Guinness World Records (GWR) marks its platinum anniversary in 2025, celebrating 70 years of documenting human achievements, natural wonders, and record-breaking feats. Since its first publication in 1955, GWR has become the ultimate authority on records, inspiring millions across the globe. South Africa, with its rich history of sporting excellence, endurance feats, and unique contributions, continues to make its mark in this prestigious compendium. South Africa’s Record-Breaking Moments Springboks: A Legacy of ExcellenceSouth Africa’s passion for rugby reached new heights when the Springboks secured their record-breaking fourth Rugby World Cup victory in 2023 at the Stade de France, surpassing New Zealand. This historic win adds to their previous triumphs in…

“South Africa should leverage the World Economic Forum to highlight its work in preparation for its G20 Presidency. These two forums are interconnected, so South Africa must use the World Economic Forum to emphasise its efforts under the G20 presidency.” – Xhanti Payi, South Africa’s senior economist. A coup de grâce for the Rainbow Nation to host the world’s top 20 powerhouses Fresh from leading the trailblazing Government of National Unity (GNU) delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, President Cyril Ramaphosa now faces the critical mission of elevating South Africa’s global economic standing as the country prepares to host the G20 Summit. South Africa assumed the…

The passing away of Venilla Pinky Padayachee, a beloved educator, mentor, matriarch, and wife of renowned journalist Marlan Padayachee, has left a profound void in the hearts of many. Pinky, aged 65, passed at a Durban hospital, after a courageous battle with cancer. Her legacy as a devoted teacher and advocate for education was celebrated during a heartfelt funeral service and cremation at the Clare Estate Hindu Crematorium, which drew nearly 600 family, friends, and mourners. Tributes poured in from around the world, honouring her four-decade contribution to special and remedial education, a calling she embraced since the 1980s and continued to serve with unwavering passion until the final months…

Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan, a towering figure in South African politics and a relentless advocate for justice, passed away at the age of 75, succumbing to cancer. Gordhan’s remarkable five-decade career, defined by his unwavering commitment to anti-apartheid activism and public service, left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. I knew Gordhan as a political titan—his activism reshaped South Africa’s landscape, starting in the 1970s and continuing through the 1980s. His contributions during the 1990s, a time of great personal sacrifice and political turbulence, cemented his legacy. His passing, 30 years later, sparked a wave of tributes, honoring a life marked by courage, humility, and resilience. Gordhan’s state funeral, a…

A new biography, Born To Struggle – A Biography of Fatima Meer, chronicles the extraordinary life of one of South Africa’s most fearless champions for social justice and human rights. Written by veteran journalist Arjumand Wajid, the book details Meer’s lifelong dedication to the fight against apartheid and her continued advocacy for equality during the country’s transition to democracy. A Voice Against Apartheid and Injustice Meer’s activism was driven by her deep commitment to the upliftment of marginalized communities, particularly black South Africans and women. She tirelessly worked to combat the injustices of apartheid, standing as a beacon of hope for the oppressed. In addition to her work as an…