Following the success of her first novel, “Pfuramathupho”, which was published in 2022 and received global critical acclaim, Phathutshedzo Netshivhulana has published yet another novel, titled “Tshamato”. The book was published in January and, like her previous book, was translated into English under the title “The Price of Sin”.

Phiphidi-born Thuso Neluheni published her first book, titled “Inheritance”, on Wednesday, 7 February. The book is dedicated to young individuals who stand to inherit upon the death of their parents, reminding them never to lose their true values for the sake of money.

Gundo Budeli, a learner from Mpfariseni High School in Malamangwa village, has written a poem that he dedicated to Cyril Ramaphosa, and his only wish is for an opportunity to recite it to the president in person. The 19-year-old poet says he wants to use his God-given talent to show his appreciation for the good work that the Head of State is doing to improve the lives of South Africans.

The future is looking bright indeed for gospel musician Adolf Madondo from Dopeni village outside Thohoyandou who has just released his latest single, “Yehova Ndi Enene”, this year. The single has already earned him multiple nominations for the 2024 Royal Gospel Music Awards in the Best Modern Artist, New Upcoming Artist, and Best Male Artist categories.

Growing up in a home that also served as a church had a significant influence on Mulafhi Gogome Tshifularo’s life and music career. His father, Archbishop Tshisaphungo Samson Gogome Tshifularo, founded the New African Apostolic Church, with the headquarters based in Malavuwe, outside Thohoyandou. The late archbishop, who passed away four years ago at the ripe old age of 80, instilled very strict discipline in all 26 of his children. Every night the family would gather for evening prayer, where each child was expected to recite a verse from the Bible, and to sing a song.

The long-awaited return of Ras Willie, son of the soil for Reggae music lovers, is finally approaching. The artist has completed the recording of his latest extended play (EP) titled “Vhufa Hashu” (Our Heritage), set to be released next month (March).

Afro-soul and pop artist Una Rine’s fans are grooving to the beats of his much-anticipated second album, “Lagos In Venda”, following its release on Thursday, 1 February. The 20-song album features collaborations with both national and international artists, including Ven Rap King Mizo Phyll, Asa Tee, JR Player, Osome Feyn, Greezbeatz from Nigeria, PillBoy, and MphoEL.

Months have gone by since legendary veteran musician Nelton Dama composed a song in honour of President Cyril Ramaphosa, hoping to get the opportunity to meet the president in person and present him with a copy of the song. Although this meeting has not yet occurred, Dama remains steadfast in his belief that his chance will come.

First-time author Percy Singo published his debut book titled "How to Make Your Salary Work for You: A Guide to Financial Freedom" in November of last year. Singo explained that his book covers various topics on financial management, including how to manage debt, invest, build your credit score, and protect your wealth.

Vunene Mabasa, a talented makeup artist from Chavani village, created a buzz on social media this past weekend when she shared a photo of a portrait she had painted of Bafana Bafana’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams on her chest, using makeup. This artistic expression followed the soccer team’s glorious victory over Cape Verde in a thrilling quarterfinal match on Saturday (3 February).

After a 10-year sabbatical from the music scene, gospel artist Rendani Nemathaga, or Jabbie as he is known, is making a major comeback with his latest Amapiano gospel single “Kondelelani”. The single, recorded at Worship House Studios in Shayandima and released in October 2023, was officially launched on 20 January.

Morris Rathumbu from Hamadodonga village in the Kutama area published his first book, titled “Afurika Tshipembe Dengetenge”, on 13 January. In the book, the author addresses the topic of gender-based violence (GBV) through a true-story narrative.