logo
Under African skies: Ndlovu Youth Choir unites music and conservation at Kruger

Under African skies: Ndlovu Youth Choir unites music and conservation at Kruger

The Citizen08-05-2025

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of music, culture and conservation at the annual Kruger Concert for Conservation, which will take place on June 13. The internationally acclaimed Ndlovu Youth Choir will perform in a beautiful setting at Skukuza Airport.
This exclusive event forms part of the fundraising efforts of the SANParks Honorary Rangers Lowveld Region.
Described by The New York Times as 'joy in the world', the Ndlovu Youth Choir is celebrated for its vibrant and infectious performances that blend melodic harmonies, powerhouse vocals and captivating choreography. Their unique musical arrangements embody Africa's dazzling legacy of choral splendour while seamlessly fusing indigenous South African sounds with global musical genres like pop, rock, jazz, soul and electronic dance music.
From reimagining global hits like Toto's Africa, Ed Sheeran's Shape of You and Michael Jackson's Man in the Mirror, to their groundbreaking work with sign language in What a Wonderful World, the choir continues to enchant audiences worldwide.
Their recent international tours included performances at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam and the Carnegie Hall Summer Festival in New York, alongside collaborations with global icons such as P!nk and Disney.
With only 500 seats available, this once-in-a-lifetime experience promises an evening of captivating music set against the iconic backdrop of the Kruger National Park.
Tickets for the sunset event are R1 150, which includes a complimentary glass of wine or gin and a harvest table filled with delicious snacks. Conservation fees and accommodation are not included. Guests are encouraged to book early on Quicket to secure their seats.
No private vehicles will be allowed, but convenient shuttle services will be provided from Mbombela, Kruger Gate, Pretoriuskop and Skukuza rest camps. Shuttle tickets from your preferred destination can be booked with your concert tickets on the Quicket site.
As proud sponsors of the Kruger Concert for Conservation, both FNB Mpumalanga and Produkta Motor Group's Suzuki Nelspruit share a commitment to preserving South Africa's natural and cultural heritage. Ken Ngcobo, FNB's regional head of Mpumalanga, says: 'We believe in investing in initiatives that uplift and conserve our country's rich heritage, and this event embodies that mission perfectly.'
PD Terblanche of Suzuki Nelspruit echoes this sentiment: 'Music and nature both have the power to unite and inspire. We're honoured to support an event that celebrates both while contributing to vital conservation efforts.'
'SANParks Honorary Rangers fundraiser, Linda Pieters, shares in the excitement: 'This concert is more than an event; it's a celebration of Africa's soul and spirit. We invite everyone to join us in supporting conservation while experiencing the magic of the Ndlovu Youth Choir.'
Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.
Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Hollywood star Jared Leto under fire for misconduct allegations
Hollywood star Jared Leto under fire for misconduct allegations

The South African

time2 hours ago

  • The South African

Hollywood star Jared Leto under fire for misconduct allegations

Hollywood actor Jared Leto, known for his roles in films like House of Gucci and Suicide Squad , now finds himself at the centre of serious allegations. Nine women have come forward accusing the 53-year-old star of predatory and inappropriate behaviour. Some are even claiming the incidents occurred when they were minors. The controversy reignited recently after Los Angeles DJ Allie Teilz shared a decade-old Facebook post on Instagram. She alleged that Leto tried to force himself on her backstage when she was just 17. 'He knew my age and didn't care,' Teilz said. 'What he did was predatory, terrifying and unacceptable.' She described the encounter vividly: 'You're not really in L.A. until Jared Leto tries to force himself on you… in a kilt and a snow hat'. Model Laura La Rue also spoke out, recounting an unsettling experience from 2008 when she was 16. She said Leto asked her age and, despite knowing she was underage, asked for her phone number, according to People. La Rue recalled visiting his Los Angeles home in 2009, where he allegedly flirted and teased her. She also claimed that when she was 17, Jared Leto once walked out of a room completely naked. 'I thought maybe that's just what grown men did,' she said. Another woman described a disturbing incident where Leto, during a visit to his home, exposed himself and masturbated in front of her after she turned 18. He reportedly grabbed her hand and asked her to spit on him. The woman also said their relationship began with flirty texts while she was still underage. Leto's representatives have strongly denied all allegations. A spokesperson said the communications with La Rue 'contain nothing sexual or inappropriate' and claimed she later applied to be Leto's assistant, which La Rue denies. Regarding Teilz's accusations, the rep called them 'demonstrably false.' The actor himself has yet to comment publicly on the matter. One anonymous accuser told Air Mail , 'It's been an open secret for a long time.' The flood of claims against Jared Leto underscores the need for deeper scrutiny and justice in Hollywood and beyond. As this story develops, it will be crucial to watch how the actor responds and what legal or industry actions follow. Meanwhile, the voices of these women demand attention and respect, urging a culture of transparency and safety for all. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

Cyril Ramaphosa's shoelace-tying shopping mall moment goes viral
Cyril Ramaphosa's shoelace-tying shopping mall moment goes viral

The South African

time2 hours ago

  • The South African

Cyril Ramaphosa's shoelace-tying shopping mall moment goes viral

President Cyril Ramaphosa added a heartwarming task to his public duties this week: Tying a child's shoelaces. During a walkabout at Canal Walk Shopping Centre in Cape Town, the president paused his greetings to help a young girl whose shoelaces had come undone. In a moment trending on social media, Cyril Ramaphosa was seen placing his phone and bag on the ground before crouching down to tie the laces himself – an act met with smiles, applause, and a chorus of 'Awww' from the surrounding crowd. The unplanned gesture drew praise across platforms, with many South Africans celebrating the president's humility and calling the moment 'classic Cupcake' – referencing his long-standing nickname. While the shoelaces themselves declined to comment, the online verdict was clear: It was a presidential knot well tied. @moziarora What an honour being up close to the one and only @President Ramaphosa❤️🙏🏾.. ♬ original sound – Moziarora Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

Thuso Mbedu wraps up filming on 'Children of Blood and Bone'
Thuso Mbedu wraps up filming on 'Children of Blood and Bone'

The South African

time2 hours ago

  • The South African

Thuso Mbedu wraps up filming on 'Children of Blood and Bone'

South African star Thuso Mbedu has officially wrapped filming on the highly anticipated fantasy epic, Children of Blood and Bone. The film, adapted from Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling novel, promises to bring a vibrant African-inspired world to life on the big screen. For Mbedu, who plays the lead role of Zélie Adebola, this marks another exciting chapter in her rising international career. The production is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, known for her acclaimed work on The Woman King , according to Elle The film's schedule was demanding, but Mbedu expressed her gratitude and excitement. 'To know that I have the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people as we tell this great story is truly humbling. I'm so excited. I'm so grateful'. Children of Blood and Bone follows Thuso Mbedu's Zélie, a young woman in the fictional land of Orïsha. She embarks on a quest to restore magic stolen by the tyrannical King Saran. She embarks on this journey alongside her brother Tzain, played by Tosin Cole, and the king's children. The King's children are Princess Amari (Amandla Stenberg) and Prince Inan (Damson Idris). Zélie challenges the oppressive regime to reclaim her people's power. The story's rich West African influences and themes of resilience and hope resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Hollywood heavyweights Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, and Lashana Lynch. This ensemble reflects a pan-African and diaspora representation, which director Prince-Bythewood highlighted as the source of the film's 'magic.' She said, 'Our incredible ensemble reflects the whole of the diaspora. This is where our magic lies'. For South African audiences, seeing Mbedu lead such a significant project is a moment of pride. Thuso Mbedu has become a beacon of talent and determination, showing that local actors can shine on the global stage without losing their roots. The film's production in South Africa also underscores the country's growing role as a hub for international filmmaking. The filmmakers plan to release the movie in early 2027, and fans are already building anticipation. Both book lovers and newcomers eagerly await seeing how the magical world of Orïsha will come to life on screen. Mbedu's powerful portrayal of Zélie is expected to be a highlight, capturing the fierce spirit and heart of the character. In a recent interview, Adeyemi praised the collaboration with Prince-Bythewood and Thuso Mbedu. 'What Gina does so well is tell these deep, complex stories of women who look like us front and centre. This is especially so with incredible action set pieces and cinematography. It feels divine. It feels bigger than just making this project. We're really in sync'. As the cameras stop rolling, the journey for Children of Blood and Bone is just beginning. South Africa can proudly claim Thuso Mbedu's success as a shining example of local talent making waves globally. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store