VMC Planet Radio Marks Men’s Mental Health Month with Awareness Sessions

By: Sethu Makamu

In honour of Men's Mental Health Month, VMC Planet Radio held a number of awareness events from Monday through Wednesday with the goal of motivating men to put their mental health first and question damaging social norms.

The importance of mental health and how social norms can affect men's desire to seek help were the main topics of discussion during the meetings. The facilitators emphasised how many men struggle in quiet because they feel pressured to be strong and robust, which can keep them from dealing with mental health issues.

Participants were urged to realise that getting help should never be seen as a sign of weakness and that mental health is just as vital as physical health. Conversations addressed common misconceptions about men's mental health and offered helpful advice on how people might spot emotional distress in both themselves and other people.

Throughout the session, a variety of hands-on activities were carried out to make the lessons more interesting. These exercises were intended to help participants better understand the difficulties faced by people with mental health disorders and to illustrate the realities of life with mental illness. Additionally, the exercises promoted self-reflection, empathy, and candid discussions on mental health.

On Wednesday, all of the guys who attended the workshops received certificates as the program ended. Their participation and dedication to learning more about mental health were acknowledged by the certificates.

The programme was a part of continuous efforts to increase community awareness, lessen stigma, and encourage more positive dialogue about men's mental health.

 Fête de la Musique Johannesburg 2026

By Nomalungelo Madywabe

Photo by Nomalungelo 

Fête de la Musique returned to Johannesburg for its 15th edition, held at Victoria Yards in Lorentzville and brought to us by the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS).

Originating in France in 1982, Fête de la Musique has grown into a global celebration of music and is now celebrated in more than 120 countries worldwide. The festival continues to provide a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their talents and connect with new audiences.

The 2026 Johannesburg edition featured 18 performances across three carefully curated stages. Each stage complemented the artists unique styles, allowing audiences to experience a diverse range of sounds and performances. This year's festival also marked the return of the RedCircle by TEDxJohannesburg, a platform that invites people from different walks of life to share ideas, lived experiences, and reflections inspired by music.

Music moved us from the afternoon into the evening, creating a vibrant celebration of creativity and community. The three stages offered something for everyone, with smiling faces, sing-alongs, and energetic dancing becoming a common sight throughout the venue. Friends and strangers alike were brought together by a shared love of music, while food and drinks added to the festive atmosphere.

The lineup featured an impressive mix of local and international talent, including Zoë Modiga, The Brother Moves On, Lordkez, Renaissance, [kimetu.], Zykes Madiga, Thoknique, Namakau Star, Tessi Nandi, Thula Khumalo, Measuretutti Vocal Ensemble, Little Music School in the Valley, Shameless Band, Lesedi Ntsane, and Khulu.

Spoken-word performances were delivered by Zama Madimana, Xtreme Poet, and She Is Mitch, while Luke left audiences in awe with his angelic voice. Hosting duties were handled by Hector Dibakoane, whose calm and engaging presence guided audiences through the day's programme.

Beyond the performances, local business stalls catered to a variety of tastes. The aroma of meat sizzling on open grills filled the air, while freshly prepared samosas warmed bellies on a chilly day. For those with a sweet tooth, creatively crafted chocolate waffles proved to be a crowd favourite.

The event was thoughtfully curated, with careful attention paid to every detail. More than just a music festival, Fête de la Musique Johannesburg 2026 became a space where music, culture, and community met. Every smile, every dance move, and every conversation between familiar faces and new acquaintances reminded us why events like these matter. We arrived as individuals with different stories, but for a moment we were united by rhythm, sound, and the simple joy of being together through music.

 Students Celebrate Youth Day at SUPERSPAR Bertrams

By Phakama Mzumkhulu and Snehlahla Cefu

Employees of SUPERSPAR and Youth engagement team of VMC 

Photo by Nomakhosi Miya

University students gathered at SUPERSPAR Bertrams on Youth Day 16 June for a special event aimed at celebrating, empowering, and inspiring young people. The event, held from 10:00 to 13:00, brought together students for a morning of fun, food, and community spirit.

The Youth Day celebration was hosted by Mrs Avonay and her husband, who wanted to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for students. Their goal was to ensure that young people felt appreciated while enjoying the significance of Youth Day in a relaxed and festive environment.

Students who attended the event were welcomed by friendly staff members and were encouraged to present their student cards before participating in the activities. A variety of refreshments were available throughout the event, including snacks, hotdogs, and drinks, allowing students to socialize and enjoy themselves.

Several members of the bakery team and other staff also played an important role in the success of the event. They assisted with the preparation and distribution of food, helping to create a warm and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone in attendance.

The highlight of the celebration came at the end of the event when students received special gifts. The presents consisted of snack parcels, which were handed out as a token of appreciation for their participation and to mark the occasion.

Many students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to spend Youth Day with fellow students while enjoying free refreshments and gifts. The event successfully brought young people together and reinforced the importance of recognizing and celebrating the youth within the community.

As the event concluded, students left with smiles on their faces, carrying their snack parcels and positive memories of a Youth Day celebration dedicated to making them feel valued and appreciated.

“The purpose of the event was to give students a chance to enjoy themselves, connect with others, and celebrate Youth Day in a meaningful way,” said the organizers.

The Youth Day gathering at SUPERSPAR Bertrams was a successful celebration of youth, community, and appreciation, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

 Youth Day Reflection: From 1976 to Today — Voices from Betram’s SUPERSPAR Event

By Nomakhosi Miya and Sethu Makamu 

Photo by Bandile Mbango

On 16th June, Bertrams SUPERSPAR hosted a Youth Day commemoration that brought together students, community members, and youth-focused services. The event included food support packages, health testing, transport assistance through shuttle buses, and modern delivery options such as Uber Eats partnerships aimed at supporting students’ daily needs.

However, beyond the services offered, the most important part of the day was the conversation a reflection on how far South Africa has come since 1976, and what still needs to change.

Remembering 1976, The day 16 June is nationally recognized in memory of the Soweto Uprising, when thousands of students protested the enforcement of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. The protest was violently suppressed, but it became a turning point in South Africa’s liberation struggle.

One student at the Bertram SUPERSPAR event reflected on this history, saying: “What those students went through in 1976 shows how education was not just unfair it was controlled. They were fighting just to learn in a language they understood.” This historical struggle is now commemorated every year as Youth Day, honoring the bravery of young people who challenged an oppressive system.

The Youth Then vs. Now, during conversations with students at the event, many expressed that the most noticeable change since 1976 is access to education. One student said, “Today we have more chances. We can go to university, apply for bursaries, and even study things our parents could never access.”

Another added, “Back then it was about being denied education. Now it’s more about whether you can afford it or get opportunities after school. These reflections highlight a major shift: from denial of access in apartheid South Africa, to struggles around opportunity, affordability, and unemployment today.

While progress was widely acknowledged, students also pointed out ongoing struggles. One participant shared: “Even though things are better now, many of us still finish school and struggle to find jobs. So, the system has changed, but not fully for everyone.”

Another student noted: “We are free, but not all of us are equal in terms of opportunities.” These voices reflect a reality where democratic progress exists, but inequality and economic barriers continue to shape youth experiences. Despite the differences between 1976 and today, one strong message emerged: resilience.

The youth of 1976 stood against an unjust education system, risking their lives for change. Today’s youth continue that legacy in a different way by navigating education, economic pressure, and social inequality while still pushing for progress. As one student summarized: “We are not fighting the same battle, but we are still fighting for a better future.”

The Bertrams SUPERSPAR Youth Day event showed that Youth Day is more than remembrance it is reflection in action. By combining support services with open dialogue, the event allowed young people to connect history with their present reality. South Africa has changed significantly since the Soweto uprising of 1976, but the role of youth remains just as powerful: to question, to challenge, and to build the future.

 Bafana Bafana Fall to Mexico in World Cup Opener 

By: Sethu Makamu 

 

Bafana Bafana were beaten 2-0 by Mexico in the opening game of the 2026 

FIFA World Cup at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday night. The result 

handed the co-hosts a winning start to their campaign while South Africa will 

now look to bounce back in their remaining Group A fixtures. 

Mexico started well and took the lead within ten minutes when Julia n 

Quin ones punished a defensive error to score the first goal of the tournament. 

Mexico had plenty of the ball and attacked more and South Africa found it hard 

to create clear chances in the first half. Mexico were handed the game shortly 

after the break when South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole was shown a straight 

red card for denying an obvious goalscoring opportunity. Bafana were up 

against a confident Mexican side and had their work cut out after being 

reduced to 10 men. In the 67th minute Mexico doubled their advantage, 

veteran striker Rau l Jime nez heading in from close range. 

Discipline was a major talking point as South Africa were reduced to nine men 

following the late sending off of Themba Zwane. There were three red cards in 

the game, with Mexico also finishing with ten men after Ce sar Montes was sent 

off in stoppage time. 

 

South African coach Hugo Broos was disappointed with the result but pointed 

to positives in his side’s defensive organisation and was confident that better 

attacking play would help Bafana Bafana recover in their next group-stage 

match. 

 

 

 

 

  The President Addresses Nation Amid Immigration Tensions

By Bandile Mbango

As concerns over illegal immigration continue to dominate national conversations, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Sunday, 7 June, with a message aimed at reassuring South Africans that government is taking action while urging citizens not to allow frustration to turn into division.

The address came at a time of growing tension in several communities, where concerns about undocumented migrants, crime, unemployment and pressure on public services have sparked protests and heated debates. For many South Africans, immigration has become one of the most pressing issues facing the country, with some arguing that government has not done enough to secure borders and enforce existing laws.

Acknowledging these concerns, Ramaphosa said government understands the frustrations felt by many citizens and recognises the need for stronger immigration controls. He announced a series of interventions designed to strengthen the country’s immigration system, including tighter border management, increased workplace inspections, dedicated immigration courts and faster deportation processes for those found to be in the country illegally.

The President also highlighted the need to tackle corruption within the immigration system, warning that dishonest practices undermine law enforcement efforts and weaken public trust. He said government would continue to modernise identification systems and improve the management of immigration processes to ensure that laws are applied fairly and effectively.

While promising stronger action, Ramaphosa was equally determined to address the growing hostility directed at foreign nationals. He warned that no individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, stressing that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of law enforcement agencies. He condemned acts of violence, intimidation and vigilantism, saying such actions threaten the country’s constitutional values and social stability.

His speech reflected the difficult balancing act facing government. On one hand, there are calls for tougher measures against illegal immigration. On the other, there are concerns that anti-immigrant sentiment could fuel xenophobic violence and further divide communities already struggling with economic hardship.

For some South Africans, the address offered hope that government is beginning to respond more decisively to long-standing concerns. For others, the true test will be whether the promises made during the speech translate into visible action on the ground.

As the debate around immigration continues, Ramaphosa’s message was one of both enforcement and unity. South Africa, he argued, must protect its borders, uphold the rule of law and address public concerns without abandoning the principles of dignity, equality and human rights that underpin the nation’s democracy.

 South Africans Share Different Views on Recent Marches and Ramaphosa’s Speech

By Nomakhosi Miya

The recent marches against illegal immigration have sparked conversations across South Africa, with many citizens sharing different opinions on the protests and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address to the nation on Sunday.

For some South Africans, the marches were a way for people to express their frustrations over unemployment, crime and the pressure on public services. They believe that the government needs to strengthen border control and address the concerns raised by communities.

Community member Sibusiso Dlamini said the marches highlighted issues that many people have been concerned about for years.“People are frustrated. They feel that their concerns have not been taken seriously and they want government to act,” he said.

Others, however, believe that the protests should not encourage violence or hatred towards foreign nationals living in the country.

University student Lerato Maseko said South Africans should find solutions without turning against one another.“We all want a better South Africa, but blaming foreigners for everything will not solve unemployment and crime,” she said.

During his address on Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the concerns raised by citizens and said the government would strengthen immigration systems while ensuring that the rule of law is respected.

His speech received mixed reactions. Some people welcomed his promises and hoped that government would take stronger action. Others felt that similar promises had been made before and wanted to see results rather than words.

Student Ayanda Mthembu said many young people are tired of hearing promises.“People want change. They want jobs and they want to see government delivering on what it says,” he said.

As the debate continues, South Africans remain divided on the issue. While many agree that immigration policies need improvement, others stress the importance of protecting human rights and maintaining unity among everyone living in the country.

Nightfall Brings Fear to Parts of Johannesburg CBD

 

By Bandile Mbango &Sethu Makamu

As the sun sets over Doornfontein and Bertrams, a different kind of silence settles in one that is heavy with tension rather than calm. For residents, students, and workers in the area, nightfall does not signal rest, but rather the start of heightened caution in a community where fear of crime has become part of daily life.

Students living in nearby residences say violent incidents such as robberies, hijackings, and shootings have become a recurring reality. They describe nights interrupted by arguments in the streets, sudden fights, and gunshots echoing through the neighbourhood. Many say they lie awake fearing stray bullets could pierce through windows, turning their rooms into unsafe spaces despite being indoors. The sense of vulnerability has grown so strong that even routine movement at night feels dangerous.

A student from University of Johannesburg explained that while there is a security transport system for students travelling between campus and residences, concerns remain about its effectiveness. According to the student, security vehicles often follow behind while students walk on foot, creating anxiety about what would happen in the event of a sudden attack. “If something happens unexpectedly, we don’t know if the guards would be able to respond in time,” the concern implies.

Photo by Bandile

Security personnel stationed in the area echo similar frustrations. One security guard near a local stadium said muggings frequently occur around the surrounding streets, particularly targeting pedestrians at night. He explained that although security teams are present, they are restricted in their response because they cannot abandon their posts to chase suspects. This limitation, he said, weakens their ability to fully protect the community despite their efforts.

The guard suggested a more visible policing strategy, including the placement of police containers or mobile stations in hotspot areas. He believes this would allow victims of crime to report incidents immediately and receive faster assistance, while also increasing police presence in areas where criminal activity is reported. He added that better coordination between private security and police services could help ease pressure on security officers and improve community safety.

Another security officer offered a more measured perspective, noting that while crime has not disappeared, it has reduced compared to previous years. From his experience, criminal activity was more severe before 2024, with a noticeable improvement in recent times. However, he acknowledged that ongoing incidents still affect the sense of safety in the area.

Despite these differing views, a common thread remains residents and students continue to call for stronger safety measures, increased visible policing, and long-term solutions to restore confidence in the streets they navigate every day.