'On this International Cat Day, why not make a meaningful change in a cats life by donating to an organisation near you for the sterilsation of a cat?' motivates Midmar Vet Clinic, Howick KZN. Veterinary Dr Lee Pachonick walks the talk as she undertakes endless steri-clinics on her weekends.
Celebrating Women’s Month through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership in the IT sector.
In the IT industry women are stepping up, gaining more visibility, and building influence, and mentorship is becoming more than just career advice – it’s a form of advocacy. For Carmen Hargroves, Corporate Director at Zinia, a leading technology group in South Africa, mentorship is both a responsibility and a privilege.
“As women in tech, we don’t just need to be good at what we do – we need to show other women that it’s possible,” Carmen explains. “Being a mentor means sharing not just our technical knowledge, but your hard-earned lessons. It’s helping other women see possibilities where they may have only seen barriers.”
As Women’s Month shines a spotlight on female empowerment and solidarity, Carmen believes mentorship plays a pivotal role in building future-ready teams and more inclusive workplaces. “Representation matters. When women see other women in leadership, they begin to believe it is possible for them too,” she says. “Most of us didn’t get here on our own. Mentorship is how we honour those who helped us – by paying it forward.”
Carmen has mentored dozens of women, guiding them through the challenges of a male-dominated industry. She views mentorship not as a side activity, but as a core leadership function – one that can transform culture and career trajectories alike.
Carmen shares her top 5 habits for mentoring in the workplace:
Lead with active listening
Mentorship starts with listening and understanding your team – their goals, challenges and strengths. When people feel truly heard, they’re more likely to trust your guidance and open up to meaningful growth.
Model growth and vulnerability
Your team needs to see that you’re growing too. It builds trust and psychological safety. By being open about your own journey, you show that leadership is a process, not a destination.
Set intentional development goals
It’s not just about giving advice. It’s about helping shape your team’s path. Clear goals create direction, accountability, and a sense of progress that fuels confidence and motivation.
Create visibility
Women and underrepresented team members are often overlooked. Mentorship includes sponsorship – creating opportunities for them to be seen. Advocating for your team in the rooms they’re not yet in is one of the most powerful things a mentor can do.
Build feedback into culture
Regular, constructive feedback improves confidence. Aim to create a space where feedback is a tool for growth, not criticism. Feedback should empower, not diminish. When done right, it becomes a mirror for development, not a magnifying glass for flaws.
As companies across South Africa push toward more inclusive leadership, Carmen’s message is clear: mentorship is not optional – it’s essential. It’s how women leaders multiply their impact and help build a more equitable, empowered future.
“When you lift others up, you don’t lose your place – you extend your legacy,” she says. “That’s the true power of mentorship.”
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women, and it’s more than just a statistic. It’s someone’s mom, sister, friend, or colleague. This Women’s Month, we’re opening the conversation around Severe Illness Cover, because when the unexpected happens, financial support can offer strength, stability, and a little less worry.
Let’s make sure the right cover is in place before it’s needed. Talk to us about Severe Illness benefits that support you through life’s toughest moments.
Call 033 330 3601 or visit 101 Main Street, Howick.
Cooke Fuller Group - covering our community Since 1981.
'Good to see Tod and have his books back in stock. We have signed copies of The Collected Short Stories and The Scapegoat.' declared Nuts About Books & Toys.
Nuts About Books & Toys
60 Main Street
Howick
Jason Reineke from Treverton College received his Laurel Award today for Duathlon.
The Laurel Award is received either as Junior Honours or for Honours in a sport outside of the Treverton extra-curricular offering.
Jason has achieved some remarkable results of late which include a top 100 over-all in Amashova Classic, 3rd over-all and 1st in his age group at KZN Duathlon Champs and 5th over-all and 4th in his age group at SA Duathlon Champs.
Jason has proven to be a versatile sportsman, also receiving half-colours for cross-country and is a valuable member of the schools MTB team.
We are proud of his dedication to his sport and the tenacity he shows in his racing.
Education is an Adventure!
For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za
Ezra Robertson, Christopher Jacob and Logan Reece represented the Midlands High Schools Rugby team at the VKB U19 Platteland Rugby Week which took place from 4 - 9 July 2025.
'Whilst the team lost their first game to the Puma's 22 - 13, they won their second match against Vrystaat Kiewiete XV 41 - 14, with all the players from Howick scoring tries and Ezra Robertson being made Man of the Match.
The team's last game was against the Luiperds, which they won 33 - 22 with Logan Reece scoring a try and being named named Man of the Match.
Logan was recognised as the 'Best Inside Centre of the Tournament'.
Five players from the Midlands High School team, including all three Howick players, were invited to represent the U19 Invitational 15-man Rugby team which will go on tour to Wales and England in December.
Age Quod Agis!' update from Howick High School.
"If you’ve ever hopped aboard our train, you’ve probably met our legendary driver who truly lives for the smiles, laughter and joy of taking your little ones for a ride. He absolutely loves what he does and it shows in every whistle, wave and cheerful lap around the tracks.
Planning a visit this weekend? Be sure to say hi, snap a pic and tag us in your moments we’d love to see your family’s train adventures." invites the Piggly Wiggly Team.
Will you be joining us?
An Evening of Elegance, Laughter & Celebration
Gather your colleagues, clients, and friends for a spectacular gala dinner in support of hospice care.
Savor a delightful three-course meal
Enjoy an exclusive comedy performance by comedian ventriloquist Conrad Koch
Dance the night away in style
This special event is the perfect way to come together, celebrate achievements, and make a meaningful impact—all while enjoying an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and great company.
Date: Saturday, November 8th
Venue: Haycroft Farm Country Wedding Venue and Accommodation
R1000 per person. Table bookings available!
Reserve your place now and be part of a night to remember.
Contact us at 033 330 5257 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book your table.
SA PREMIERE AT 46th DURBAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
God’s Work - a film inspired by the city’s homeless
Durban - DHC: Sat 26 July at 1pm
Durban - Watercrest Sterkinekor: Sun 27 July at 5pm
Johannesburg - The Bioscope (Jhb):Sat August 2 at12 noon
Cape Town - Labia Theatre (CT) on Sun3 August at 12 noon
A full-length feature film – God’s Work - which makes its debut at the Durban International Film Festival this year and is inspired by the director spending time at the Denis Hurley Centre with members of the homeless community over lockdown, has a free screening at the DHC on Saturday 26 July at 1pm.
“It makes me feel incredibly uncomfortable…. In all the right ways,” said an emotional audience member after seeing the movie at the SA premiere on Sunday (20 July) night – a packed to capacity auditorium at Suncoast. “Your response has been amazing. Throughout the screening, you could hear a pin drop,” marveled co-producer, Marco Orsini.
Billed as “a portrait of resilience, a meditation on memory, and an unflinching gaze into the unseen lives of those discarded by the world, is a visually arresting South African debut feature by Durban-based award-winning director Michael James, produced by Sithabile Mkhize which has its SA Premiere at this year’s Durban International Film Festival.
Inspired whilst filming a documentary about homeless shelters at the Denis Hurley Centre in Durban during the pandemic, God’s Work doesn’t ask for pity, it demands attention. It confronts the viewer with the brutal poetry of life on the margins—and the stubborn humanity that persists there.
God’s Work was written and directed by Michael James in his first full-length feature film. James was inspired to make it, while volunteering at the Denis Hurley Centre during lockdown. The DHC working with the Municipality and other NGOs and faith communities, organised emergency shelters for 1,500 people across Durban. The centre itself hosted 100 sick and disabled homeless men in its building situated between Emmanuel Cathedral and the Grey Street Mosque.
Over lockdown, James spent time chatting to the homeless men at the DHC, who shared their stories with him. Coming out of these conversations, was the idea to tell their stories on film. To their delight, he worked with them to make a 20-minute video which they conceived and wrote, called No Kings on the Streets. (It can still be seen on the Denis Hurley Centre You Tube channel.)
There will be a free screening of God’s Work this Saturday, 26 July, at 1pm at the Denis Hurley Centre and all are welcome to attend. Audience members will have a chance to celebrate the homeless men who appear as extras in the film, and also hear from the Producer, Sithabile Mkhize as well as the Director. Also present will be the homeless men Zwelithini Ndadane and Lucky Dlungwane who acted as paid consultants during the filming process so they could advise James to ensure that the story was told in an authentic way.
After the screening on Saturday, at which the director and producer will be in attendance, there will be a chance for people to talk in small groups with the homeless people present and hear their voices directly.
The film is set in the heart of Durban, A derelict building offers a fragile sanctuary to a group of homeless men surviving on society’s margins. Blurring the line between reality and fiction, the film follows Simphiwe played by SAFTA award-winning actor Thobani Nzuza (eHostela, Uzalo, DiepCity), and his crew as they navigate addiction, poverty, performative politics, and the lure of fleeting fame. With Simphiwe (Thobani Nzuza) fighting demons only he can see, and moving performances by a strong supporting cast, Mbulelo Radebe, Omega Mncube, Siya Xaba, Zenzo Msomi and Nduduzo Khowa, the film is a raw exploration of survival, brotherhood, and the human desire to be seen before disappearing.
"This is not just a film about homelessness, it’s a story about power, loss, resistance—and what it costs to stay human in a world that’s abandoned its soul,” says Producer Sithabile Mkhize.
“The Film should make audiences feel discomfort,” says Dr Raymond Perrier, Director of the DHC. “And yes, something must be done. Leaders need to speak out, and the politicians and religious leaders need to listen, and respond, and support all of us endeavouring to make a difference,” he said.
Good to Know:
Durban - Denis Hurley Centre 26 July at 1pm (FREE)
Watercrest Sterkinekor Sunday, 27 July at 5pm
Johannesburg - The Bioscope (Johannesburg) on Saturday, August 2 at 12 noon
Cape Town - Labia Theatre (Cape Town) on Sunday, 3 August at 12 noon
For more information follow on social media : Facebook and Instagram: godsworkthefilm or website https://www.godsworkthefilm.com/
Pictured L to R: Michael James – Director of God’s Work, Lucky Dlungwane- Homeless consultant, Zwelithini Ndadane – Homeless consultant, Thobani Nzuza – Actor and Dr Raymond Perrier – Director, Denis Hurley Centre
Photo credit: Illa Thompson
Stage House in Howick is all about making a house a home. Specialising in blinds, curtains, fabrics, upholstery, home and more..
These are some recent projects they have completed.
Left: A newly designed playmat for a soon-to-be little bundle of joy. This mat doesn’t just look amazing, it’s also waterproof front and back!
Centre: Impressive ceiling to floor wave track curtains done on a curve rail with blockout behind!
Right: A beautiful different kind of wallpaper installation with incredible texture!
So, if these results inspire your next home revamp, connect with the Stage House team on 083 706 9022. Get a little help from the professionals for top notch outcomes!
The Midlands Hiking Club took on the spectacular The Leopard Trail in the Baviaanskloof — and what an unforgettable experience it was!
With 10 enthusiastic hikers, we journeyed through some of the most breathtaking landscapes South Africa has to offer. Towering cliffs, winding valleys, river crossings, ancient rock formations, and endless silence — nature at its absolute finest.
This trail didn’t just challenge our legs — it lifted our spirits. For four glorious days, we left our worries behind and soaked in the peace, laughter, stars, and camaraderie.
A big shoutout to the team behind the trail – it’s so well laid out, with comfy overnight huts, and even the luxury of hot showers The organisation is top-notch and allows you to truly just hike, breathe, and be.
Grateful for strong legs, shared meals, deep sleeps, and moments of awe. If you ever get the chance — do it. The Leopard Trail is soul medicine.
More about Midlands Hiking Club
You may not have thought so, but research suggests that smokers are more susceptible to hearing loss than non-smokers.
Smoking can affect your hearing health in a variety of ways due to the chemicals they contain that can deplete oxygen levels and constrict blood vessels all over your body – including those in your inner ear responsible for maintaining hair cell health.
Whether you’re a smoker or not, if you’re concerned about your hearing, visit Butlin Hearing in Howick or Pietermaritzburg for a FREE hearing screening, a comprehensive hearing test, or a new hearing device.
Call Claire on 033 330 3966 or Mark on 033 342 2330 and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!
Ready to take your home entertainment to the next level?
When you buy ANY Samsung AI TV, you’ll get:
A FREE Galaxy Tablet
PLUS a Series Soundbar
Signature Installation Service included!
It’s the ultimate smart home upgrade – only for a limited time!
Promo valid 16 July – 11 August 2025
Giovision Howick | 56 Main Street, Rycroft Centre
Call us: 033 330 4330
Shop online: www.giovision.co.za
Don’t miss this powerful combo of tech, style, and value — Samsung AI TV, Galaxy Tab & Soundbar… all in one incredible deal!
'SANESA RESULTS
The 2025 SANESA season continued this past weekend with Qualifier 4 being held at the Canterbury Equestrian Centre in Pietermaritzburg on both Saturday and Sunday. Despite horrible riding conditions on Saturday, it was a wonderful weekend with our riders having a lot of fun, displaying some fabulous riding and coming home with some awesome results.
Levi Ferreira (Grade 6) riding Elzkara competed in the Level 3, 70cm show jumping he rode very well to achieve a second and a third place.
Alexis Allison (Grade 5) riding Fox Trot competed in the Level 2, 60cm show jumping, she also rode very well and achieved a second place.
Veronica Croxford (Grade 3) riding Black Jack competed in Level 0 Dressage and Prix Caprilli where she won all four of her classes and riding Pashmina she competed in the Level 0 Prix Caprilli, Show Jumping and Working Riding, where she achieved a joint first, three further first places and a second place.
Well done to all the children and their ponies!
We are so proud!
Learning, Discovering, Growing Together…
Suprema Quaero' reported Howick Preparatory School.
Another successful competition sponsored by Bosch Auto Works. A big thank you for all those who supported us in this event.
The winners of the day are as follows
1st Prize: Mike Hill, Rowena Muir and Ann Maroch
2nd Prize: Clark Logan, Heidi Logan and Stephanie Crause
3rd Prize: Sharon Wiley, Olwen and Lynda
Plate Prize: Dutchie lê Roux, George Wessels and Rick Olivier.
Please come and join us to play bowls on the following days.
Tuesday mornings at 8:15 for 8:30
Wednesday afternoons at 1:15 for 1:30
Saturday afternoons 1:15 for 1:30
Club colours to be worn on Saturday.
All are welcome to come and enjoy a game
Contact no. 071 676 5591
Enhancing Lives, Holistically: Our Monthly Family Food Parcels.
At Angels Care, we believe in providing comprehensive support that truly transforms lives. Every month, we're proud to distribute 10 vital family food parcels, each designed to provide enough nutritious food for an entire month for families.
But our support goes beyond just food. A key part of this process ensures families also connect with our dedicated health and crisis care team for essential counselling, assistance, and regular check-ins. This integrated approach means families aren't just receiving nourishment; they're also gaining access to crucial emotional support and guidance, ensuring they truly benefit and can build a more stable future.
This holistic care is at the heart of our vision: transforming children's lives by inspiring hope, enabling healing, and nurturing potential. It's about empowering families to thrive, not just survive.
One Night in Parys - Cynthia Dibben
On Sunday 20th July our lounge was packed with residents and visitors who were transported back to the 80s with a clever story about a couple celebrating their wedding anniversary in Parys Free State as Paris was unaffordable!
There were toe-tapping tunes, dramatic moments and lots of laughs. Classic songs such as I Could Have Danced All Night, I love Paris in the Springtime, Puttin’ on the Ritz and a smattering of French numbers to fit the theme were performed.
The audience clapped, performed drum rolls, and sang along to favourites such as Those were the Days my Friend, Summer Holiday and A Whole New World. This fun performance with many nostalgic moments certainly lifted our spirits.
The ‘B Sharp’ cast consisted of talented local artists Maryke, Grant, Pauline and Mark.
Working with ToPS (Threatened or Protected Species
This was a rescue we had this past week from the Vryheid area of KZN. A special thank you to the iThala Honorary Officers for their fabulous assistance with this rescue.
A vehicle had hit and killed a mother Serval, who was moving den sites with a tiny kitten. A truck driver stopped and rescued the neonate kitten left sprawled on the road near to its dead mother. He then contacted Nico (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife - Honorary Officers), who contacted FreeMe Wildlife, and passed the kitten on to Ruan and Annemarie (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife - Honorary Officers). They in turn took the kitten straight through to Dr Robert du Toit, Dr Stina Domin, and Sr Janet Louw at Vryheid Private Vets, who helped check the kitten over for injuries, and gave milk formula.
Ruan and Annemarie then kept the Serval kitten overnight in a warm box, without petting or playing with it, until the FreeMe Wildlife team could collect the following day. Great team work and passion from a group of true and dedicated conservationists.
Top image: Ruan (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife - Honorary Officer), handed the tiny kitten over to FreeMe Wildlife. Great job done by all involved.
