerly known as SABC3).  

If you’re a wizard in the kitchen whose divine dishes have friends and family begging for seconds, this television show could turn you into Mzansi’s next culinary sensation.

The winner of the local fifth version of the world’s biggest television cooking competition will also scoop a tasty R1 million in prize money.

To possibly bake, fry, or roast your way to success in the MasterChef South Africa kitchen, you must be a South African citizen above the age of 18 who has never earned a living as a professional chef.

You simply have to live and breathe food, love spending time in front of the stove, and know how to whip up the most mouthwatering meals.

Based on these basic ingredients, the MasterChef South Africa producers will whittle down all the entries via different audition phases. Eventually, twenty contestants from different walks of life will wear MasterChef’s iconic apron representing South Africa’s rich and varied food culture. These twenty lucky amateur chefs will then be able to impress the show’s three celebrity judges with their culinary creations from the ingredients stocked in the kitchen’s Pick n Pay Pantry.

So, how do you enter this life-changing competition? Visit the official MasterChef South Africa website at www.masterchefsa.tv, where you’ll find all the instructions. Also, make sure you use this exact website address. Since MasterChef is a global phenomenon produced in many countries, there are dozens of show and fan pages on the internet.

The closing date for entries is 15 March 2024.

The multiple-award-winning Cape Town-based production company Homebrew Films will produce MasterChef South Africa.

2023 ended with Kwaito and Lizzy jumping the broom, the Seakamelas finally having moved to their double storey house, Mapitsi getting an opportunity of a lifetime at Berry Fm and Ivy and Obed Kgomo being on the brink of a possible reconciliation.

This year brings dirty secrets bubbling to the surface, budding new relationships, a fallen star, and a high-speed car chase. With new stories, sometimes comes new faces.

Tsietsi and Pule turn up the charm at Bazaruto and Pretty and Eunice are impressed, leaving Lehasa and Leeto green with envy. Could these 2 gentlemen just be their knights in shining armour?

Tsietsi will be played by Pholoso Mohlala and will be airing from the 26^th of January 2024. The character of Pule will be played by Themba Manganyi, to start airing on the 31^st of January 2024.

Brendan Maphake will be playing the character of Amukelani from 2^nd of February 2024. Amu is the new addition to the Turf High learners and causes a stir when he leaves the girls smitten and all the boys feeling intimidated. He soon becomes the bane of Paxton’s existence, when a certain young lady is drawn to Amu like a moth to a flame.

Nkosi owns a well-established security company and is the perfect definition of ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed’ when he quickly comes to Lehasa’s rescue in his time of need. The character of Nkosi will be played by Nyaniso Dzedze. Look out for him from the 12^th of February 2024.

For more information and interview opportunities contact SABC1 Publicity.

Angeke Bas’khone with Skeem Saam weekdays at 18:30, only on SABC1 Mzansi FoSho!