MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC TEMPORARILY HALTS SABC+ SERVICES TO FACILITATE SEAMLESS TRANSITION TO NEW SERVICE PROVIDER

Johannesburg – Friday, 01 December 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) announces that it is making some changes to its trailblazing SABC+ app.  This may result in a temporary pause of services, but this is necessary to pave the way for an exciting new service offering. This will ensure that in future there is an enhanced and more robust digital content delivery for our valued viewers.

During this brief hiatus, which should not be more than 48hours, the SABC will be migrating the SABC+ service to a new technology system, which will result in the scheduled downtime. It must also be noted that services will be limited, so don’t be alarmed with the new offering, as it is part of the migration process. Audiences will still be able to stream their favourite SABC content once the migration is complete. New features and modifications will continue to be implemented post the migration as the SABC continually enhances the offering, and we ask that audiences please be patient in this transition period. This update underscores SABC’s dedication to continue providing audiences with an optimized and enriched SABC+ experience.

SABC+ assures its viewers that this interruption is temporary, and efforts are being made to expedite the transition process. Regular updates will be provided to keep our audience informed about the resumption of SABC+ services and the exciting improvements to come.

ENDS

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC WELCOMES NOMSA CHABELI AS GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Johannesburg – Monday, 27 November 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) a leading force in public broadcasting proudly announces the appointment of Ms Nomsa Chabeli, as its new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO).

Ms Nomsa Chabeli whose career path spans over two decades, has amassed a wealth of experience from diverse organisations including MTN and Multichoice where she was the Marketing Director of SuperSport and subsequently the DStv portfolio. In addition, she has served at SAB, Brand South Africa, GCIS and Edcon. She also has a credible history of developing persuasive and highly influential brand messaging that attracts a diverse customer population while also being adept at overseeing market intelligence activities to identify market trends, customer behaviours and emerging technologies.

 

In her role at MTNSA, she has been instrumental in driving MTN to become the most valuable brand in South Africa and being named the 2022 Brand of the Year, by the Brand Finance South Africa 100 report. From envisioning groundbreaking marketing innovation to fostering a culture of creativity, Ms Chabeli has not only elevated the brands she has nurtured but has also left an enduring impact on the industry.

Some of her career highlights include leading the marketing and communications for the successful 2010 World Cup Bid that resulted in South Africa’s confirmation as the host country, Marketing Director of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 and the development and execution of South Africa’s communications and marketing strategy for various Davos World Economic Forums. She holds an MBA from Henley Business School and is currently completing a Masters in Digital Business at Wits Business School.

The SABC Board of Directors has confidence in Ms Chabeli’s ability to drive revenue generation, strategic growth, innovation and uphold the values that have defined SABC’s legacy. In this pivotal role, Ms Chabeli will spearhead the strategic vision and operational excellence across the entire SABC Group. This appointment reflects SABC’s commitment to maintaining excellence in broadcasting and meeting the evolving needs of its diverse audience.

Ms Chabeli stated, “I am truly honored and excited to join the SABC as its new GCEO. This organisation holds a rich legacy of public service through broadcasting, and I am committed to advancing its mission and intensifying efforts to significantly improve revenue generation and lay the foundation for enduring success. Faced with the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, together we will embrace innovation, foster meaningful connections and ensure that our content continues to inspire, inform and resonate with diverse audiences in this dynamic media landscape.”

SABC extends its warmest welcome to Ms Chabeli, and the entire organisation looks forward to achieving new milestones under her leadership.

ENDS

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

Reviving the Sound: SABC’s Journey in Audio Restoration

SABC Transcriptions music now shared on Radio Bantu.

Introduction:

In the heart of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) lies a department with a rich history, spanning back to the early 1950s – the Transcription Department. Established with the noble purpose of recording and promoting local music, this department has been the birthplace of many musical careers, providing a platform for local talent to shine. Today, the Transcription Department combines preserving history with embracing the future – the digitization and audio restoration of its extensive LP collection.

A Musical Time Capsule:

Over the decades, the Transcription Department has amassed a treasure trove of approximately 25,000 LP records, representing a kaleidoscope of musical genres. From the refined notes of Opera and Classical compositions to the foot-tapping rhythms of Boeremusiek and the pulsating beats of Tribal Dance Music, this collection is a testament to the diversity and richness of South Africa’s musical heritage.

The Digital Transformation:

In a bid to ensure the longevity of this musical legacy, the Transcription Department is busy with a transformative journey – the digitization of its vast LP collection. The primary goal is not just to transfer the music into a modern format but to breathe new life into the aging recordings. The rich collection is being shared with the SABC regional African language services, as well as the Radio Bantu stream, that is constantly updated with new material.

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future:

The objective of the audio restoration process goes beyond mere preservation. The team at the Transcription Department is dedicated to creating an auditory experience that transcends time. By removing the imperfections inherent in the original recordings, they are striving to transport listeners into a space where the music sounds as fresh and vibrant as the day it was first captured in the SABC studios.

The Tools of Restoration:

SABC Audio Restoration employs a variety of cutting-edge facilities and techniques for this ambitious project. The process involves not only digitizing the analog recordings but also utilizing advanced audio restoration, mastering, and re-mastering technologies. These tools are instrumental in cleaning up the audio, ensuring that every note, every melody, and every lyric is presented in its purest form.

A Gift for Generations:

The significance of this undertaking extends far beyond the walls of the Transcription Department. The restored music is intended to be a gift for future generations, a bridge that connects them with the musical roots of their nation. Moreover, the digitized collection serves as a valuable resource for current and future SABC broadcasting stations, offering a diverse palette of sounds to enrich the airwaves. The music is also now shared on the Radio Bantu stream.

Conclusion:

As the Transcription Department at SABC embraces the digital age, it does so with a deep sense of responsibility and passion. The audio restoration project is not just about preserving the past but also about ensuring that the music of South Africa continues to resonate across time and borders. In the crackle-free, pop-free realm created by SABC Audio Restoration, the melodies of yesteryears find a new voice, ready to be enjoyed by generations yet to come.

SALUTING, CELEBRATING AND REWARDING GOSPEL EXCELLENCE CROWN GOSPEL AWARDS ON SABC2

SABC2 is excited to close off the year with the celebration of the 16th anniversary of The Crown Gospel Music, taking place on Sunday, 26th November 2023. The Awards will be broadcast on SABC2 on Sunday 3rd of December 2023 at 19:30.

In the history of The Crown Gospel Music Awards, they will be held for the first time in Gauteng, moving from KZN to FNB Stadium.

Khaya Mthethwa returns as the host, alongside media personality Rorisang Thandekiso, with performances from artists such as Xolly Mcwango, Ntokozo Ngongoma, Jumbo Nyangiwe, Nathi Sithole, Sipho Ngwenya, The Tshwane Gospel Choir and DJ Happy Girl.

The Crown Gospel Music Awards salutes and celebrates excellence within the Gospel Music Industry in South Africa and beyond.

This category presenters for this year include former Skeem Saam actor Cornet Mamabolo, actor extraordinaire Vuyo Dabula, Uzalo actor Nkanyiso Mchunu, founder of the Crowns Gospel Music Awards Zanele Mbokazi, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

In the running for The Best Gospel Artist Award are the following artists: Omega Kenou, Andile Majola, Canaan Nyathi, Jumbo Nyangiwe and Tebs David. In The Best Gospel Song Award: Tebs David, Butho Vuthela, Ntokozo Ngongoma, Nathi Sithole, and Jumbo Nyangiwe will contest to see who wins the award.

“Now in their 16th year, the SABC is very proud to be the official broadcast partner of the Crown Gospel Awards since their inception. This year’s awards are exciting because, for the first time in their history, they will be held in the economic hub of the country, Gauteng, and South Africans, especially gospel fans, will be treated to spiritually uplifting performances featuring their favourite Gospel artists and the best that the country and the continent have to offer. The Crown Gospel Awards, the brainchild of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule and the Gospel Powerhouse, are the only awards in the country and the African Continent that acknowledge and celebrate artists in the Gospel Music genre. SABC 2 is thrilled to be the broadcast channel for these awards, which promise to be the best.” – Jacqui Hlongwane, SABC2 Head of Programming.

LIST OF THE CROWN GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS NOMINEES 2023

Number Of Nominees Category Nominee Song/Show
2 Best Gospel Jazz Song Letia Take It To The Lord Swazi
    Holy Ghost Outpouring Clauds I Won’t Fear
4 Best Gospel Acapella JTG Gospel Choir Bek’ithemba Lakho Kuye
    Reality 7 Baba
    Jehovah Praise Mass Choir E Jesu
    Yithi Laba Gospel Singers Thandaza
3 Best Gospel Rap AB Central Indoda Must Pray
    Vovee and LG  Praying For Africa
    Milli The Shepherd Restore My Soul
2 Best Community Outreach Godfrey Mahlangu Amawele  
    Mawelane Letia  
4 Best Community Radio Station Tambo FM Buseka Nomandla
    Siyathuthuka FM Siphelele Ncebo Myeni
    Nqubeko Community Radio Sbonelo Mbatha
    Imbokodo FM – Opulence Radio  Angel Poe
4 Best Gospel TV Show Amahubo Urban Brew
    Women With Purpose One Gospel
    Imvuselelo – Dumisa Hello Mamoruti – Gospel Lifestyle Zion Reloaded -1KZN
    Umthombo Soweto TV
4 Best Gospel Producer Album 3C Live

 

  
    Go Explo  
    Tebs David  
    Bheka Mthethwa  
4 Best Gospel Newcomer Sibusiso Nzima  
    Muzi Zimu  
    Soso Sonwabo Maholwane  
    Vuyile Mboniswa  
    Ndumiso Zungu  
4 Clap and Tap True Faith Full Gospel Choir  
    Full Gospel Holy Choir  
    Isaac And The Mighty Messengers  
    Spiritual Gospel Choir  
3 Best Amazioni Jehovah Praise Mass Choir  
    King The David  
    Bhekani King Mncube  
3 Best Gospel Itende Londiwe Sphe Nxumalo Uphakeme Kakhulu
    Jumbo Makabongwe Jesu
    Sindiswa Maseko Umoya Ka Jehovah
4 Best Gospel Video Bulelani Ndebele  
    Sbu Banda  
    King D Music  
    Dr Excel  
4 Best Gospel Collaboration True Faith Full Gospel Choir  
    Full Gospel Holy Choir  
    Isaac And The Mighty Messengers  
    Spiritual Gospel Choir  
4 Best Gospel Live Recording Gershom Ntimane  
    Dumi Mkokstad  
    Tebs David  
    Boni Maleke  
4 Best Gospel Group 3C Live  
    Tembisa Gospel Group  
    Go Explo  
    Di Bruin  
5 Best Gospel Worship Song Colleen Maluleke Song of breakthrough
    3C Live Communion with the King
    GO Explo Ufanel’udumo
    Sonwabo Bayede
    DR Excel Have your Way
4 Best of Africa Gospel

Everton Mlalazi

  
    Sesame  
    Tsepo Lesola  
    Ov Prince  
7 Best Traditional Gospel Show Lombard Matshinge Jehovah Shammah
    Rofhiwa Manyanga Johane 14
    Butho Vuthela EtheBambelela
    Jonas Masotla Kena Kena
    Qiniso Nsele Ngokhala Kubani
    Canaan Nyathi Ungu Jehova
    Sbu Banda Sine Gama
4 Best Gospel Song Writer 3C Live Power In The Blood
    Andile Kamajola Sekudlule Konke
    Dumi Mkokstad Vumbelimnandi
    Gundo Nemekula U Mukhethwa
5 Best Classic of All Time  Andile Kamajola  Ngendlala Indumiso
    Ga Ndlela Ukhona Umoya Ongwele
    Babo Amatshe
    Thobekile Wonderful Day
    Joseph Tshawana Xihanya Nomu
6 Best Contemporary Gospel Song Jabulile J Miracle Worker
    King D Miracle
    Phindy P Ngobambelela
    Mnqobi Nxumalo Most Holy One
    Sbu Noah  Malifezeke
    Franki and I Forgiven
4 Best Gospel Praise Song   Tebs David Makabongwe
    3C Live You Are
    Mnqobi Nxumalo Most Holy One
    Gershom Jeso o Tshepehile
3 Best Gospel Female Artist Londiwe Kamasondo  
    Sindi Ntombela  
    Londiwe Sphe Nxumalo  
7 Best Gospel Male Artist Rofhiwa Manyaga  
    Jumbo Nyangiwe  
    Omega Kenou  
    Zolisa Kwinana  
    Canaan Nyathi  
    Dumi Mkokstad  
    Tebs David  
4 Best Gospel Album 3C Live Communion With The King
    King D Perfect Love
    Coleen Maluleke Word Prayer Worship
    Dumi Mkokstad The Overflow Gcwala Kimi
4 Best Gospel Artist   

 

 Omega Kenou  
    Andile Majola  
    Canaan Nyathi  
    Jumbo Nyangiwe Tebs David  
  Best Gospel Song  Tebs David Makabongwe
    Butho Vuthela  Ethembeni Bambelela
    Ntokozo Ngongoma Izindlela Zakhe
    Nathi Sithole Baba Mlondolozi
    Jumbo Nyangiwe Makabongwe Ujesu

Do not miss this year’s Crown Gospel Music Awards on Sunday, 3rd December 2023, at 19:30, only on SABC2, your favourite family entertainment TV channel.

For more information and interview opportunities, contact the SABC2 Publicity office.

 

For media enquiries:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist

Video Entertainment

072 382 2032

 

Preserving the Legacy of Radio Bantu

SABC’s Commitment to Safeguarding Cultural Audio Heritage

 

Introduction

 

Radio Bantu holds a special place in the hearts of many South Africans, weaving a tapestry of cultural, social, and historical narratives. In this blog post, we delve into the 21st century and explore the significance of Radio Bantu, shedding light on the commendable preservation efforts led by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and emphasizing the pivotal role individuals play in protecting this unique heritage.

 

The Historical Significance of Radio Bantu

 

Radio Bantu, a network of South African radio stations broadcasting in indigenous languages, emerged as a beacon of hope during apartheid, connecting communities and preserving diverse cultures. It provided a vital platform for marginalized communities to share their stories, music, and traditions, making it an indispensable source of information and entertainment. Preserving Radio Bantu is crucial for future generations to understand and connect with their cultural roots.

 

SABC Radio Archives Preservation Efforts

 

Recognizing the historical and cultural importance of Radio Bantu, the SABC has undertaken extensive preservation efforts. The SABC Radio Archives team diligently works to digitize and archive a vast collection of tapes and recordings, ensuring that the stories and voices of the past remain accessible. This effort not only benefits future generations but also serves as a valuable resource for researchers and historians exploring South Africa’s history and culture. Searching for Material in the Regions Preserving Radio Bantu also involves an ongoing effort to locate and collect material from regions where these radio stations thrived. Actively seeking recordings and content from local communities ensures that no piece of this cultural heritage is lost. This collaborative approach fosters engagement with communities affected by apartheid policies, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on reconciliation and healing.

 

Calling on Listeners to Contribute

 

Preservation efforts extend beyond institutions, with individuals playing a crucial role. Listeners possessing old tapes and recordings from the Radio Bantu era are encouraged to contribute to the SABC Radio Archives. By sharing their collections, individuals contribute to the collective memory of the nation, piecing together a comprehensive picture of South Africa’s history and Radio Bantu’s role in it.

 

Conclusion

 

Radio Bantu is a cultural treasure that deserves preservation for future generations. The SABC’s dedicated efforts, combined with active community and individual involvement, are vital in securing this rich audio heritage. As we look toward the future, let’s recognize Radio Bantu’s importance in shaping the nation’s identity and history, working together to ensure that the voices of the past resonate with generations to come.

 

Listen to the stream: Radio Bantu

Website: SABC Radio Bantu

SABC RADIO BRAG

The total SABC Radio listenership is 26 mil; 24 mil PBS and 6 mil, PCS radio stations. The radio stations have raised the bar in the last 6 months, by celebrating their milestones, being nominated for awards, and winning some of the awards. 5FM won the GenNext coolest brand, with Good Hope remaining among the top 5 coolest brands. Metro FM, Ukhozi FM, and Lesedi FM’s personalities were chosen amongst the Coolest Local Radio Personalities 2023.

 

In fighting competition and creating brand awareness, Metro FM, SAFM, and 5FM had their brand campaigns rolled out using different elements. In keeping the momentum and staying relevant, the brands maximized their existence by celebrating their milestones, Metro FM celebrated its 37 birthday, and 5FM its 48th. The beginning of Spring announced the comeback of the most loved events; Phalaphala FM’s Royal Heritage Festival, XiTsonga Music Awards, High Tea with Lady D, Lemo Festival, and Spring Fiesta, to name but a few. Partnerships and Collaboration with events of public interest, Loeries, SAMA, Crown Gospel Music Awards, SATMA, and including the Music Creators of South Africa added to SABC’s gliding on the wings of change.

 

SABC is at its all-time high with over 100 nominations in this year’s Radio Awards.

 

 

 

 

 

#SAMA29 Unveils Star-Studded Lineup of Presenters and Performers As SABC1 carries out the live broadcast

The South African Music Awards (SAMAs), a distinguished hallmark in the nation’s music scene, is set to make a glorious return for its 29th edition. #SAMA29 promises an extraordinary celebration of South African talent in collaboration with the esteemed music concert Africa Fest. The event is scheduled to grace the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria on 17 and 18 November 2023, offering an unforgettable showcase of the rich diversity of South African music. #SAMA29 will be broadcast live on SABC1 on Saturday, 18 November 2023, at 20:00.

Taking the helm as the hosts for #SAMA29 are the dynamic duo DJ Sabby, known as “The Best Thing Ever” Mtshali, and Nomalanga “The Flame” Shozi. With their infectious energy, magnetic charisma, and profound connections within the South African entertainment landscape, they are the perfect duo to lead this grand celebration of music excellence. Joining them as redcarpet hosts are the talented Hope Mbhele and Thuthuka Mthembu, promising an unforgettable evening filled with glamour and excitement.

#SAMA29 promises a star-studded event and a captivating musical journey with an exceptional lineup of guest presenters, adding their unique flair to the awards ceremony. The presenters include Ayanda MVP Mdluli, Chymamusique, Celeste Ntuli, Criselda Kananda, Demi Lee, Eloise Cupido, Happy Ngidi, Jessica Nkosi, JR, Kabelo Mabalane, Lala Tuku, Loyiso Bala, Ms Cosmo Nothemba Madumo, Nomcebo Zikode, Ready D and Sol Phenduka.

Adding to the excitement, audiences and viewers at home will be treated to unforgettable performances by Makhadzi, Alter Ego, Tumelo.Za, Msaki, Kabza De Small, Mörda, Sincerely Ann, Blxckie, 25K and Loatinover Pounds, among others. The evening will also feature a moving tribute performed by Langa Mavuso, The Jesus Collective and Wouter Kellerman, honouring those in the industry who have passed away.

The South African Music Awards, an annual event that recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in the South African music industry, has a legacy spanning nearly three decades. SAMAs continue to symbolise excellence, diversity, and innovation in the vibrant South African music landscape. Tickets are available for R200 from Computicket.

RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi: “Dreaming, celebrating, and embracing the essence of South African music, #SAMA29 is not just an event; it’s a testament to the exceptional talent that defines our industry. Our hosts, DJ Sabby, Nomalanga Shozi, Hope Mbhele and Thuthuka Mthembu epitomise the energy and charisma that makes South African music shine. Audiences at the Sun Bet Arena and viewers at home can anticipate a night of grandeur and musical brilliance, so we invite everyone to join us in celebrating the best in South African music.”

Live broadcast of the 29th Annual South African Music Awards link:
https://youtube.com/live/HzevQqLREj0

Social Media Handles

Tik Tok: @thesamas_

Instagram: @thesamas_

Twitter: @TheSAMAs

YouTube: samusicawards

Facebook: South African Music Awards

Hashtag: #SAMA29

Website: www.samusicawards.co.za

Notes to editors:

  • The eligibility period for SAMA29 is between 1 February 2022 and 14 April 2023. The submissions period was between 6 March 2023 and 14 April 2023.
  • The awards ceremony will take place at the SunBet Arena at Time Square, Menlyn Maine on 18 November 2023 and broadcast live on SABC1 at 20:00
  • Sponsors for SAMA29 are SABC1; Department of Sports Arts and Culture; SABC; PRASA; SAMPRA; SAMRO; CAPASSO; Proudly SA; ViB Mobile and AfroBotanics.

Tickets are available at Computicket from R200. https://tickets.computicket.com/event/africa_fest/7232986/7232990/82473

Catch #SAMA29 on Saturday 18 November 2023 at 20:00, also streaming on SABC Plus.

For media enquiries

Contact

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist: Video Entertainment

072 382 20232/ Email: phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

SABC JOURNALISTS SHINE AT REGIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS OF WINNERS FOR 2023 VODACOM JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR COMPETITION

The regional winners of the 2023 Vodacom Journalist of the Year competition have been announced and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is once again proud of its Journalists who were crowned regional winners in various categories for this prestigious competition.

 

In their statement, Vodacom said the theme for this year’s edition of the awards was “Authentic Information and Hybrid Content, at a time when journalists are challenged to rise above generative artificial intelligence (AI), and to push factual information”.

 

The following are the SABC Journalists announced as 2023 Vodacom Journalist of the Year Regional Winners:

 

EASTERN CAPE REGION: 

 

  1. Lerato Fekisi (Journalist) and Video journalists Markus Brenner and Gcobani Blom – “Sections of the manganese ore transport and storage sector in Nelson Mandela Bay remain under fire” – Sustainability Winner.

 

FREE STATE/NORTH WEST/ NORTHERN CAPE REGION:

 

  1. Kamogelo Seekoei – “Conversation with family of the deceased found in Bester’s cell” – Live Reporting/ Breaking News Winner.

 

  1. Ditshwanelo Masiea with contributor Reginald Witbooi – “Karate” – Joint Sport Winners

 

  1. Lereko Motseko with contributor Margeret Mothibi –“Boxing”- Joint Sport Winners

 

  1. Karabo Siyoko – Young Journalist of the Year Award Winner

 

Taking place on Thursday, 30 November 2023 will be the national awards ceremony, and the SABC wishes its Journalists who are part of the competition all the best.

 

By: Vuyo Mthembu (Manager: Media Relations – SABC Corporate Affairs and Marketing)

FEZILE MKHIZE TO TURN UP THE TEMPERATURE ON GENERATIONS: THE LEGACY

Generations: The Legacy is thrilled to announce that Fezile Mkhize will be appearing on Generations: The Legacy as the paramedic with a kind heart and killer smile. In addition to this he brings an easy charm to the role of Khensani. Fezile comes with a natural talent in front of the cameras and on stage, having presented Top Billing, played the role of Macbeth in The Macbeths and played Cyril in Adulting.

Viewers will no doubt find him easy on the eye – Fezile was declared Cosmopolitan’s “Sexiest Man 2019”, has graced the cover of Men’s Health, twice and he has won Mr. World South Africa and Mr. World Africa. We promise, this summer is going to be extra hot when Fezile appears.

Being a qualified and practicing doctor, Fezile is well-suited to the role of Khensani the paramedic. Casting Director Russel Savadier says,

“The role of the Paramedic Khensani required an actor who was able to play “charming” and carry a high degree of medical professionalism. Fezile is an actor who perfectly encompasses this. He’s a strong performer – an Ex Mr.-World South Africa – and an ACTUAL medical doctor! That combination works a treat. We’re very excited to have him on board!”

We at Generations: The Legacy have no doubt that Fezile will provide just the tonic needed this summer. So, tune in from Thursday 23 November to catch the very beautiful, very talented doctor on your screens!

MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT TO BE SCREENED LIVE ON S3 AS SOUTH AFRICA’S BRYONI GOVENDER EMERGES AS ONE OF THE FRONT-RUNNERS.

S3 is the official broadcast partner of the 72nd Miss Universe pageant, taking place on Saturday, 18th of November 2023, in El Salvador, Central America. S3 will broadcast the pageant live on Sunday, 19 November, at 3am, South African time and repeat at 19:30 on the same night.

The Miss Universe beauty contest will be the third pageant to be hosted by the channel this year following the successful Miss South Africa and Miss World South Africa broadcasts.

Bryoni Govender was named Miss Universe South Africa at the Miss South Africa 2023 finale, and S3 fully supports Bryoni with the journey ahead.

Contestants from 85 countries are competing in the pageant which will be hosted for the second consecutive time by How Do I Look?  host Jeannie Mai and Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo, along with US TV presenter Maria Menounos. Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and Zuri Hall will also serve again as backstage correspondents. John Legend will perform at this year’s pageant.

“I want the world to stop spinning on its axis so I can breathe it all in and savour this glorious time. Meeting wonderful women from all over the world and connecting with them at so many levels has been a true delight. It’s all going too quickly. I want more time to enjoy every precious moment.”- Bryoni Govender, Miss Universe South Africa.

South Africans and Bryoni’s followers can show their support by voting for her to qualify for the Semi-Final of the Miss Universe by going to the link and clicking on her picture: Welcome to the 72nd MISS UNIVERSE Vote (choicely.com).

Adds the Miss South Africa Organisation CEO Stephanie Weil: “We are delighted with the support that South Africans are showing Bryoni, who is flying the flag high for the country. We wish her all the best as she competes on the international stage, and we know that she has what it takes to win the title as she exudes leadership, focus and passion. She has worked incredibly hard as Miss Universe South Africa and inspires a generation of young girls who wish to reach for a dream.”

“We are truly elated to have the rights to broadcast Miss Universe after a successful broadcast of Miss South Africa earlier this year. S3 continues to deliver on its strategy of bringing globally relevant events to South Africans”. – David Makubyane, Head of Platforms: Video Entertainment.

About The Miss Universe 2023: –

Contestants from 85 countries – including South Africa’s Bryoni Govender – will compete for the Miss Universe title at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador, El Salvador, where R’Bonney Gabriel of the United States will crown her successor at the end of the event. Hosts are TV presenter Jeannie Mai and Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo for the second consecutive time, along with US TV presenter Maria Menounos. Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and Zuri Hall will again serve as backstage correspondents. John Legend will perform in this year’s pageant.  South Africans are hoping that Govender will be the fourth person from this country to take the title.

About S3

S3 is a revamped channel servicing the independent thinker and the progressive South African millennial. We want our viewers to open up to new lands, new content, new ideas and new ways of being. Through this new positioning, S3 invites viewers to take in all the new programming that is on offer; to open up to a dialogue with your public broadcasting channel. Ultimately, our vision is to foster the spirit of curiosity and spearhead a generation of free thinkers. S3 is opening itself up to new viewers. These viewers, who fall under the millennial umbrella, are more socially conscious and environmentally aware than their predecessors. They are progressive and open-minded and S3 will champion their frame of mind.

Open Up to new worlds of reality shows with The Miss Universe on Sunday 19th at 03:00, repeated at 19:30, only on S3.

For media enquiries contact:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist: Video Entertainment

072 382 20232/ Email: phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za