Gear Up And Get Ready For “A Celebration of Books And Authors” Event!
In the vast tapestry of Africa’s rich heritage, storytelling has been the heartbeat of our culture for generations. Our tales have been passed down from elders to children, etching our history and traditions into the very essence of who we are. As we embark on the journey of preserving our stories in written form, we must also recognize the power of reading in unlocking a world of knowledge and imagination. This recognition is the inspiration behind “A Celebration of Books and Authors,” an exceptional event that seeks to empower African writers, encourage collaboration, and build a community of literary enthusiasts. At the heart of this extraordinary celebration lies a dynamic platform that connects authors from all walks of life. It is a space where established writers can share their invaluable knowledge and wisdom with aspiring authors, nurturing a new generation of storytellers. Aspiring writers will receive guidance and techniques to hone their craft, allowing their words to leap from the page and capture the hearts of readers. But this event is not solely about the art of storytelling; it delves into the business side of authorship. By shedding light on the commercial aspects, authors can discover the importance of turning their passion into a sustainable career. This knowledge equips them to not only create captivating stories but also to navigate the publishing world and monetize their literary works. “A Celebration of Books and Authors” is more than just a gathering; it is a call for collaboration among authors. By fostering a culture of collaboration, the event aims to bring together diverse voices and perspectives, enriching the literary landscape with an array of vibrant narratives. Together, these writers will build a strong and supportive community that inspires creativity and mutual growth. The event is hosted by the Skeem GP Foundation, a remarkable non-profit organization dedicated to empowering disadvantaged and marginalized youth in South Africa. By tackling issues like crime, gender-based violence, and unemployment, the foundation aims to uplift the nation’s future leaders. Embracing literature as a powerful tool for personal growth, mental emancipation, and education, the foundation recognizes the transformative impact of books on young minds. Throughout the celebration, attendees will be immersed in captivating exhibitions, enlightened by enthralling book reviews, and enriched by proficient insights into publishing. Sales strategies and cutting-edge PR & marketing tactics will empower authors to share their stories with a wider audience, amplifying their impact on society. One of the standout features of this event is its unwavering celebration and appreciation of authors. The platform allows authors to directly interact with their audience, fostering a deeper connection between writer and reader. This unique element reinforces the importance of storytelling as a bridge that unites people across diverse backgrounds. Moreover, entrepreneurship lies at the heart of the event’s offerings. Renowned speakers will inspire attendees to embrace their leadership qualities, encouraging them to make a positive difference not only within the literary world but also in various spheres of life. To secure a seat at this remarkable gathering, attendees can purchase a ticket for R150 or opt for a stand at just R250. For more information, the event organizer can be reached at 083 697 9815. Looking towards the future, the foundation has ambitious plans to expand to other townships and provinces, ensuring that the celebration of African voices reaches every corner of the nation. By live streaming the event, they seek to maximize its reach, inviting an even wider audience to partake in this literary extravaganza. Finally, the organizers extend heartfelt gratitude to Mjazz Magonline magazine for their distinguished coverage of this event. Their support is deeply appreciated, as it elevates the platform and enables the celebration to resonate far beyond its physical boundaries. Together, through “A Celebration of Books and Authors,” we ignite the flame of African stories, inspiring generations to come and leaving an indelible mark on the world of literature.
Annual Gender Based Violence Event in Mzansi Resort
Are you ready to join the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV)? Then get ready for the annual “Enough with our Sisters” event happening on the 9th of August 2023 at the Mzansi Resort in Mabopane City of Tshwane, starting from 10AM till late evening. Theme: All Black with Green Beret for 2023 This year’s event will have a unique theme, all attendees are urged to dress in all-black attire and wear a green beret to show their support for the cause. The color of the beret changes annually, and this year’s symbolizes the hope for a brighter future for survivors of GBV. Purpose The “Enough with our Sisters” event happens annually since 2018, with the aim of bringing together women and families affected by GBV in communities. The event aims to raise awareness about the prevalence, causes, and consequences of GBV and educate the community about different forms of GBV, the impact on survivors and society, and the importance of prevention and intervention strategies. Programme Order The event will feature a line-up of motivational speakers, community leaders, gospel singers, priests, media houses, GBV NGOs and churches, relevant government departments, and the “Enough with our Sisters” ambassadors, including Sophie Ndaba, President Gay, and MC Mawisa. The programme order will aim to inspire, educate and empower attendees to take action against GBV. Fundraising Funds will be raised during the event through gate takings, ticket sales at R100 via Computicket or R150 at the gate, donations, and pledges to support affected families and GBV NGOs and churches initiatives. The proceeds will be divided, with 20% going to GBV-based NGOs, 20% to churches, and 60% to the “Enough with our Sisters” initiative to sustain it annually. Invitation Media houses are invited to RSVP and form part of the initiative to raise awareness about the event and GBV. Your generous support will be utilized effectively to bring about positive change in our community. Join us on the 9th of August 2023 at the Mzansi Resort in Mabopane City of Tshwane and show your support. Let’s come together to make a lasting impact and bring about positive change in our community. Contact Tebogo Manganye, the event manager, for further inquiries or interviews with the “Enough with our Sisters” ambassadors.
This year’s Durban July fashion parade was truly “OUT OF THIS WORLD”!
As you know, every first weekend of July, the fashion world descents to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to be a part of the Hollywoodbets Durban July where the cremé de la cremé showcase what they are truly made of when it comes their fashion senses. This year’s theme was ‘Out of this World’ where prominent figures from celebrities, entrepreneurs and influencers battled it out to see who will be the king and queen of this year’s event. The annual event also gave young upcoming fashion designers the opportunity to show their beautifully crafted work and also be ranked one of the best designers. When it comes to the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2023 Best Young Designer Award, presented by Durban Fashion Fair, Lwandle Zwezwe from Pietermaritzburg School of Fashion took first place for their religious inspiration design. Lwandle’s kept with the “Out of this World” by focusing more on the religious aspect of her designs. Having talked to the Hollywood Bets Durban July media team, Lwandle expressed how excited and overwhelmed she was when they announced her as the Best Young Designer at the extravagant event as she fetched her winnings of R50 000 study bursary and received other prizes sponsored by Hollywoodbets Foundation. In second place, Durban University student, Thabiso Ncanana received R30 000 worth of bursary funding as well as R3 000 in cash and a shopping gift card worth R2 000. In third place saw another Durban University student by the name of Andile Nsele taking a bursary fund worth R20 000 along with R2 000 in cash and R1 000 gift card. When it comes to the best female dressed participant at the annual event, actress and entrepreneur, Jessica Nkosi, took the prize as she showcased her white dress draped in purple roots designed by Ruberto Scholtz (which you can view on her Instagram page: @jessicankosi) and when it comes to the best dressed male was awarded to Sowetan S Mag editor, Emmanuel Tjiya. Finally, we reach to the ‘Most Striking Couple’ category, where in first place saw Brenda Waring take the award for the second time alongside her partner in Pamela Shane. In second place saw Tyler Grendon and Kayla Anne Lindsey who were modelling the fashionwear created by Sanele Mkhize. In third place saw the designer sisters in Catherine and Irene Nolan for their creation that was modelled by Cyra van der Merwe and Lungelo Mathonsi. Written by Matabo Manala
Jazz In July: An International Music Experience
Get ready to swing and groove because Jazz In July is back with an electrifying lineup of musical brilliance. On July 8th, 2023, Kesivan Naidoo, the eminent South African drummer, is returning from Switzerland to South Africa with his sensational Big Band Experience. Kesivan Naidoo has established himself as one of the most remarkable drummers of his generation. With a list of jazz legends he’s played alongside, from Miriam Makeba to Hotep Galeta and Winston Mankunku, Naidoo’s musical journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His 2014 album, “Brotherhood,” showcased his deep respect for history and his ability to create awe-inspiring sonic spectacles. Now, in 2023, Naidoo is reimagining “Brotherhood” as a thrilling Big Band experience, collaborating with celebrated trombonist Adrian Mears to breathe new life into the Afro-Indo modulations and cinematic improvisations of the original album (source: Miles Keylock, former editor of Rolling Stone Magazine). For jazz enthusiasts, Jazz In July is an opportunity to witness the heart and soul of improvisation at its grandest. And what could be grander than a full-blown Jazz Big Band? In 2022, Kesivan and Adrian took audiences on a mesmerizing journey, paying homage to the legends of jazz like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller, as well as infusing their own touch into Louis Moholo-Moholo’s big band Voodoo. The first big band concerts in Germany and Switzerland were an unforgettable experience, leaving the audience in awe of the music and arrangements. Kesivan’s opening concert performance with the Swiss Jazz Orchestra earlier this year received standing ovations. The all-star young big band, with an impressive representation of women musicians, captivated the crowd with their exceptional talent and artistry. It was a testament to the power and tactility of the Big Band tunes. But that’s not all! Jazz In July brings you another extraordinary ensemble: The Rainmakers. They continue a tradition that few formations can claim today. Their music is not just a display of virtuosity and creativity; it’s a statement of freedom, rebellion, and transcendence. In a world filled with systems of control and oppression, The Rainmakers’ quartet, consisting of Bänz Oester, Javier Vercher, Afrika Mkhize, and Ayanda Sikade, boldly affirms their spiritual aspirations and their need to break free from constraints. Their music resonates with the legacy of spiritual jazz, reminiscent of the likes of John Coltrane and other pioneers of the genre (source: jazzwerkstatt.ch). When The Rainmakers perform, they become one with their instruments, generating pure joy and creating a sound that seems to influence the very fabric of the universe. Bänz Oester, the band leader, along with Javier Vercher, Afrika Mkhize, and Ayanda Sikade, form an unbreakable unit. Their collective energy transcends individuality, and their music becomes a powerful force that unifies listeners. This formation embodies a spirit of equality, collaboration, and boundary-breaking. Oester, fascinated by Africa’s rich musical culture, emphasizes the importance of mutual communication and the absence of hierarchical thinking in their music-making process. It’s all about breaking boundaries and embracing the collective power of music. Jazz In July promises an international music experience like no other. With Kesivan Naidoo’s Big Band Experience and The Rainmakers’ captivating quartet, audiences will be transported to a realm of pure musical bliss. So mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of jazz. Tickets are available at the following prices: – R200 to R300 per person – Special promo tickets at R120 per person (when purchasing four or more tickets) Don’t miss out on this unforgettable musical extravaganza. Jazz In July is where the magic happens, where music comes alive, and where your soul will find its rhythm. Note: For further details or ticket inquiries, please visit the official Jazz In July website or contact the organizers directly. Stay tuned for more updates and let the jazz spirit guide you!
Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) 2023 Goes Global with Announcement of 2023 Nominees
The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) has expanded its reach into the global music industry, embracing artists from across Africa. The announcement was made at a prestigious event held at the renowned Joburg Theatre on 29th June 2023. With the support of prominent sponsors, the event showcased the nominees in 24 categories and recognized recipients of special awards. The BIMAs aim to empower and celebrate the achievements of women in music, providing them with international opportunities. BIMA expands its Horizons Tumelo Candice Modiselle, a dynamic figure in the music industry, led the event with her charisma and passion for music. Sponsors such as Women in Music, Africa Rising Music Conference, SofnFree, CAPASSO, SAMRO, and Nando’s contributed to the success of the event. The expansion of BIMA into the global music industry marks a significant milestone for the awards and opens doors for African artists to showcase their talent on an international stage. BIMA recognizes Excellence The BIMA nominations highlighted outstanding artists across various categories. Leading the pack with four nominations is Lwah Ndlunkulu, the first lady of Inkabi Records. Her nominations in categories such as Afro Pop Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Hip Hop, and Artist of the Year reflect her exceptional talent and impact on the music scene. Pabi Cooper, Uncle Waffles, and Ney the Bae also received multiple nominations, demonstrating their continued success and contributions to the music industry. Special Awards The CEO’s Mosadi in Business Achievement Award recognized the exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience of Nhlanhla Mafu, Thando Thabethe, and Boity in their respective ventures. The Mosadi in Music in Africa Award honored Berita (Zimbabwe), Maleh (Lesotho), Mpho Sebina (Botswana), Sefa (Ghana), and Victoria Kimani (Kenya) for their significant contributions to the music industry in their countries and throughout Africa. All about the voting and Event Details To support their favorite nominees, fans can vote by sending an SMS to 49960 with the category code and the nominee’s name at a cost of R2 per SMS. Tickets for the Basadi in Music Awards ceremony, which will take place on 12th August 2023, are available for purchase at R300 from www.joburgtheatre.com. The awards will be a highly anticipated event, where the winners will be unveiled and celebrated. The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) 2023 has set a new milestone by expanding its reach into the global music industry. With the announcement of nominees and the recognition of exceptional women in music, BIMA continues to empower and celebrate the achievements of female artists. Through their partnership with sponsors and the support of music enthusiasts, BIMA is providing African artists with international exposure and opportunities. The awards ceremony promises to be a remarkable event, showcasing the talent and resilience of women in music. Let your voice be heard by casting your vote and supporting your favorite artists in the Basadi in Music Awards. Below is the comprehensive compilation of nominees and distinguished recipients of special awards: 1. AFRO POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR (Artist – Song Title) – Brenda Mtambo – Enzakwenzeke – Kelly Khumalo – Akathintwa – Lioness Mohoje – Dipotso – Lwah Ndlunkulu – Ngiyeza – Nomfundo Moh – Izibusiso 2. SOFNFREE AMAPIANO ARTIST OF THE YEAR (Artist – Song Title) – Boohle Ft Murumba Pitch & Gaba Cannal – Undenza Ntoni – Kamo Mphela Ft Various Artists – Hanna Montana – Khanyisa Jaceni Ft Sir Trill, Marcus Mc, Tycoon & Ben Da Prince – Gyjima – Nkosazana Daughter Ft Murumba Pitch, Master Kg & Lowsheen – Ring Ring Ring – Pabi Cooper Ft Mello & Sleazy – Waga Bietjie 3. ARTIST OF THE YEAR – Lizwi – Lwah Ndlunkulu – Makhadzi – Skye Wanda – Uncle Waffles 4. DANCE ARTIST OF THE YEAR (Artist – Song Title) – Maline Aura Ft Karyendasoul – Ifu – Manana Highness – Ngifuna Wena – Nuzu Deep- Come Find Me – Simmy Ft Msaki – Hlelo – Skye Wanda – Amazwi 5. DJ OF THE YEAR – Lady Amar – Lamiez Holworthy – Ms Cosmo – Pru Luv – Uncle Waffles 6. DUO/COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR (Artist – Song Title) – Bontle Smith, Nia Pearl And Nicol Elocin – My Love – Group Chat – Mama – Ney The Bae And Nadia Nakai – Thick Slim – Qwabe Twins – Sobonana – Txc And Khanyisa – Vuka Mawulele 7. NANDO’S EMERGING ARTIST OF THE YEAR – Black Villain – Buzzi Lee – Gemma Fassie – Noluthando Ngema – Qaqamba Ntshinka 8. ENTERTAINMENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR (Journalist – Publication) – Amanda Matshaka – SA POSITIVE NEWS – Andiswa Ngenyane – DAILY SUN – Masego Seemela – SOWETAN SMAG – Nokubongwa Phenyane – ISOLEZWE – Nokuthula Zwane – NEWS 24 9. ENTERTAINMENT RADIO PRESENTER OF THE YEAR (Presenter – Show Name – Radio Station) – Khutso Theledi – The Break Away – METRO FM – Lerato Kganyago – Midday Link Up – METRO FM – Lethabo Lejoy Mathatho – Monate Breakfast Show – THOBELA FM – Mittah Ledimo – The Kickstart On The Bloem Rise Breakfast Show – RADIO BLOEM – Thando Thabethe – 947 Drive With Thando – 947 10. ENTERTAINMENT RADIO PRODUCER OF THE YEAR (Producer – Show Name – Radio Station) – Ayanda Melansi – Jabul’ Ujule – UKHOZI FM – Kgoshigadi Rangata – Power Experience – POWER FM – Masego Tlhakanye – 5 Weekend Breakfast – 5 FM – Phila Tyekana – The Touchdown – METRO FM – Pru Luv – Midday Link Up – METRO FM 11. ENTERTAINMENT TV PRODUCER OF THE YEAR(Producer – Show Name – TV Channel) – Layinah Petersen – Espresso Show – S3 – Mathawe Matsapola – The Morning Show – ETV – Mbali Gamede – Lifestyle 101 – Soweto TV – Philisa Bidi – Massive Music – CHANNEL O – Thapelo Mowela – Morning Live – SABC 2 12. GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR(Artist – Song Title) – Athandie Mvusi – Thixo Akunangqaleko – Bucy Radebe – Vuka Jona – Hle – Take Heart – Mmatema –
US Sensation MAJOR. to Serenade Audiences at Upcoming RustyRocks with His All-Time Hits
RustyRocks, a leading events, marketing, and promotions company in South Africa, has been organizing spectacular events and partnering with major brands for over a decade. In the past, RustyRocks has hosted renowned artists such as Zonke Dikana, Nomfundo Moh, and numerous local award-winning stars, creating unforgettable memories for music enthusiasts. The upcoming RustyRocks event, in partnership with Metro FM, MTVbase, Trace, Mzansi Magic, Standard Bank, Tanguarrey, ENO, Jargemaster, and Schweppes, raises the bar by featuring award-winning US R&B sensation MAJOR. The two-time Grammy Award winner, Soul Train Music Awards recipient, and eight-time NAACP Image Award nominee plans to captivate the audience with his all-time hits, including “Why I Love You,” “Honest,” “A Mother’s Love,” and many more. “I cannot wait to touch down in South Africa and feel the love from all those who have supported my music through the years. I look forward to connecting with my audience and having them sing along to their all-time favourites,” says MAJOR. “RustyRocks is thrilled to bring MAJOR. to South Africa. Many of our patrons adore his music, and he boasts an impressive fan base here. We have a history of organizing and delivering remarkable shows, and this one promises to be no exception. Ultimately, our goal is to provide our patrons from South Africa and neighboring countries with unforgettable entertainment experiences,” states Teboho Twala from RustyRocks. Editor’s Notes About RustyRocks RustyRocks specializes in organizing live events such as the annual All4Women RustyRocks Music Concert, RustyRocks NYE, and RustyRocks Beach Party, all held at the esteemed Sun City Resort. In celebration of Youth Month, RustyRocks has partnered with Metro FM to present the Youth Festival at Sun Park, Sun City Resort, which includes the Sneaker Fest. About MAJOR. Known as MAJOR., Major Johnson Finley is a contemporary R&B singer and songwriter whose work combines classic soul with a pop touch. Born in Denton, Texas, Finley was raised in Houston and graduated from the city’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, following in the footsteps of notable alumni such as Robert Glasper and Beyoncé. He later attended and graduated from Berklee College of Music. Finley’s career accelerated after signing with Harmony Samuels’ B.O.E. Music Group. In 2016, he released his debut album, I Am MAJOR., which included the single “Why I Love You.” The song gained the admiration of Stevie Wonder and Patti LaBelle, with the latter performing it in concert. “Why I Love You” reached number five on Billboard’s Adult R&B Songs chart. In 2017, Finley continued his success with another number five Adult R&B Songs placement for “Honest.” A remix of “Why I Love You” featuring Shaggy and Rock City, as well as his third charting single “Spend Christmas with You,” further solidified the artist’s growing reputation.
Jazz Up the Meander Estate Farm Joint!
BRONKHORSTSPRUIT…, On the border between Gauteng and Mpumalanga – South Africa…, Introducing the exquisite Meander Estate, nestled on a breathtaking hilly slope, just a spitting distance from the N4 West. Magnificently spruced-up, the landscape of The Meander look set to get jazzed-up big time – come 04, 16 and 17 September 2023. Because, for the first time, The Meander Estate rolls out its earth and green carpets for the cross borders Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Sessions. Centred on all things ARTS-y and cultART affairs, the soirée got set out to attract a fine flock of global human spirits to a natural farm space from Springtime 2023.Moreover, the Jam ’n Jazz.., is a dapper wingding occasion for an ARTS-y-Cultural tourism-driven patron searching the highs of heArt and centred CultART. Ehe!Someone that appreciates CreARTivity performed or projected with affection, passionand skill. Ergo, the inaugural Jam ’n Jazz.., feature performances and exhibitions of meaningful cultural stories. An Indaba of creARTtive and ARTistic connection with the land, universe and the self. Hence, the venue choice for the Jam ’n Jazz.. got inspired by, among others, the narrations of VusamaZulu Credo Mutwa reporting, from pages of the book Zulu Shaman, on knowledge passed on to him by hisgrandfather.1 Jazz Up the Meander Estate Farm Joint!‘In the old days of our great-great-grandfathers, we used to speak with animals – wild or domestic. We sang to our pumpkins and our sweet potatoes in the field. As we planted the corn, we used to call upon it to grow strong, yield and give us more food.’Ergo, Jam ’n Jazz.. Farm Sessions are a CultART affair driving the return to andconnecting with the land through arts and creativity. THE OFFERING A farm picnic set for 4 September kicks off what got set in future to be a Jam ’n Jazz.., week. The charity-driven Kiddies Jam ’n Jazz.. Farm Picnick will be jammed with animated children storytelling, music performances for children, bookmreading, and exciting children’s games of abaNtu. Tied to the Kiddies Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Picnic is a drive meant to get, in the hand of a disadvantaged child, a book and a ticket to the Kiddies Jam ’n Jazz.. Those with the means are called upon to dotage a ticket to make it possible children from disadvantage backgroundexperience professional live music, dance and storytelling performances in theirchildhood.Counted among the first artists to strut their stuff on 16 September 2023 at the springtime Jam ’n Jazz.. are the powerful Suthukazi Arosi, the Nokwe Family Experience (featuring Dr Tu Nokwe, Biko’s Manna and Ayanda Nhlangothi), Ntsiki Mazwai, Bathabile Skhosana, Paige and Tabia. Some heart & soul delights, food stalls, herbs of health and beauty, drinks, chic-fashion, jewellery, craft and art stalls will be the order of the day.Additionally, 17 September gets dedicated to the movement of Jazz Clubs/Associations – a special Jam’ n Jazz Diggers and appreciation day. The soirée is about flaunting jazz appreciators’ taste in fashion and for the spirit moved Diggers to butterfly float & swing to live Jazz-Afro-jazz music performed by sizzling bands – emerging and established. On the day, a stage gets set for select Jazz dance performers, entertainers and fashionistas to represent their club or region in a fun and lively style.An early bird ticket to the Kiddies Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Picnic is R100 per one adult with two children or R150 for a couple with two children. After that time of early bird, a ticket will be R150 per one adult with two kids and R200 for a couple with two kids. Tickets at the gates, for Kiddies Jam ’n Jazz.., are R250 per one or two parents. Early ticket buyers for the main Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Sessions on 16 and 17 September score a bargain of R400 per ticket for both days or R250 for one day.Thereafter, a ticket is R300 per day. At the gate, a day pass will be R350 for each day of the 16 or 17 September. Cooler boxes get charged at R70. All tickets sold at aticketing provider to be announced soon. Details and pricing for VIP Tickets will beannounced soon. ABOUT THE JAM ’N JAZZ FARM SESSIONS Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Sessions are an abaNtu sponsored initiative developed by the Mind Investments, Afika Ekhaya Ent.., The sessions are possible through collaboration between various stakeholders contributing their time, resources, skills, generosity, tools and facilities. Moreover, turning the initiative to a reality is the collective spirit thatsays…, “All WE HAVE IS EACH OTHER.” Thus, artists featured in the Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Sessions are partners. The Meander Estate is the venue host associate. Ntsiki Mazwai Media and ThiviNetwork are media collaborators. Virgo is the internet/social media driver.Mahlangu Production and Moon Dawg Media are comrades in the audiovisual/technical production. All in all, Jam ’n Jazz.., Farm Sessions are a cultural movement made possible by Networthers. For more information, Visitwww.thivi.co.za
CTM, celebrating 40 years of turning houses into beautiful homes.
Johannesburg, south Africa – 25 March 2023: Turning houses into beautiful homes has been integral to CTM’s business model. Since the leading specialist retailer in the market opened its trading doors in 1983, many South Africans have been able to turn their home renovation dreams into a reality – demystifying the notion that a beautiful home requires millions and millions of cash. And this year, CTM invites all South Africans to join them in celebrating 40 years of existence and 40 years of journeying with consumers to create their perfect sanctuary. CTM believes everyone deserves a beautiful home, not just a living structure but a place of comfort, belonging, beauty and warmth they can enjoy daily. Many of us live extremely stressful lives, juggling between work, studies and being a parent, and long to escape to a place of solace. At CTM, our role is to help our consumers find this escape by turning their houses into a place that allows them to block out the stresses of life and create a home haven – conceptualized and styled by them using CTM’s high-quality products. “I am grateful that our customers have trusted the quality and service at CTM for 40 years and am excited to celebrate with our customers, employees, suppliers and partners. Thank you ! Today, more than ever, we are dedicated to stock fashionable products to support our customers and make their home dreams a reality.” explains Lance Foxcroft – CEO of Italtile Limited. CTM’s success over the last 40 years is a testament to their consumers’ longstanding support and trust. CTM aunts to celebrate and thank them for believing in their brand and ensuring that CTM finishes remain a permanent fixture when transforming and making their homes reflect who they are, and the realities they wish to build for themselves. To mark the celebration of this milestone, CTM will gift consumers a voucher valued atR40 000 to create the home they deserve every week until December 2023. Consumers are invited to visit any CTM store nationwide or online, spend R4 000 or more and stand a chance to be the week’s lucky winner. The founding essence of CTM is rooted in the fundamental consumer desire to create beautiful homes, with an understanding that each consumer’s definition of beauty varies. Over the years, this insight has influenced the product offering model, ensuring that the brand caters to the many style tastes and different pockets of South Africans – delivering one of CTM’s key messages, ‘There’s a Tile for everyone’. Not all South Africans are the same; our style preferences and affordability pockets vary. In the last four decades, we have been obsessed with finding the best quality products for all our consumers – whether you are a Nige or Bob looking for style, quality, and a great price, CTM is where your renovation dreams will come to life. Our travels have taken us as far as Tivoli to bring Italian style and sophistication, to exploring the great outdoors from the Cape to the heights of Kilimanjaro to bring the beauty of Africa to consumers’ homes.” CTM has also collaborated with two of Mzansi’s most soulful voices, Thokozani TK Nzima and Mariechan Luither, to create the 40-year celebration campaign anthem. “What’s a celebration without a song” enthuses Sudesh Bhageloo, Head of Italtile Group Marketing. “In true South African style, celebrations are accompanied by song. We felt that creating an original song that communicates the brand’s gratitude to consumers would help us deliver our message more succinctly and transcend beyond demographics. Touching the many faces and tastes of our consumers.” Bhageloo adds that it was an honour to work with Nzima and Luither, as they both resonated with the brand and have been immersed in the CTM story in their life journey. “What a milestone for the CTM Brand, I am proud to be part of CTM for more than 25 years and we have consistently stood by our promise to deliver great quality home finishing products at great prices to all South Africans. We have seen CTM transformed over the last 40 years and I want to thank all our loyal customers for turning us into a household name and continuing to make us your number one choice.” Says Paul Isaac,Brand Leader: CTM SA & Southern Africa. CTM’s heritage and legacy can be traced to their launching and operating as a concept store, trading as Ceramic Tile Market. Today they have a footprint across all South African provinces and in Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, and Swaziland. Therefore, investing in the upliftment of local and developing industry players who continue to help us show up for their consumers and elevate the brand to even greater heights is vital. As a brand that prides itself on being proudly and loudly South African, CTM believes in giving back to the communities in which it operates, by supporting local tile and sanitary ware factories, ecological sustainability, and CSI initiatives, with 70% of their offerings locally produced.