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Healthcare is one of life’s essentials. Whether you get sick, need a check‑up, or face an accident or serious illness, having some form of cover can protect your health and your wallet. In South Africa, there are several ways to plan for healthcare costs, such as medical aid, hospital plans and clinic or medical insurance plans like the Dis‑Chem Health plans. Understanding these options helps you choose what suits your needs and budget. What is Medical Aid? Medical aid, also

In South Africa, stokvels are more than just a way to save. They form the backbone of community saving and can even be a stepping stone to building long‑term wealth for families and friends. With more than 11 million members around the country and savings worth billions of rand, stokvels remain a trusted way to save collectively. A traditional stokvel works by members agreeing to contribute a fixed sum of money at regular intervals, often monthly. One member receives the enti

Springbok Women’s Sevens coach Cecil Afrika was full of praise of his team following their second-place finish at the HSBC SVNS 2 tournament in Nairobi, Kenya on Sunday, 15 February 2026, with their performances on the second day of the tournament a highlight for the coach. The Bok Women beat Spain and Kenya on day one but were defeated by Brazil. However, they came storming back on Sunday to with victories over China and Argentina. The South Africans are second behind Argent

A good credit record can open doors to better opportunities such as housing, education funding and business finance. In South Africa, the National Credit Regulator, known as the NCR, encourages consumers to use credit responsibly so they can improve their financial future without falling into debt. Your credit record shows how you borrow money and how well you repay it. According to the NCR, lenders use this record to decide whether to give you credit and on what terms. Payin

A new year brings fresh energy and hope. For many families, workers and learners in Johannesburg and Pretoria, it also brings busy mornings, tight budgets and long taxi rides. The good news is that small daily habits can make a big difference. You do not need money or special tools to start the year feeling more organised, healthier and calmer. Start with simple planning Being organised does not mean having a fancy diary. A small notebook or a few notes on your phone can help

The festive season is often joyful but expensive. By January, many commuters feel the pressure of stretched budgets, school costs and daily transport expenses. While it can feel overwhelming, taking control of your money after festive spending is possible with a few practical steps. Start by looking honestly at your finances. Write down what money is coming in and what must go out each month. This includes taxi fares, food, school needs and airtime. Seeing the full picture he

The start of a new year often brings new responsibilities, financial pressure and high expectations. Many people focus on work, school and family needs, while their own mental health is pushed aside. Taking care of your mental health early in the year can help you cope better with daily pressure and prevent stress from building up. Mental health is about how you think, feel and handle life’s challenges. When it is neglected, small problems can feel overwhelming. You may feel

The start of the school year is an important time for families across South Africa. School uniforms are pressed, bags are packed and early mornings return after the long holiday break. For many households, back to school brings a mix of excitement, stress and hope for a better year ahead. Preparation plays a big role in a smooth return to school. Making sure learners have the basics such as stationery, uniforms and school shoes helps them feel confident on their first day. Fa

Looking for something to do before heading home or over the weekend without spending much money. Johannesburg and Pretoria have plenty of hidden gems that commuters can enjoy for free or at very low cost. Think of this as your city gig guide for rest, learning and fresh air. Green escapes Zoo Lake, Johannesburg: Perfect for an early morning walk or a relaxed afternoon. Bring a book, enjoy the open space or sit by the water. Free entry. Emmarentia Dam, Johannesburg: A favourit

Looking for a new job can feel overwhelming, but updating your CV and preparing for interviews doesn’t have to be stressful. A clear, professional CV and a confident approach to interviews can make a big difference in landing the role you want. Updating your CV Start by reviewing your current CV. Remove outdated information and highlight recent achievements. Include your full name, contact details, and a professional email address. Clearly list your work experience, starting

Many people still believe that black people do not need sunscreen. This is a dangerous myth. While darker skin has more natural protection than lighter skin, it does not mean it is safe from sun damage or skin cancer. During SunSmart Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to share the truth and encourage simple habits that can protect lives. Melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour, does help block some harmful sun rays. However, it does not block them all. Black

The start of a new year often comes with mixed feelings. While many people hope for a fresh start, the busy festive season can leave bodies tired and minds overwhelmed. For families, workers and learners returning to daily routines, stress can feel hard to escape. The good news is that calming your mind does not need special equipment or long hours. Simple habits can help regulate your nervous system and set a positive tone for the year ahead. Your nervous system controls how

At the start of the year, many people look for ways to cleanse their bodies after festive eating and drinking. Detox teas, extreme diets and quick fixes are often promoted as the answer. While the idea of a fast cleanse may sound appealing, some of these methods can be harmful and put your health at risk. The truth is that your body already knows how to detox safely. Your liver, kidneys, lungs and skin work every day to remove waste from your body. They do not need special dr

Abuse is not always easy to see. Sometimes the signs are small. Look out for: • Frequent injuries: They may have bruises or cuts and give excuses that do not sound true. • Sudden changes in behaviour: Someone who was talkative may become very quiet or withdrawn. • Fearful body language: They may look scared, nervous, or flinch when someone raises their voice or moves suddenly. • Always being checked on or controlled: Their partner or family member might call constantly, tel

Stokvels remain one of the strongest ways South Africans save, plan and support one another. They bring discipline, shared goals and community trust together. If you want to take better control of your money this year, starting or joining a stokvel can help you move forward with confidence. There are different types of stokvels, and it is important to choose one that suits your needs. Savings stokvels are popular for people who want a lump sum payout during the year. These pa

Senegal were crowned champions of Africa for the second time in their history after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a gripping TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat. The decisive moment arrived just three minutes into extra time when Pape Gueye unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from the edge of the area, sending the Senegalese bench into raptures and silencing a packed stadium desperate for a long-awaited home triumph. Morocco had come

Bullying in schools is a serious issue that affects learners and families across South Africa, and recent incidents in Gauteng have brought the problem into sharp focus. Videos and reports of violence have been shared widely on social media, showing how quickly these situations can escalate and why everyone needs to take bullying seriously. In Johannesburg, a video of a group of students assaulting a fellow pupil in Yeoville went viral earlier this year. The learners involved

Summer is a favourite time for families, and children look forward to swimming, splashing and playing in the water. Whether it’s at a community pool, a family home, or on holiday, swimming can be both fun and safe when the right steps are taken. With many children spending more time outdoors, December is also the start of SunSmart Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which runs until 31 January. This campaign encourages everyone to protect their skin from the strong summer sun while

Every month when your salary is paid, you receive a payslip. For many people, payslips can look complicated, full of numbers, abbreviations, and deductions that may be hard to understand. But knowing how to read your payslip is important. It helps you see exactly where your money goes and ensures that you are being paid correctly. 1. Gross salary The first thing on your payslip is usually your gross salary. This is the total amount you earn before any deductions. It include

The festive season is a time of giving, sharing and showing appreciation for the people who matter most in our lives. But with rising costs and long shopping lists, finding meaningful gifts that don’t break the bank can feel challenging. The good news is that thoughtful gifts don’t need to be expensive. Often, it’s the personal touch that makes the biggest impact. Here are some affordable ideas to help you spoil your loved ones this December. Personalised gifts Personalised