TREASURE HUNT BACK IN SOUTH AFRICA

 

(Producer and director Chim Onyebilanma, with cast member Samantha Watts. Pic supplied)

 

Faith, action and redemption - Treasure Hunt comes to South African cinemas after world premiere in the USA

A local film with a global heart is bringing faith to the big screen.

After its debut at the prestigious Oscar-qualifying American Black Film Festival in Miami Beach, Florida Treasure Hunt - a faith-filled, action-packed, feel-good movie made in rural KwaZulu-Natal – is set to be screened at Watercrest mall Ster-Kinekor cinema marking its homecoming after premiering elsewhere in South Africa this past October.

With a powerful redemptive storyline at its core, Treasure Hunt is a film that blends real- life struggles with themes of grace, second chances and the courage to choose what’s right. It’s got it all - action, drama and of course, love.

The film has had a cinema run both in Johannesburg and at Suncoast CineCentre in Durban. It was so well received at Suncoast that it ran for three consecutive weekends because of the high demand.

Now the film is coming home to the community where it was made - the Upper Highway area of Durban and will screen for one week from December 5, 2025 at the Watercrest mall (and simultaneously at the Brooklyn mall cinema in Pretoria).

Set in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, Treasure Hunt follows the story of a man trying to leave behind a broken past. When he stumbles upon a stash of jewellery in a trash bin, he faces a moral crossroads... do what’s right or return to the life he left behind. The story explores faith under pressure and the life-changing impact of standing firm in your values.

Directed by Chim Onyebilanma, a passionate storyteller, the film was created by CAP Studios, a small production company in Embo, in the rural Valley of a Thousand Hills in KwaZulu-Natal that works to nurture local talent and tell stories with purpose and premium production quality.

(Veteran actor Zane Meas in one of the scenes from the movie. Pic supplied)

Even the cast is a testament to the film’s mission. Well-known South African stars Moopi Mothibeli, Muzi Mthabela, Trevor Gumbi, Zane Meas and Samukele Mkhezie — along with many local actors — offered their time for free, in support of a project that carries a bigger message.

Also in the cast are well-known theatre personalities Patrick and Shannon Kenny.

“This is more than a film,” says Onyebilanma. “It’s a message of hope. It’s about the real battles people face every day, and the choice to believe that your story isn’t over.” Whether you're coming for the action, the message or the love story, Treasure Hunt is a film the whole family can enjoy — and one South Africans can be proud of.

Joining in on the excitement of the homecoming of this movie, the Watercrest mall management is planning a special meet and greet celebration including red carpet photos with some of the cast on the evening of the opening night (December 5) from 17h30.

By supporting this film, audiences are helping to ensure that more good local faith-based content makes it to South African screens.

Online booking is now open at sterkinekor.com

ANDREW WALFORD'S CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY

 

(Work by Andrew Walford. Pic supplied)

 

Sunday December 7 from 10h00 to 18h00.

Browse at leisure away from the hustle & bustle at Andrew Walford’s magical mountain top studio overlooking Shongweni Dam. Hear fish eagles calling and glimpse the red flash of a loerie's wings between the many trees. 

There will be lasagne, tea and coffee to be enjoyed whilst relaxing in the garden. The studio is also open throughout the CHRISTMAS SEASON till early evening every day.

Parking is at the usual site opposite the entrance but it is possible to drive up if needed.

Andrew and his wife Leanda look forward to meeting old friends and new art lovers.

You can also buy directly off www.andrewwalfordpottery.com or gift pots to friends around the country.

Take Shongweni exit off N3 freeway and follow signs for 8kms to B9 in the Shongweni Valley M551 Continuation of Kassier Road. (1km past Shongweni Farmers Market)

 

Email: andrew@andrewwalford.co.za

 

 

MITH; DECEMBER 3, 2025

 

(Above: Tom Watkeys & Dominic Momberg. Pic supplied)

 

Where can you meet with friends, and enjoy great music in a beautiful environment with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar – all for just R50? Spring evenings in the hills are alive with music — and while the nights are warming, we’ll still have the fires lit and the welcome waiting. Come join us for another night of heartfelt performances, local flavour, and the unique magic of MiTH (Music in the Hills).

The next event takes place on December 3, 2025, at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

Entrance: R50 (Cash or Zapper at the door)

For more information contact 082 331 7271

 

20h00: D&T

D&T is an acoustic-pop duo powered by the silky, arresting vocals of Dominic Momberg and the multi-instrumental mastery of Tom Watkeys. United by a simple philosophy - write good songs and produce them beautifully - they craft organic, melody-rich music that feels effortless while carrying the emotional weight of a story in every line.

Both artists bring significant experience to the partnership. D&T have performed at Splashy Fen (multiple years) and opened for The Parlotones on a national South African tour. Dominic reached the Top 10 of Idols SA (Season 4), while Tom has toured Europe as a session musician for the lead singers of The Parlotones and Prime Circle, and completed UK and European tours as part of Braai Army. Their music has resonated widely, amassing 500,000+ Spotify streams and steadily growing as more listeners discover their rich, acoustic-driven sound.

Their influences span modern storytellers and acoustic pop trailblazers, including John Mayer, Dan + Shay, The Maine, Matt Nathanson, Rascal Flatts, and Brandi Carlile – all artists whose emotional honesty and melodic instincts echo through D&T’s sound.

 

19h00: The Stuarts

Reg and Lorna Stuart have been performing as a duo in various restaurants, pubs and hotels for close to forty years, featuring Reg on guitar, flute and vocals and Lorna on bass and vocals. Their musical style encompasses elements of folk, country, blues, jazz, reggae and soft rock. Their musical influences are derived from diverse sources including Eric Clapton, Michael Franks, Bob Dylan, and more recently from their son, Rowan Stuart.

 

 

ABOUT MiTH

KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music. Every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

Food and soft drinks for sale. Cash bar available.

Info: 082 331 7271

 

Visit www.mith.co.za for more info or email mithbookings@gmail.com to perform.

 

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2km along Hilton Avenue, which becomes Dennis Shepstone Drive. Look for Knoll Drive on your right; the entrance to MiTH is the second left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

 

HIDDEN TRUTHS, HUNTING TREASURE AND HEROES ON HISTORY CHANNEL

(Sitting Bull. Pic supplied)

 

From buried mysteries to iconic figures, the HISTORY Channel Africa uncovers stories that shaped history this November and December. It is a festive season filled with uncovering the extraordinary on DStv 186.

In pursuit of answers, the Curse of Skinwalker Ranch investigators return for season 6 on Friday November 7 at 19h25. In a secluded spot of the Uintah Basin, in Utah in the US, lies one of the most paranormal places on earth - Skinwalker Ranch. This season the team push their investigation for answers to the long-running paranormal and UFO events with the use of new technology. Season 6 unearths bizarre clues, a shocking phenomenon, a mysterious bubble, and an intriguing encounter.

From buried mysteries to the most infamous criminals in history, the hunt for truth continues. In Original Gangsters with Sean Bean, starting Tuesday November 11 at 19h25, British actor Sean Bean delves into the lives of the world’s most notorious criminals, including the real Peaky Blinders and Al Capone. Uncovering the truth about the gangsters’ nefarious activities, Bean puts on his detective hat as he separates the fact from fiction. Original Gangsters with Sean Bean is a gritty look at the chaos, the chases, the blood, the guts, and the glory, bringing these legends to life as never before.

Another big name on the HISTORY Channel this November is award-winning actor, producer and director Laurence Fishburne. History’s Greatest Mysteries with Laurence Fishburne returns for season 6 on Saturday November 15 at 20h15. This season uses new evidence to unravel details behind mysteries like the Roswell UFO debris, the Franklin Expedition, which disappeared searching for the Northwest Passage, and the Yeti. Hosted and narrated by Fishburne, each episode unpacks dark and compelling facts with the help of top historians, authors, scientists, and researchers.

In larger-than-life figures of a different kind, Sitting Bull is a new documentary event starting Sunday November 30 at 20h15. One of history’s most powerful Native American leaders, and almost certainly its most famous, Sitting Bull unified tribes in their resistance to white settlers and US government oppression. This two-part documentary special charts the extraordinary life of the renowned leader of the Lakota people. Refusing to back down, Sitting Bull gathers an unprecedented alliance of Native nations, becomes an international celebrity with Buffalo Bill Cody, and fights against seemingly impossible odds to save his people and their culture.

Whether it’s history’s heroes or hidden hoards, every discovery holds a story waiting to be told. In December the HISTORY Channel asks what stories our treasures tell, as Storage Wars returns for its 16th season weekdays at 18h10, on December 8. The curiosity-sparking reality show brings back fan-favourite buyers and fierce bidding wars. But for the first time, episodes run longer, giving viewers even more drama and discoveries.

From uncovering hidden treasures to exploring sacred ones, Holy History takes viewers on a journey of faith and discovery over Christmas time - every Sunday and Monday evening, starting December 14.

Jesus Crown of Thorns, starting Sunday December 14 at 20h15, tells the story of Jesus Christ as a gripping docuseries, set against the backdrop of 1st-century Judea where he emerges as a revolutionary figure challenging authority at the time. Season two of Jesus Crown of Thorns will explore Jesus’ ministry and the social unrest it sparked.

Following straight on from season 2, season 3 of Jesus Crown of Thorns will depict the final week of Jesus’s life in Jerusalem, followed by his crucifixion and resurrection.

Whether it’s uncovering ancient relics, chasing hidden riches, or revisiting history’s great figures, every story reminds us that history is waiting to be explored Journey through time with the HISTORY Channel on DStv 186 this November and December.

 

 

CLIMBING THE MOUNTAINS WINS NEW DOCUMENTARY AWARD

Deadline for applications: Sunday, February 1, 2026

Climbing the Mountains announced as winner of the New Documentary Award at DFM 2025.

Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) is proud to announce the winner of the new documentary award supported by Just Films to director, Sabrina Chebbi and producer, Kenji Accard for their feature documentary in development, Climbing the Mountains after pitching at the annual Durban FilmMart in July 2025.

The documentary aims to explore the transmission of trauma experienced by Algerian filmmaker, Sabrina Chebbi and is a poetic testament to the resistance of Kabylian grandmothers who are the living guardians of tradition and history.

This award of 10,000 USD is the first of a 4-year award partnership between Just Films and Durban FilmMart Institute.

The Durban FilmMart Institute thanks the jury for their careful consideration and deliberation on the project best deserving of this award. The independent jury included Jihan El-Tahri, producer, writer and director at Big Sister Productions, Mandisa Zitha, Festival Director of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival and Steven Markovitz, producer, founder and director of Big World Cinema .

 

Applications for the DFM 2026 Pitch and Finance forum are currently open for live action projects in development.

 

DFM Pitch and Finance Forum Application criteria:

-The programme is open to African filmmakers with an active feature length or episodic live action project in development.

-The programme is open to both fiction and documentary projects.

-At least one of the three key creatives (Producer, Writer, Director) must be from Africa or African in the Diaspora (with an African passport). Should you have any questions regarding the acceptability of your documentation which connects you to the continent, especially if it is not an African passport, please write to DFMI via info@durbanfilmmart.com.

-Project applications must be completed in English, however the language of the project itself is up to the imagination of the filmmaker/ writer.

-At least one representative must be available to participate in the online masterclass and mentorship programme and be physically present in Durban for the duration of the 17th Durban FilmMart.

Applications can be made through the Durban FilmMart Institute website: https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/pitch-and-finance-forum-application/

 

Deadline for applications: Sunday, February 1, 2026

To keep up to date on call-outs, filmmakers are encouraged to sign up for the DFMI newsletter on the website  https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/ or follow on social media.

For more information, contact info@durbanfilmmart.com

 

Apply Here

https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/pitch-and-finance-forum-application/

 

Information about JustFilms

JustFilms, through Ford Foundation, supports independent film and emerging media projects that explore urgent social justice issues and seek to challenge inequality in all its forms. They also support the organizations and networks that help further these projects. Funds are distributed in two areas, social justice storytelling and 21st-century infrastructure, which together aim to transform pervasive narratives that produce and maintain inequality, and attract more resources for artist-driven creative visual storytelling around the world.

https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/

 

About Durban FilmMart Institute

Durban FilmMart Institute is the business hub of the African film industry in a world where professionals and products are globally competitive and celebrated. The mission of the Durban FilmMart Institute is to provide appropriate and effective programmes and services to promote, support and facilitate investment in the African film industry. The Durban FilmMart Institute runs year-round developmental programmes and an annual market (Durban FilmMart).  The DFMI has recently launched Filmmart.africa which is an online tool for filmmakers to connect and which we hope will enhance visibility for African content.  For more information about the DFMI programmes visit www.durbanfilmmart.co.za

 

UMANG: THE SPIRIT OF KATHAK

 

The Playhouse Company proudly presents the Manesh Maharaj Kathak Ensemble in UMANG: The Spirit of Kathak, returning for its third year in the Loft Theatre on December 12 and 13. This captivating production invites audiences into the world of Kathak, one of India’s most treasured classical dance traditions where rhythm, grace and storytelling unite in a celebration of spiritual depth.

Audiences will be transported through vibrant rhythms, expressive narrative, enchanting melodies and exquisite costume design. Each performance is crafted to stir the senses and the soul, revealing the emotional nuance, beauty and technical mastery that define the timeless tradition of Kathak.

“As a Kathakar, my experience of Kathak extends far beyond dance,” shares Artistic Director Manesh Maharaj. “It has shaped the way I see the world; it has made me a student of life and a student for life. Each performance is a surrender to the art, a celebration of discipline, devotion, energy and grace. UMANG offers an experience that uplifts, inspires and honours this divine legacy.”

Manesh Maharaj stands as one of South Africa’s most revered Kathak artists, celebrated for his virtuosity, powerful stage presence and deep reverence for tradition. His performances, celebrated locally and abroad, blend classical precision with thought-provoking innovation, transcending boundaries and reaching audiences from all walks of life. Through his artistry, Maharaj continues to honour the ancient lineage of Kathak while connecting it to contemporary audiences with authenticity and heartfelt expression.

A dynamic cultural ambassador, Maharaj seeks to enrich the artistic landscape of South Africa while expanding the global footprint of his unique Kathak style. His work offers audiences not just a performance, but a rare spiritual journey, one that reflects discipline, passion and a profound connection to the essence of Indian classical heritage.

Don’t miss unforgettable performances of music, movement and narrative, a radiant celebration of cultural richness and the enduring spirit of Kathak.

Tickets are R150 available through Webtickets. Early booking is recommended for this intimate and deeply moving experience at The Playhouse Company.

Performances take place on December 12 at 19h00 and December 13 at 14h00. Booking is through Webtickets.

ANOTHER INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR BONGANI TEMBE

 (Bongani Tembe. Pic supplied)

 

Eminent South African arts leader, Bongani Tembe, is one of the distinguished speakers at the Beijing Forum for Symphonic Music in China this week.

The 2025 Beijing Forum for Symphonic Music will be held from November 26 to 28 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), bringing together over 300 representatives from 190 arts institutions across more than 30 countries and regions. 

Other accomplished arts leaders who will speak at this in-depth and high-level international platform, include Prof. Daniel Froschauer, Chairman of the Vienna Philharmonic; Serge Dorny, General Director of the Germany’s Bavarian State Opera; President Wang Ning of the Beijing NCPA; the internationally-renowned conductor Paavo Järvi and the famous tenor and artistic director of the Salzburg Mozart Week, Rolando Villazón.

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the finest in the world, will present two symphonic concerts at the NCPA, conducted by Christian Thielemann, as part of the week’s activities in Beijing. Bongani Tembe, the Juilliard-trained opera singer and internationally accomplished arts leader, is the CEO and Artistic Director of the Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal and Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestras. He joins international industry leaders to explore progressive topics, under the Theme: Diversity Ignites Brilliance, and Pioneering Elevates Excellence.

“It is with a deep sense of humility that I accept this invitation to share my experience at this assembly of top leaders of renowned orchestras and opera companies around the world.” Tembe said.

“South Africa is celebrated as the homeland of generations of great musicians who have distinguished themselves across the globe. It has been my honour to engage with them throughout my career. And, it will be my privilege, on my return, to share the benefits of attending this forum with my South African colleagues – and to apply newfound knowledge gleaned from the cross-pollination for the enhancement of the audience base of our diverse communities.”

The Forum aims to showcase the interplay of multicultural influences, focusing on the highest artistic standards of symphonic music, anticipating new horizons that embrace evolving technologies, emergent presentations, and rigorously embraced new terminologies—raising the bar to ever-greater artistic brilliance in symphonic music.

As a universal art form, symphonic music melds diverse cultures, styles and viewpoints. Its forms of expression, communication networks, and community expectations continue to evolve within dynamic cultural contexts.

Topics in the agenda include:  The mounting of Festivals, Symphony in the Digital Age and Symphony Indigenisation. Mr Sipho Nkosi, chairman of the Kwazulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra said, “We are proud of our brother, Bongani Tembe, and we wish him well as he brings a lifetime of service to music to bear on our behalf at this important international forum.”

Mr Tembe has appeared on many international arts fora and has also performed in major concert halls around the world. In 2016, he was honoured by the French Government with the title Officier des Arts et Lettres, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the arts. During the second week of December 2025, Bongani Tembe will be presenting Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra’s 4th national tour, Voices of Home with internationally-renowned conductor Marin Alsop and charismatic South African cellist Abel Selaocoe. The programme blends African soul with a refreshed classical language, highlighted by Selaocoe’s pioneering Four Spirits Cello Concerto — a work that evokes ancient memory, contemporary rhythm, and the heartbeat of home.

The performance concludes with Rachmaninov’s lush and passionate Symphony No. 2, bringing the evening to a sweeping emotional finale. Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra concerts are as follows:

Johannesburg, December 10 & 11 Linder Auditorium at 19h30

Durban, December 13 - Durban Playhouse at 15h00

Cape Town: December 16 - Cape Town City Hall at 18h00

Booking is through Quicket

 

For more information on the KZN Philharmonic, click on the advert to the top right-hand side of this article.

YOU ASKED FOR IT – A 3RD TIME

 

Based on the success of their 2023 and 2024 productions of You Asked For It which included audiences’ favourite song requests, the Reals have created another sequel to this popular concept, and titled it You Asked For It – A 3rd Time. The audience surveys revealed the most interesting selections of over 500 songs from which they’ve compiled this fun show.

Presented by Rhumbelow, Durban, join Barry Thomson & The Reals with ‘ring master’ Barry Thomson, musical director Dawn Selby, drummer Mali Sewell, and Robz Millar on bass guitar.

With such a varied selection of songs, some of which have never been performed by The Reals, this show includes hits from Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, The Beatles, Bryan Adams, Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac and then some!

 

Performances are on:

December 6, 2025. Show starts 19h30

December 7, 2025. Show starts 14h00

The venue opens 90 minutes before show  

 

Tickets R200. Booking is essential – on email: roland@stansell.co.za or from Webtickets

Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Limited secure parking available.

 For more information contact 0824998636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

BEAT-ROUTE FOR ST CLEMENTS

 

(Above: Beat-Route)

Deck the halls and prepare for a cool yule with the infectious acoustic magic of Beat-Route, featuring five brilliant musicians playing (vocals, too) a mix of traditional New Orleans jazz, modern South African jazz, original compositions — plus a few jazzed-up Christmas carols. And let’s not forget the art.

Come welcome in the festive season with the Mondays @ 6 at St Clements programme with some seriously good music from Beat-Route, one of Durban’s longest running and most popular bands, formed in 2004 by front-man Daniel Sheldon (trumpet and flugelhorn). With the inimitable Gerald Sloan on guitar, the fabulous Zoe Masuku on vocals, Logan Byrne on double bass and Mr Bucco Xaba on drums.

They will perform on December 1 at 18h00. Table Bookings Essential: RSVP ST Clements +27 62 582 0980

Daniel Sheldon says: “We will do a range from our Jazz repertoire including some fun traditional New Orleans numbers, more modern fare that includes some South African jazz and one or two original compositions. We will also do a few jazzed-up Christmas carols to welcome in the festive season.”

Sheldon, who is also a music teacher and a visual artist, is well-known for his comic art and his remarkable detailed wildlife art, which features original sketches done with ballpoint pen on paper then remastered digitally for high quality art prints. He will display, and discuss, some of his art at St Clements. “Human creativity is on a precarious threshold with AI technology, which turns creativity into a mere 'production pipeline’… My latest catchphrase is that the only value of creativity is in the creative act itself,” he says.

Having been around for over two decades, Beat-Route has become a firm favourite on the music scene in KZN and further afield. “Our musical choices focus on the traditional swing jazz-era sound of the smaller acoustic combos and our vast repertoire reflects that. We play the evergreen classics of both the American and South African jazz song books. But also stretch out into some more contemporary recognisable songs (Amy Winehouse, John Meyer, Stevie Wonder) — all done in our signature jazz style.”

When the donation box is passed around, St Clements request festive-spirit generosity and a minimum of R50 per person.

Weather permitting, the event will be outdoors.

Bookings limited to diners in support of St Clements restaurant and staff.

Single folk are welcome to book for one person and join Val's table.

Be there in time to open your tab, order at the counter and settle in before the scheduled 18h00 start.

Please cancel if you book then can’t make it.

St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road in Durban. Mondays @ Six run between 18h00 and 19h00.

If you wish to dine after the presentation, place your order before 18h00.

OLWANDLE SOUL & JAZZ PICNIC XPERIENCE

 

Get ready to groove at the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience!

Get ready to soak up the soulful sounds of South Africa's best jazz and soul artists at the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience, happening on December 13, 2025, at the scenic Beachwood Country Club in Durban.

This family-friendly picnic promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, good company, and laid-back vibes, with a unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B that will delight music lovers of all ages. Enjoy healing sounds of music, a scrumptious menu, beach walks, and an entertaining kiddies' corner.

 

Event Details:

- Date: December 13, 2025

- Time: 12pm - late

- Venue: Beachwood Country Club, Durban

- Tickets: R250 online, R300 at the gate

 

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/343129-olwandle-soul-and-jazz-picnic-experience/

 

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, food, and fun in the sun! Get your tickets now and be a part of the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience

.- Family and Group Packages: Available with discounts for children under 12

- Interactive Elements: Meet and greet with artists, interactive zones, and artist merchandise with purpose

 

Directions: Beachwood Country Club, Beachwood Pl &, Fairway, Beachwood, Durban North, 4051, South Africa

A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

 

Experience the magic of Christmas at The Playhouse!

Step into a world of festive wonder this holiday season! Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon bursting with enchanting music, breathtaking performances and the joy of Christmas.

A Christmas Celebration takes place on Saturday, December 20 at 15h00 in the Opera Theatre, featuring an extraordinary line-up:

Ayanda Ntanzi;  Don Laka;  Timothy Moloi;  The Playhouse Chorale;  KZN Philharmonic Orchestra;  Nkululeko Khumalo and Sthembile Ndwalane.

Hosted by the charming Stacey Norman and directed by Ralph Lawson, this spectacular show blends soulful gospel, timeless Christmas classics and dazzling dance, a magical treat for the whole family!

 

Date: 20 December 2025

Time: 15h00

Venue: Opera Theatre

Tickets: R200 – R250 | Available at Webtickets

 

One performance only! Book now and make this Christmas truly unforgettable!

HOLD MY HAND COMPETITION

Deadline; November 30, 2025

One small thing can change a child’s whole day

New festive competition celebrates everyday moments with children and teens

As South Africa heads into the festive season, Hold My Hand (HMH) is inviting people across the country to pause, look around them, and choose just one small thing they will do to make a child or teen feel loved, safe and seen.

The “Just One Thing” competition is a national storytelling call-out that celebrates the everyday moments that matter: reading a bedtime story, walking to school together, cooking a simple meal, playing a game, checking in about feelings, or putting a child’s safety first on a busy day. November is Children’s Month and this competition is a wonderful way to celebrate the children in our lives.

From November 21 to 30, 2025, anyone living in South Africa can enter by sharing one real moment, plan or tradition during this festive season, involving a child or teen in their life, using any of the following formats:

 

-       A voice note or audio clip with an image (about 30 seconds, up to 2 minutes)

-       A short video (about 30 seconds, up to 2 minutes)

-       A photo with a caption (max 50 words)

-       A drawing or artwork (sent as a clear photo, with a caption)

-       A short story, message, letter or poem (max 500 words)

 

Entries are submitted via WhatsApp to 0600 411 111.

Hold My Hand Communications Content Lead, Lebo Motshegoa, says: “We often talk about ‘big change’ for children, but in real life it starts with small, everyday actions. Just One Thing is about shining a light on those moments. The five minutes you take to listen, walk, play or comfort. When people share these stories, they remind all of us that we each have the power to show up for the children and teens around us.”

Airtime spot prizes of R500 will be given away in random draws from valid entries received during the competition period. Five cash prizes of R5,000 will go to the top judged entries that best capture heart, clarity and creativity in telling their “just one thing” story.

A judging panel will look for entries that feel honest, clear, creative, and full of heart, whether they come from a child, teen, parent, grandparent, older sibling, teacher, neighbour or other caregiver figure.

Network Mobiliser Mesuli Kama says: “Children are not only shaped by big policies and big budgets. They are shaped by what happens in their homes, schools and streets, every single day. When people share the small ways, they choose to be there for a child, even when money is tight or life is stressful, it sends a powerful message: care is possible, and it matters.”

“Just One Thing” is part of the wider Hold My Hand campaign, which supports the National Strategy to Accelerate Action for Children (NSAAC) by putting real-life stories and intergenerational connection at the centre of change. The campaign calls on families, communities, civil society, business and government to make South Africa a place where every child can grow up healthy, safe, supported and able to reach their potential.