Right after I gave birth, the most funniest thing happened: it seemed like Moon walkers (Baloyi, Abathakathi, Witch) were sent to steal money from my purse, my bank account, my pockets and under my mattress and send it to the pediatrician, the drugstore, and any chain that sold cute kids’ clothes.

Having a new-born does bring financial pressure, you’re probably panicking or have already panicked too. No wonder: Depending on your spending habits and child-care needs, you’ll likely shell out R4000 between now and your little one’s second birthday. But there’s hope. Through trial and error, I learned a lot about raising my son on a budget.

Here are ways you too can cut your baby expenses by half-or even more.

Wait on the maternity clothes until you really need them. Ignore the urge to buy maternity clothes just because you’re excited about being pregnant. Chances are you will lose weight or gain weight after giving birth and you need to buy yourself clothes again so skip maternity wear if possible.

Go easy on the starter diapers. Start with only one pack of new-born diapers. Baby may not even fit into them at the start, and he’ll grow fast.

Breastfeed as long as possible. The cost of formula is expensive, wait until the Pediatrician tells you your child has allergies and you have to buy “special” formula. If you are a working mom, you can also pump your breast milk and freeze it for your little one. (breast milk is great for baby)

Formula feeding? Ask for samples. Be sure to head home from the hospital with samples (some now only give them upon request), and ask for samples at each visit to the Pediatrician. Don’t be shy – it never hurts to ask.

Buy in bulk. You know you’ll need lots of some things (like diapers and formula). If you have the storage space, stock up to save cash. Makro and Baby city offer discounts when buying in bulk.

Search for sales. Find a product you love? Hold your horses. Shopping around for a better price can help you save enough for future splurges. Register your number at baby stores for notifications whenever they have sales. Use beat the price from Game stores for Purees, Disposable nappies, formula and baby essentials.

Don’t buy a lot of shoes. Before baby is walking (and some would argue the same for a while after), shoes won’t really be necessary. Socks will do to keep those tootsies warm. I recently took my child to government clinic (yes it’s part of saving money tip, why take him to a Pediatrician when I pay tax) My son was wearing socks, you could see how dissatisfied those ladies were…hehehe a 9month old had Nike sneakers.

Take care of your own physical and mental health. Keeping mommy (and daddy) sane and healthy can help you save on medical expenses.

Buy generic and less expensive brands. Do baby labels really make a difference? He’ll only be in that onesie for a few months, so resist the urge to splurge.(I splurged from Zara, Earthchild, Naartjie until my friend took me to Ackermans bought 4 winter suites for R188, yet a T-shirt would cost that much at Zara/Earthchild or Naartjie).

Buy things that last. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you might be surprised how often you find yourself buying things that are poorly made or disposable. Invest in sturdy stuff that can be handed down from generation to generation (or at least from baby to baby).

Keep a baby-care bag in your car. Make sure it contains three diapers, a tube of ointment, a travel pack of wipes, an extra outfit, and, if your child eats solid foods, a small snack (like a teething biscuit or some vegetable puffs). When you forget your diaper bag on an outing-and you will-you won’t end up buying one (or all) of these items on an expensive, a la carte basis.

Shop the clearance rack. You can score some of the baby’s future wardrobe for cheap! (Talk with your Ped about baby’s growth charts to guesstimate his size in that season.)

Make your own baby food. When the baby starts to eat solids, toss cooked veggies into the blender with a bit of liquid, and save the meals in ice trays – the money you’ll save makes it worth the extra effort. I am a fan of home-made purees. For those who need recipes kindly email me; zizijc3@gmail.com

Before you buy it, be sure you NEED IT. A lot of first-time parents complain about winding up with tons of unused gear and goods. (If you’re unsure about a product, ask other moms)

Ask for advice! Hindsight is 20/20. Ask other moms which financial corners they wish they had cut.

Make a budget and keep track! If you’re aware of your spending, you’ll be more likely to cut corners. Also open ‘my 1st account’ for your little one- from a bank as soon as you give birth.

By Zizi

Will there be stopping Caster Semenya at the Rio Olympics later this year? Our girl did it again. Semenya claimed victory in the women’s 800m in 1min 58.26sec at the IAAF Diamond League in Doha.

That time was also the world-leading time this year. You go Caster!!!

American Justin Gatlin roared to a 100 metres victory at the same meeting and already the media is in a frenzy for a Gatlin vs Usain Bolt thriller at the Olympics.

I have witnessed amazing come backs in world football and I think newly crowned league champions Mamelodi Sundowns curved their own piece of history with that dramatic win over Medeama of Ghana on Saturday. Trailing 0-1 with just ten minutes remaining on the clock in their Caf Confederation Cup play-off first leg, Sundowns did the unseen.

Eric Kwakwa scored in the first minute for the visitors from West Africa and they held that advantage at Lucas ‘Masterpieces’ Moripe Stadium in Pretoria until 10 minutes from time. Then, Colombian Leonardo Castro and Zimbabweans Khama Billiat and Cuthbert Malajila scored within seven minutes to give the newly crowned South African champions success.

Still with Sundowns, KickOff magazine has stated that Senegalese striker Mame Niang is set to hold talks with his parent club about his future at the end of the season. Niang has been surplus to requirements at Sundowns in the last two seasons where he was shipped out on loan. “Mude mude sbhamu senyoni”

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has confirmed that tickets for the 2015/16 Nedbank Cup semifinal fixtures are now on sale. Tickets are available at Computicket and Shoprite Checkers countrywide. Both semifinal fixtures will be played on Saturday, 14 May.

Free State Stars will host Orlando Pirates at Goble Park (3pm). Tickets are selling at R80. SuperSport United will play Baroka FC at the Lucas Moripe Stadium at 8:15pm. Tickets are selling at R40 (rest of the stadium) and R60 (west stand only). Eish the Nedbank Cup – No Chiefs, no Pirates!

Ziyabuya In the relegation battle, Maritzburg United put in a strong showing to hold Orlando Pirates 0-0 in an Absa Premiership match at Orlando Stadium on Saturday night. The Team of Choice was unable to capitalise on the opportunities they created and forced to settle for a point which brings them level with University of Pretoria – though the KwaZulu-Natal club remains rooted in the automatic relegation spot.

Barcelona are leaving nothing to chance in La Liga and are now just one win away from retaining their La Liga title after Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar all scored as they thrashed Espanyol 5-0 in the Catalan derby on Sunday.

Real Madrid moved into second place, a point behind Barca with one game remaining, as they racked up an 11th straight La Liga win, 3-2 over Valencia, thanks to two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo. However, Atletico Madrid’s title hopes are over as they lost 2-1 at already relegated Levante.

Barca will be champions with victory at Granada next weekend, who crucially are now mathematically safe from relegation after a 4-1 win at Sevilla. Real Madrid travel to Deportivo la Coruna on the final day of the season.

Sad news keeps pilling up on Manchester City fans. With a top four finish no longer in their hands, captain Vincent Kompany’s thigh injury will keep him out for four months, the Belgium team doctor said, meaning he will miss the start of the next campaign under new manager Pep Guardiola.

The Belgian international defender, who picked up the injury in City’s 1-0 Champions League semifinal defeat at Real Madrid last week, said on Saturday he would miss next month’s European Championship in France.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was voted France’s Ligue 1 player of the year for a record third time on Sunday. Ibrahimovic won the award, voted for by his peers, ahead of PSG team-mate Angel Di Maria, Nice forward Hatem Ben Arfa and Marseille midfielder Lassana Diarra after scoring 35 goals in the capital club’s romp to a fourth straight French title.

Novak Djokovic claimed a record 29th Masters title when he defeated Andy Murray 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 on Sunday to win the Madrid crown for a second time.

The world No 1 captured his fifth trophy of 2016 as he defeated defending champion Murray for the 12th time in their last last 13 matches to stand at an overwhelming 23-9 in their career head-to-head.

Meanwhile, Romania’s Simona Halep sealed her first title in 14 months with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Dominika Cibulkova to claim the Madrid Open on Saturday.

In boxing news, the chilling knockout of Amir Khan by a thunderous right hand from Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez and the Briton’s journey to Clarke County Hospital immediately afterwards on “precautionary grounds” served as a reminder that mismatches are made in boxing. This will certainly go down as one of those in Sin City; not in boxing ability, but in body weight. Khan wanted to do the impossible by jumping two welter weights so he could fight Alvarez and things got hot for him in the ring.

That’s my story for this week and I’m sticking to it. I’m out!

By Farai Diza

@faraiblogger

Tjoe it’s been a minute and a half since we spend time and spoke about this and that of the industry (read nonsensical facts or opinions) for the fun of it and also to see things from our different perceptive. Asiye ke!

I remember the days when I would feel incomplete without watching VEnterntainment on Vuzu, like I would try my utmost to be home by 6 p.m and if I have an event to attend I would rather attend after I have watched VEntertaiment. That’s how addicted I was to the show and obviously those were the times where presenters were making reading that auto-cue insanely interesting. Ndithetha about presenters such as Siyabonga Scoop Ngwekazi, Dineo Moeketsi (minus the whispering) nabo Lalla. Yes, there would be days I miss episodes but I would make sure I’m up early on a Saterdag catching up with the weeks updates the VEntertainment style… Then things started going southish when Cyprian Ndlovu, Denise Zimba and Shelton Forbes took over, I would sometimes watch the show to cringe at their talent they weren’t really cutting it for me.

I remember having a chat with Shelton, I kind-a told him how he should read his lines, I asked him to tone down with his reading as he was reading way too fast. Denise, I knew she could sing, act and dance but presenting… I struggled with Denise’s presenting until she left the show. I would struggle with her enunciation but I enjoyed her craziness and the way clothes fitted that awesome body of hers. Cyprian yena I enjoyed looking at his cute dimple. So, I slowly lost interest in watching what used to be my number show at 6.

*Fast forward to now * I had been aware of the presenter shuffle on the show but never managed to squeeze time to watch them in action but this past weekend I did. Wasn’t I appalled! Like why would the producers of the show allow such on their show, I know Vuzu programs don’t really kill TV ratings (but twitter) but Ventertainment used to be one of their best rated shows and I’m certain ngoku the ratings have flunked to lowest numbers ever. Don’t get me wrong I’m all for new TALENT, talent must be talent. OR maybe I’m no longer their target market… naleyo iyenzeka.

Stiil on presenters, when will Amanda Du Pont leave RGB? That used to be one of my best shows to watch too until the SABC bosses wanted to be filter everything. I struggle to fathom the content of the show I don’t need a bad presenter on top of that. HOWEVER! Amanda is an amazing actress, F*ck girl can be the next Pamela Nomvete aka Ntsiki wa the regte Generations (in my eyes). I saw her on Skeem Sam and girl be slaying the bloody role… yes it’s not the first time I say this but good things need to be told over and over moss. Ms Du Pond if you really love presenting I suggest you take classes my sweetie or kill more acting roles!

side note: To me more than anything presenting is being comfortable in your deliverance, once you master that you get to be and do whatever you want with the script but if you lack comfort it shows through out.

Can I  send a BIG SHOUT OUT! to Skeem Sam. I rarely watch the show but when I catch it, I love. not just the production but these young un-knowns making strides and owing their craft.

Our Miss Teen World 2015 lands coveted YOTV presenter gig! this is what the 16 year old had to say about her new gig… “I’m extremely excited to join the SABC 1 family at Yo!TV – I grew up watching YO!TV and to now be part of this energetic team of young talented superstars is a dream come true! Thank you to everyone who has supported me in my journey to being a TV Presenter on this  Programme Cant wait to be in your homes.”  Siyakubongela Sthandwa!

Loving Living the Dream with Somizi,  it’s an interesting show, it is indeed not what most people expected. Abantu were expecting gay drama and and maar they see classy, hard work, success and alles nje. However the REAL reality show kaSomizi was the one Vuzu canned a while ago… A moment of silence for Somizi’s daughter, umhle shem.

And lastly the oh so bae-able Rapper Mr J-cole will be down lana eMzansi on 18th June for the Castle Lite  Unlock experience, if uyakhubula last year Castle Lite brought us Nas with Wiz Khalifa. My main excitement is the line-up of supports, Vigi, Speedsta, Kwesta and my Favourite Reason just to name a few. Additional 1 000 tickets will be made available from tomorrow afternoon… See you there!

Until next time

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

Ever since we’ve started doing this feature, I’ve come to realize that fans tend to pick on the same celebs over and over with their ‘no chill’ comments. As much as we would like to feature others here, I think it’s the same people that get picked on all the time. So here it goes:

Felicia wa batho. Lol

Nolly Nolz decided to have us fooled with this picture of Samu and Akhumzi at Nolwazi’s Traditional wedding….And the last response was hilarious!

Zaheezy was in Switzerland. Wooo…..that response?

MaDlamini in ripped jeans. Lol, is he being sarcastic? He couldn’t have missed this in trend.

Mpho Maboi doing post match interviews…..Tltltltltl

Abantu baya delela kodwa!

Miss Thabethe holding a snake in Polokwane. These comments; must be Generations Viewers?

Nomzamo wishing her ‘rumoured’ boo a happy birthday. Lol, and she got unsolicited advice.

No one is safe shem

Boity and Anele. Lol, nathi sfun’ukwazi!

Lmao! Was he singing it in Michael Jackson voice?

SupaMega didn’t see that shot coming. Ouch!

Mother’s day turned into a nightmare for this guy @mto_ndo. He got served by @OwaFlopo. People must stop assuming gore because you aren’t advertising something it means you’re not doing it or you don’t have it. Just because someone has never posted a plate of food at a restaurant doesn’t mean they don’t dine out.

By Nana Mosaka

Let’s police them red carpets and see who are pulling fashion no-no’s and who are on their way to being fashionistas.

Star Jones at the Kentucky Derby – I actually do not mind the dress but that damn hat I can’t stand. I hate it when people carry pets like they don’t have feet of their own. Clearly this is not a handbag dog so why are you trying to be fresh with us Star?

Ray J and his fiancee Princess Love (yes that’s her birth name) – she’s giving me Mzansi funeral vibes on the other hand Ray’s suit is a disrespectful, that bow-tie – no bueno!

K Michelle and all the parts of her body also showed face at the Derby. I don’t know how she actually thinks that her body is cute. Explain

Gayle King came through with her babies, Kirby and William – dang her children are very good looking

Christina Milian doing the most as usual. I don’t know what I think about this outfit. I like all the pieces but I am not sure they work well together

Can we have a moment for that piece of climbable vanilla next to Kae?

Now on to Kae’s outfit. I am loving this skirt, amazing. Let’s all remember it before some of our designers rip it. I like the whole look but only on her somehow she pulls this off

Zendaya is all covered up in a fuchsia pantsuit and I am loving it.She’s so tall and has long legs so tailored pants always look great on her.

Jhene Aiko also rocked her own take on a pant suit and I aint mad. I like it but then again I do like lots of volume and stripes

Michael B Jordan looked suave and all kinds of Bae for his Lupus LA  appearance

So much is happening here with Joseline I can’t. Where do you start?

Kelly Price put her Sunday best and hit the carpet. I swear if I saw this with no context I would think Kelly was going to deliver a sermon somewhere. What’s up with the random hair though? 

RHOA starlet Porsha Williams was also there. I like her hair and make-up, that lip colour is so good on her however her dress is bay-zik!

Your Thoughts?

We ended last evening with the news from SABC’s Chief Operations Officer, Hlaudi Motsoeneng announcing that as of tomorrow all 18 SABC radio stations will be playing 90% local music a 90 day trial.

“The music to be played will be across all genres, with a special focus on kwaito, jazz, reggae and gospel.The SABC will play more music from legends in the industry as well as up-and-coming artists,” said Kaizer Kganyago.

“The SABC will engage its audiences to evaluate whether they are satisfied with these changes. This process will pave the way for the corporation to make an informed decision going forward.”

“Our respective radio stations will not be confined to playing local music which is language-specific. We want to come to a point where any of our 18 radio stations can become a home for all South Africans. This cross-pollination of music is very important for the public service broadcaster, because part of our mandate is to reflect the South African story, and music is an important part in ensuring that the SABC fulfils this mandate.”

We know Don Laka has been very vocal about his mission to make local radio stations play local music. This is what he posted yesterday, I am sure he is happy that his voice is being heard. At some point I honestly thought Mr Laka was fighting alone, he was the most vocal, at the same time fighting for all musicians. It seemed unfair because ingathi nje most musicians were just chilling.

Eish I don’t know ngoba I’m not that mad about listening to the radio because I prefer to listen to my own music, however I think this is a nice initiative (although it’s not the 1st time the SABC does this or something similar) and I hope it will positively impact all our local stars, or kanjani?

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

I know I have not been given permission to speak about this on such platforms so I will filter (for family reasons), thank you very much. Someone dear to me is HIV positive, he was diagnosed with the disease  in 2004 and that is the time I believed AIDS was real. Since that awakening I have been trying and doing my utmost best to stay and keep negative, not that being positive is a bad thing but I don’t think anyone wishes to be positive.

I’m no perfect individual I have had sex without a condom, pricked a condom and just towned with the person I thought were the ONES and I was theirs… but I’m not there. My shocker came when it was announced on the news that Government will disburse ARV’s to everyone diagnosed with the virus irrespective of their CD4 count… and that over half a million people  (which is 500 000) are infected with the virus each year *eyes popping* like siphi nah apha… with all this education and awareness we still get infected!

I’m in-need of balancing, where do we go wrong bahlali, how can we defeat this pandemic before it cripples us?

My Tjo Moment!

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

Tjoe I’m sure bloggers are going to eat me alive for posting an event, anyways what’s new.

The event took place at Neighbourgoods Market, the social hub of bustling Braamfontein and ndafika late I had to attend to other things. At the Amstel Amplified People could control the music at via the giant speaker installation by plugging in their personal devices and playing their favourite tracks. This set the tone for the coolest impromptu rooftop party!!!! with minimum to no celebs here are the normal folks we spotted.

Damn! Such gorgeous-ness. Thank goodness I’m half straight. Lol

The Amplified speaker.

The cool kids loading their choice of music.

Seeing Mr Maponyane Jnr.

Braamfontein and it’s cool kids. More cool kids having a chilled Saturday afternoon with Amstel Lager on the Amstel Amplified.

Amstel was on of the best lager’s I tasted when I was trying out this alcohol thing.

Thank you to Ntombi and Jacqui from Epic MSL Group for the invite.

Images supplied by: Epic MSL

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

Finally it’s the weekend bahlali can we all toast to that? I hope you guys are keeping yourselves warm in this cold. How was your week? Please take us into your world and tell us what has been happening.

My birthday is coming up so I am taking a break off work for a few weeks to recharge my batteries and get my groove back. Yhuuuuuuu, I really need it….kunini siwa, sivuka, siphanda, sigudla? So far this year has been drowning me waya waya shem.

I will try and touch base with you guys kwi comments section whenever I can. Audi, Zeeba, Zintle, Picay and other JC contributors will continue to keep you company. Take good care of yourselves and please behave while mummy is away. I know some of you. Tltltltltl

Ndinithanda NONKE!!

By @KikiMarli

Another weekend of dry week of news to me kodwa ke lets get to it.

Sunday World is doing a follow-up story on the Kaizer Motaung Jnr case. Bathi Kaizer obtained an interim protection order against his German wife Katherine after she allegedly pulled him violently by his shirt collar aggressively rubbed her breasts against his chest and poking him on his face…

I don’t know what to make of this like why did Kaizer Jnr had to wait for his wife to press charges against him to come out as being abused? Why is his wife being violent? What happened, who did what to whom and for how long?

SW says Lundi has moved from being an ANC supporter to be with the EFF because the ANC has not been booking him anymore. I don’t blame his yazi, stomach politics are paramount and the ANC seems to be forgetting that about abantu in general.

The beautiful Miss World Africa and our former Miss SA Liesl Laurie has survived a car crash that transpired at the New Road Off Ramp out in Midrand. I’m glad Liesel is alive and kicking and healthy. Liesel will be taking time off from public appearances said his manager Jarred Doyle.

And Sunday Sun runs a Gigaba story as their head line. *claps once* I was disappointed when I read this story that Thabo Gigaba (ex) and Norma Gigaba are fighting over being Mrs Gigaba. ”A Sunday Sun source said Norma was keeping her distance from her hubby’s ex. But things came to a head when she dropped her computer name Mrs Gigabyte. She tried to register herself as Mrs Gigaba on Instagram only to be rejected.” I’m not entertaining this, it’s silly, childish and stupid and I don’t know how it made head-lines… I Mean front page. Nxah!

SS reports Phuti has rejected going back to Muvhango to shoot what they call the last short after the family was fired. Phuti said they called her back but she is not going back as she is already booked for another production which she doesn’t doubt will be a success… Go on with your bad self wena Phuti you can’t fire me then later decide you need me, life goes on.

Another story about stomach politics caused by politics, SS reports that Eugene Mthethwa and Mahoota are affiliated with the ANC while Mandla Spikiri and Jarius Nkwe are with EFF. Jarius was quoted saying the ruling party hasn’t offered them a gig at any of their rallies and that means they’ve moved away from the party they put in power in 1994. Lezi ndaba zama politics ziyadabukisa yazi.

SS Can reveal the mysterious death of Rhythm City’s favourite character is rumoured to be because Connie Chiume’s departure. Sources close to the actress claimed the star was pushed because she appeared in an insurance and burial service advertisement without consulting her bosses and that the advert was aired on rival channel. All I can say is, don’t people know or read their contracts anymore?

• SS speaks of Mzambiya’s new love interest with Nomfundo Biyela.
• And Pallance Dladla finding love in Andile Ncube’s baby sis Cici.

That’s it for now!

Please do fill is in on the latest on your side…

Zeeba ©

@Zolanimasombuka

About 3 weeks ago I attended the Woolworths Eco Chic Store Launch at the 2nd biggest Woolworths Store in South Africa, Mall Of Africa. (read here).

On that article I was told by some bloggers said Ayi Zeeba though…pleases stop trying to breathe life into dead event and some balanced each other on the this photo with caption

“Bonang having a moment with Lorna Maseko, they were there shooting for Top Billing.”

…Days later I came across the very same photo on Instagram from one of the JC bloggers account I think his\her name is Girliegal

It was fun, crazy and I couldn’t stop laughing at the creativity that one person took to create the balancing so I posted it on my page.

And this was the response it got from both Bonang Matheba and Lorna Maseko.

I went to you tube looked for the Katch It with Khanyi interview with Lorna, I couldn’t find the full length interview but a 0:30 clip of Lorna announcing she will be on Khanyi’s show.

The verdict is still out there until someone brings up the Lorna Maseko interview with khanyi we shall settle with SUCH NONSENSE… and in the mean time let’s try balance each other with facts or state if opinion. LMAO.

Zeeba ©

@Zolanimasombuka

I hope everyone had a great weekend. It’s that time of the year when you have to find a bae if you’re single cause these cold streets don’t play. Anyways let’s catch up on what is happening in Hollyweird.

I think I called this one, well not really. It’s being reported that Jay-Z is planning on releasing a response album to Lemonade. See those two are just good at hyping us up and then running home to count their money. I personally do not believe anything about their problems that was “highlighted on lemonade”, I think by now we all know Bey and Jay control every little detail that is shared or known about them so I don’t know why they would let that one out of the bag if it wasn’t a strategic business move. Let’s wait and see.

So Madonna has been selected by Billboard to perform a Prince tribute at the upcoming awards – I think this is strange of a choice cause we all know that Prince shaded Madonna like she was dirt under his platform shoes. Of course they dated for a minute back in the day but he thought she was an insult to true musicians and artists so how do you go ahead and select that person. I am sure there could have selected people that can actually give a Prince-worthy tribute like Gaga, Janelle Monae to name a few. I cannot wait for social media to go in on Madonna after that performance.

So Tyga and Kylie are over and apparently this time it’s for good. I see Blac Chyna laughing out here thinking damn, I am almost Angela Kardashian and Tyga wont even be part of the family table at my wedding after dogging me with an under-aged girl. I do not know why this is even news cause we all knew this one coming at some point. He was Kylie’s first serious boyfriend and she’s only 18 so she will date around and do whatever it’s only natural, it’s not like she was going to marry the guy…wait but then again Kim’s first marriage was when she was 18. Well whatever happens at least the family tree just got a little less complicated.

I am really happy about this – Ciara has listened to all our pleas. Cici just got signed to IMG models and they will be working with her and ushering her into the modelling world. I am a little mad that it took her this long – she would have made tons of money by now but I guess she saw that this music thing needs to be subsidized. She has already been a face of top brands like Roberto Cavalli and Topshop and with IMG representing model heavy weights like Gisele Bunchen and Kate Moss , she is in good hands. Good for her!

The worlds top ballerina Misty Copeland just got news, her documentary, Life In Motion – An Unlikely Ballerina will be turned into a big budget biopic which will be appear on the big screen. Can her year get any better? Congrats to this amazing, inspiring black woman. Go ahead and sprinkle that magic.

I am not liking that Janet Jackson’s ex husband (of three months) is trying to get some shine by tainting Janet’s miracle pregnancy by claiming that this is not her first and that she actually has a child, a daughter with her that he believes was given up for adoption. It’s been 20 plus years since they were married I a sure if there was a child that child would have crawled out of the woodwork’s and also with people liking money and fame they would have come forward, the girl and the adoptive parents. This has always been a rumour but just that a rumour. I don’t think Janet is the type of person who could abandon a child and banish them just nje. Your thoughts?

From one rumour to the other; last week it was reported that Toni Braxton and Birdman are dating on the low and that the two have smashed in the past and are quite close. After a picture leaked of the two at one of Toni’s concerts the rumour mill kept on going. I find it hard that they are doing anything besides chatting as industry vets. I hope Toni respeks herself enough no to do that man…

But then again these two have a history so anything is possible, given his status in music and his money I wouldn’t  be surprised if Toni gave it up but damn how do you even kiss Birdman and be okay with yourself?

IN OTHER NEWS:

The rich bitch, Nene Leakes is flaunting her new bikini body and I have to say at 48, that’s not bad at all.

Speaking of Nene, comedian Lunelle is not happy about budding comic career. I have to say I get where Lunelle is coming from it’s like these celebrities going into soapies and getting paid more than talented actors who are thespians, who have been working hard at their craft but are not seen as a great commodity because they do not have enough social media followings. It’s rough out in these streets. Nene also called Lunelle out and even offered her an opening job LOL – I cannot.

R&B Diva and also talented singer Keke Wyatt is on Rolling Out magazine. She had quite a candid interview and one of the things that stood out for me was that she thinks she is not beautiful, she is not confident in her looks and her talent. I found this sad after 6 kids and a relatively good career she is still suffering from self esteem issues but not just any self esteem issues but she completely cares about what people think of or about her. WOW!

Looking at this week like, Come get it bae!

NiReady? NiRelevant?

Last Thursday we geared our selves to attend the Legit firestarter winter launch at the newly built Mall Of Africa out in Midrand.

For this campaign Legit has decided to team up with young bloggers that are going to be at the forefront; Zukhanye Ncapayi, lifestyle blogger and student, Lerato Kgamanyane, student and stylist, Tshepang Millison, social media specialist, model and strategist, and Ayanda Nhlapo, fashion designer, actress and musician. Collectively, these starters of fires that will fuel and blaze throughout winter.

What is a Firestarter and does it work?

Each one will receive a LEGiT Firestarter Kit, a beautifully packaged box filled with all the winter fashion essentials a girl needs. They will then be encouraged to mix and match these items, and put outfits together in ways that best suit their personalities, styles and profiles. They’ll upload these to their various platforms.

“At LEGiT we’ve always look at innovative and breakthrough ways of connecting with our fan base,” enthuses Ocean Ngobeni, Marketing Manager for LEGiT.

And here are some folks we spotted:

The beautiful new Mommy, Mrs Zizo Tshwete was playing MC for the evening. I am always in awe of Zizo, she is talent and a half and mostly ndithanda ubuntu bakhe.

closer look.

Instagram Model (her description), Londie London.

…and her *clears throat*

Marketing Manger for Legit, Ocean Ngobeni.

Top Billing’s, Chris Jafta.

The beautiful Jen Su.

Naked Deejay kept us warm with them hits.

Beautiful Retha Mogotsi.

another look of , this beautiful planet radio tv presenter.

What you can expect to see at Legit.

See anything you might like?

Somz was playing Chef for the night.

Chris with them girls.

The Chef’s pout.

The sexy Nkateko Maswanganye aka Takkies and team showed us how dancing is done in heels.

I think i spotted some JC bloggers.

from left, Ayanda Nangu, Zinhle Malevu, Precious Nldovu, Lesogo Ramaleba and Naomi Motlhamme.

The lemonade beauties. Lol

Nils Viking.

The firestarters: Zukhanye Ncapayi, Lerato Kgamanyane, Tshepang Millison and Ayanda Nhlapo.

In Legit wear.

Creative Director of Legit, Bee Diamond.

Zinhle Jiyane was also there… not feeling this ensemble on her.

Thami Zikalala with Sibs Gubuza.

and we danced in heels or not…

What a fun night we had Thank you Legit and Fire starters for hosting us AND Alison and the entire Dandelion breeze Team for the invite.

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

As a young black woman from Cape Town my mother had instilled in me the culture of working hard and reaping what you sow. I followed this through. I studied very hard, did well in school and passed both my degrees with distinction. I got articles at a big five law firm and decided to join their Johannesburg office. I felt that the Cape Town office had little to no black people and that Johannesburg was more diverse and had better opportunities for me. In addition the stories of how Cape Town is racist and so forth from people outside the city made me want to experience the rest of South Africa, supposedly greener pastures.

As a Cape Townian I always believed that black people had it made in Johannesburg. Every successful person who was young, black, rich and educated seemed to make it all happen in the city of Gold. The example of young black people being prosperous are few and far between in Cape Town. As a driven young woman it was only natural for me to gravitate to the city of Gold. So, despite my mother wanting me to stay and work in Cape Town for at least a year before moving to big bad Johannesburg.  I left, straight after my second degree.

I arrived here thinking this would be so great, I would be seeing more black faces and more people that I can learn from. Yes this is true. Corporate life in Johannesburg is more diverse but I feel that it is still not diverse enough. A big five law firm cannot have just five black female partners. A statistic like that should not only shock but sadden a lot of aspiring black attorney’s out there. Why is transformation moving at such a slow pace when the majority of ll.b graduates are black?

I was disheartened to experience racism from not just white colleagues but also black men who still subscribe to the notion of white being always right way. As a newly qualified graduate at a job you expect to be mentored and for there to be a skills transfer. In reality you will find that the mentoring is geared more towards your white counterparts. In my mind I have reconciled this to be because of familiarity. We are more likely to be comfortable with those familiar to us and therefore teach those who are like us. I have put this in softer terms but it is blatant racism to not be willing to teach someone based on the colour of their skin no matter how uncomfortable it is for you. The black woman falls under the cracks in this scenario. How do we stop the cycle of creating white executives and start the cycle of upskilling black women and teaching them so that they will be executives of the future?

This is just my personal experience please share yours too. I want this article to start a progressive dialogue. I believe as black women we need to talk, support and teach each other. With all the racial incidents happening around us it is time to look inward and not outward. We can emancipate ourselves.

By Kiba Ignite

It’s that season again for Cannes and you know the stars showed up and showed out!

Let’s see which of our fashion girls hit it right out of the park.

Blake Lively put her right foot first in this gown

Amal Clooney looked amazing

Eva Longoria in her trademark train dresses. She loves herself a train

Jessica Chastain was Alexander McQueen clad and I like

My favourite girl, Julianne Moore brought tassels to the red carpet

Pretty Woman, Julia Roberts brought her best accessory, that smile

Yaaassss Kendall Jenner Yaaaassss

Another one of my faves, Naomi Watts brought the sparkle

Vanessa Paradis in Chanel – I love her

Aishwarya Rai paid homage to her native India with a Sari inspired gown

I don’t know her but that dress is lovely

Blake Lively redefined maternity wear for the red carpet, a true mannequin

I still think Aishwarya is the most beautiful woman in the world. I suspect Naomi Campbell would give her the lipstick talk though

Lily-Rose Depp looks so much like her mother, Vanessa Paradis, she’s a good mix of her famous parents

Asian persuasion in Givenchy

Marion Cottiliard dripped of gold

Elvis Presley’s grand daughter, Riley Keough opted for lilac and yellow ruffles – not too shabby

This dress is very Bonang – It’s lovely but a little too structured for my liking

Anna Kendrick was a vision in yellow, I think this is the best she has ever looked

A little ruffle never hurt nobody

Bella Hadid flaunted champagne kisses – I like this dress on her, she looks like a season Hollywood star

Blake Lively serving the people what they need again

Model Doutzen Kroes  was the perfect picture of elegance

Something is off about this look on Eva Longoria

I love how this dress hugs Jessica Chastain, canary yellow is definitely her colour and that little ombre detail gives it a little sass and cheek

Oh Julianne you are a vision my darling

There’s something quite sweet and lovely about this dress. Kirsten Dunst has been silent for a while

Naomi Watts serving everything on the style menu – bellisima

Posh Spice, Victoria Beckham in one of my least fave looks from her

And then Kendall shut it all the way down in Roberto Cavalli

Your Thoughts?

Dear Friends of Just Curious

It is with a sore heart and disbelief that we confirm that a valued member of the JC Team, a dear friend and voice of reason Pako Lefifi (Picay Photography) has passed on.

The details around what happened are still sketchy but what we we have been told is that he was stabbed at his house in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The funeral will be held next weekend but as soon as we receive official confirmation we will communicate the details.

Our heartfelt condolences to Pako’s family, the multitudes of friends he made in his short life and everyone who got to know him.

To the JC Team, Kiki, Zolani, Lyton and Zintle:  You loved him so much when he was around, he knew it, he felt it and he loved you you with the most purest of hearts. I am SO sorry for your loss.

I can’t even bring myself to say he must Rest In Peace because I really can’t believe that he is gone.

We love you Pako. We will forever love you, and you will forever be in our hearts and in our minds. I miss your singing and dancing already.

Love,

Lelo

Let’s see what the interwebs have been getting up to with their lack of chill.

Hot off the gram is DJ Zinhle in Mauritius…..how hot is she?

Hehehhe……do we need to start plotting the intersextions web between these people ala Blac Chyna, Tyga, Kylie and Rob?

Mmatema with Samkelo in a very revealing dress. We are no longer leaving anything for the imagination bakiths

And the commenters did the most

They read her the riot act

Dude tried to come to her defence ……

Ncooohhh Mdu and his little one

Lol, I had to also do a retake because he looks so short

Minnie bumped into Malik Yoba in New York

Stans…..sigh

Mmabatho Montsho wishing the people’s bae a happy birthday

Hearts broke…lol

A make-up less LKG

Lol

DJ Zinhle posted an AKA look-alike

The people want to know, are they dating?

Hhhhmmmm…..no comment

Lmao, whoever did this is going to hell

We know it’s a lot heavy here given the circumstances. Please do stay strong, laugh in memory of the person who used to make us all laugh. Thank you for the prayers.

*

By Nana Mosaka

Last night I went to Cassper’s phone launch with MTN because I thought I needed to be out there, I needed to be happy and continue where Picay left off but I couldn’t. Luckily the event was not filled with a lot of media people, I literally got in walked around the venue, ordered a drink and a few minutes walked out again. My body was there but my heart andiyazi ibiphi. A lot (that I can’t articulate in words) felt wrong nje in that place, it felt like I didn’t belong there and suddenly I had this huge hole of a void in my heart.

When I got into my car I played Toni Braxton’s “Always” and I knew in my heart of hearts Picay will always be a part of me no matter where I am or what I do. I started sobbing thinking of all the good times we had and by the time i drove off Constantia I knew I had to be at peace with the fact that my dear friend is gone, forever. As awful as it is, It has to be done.

I dedicate today’s AG to making peace and being at peace with circumstances and situations you can’t alter… What’s your AG?

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka

it’s that time again, without wasting anytime masiye!

Sunday Sun says Teko Modise has allegedly stopped paying Felicia Modise spousal maintenance since March this year after he discovered she was on Diski Divas. According to Felicia’s lawyer Isaac Mabunda, Teko should stop paying only if Felicia finds remunerable employment.

Sunday Sun also goes to speak of the allegation that Teko demanded a refund from Lizelle Tabane’s family of R40 000. 00 that was paid towards lobola.

Firstly Teko should not have stopped paying his spousal maintenance without enquiring from Felicia or her lawyers first. Someone should try find out why did Teko not pay, maybe the poor dude didn’t have money or doesn’t have money.

Number two, Felicia should really try HARD to get a REAL JOB not these acting auditions she goes for. Sisi acting is a skill some learn others acquire wena awunazo zombini so try putting your CV out for Reception/Filling jobs or any job for that matter. GET A REAL JOB

Sunday Sun says DJ Bongz lied about owning a house at La Lucia, their sources say the house actually belongs to Bongz former Business partner turned boss and ANCYL Treasure, Reggie Nkabinde. When SS called Dj Bongz for comment he said ‘I thank God now I have property in my own name…’

Lark I’m not going to waste my time with this one, people lie all the time this should not be a surprise but the question they should be asking is, why did he lie, like what drove him [or them] to lie.

Bob Mabena is rumoured to be dumped by his side chick Zodwa Douglas for being stingy. SS says Zodwa’s friends claim Bob was dumped because all his bank cards were kept by his wife.

Indaba ka Bhut’ Bob iyadabukisa bantu. Yazi, I’m a firm believer of phases like we cannot read about Bhut’ Bob Mabena’s cheating escapades in 2016, he should have outgrown this a long time ago. If the allegation are true Sis Eucharist ndiyakuvela dali ustrongo, for you to keep Bob’s bank cards means you’re sort of aware of this qha you told yourself that ama SD’s can have his body but not your [plural] money.

Lastly why is Zodwa [and or her friends] going to the media about this, the media was not involved when this started why publicize it now Zodwa and company. Are you trying to hurt Eucharist?

So Mshoza was booked and paid R5000.00 to perform at an event Tina was part of… I won’t dwell on the story but Mshoza’s comment after confirming she did get the R5000 pay ‘Tina used the advantage of our friendship. I’m not cheap but I agreed to perform at her event. .. I waited long for the money to show in my account. It reflected when I was already in Durban… I wasn’t going to leave something big in Durban for nuts’

Mshoza you’re wrong, you’re wrong sesi in so many ways. Why did you accept the R5000 if you don’t come cheap, why didn’t you tell your friend Tina that prior. Why did you allow yourself to be booked for ‘something big’ in Durban whereas you had agreed to help a friend. If Tina is really your friend you shouldn’t have gone to Durban you should have trusted that she will pay you as agreed unless your friendship has ama issues. Lastly Mshoza uyadika you like to bring unnecessary attention kuwe, for the why sana.

Sunday World

Hlaudi Motsoeneng fights with Duma Ndlovu creator of Muvhango to give actors 3 year contracts. You know what I’m all for this, phambili Hlaudi phambili. However Amanda Ngudle publicist for Muvhango says their contract with the SABC expires in August this year so they can’t issue out 3 year contracts to their actors until they sign a contract renewal with the SABC. In all fairness Hlaudi must wait until they renew the contract with Duma then fight with him for now makamyeke bethuna unless he wants Muvhango off our screens… my mother would die. LOL.

Sunday World reports on Cassper and Lizelle Tabane’ romance. [ sigh] this is not news kum yazi. All I can say is Lizelle is really downgrading .

That’s it from us.

What stories caught your attention… please share.

Zeeba (c)

@Zolanimasombuka