The weekly Sandton Times Hour is a Sandton magazine show that brings the wanted online pages of The Sandton Times to life.
- A tribute to the late iconic broadcaster, veteran investigative journalist and long-time Carte Blanche presenter Derek Watts.
- Koo Govender, CEO of Publicis Groupe Africa, calls for a rethink of the marketing and media industry’s role in cultural and historical days of significance.
- Joanna Pawelczyk, Director and Co-Owner of The Cirk, and Nataniel Pires, Director of La Bella, share details about their company dedicated to sharing the love of cirque arts.
- Lesley Hudson, Head of Operations for the Handmade Contemporary Fair (HmC Fair), provides all the details about this artisanal luxury fair.
- Sarah Kelly, Associate with APA Africa, chats about the proposed new driving demerit system in South Africa.
- Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.
As the only radio show and podcast dedicated to Africa’s richest square mile, this Sandton magazine show is packed with an array of entertaining and informative interviews blended with the best music, every week on Mix 93.8, Mondays at 7pm.
The Sandton Times offers readers all they ever wanted online, and The Sandton Times Hour is the go-to weekly magazine show broadcast from greater Sandton. The Sandton magazine show features fabulous food spots, luxurious lifestyle bits, first-hand travel tips, motoring notes, and world-class entertainment, business and so much more beyond the borders of greater Sandton. In 2023, the radio show and podcast was selected by Feedspot panellists at #15 on a ranking of Top 40 South Africa Podcasts on the web.
In this week’s show [Edition 129 | Week 35] The Sandton Times covers an array of topical news as well as these interviews:
A Tribute To The Late Iconic Broadcaster Derek Watts
The news of Derek Watts’s passing on 22 August 2023, reverberated around the world. In the realm of journalism and broadcasting, certain individuals manage to transcend the limitations of their medium to become icons, leaving an indelible mark on both their profession and the hearts of their audience.
Derek Watts, a veteran investigative journalist and the face of the iconic show Carte Blanche, was undeniably one such individual. His journey was one of adventure, of embracing every possibility and promise that life had to offer, all while remaining remarkably devoid of selfishness.
In 2020, The Kiffness famously remixed the Carte Blanche signature theme and titled it Turn Down For Watts?, after being featured in an insert alongside Derek Watts.
Rethinking media’s role on days of historical significance With Publicis Groupe Africa CEO Koo Govender
“Women’s month is once again gaining incredible traction in South Africa and consumers are being flooded by campaigns and communications from some of the biggest brands in the country – all of them leveraging the talkability of women with cliché lines like “celebrating our leading ladies”, “girl power” and “breaking the glass ceiling”.
While reading this, you may have assumed that I’d be commending the creative brilliance and excellence echoing across social and traditional media platforms; however, I want us all to take a long, hard look in the mirror as an industry, and ask the question: are we truly honouring these days of significance?
Although our core business revolves around selling products and building a reputation for our clients, we must acknowledge our role in shaping public perceptions by influencing (or leveraging) cultural values of the market. As we commemorate significant days with historical importance (like Women’s Day), it is essential to recognise these occasions run deeper than a simple opportunity to capitalise on trends or boost sales.
The observance of Women’s Day in South Africa and similar events like Black History Month in the United States serve as poignant reminders of our shared history and the struggles of those who came before us. These moments stand as a testament to the resilience and courage of those who fought tirelessly for the rights and opportunities we enjoy today. It is vital that we do not let these commemorations devolve into mere token gestures or marketing gimmicks, undermining their true essence.
As an industry that wields significant influence, we have a responsibility to craft messages that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Instead of creating campaigns solely for commercial gain, we must take the opportunity to connect with our consumers emotionally and intellectually. Acknowledging the significance of these days can open up a dialogue that inspires positive change rather than perpetuating shallow stereotypes or empty narratives.
In our quest for innovation and creativity, we should not forget the roots of these commemorative days. Women’s Day, for instance, marks the 1956 march of South African women against passing laws, a powerful demonstration of unity and defiance against injustice. It is a day to celebrate progress and reflect on the journey ahead towards achieving true gender equality and empowerment.
Let us utilise our combined superpowers as an industry to create impactful and meaningful messages. Messages that not only entertain but enlighten, that not only persuade but provoke thought. The advertising and media industry can be a force for positive change, driving inclusivity and dismantling harmful stereotypes.
Furthermore, we must ensure that our campaigns are not tone-deaf or disrespectful. Careful consideration must be given to these significant days’ cultural context and sensitivities. Our creative endeavours should never exploit or appropriate the struggles of others for our benefit. Instead, they should foster understanding and appreciation of diverse perspectives.
As we embrace Women’s Day in South Africa and other days of significance going forward, let us remember the power we hold as content creators. Let us strive for authenticity, empathy, and social responsibility. Let us not merely sell products but also contribute to a world where meaningful messages drive change and inspire progress. Together, we can make a difference and show that our industry is not just about profit but is driven by purpose.”
The Cirk With Director and Co-Owner Joanna Pawelczyk And Director of La Bella Nataniel Pires
The CIRK, a female-empowered company, brings a range of entertainment options to Cresta:
- Circus Fitness: Collaborating with Jozi Circus School, The CIRK offers diverse circus fitness classes for all ages and fitness levels. Classes include aerial apparatus, pole dancing, acrobatics, and stretching, combining enjoyable workouts with enhanced coordination and confidence.
- Monthly Cirque-Inspired Shows: Each month, The CIRK hosts captivating performances combining storytelling with the enchantment of Cirque arts.
Currently, The CIRK presents ‘La-Bella I am Woman’, a celebration of femininity, strength, and love. From 9 August 2023 to 10 September 2023, Cresta and The CIRK present a series of ‘La-Bella I am Woman’ theatrical performances. These shows showcase mesmerizing dance and aerial acts portraying the resilience and power of women, bringing to life a story of love, passion, drama, and courage.
Details of the ‘La-Bella I Am Woman’ Show:
Venue: The CIRK, Cresta (formerly Barnyard Theatre)
Dates: 9 August 2023 – 10 September 2023
Showtimes: Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm, Sundays at 2pm
Ticket Prices: R160 to R260
For more information, visit The Cirk website.
Handmade Contemporary Fair (HmC Fair) with Head of Operations Lesley Hudson
The upcoming Handmade Contemporary Fair (HmC Fair) is Africa’s premier artisanal luxury event, taking place from 1 to 3 September 2023 at Melrose Arch in greater Sandton. With an emphasis on celebrating African women’s creativity and entrepreneurship, over 90% of the 100 artisans showcasing their craftsmanship are women, and the fair itself is fully women-run.
The event promotes handmade and sustainable products, aligning with a global movement. The fair supports local entrepreneurs, providing them access to markets that sustain employment through production.
With a commitment to celebrating African craftsmanship and design, HmC Fair offers a platform for talented artisans to showcase their work and connect with a discerning audience. Now in its 17th edition, each year the fair attracts a glamorous crowd creating an immersive experience that is not to be missed. HmC Fair’s goal for 2023 is to inspire, enable and shine the spotlight on the African creative community by connecting it to the luxury economy.
The HmC Fair will run from Friday to Sunday:
- Friday, 1 September 2023 from 11:30am – 9pm
- Saturday, 2 September 2023 from 10m – 10pm
- Sunday, 3 September 2023 from 10am – 5pm
Day Passes will be R120, and Weekend Passes will be R200. At the door, tickets will be available for R130 per day, with a Partner Discount rate of R90 per day. Children under 18 can attend the fair free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult.
This year, HmC Fair is also part of Melrose Arch’s ‘All White Spring’ Weekend, with the precinct not only featuring the Fair but also coming alive with a host of other activities. These include The Melrose Gallery’s SculptX, the largest annual sculpture fair in South Africa which opens on the 1 September 2023 as well as Daytona’s annual Supercar Sunday event on 3 September 2023, the largest supercar gathering in South Africa to date.
Tickets for the HmC Fair 2023 can be purchased on WebTickets.
Proposed New Driving Demerit System With APA Africa Associate Sarah Kelly
Sarah Kelly’s expertise lies in corporate law and commercial litigation, spanning alternative dispute resolution, commercial law, debt collection, mediation, employment and labour law, family law, insolvency law, and taxation.
The AARTO Act, aiming to introduce a points demerit system, is a measure hoping to reshape driving behaviours and enhance road safety. This global concept seeks to deter drivers from flouting traffic laws by putting their driving privileges at risk through the accumulation of demerit points. Although not yet enforced in South Africa, the Constitutional Court’s recent decision has validated the AARTO Act, paving the way for its national rollout. Understanding how this system operates sheds light on its potential impact:
- Starting Point: Each driver begins with zero demerit points on their license.
- Demerit Points: Various infractions carry specific demerit points outlined in Schedule 3 of the AARTO Regulations.
- Accumulation: Points are added upon penalty payment, court conviction, enforcement order, or if an infringer applies for installment payment.
- Suspension Threshold: The current threshold is 12 points; exceeding this leads to license suspension. Proposed amendments aim to raise it to 15 points.
- Suspension Period: Exceeding the threshold leads to suspension: 3-months for each point over the limit. For instance, 15 accumulated points would mean a 9-month suspension.
- Repeat Offenders: Licenses can be suspended twice only. Operating a vehicle with a suspended license or operator card is a criminal offense.
- Cancellation: After 2 suspensions and further points accumulation, licenses or cards are cancelled. For driver licenses, this requires starting over with a learner’s license.
- Rehabilitation Program: The AARTO Amendment Act introduces a “driver rehabilitation program” for habitual infringers (those disqualified more than twice).
This system aims to foster responsible driving and safer roads, according to the Act. Its successful implementation could bring about positive changes in road user behaviour, reducing accidents and saving lives. As South Africa moves toward enforcing the AARTO Act, the points demerit system could mark a significant step toward a more secure road environment.
For more information on APA Africa, visit their website.
Sandton Times Hour Music Playlist
- Yves Larock x Steff da Campo – Rise Up 2021 (feat. Jaba) [71 Digits Remix]
- Marc Kiss, Crystal Rock and Blaikz – MMMBop
- Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Phats & Small Remix)
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