Latest news with #Durbanite
IOL News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Natalie Rungan: A jazz maestro using music to heal and inspire
A musical sensation Natalie Rungan Image: Supplied Jazz singing maestro Natalie Rungan believes that her God-given talent should be used to heal and serve others. The songbird is also a respected songwriter, educator, and collaborator who has dedicated her life to creating and sharing music that connects with people's hearts. The Durbanite said she's driven by the desire to leave something lasting; whether that's in the form of a song that moves someone, a young person who finds their voice (not just the musical one), or a project that impacts the community. She's someone who values integrity, relationships, and using music as a tool for building communities, beyond the stage, and is passionate about mentoring young musicians and creating opportunities for them to grow. Rungan is a Doctor of Philosophy, specialising in Music, and is currently the director of music at Durban High School (DHS). Her love for music began at home, inheriting some of it from her father, a drummer and founding member of the popular dance group 'The Raiders', from the 70s and 80s. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'I grew up surrounded by music from church to family gatherings. Music was a part of everyday life. Singing was as natural as breathing for me. I always knew music would be a central part of my journey, even before I could put it into words,' she said. As a woman in the music industry, she was blessed to have worked with many male musicians who have treated her with genuine respect and recognised her as an artist. 'In those spaces, my voice, ideas, and creativity are valued equally, and collaboration flows naturally.' She acknowledged that it isn't always the case for women in the industry, and some have to 'prove' why they belong there. 'For me, I've never felt I had to prove my worth as a female, but rather always as a musician, and that's something every artist, male or female, experiences. 'Over time, I've learned that respect in this industry isn't handed out freely; you earn it by consistently showing up prepared, delivering excellence, and holding your ground in your artistic choices. "For me, it's been about staying true to who I am musically, knowing my worth, and not letting anyone else define the limits of my craft.' On her career highlights, Rungan said she has been blessed with many outstanding moments, especially the times she performed on international stages in Europe, Asia, and Africa. She regarded her performances in Africa as incredibly rewarding, not just for the music, but for the cultural connections as well. 'Collaborating with exceptional musicians, such as my recent work with Ghanaian pianist and composer Victor Dey Jr, has also been a highlight. 'In 2024, I had the honour of leading and conducting the National Schools Jazz Band for the National Youth Jazz Festival, an experience that both challenged and inspired me. "That same year, I also led an ensemble that opened for the Carnegie Hall Youth Orchestra, where US trumpeter Sean Jones featured on my composition Change.' She said those experiences not only deepened her love for collaboration but also confirmed her strength and identity as a composer and arranger. 'It was amazing to see my work brought to life by talented musicians from across the world.' Rungan said the journey to the top was not a smooth one. 'There were challenges along the way.' She said the most difficult thing to maintain in the industry was longevity, and that the mistake most female artists make when they enter the industry is failing to balance personal life and family expectations with navigating bias and limited opportunities. Presently she is working on new music that blended her jazz roots with African influences, a sound she is thrilled to share with audiences soon. 'In September, I'll be releasing my latest music album, a collaboration with Ghanaian pianist and composer Victor Dey Jr.' On the education front, I'm coordinating two major provincial school events: 'Shine' at the end of September, which showcases high school music programmes across KZN, and in October, the KZN Schools Drumline Competition, now in partnership with the annual Durban Drum Day. 'I'm developing initiatives to grow and expand the KZN Schools Jazz Festival.' DAILY NEWS
IOL News
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Crowning change: Lee-Ann Naidoo breaks barriers as Global Mrs Supranational Tourism Queen 2025
Lee-Ann Naidoo is the first Indian South African to grasp the prestigious Global Mrs Supranational Tourism Queen Ambassador Worldwide 2025 title. Image: Facebook. Former Durbanite, Lee-Ann Naidoo, recently made history after being crowned Global Mrs Supranational Tourism Queen Ambassador Worldwide 2025 in a dazzling ceremony held in Yangon, Myanmar. This triumph marks a significant cultural moment as Naidoo becomes the first Indian South African to hold this prestigious title, designed to celebrate married women from every corner of the globe. Naidoo's journey began with her victory at the Mrs Supranational SA pageant earlier this year. The Mrs Supranational competition is part of the broader Supranational pageant family, which also includes Miss and Mister Supranational events, focusing on evaluating participants through public speaking, community engagement and overall presentation skills. "I am a proud mother of three and a professionally trained chef,' Naidoo shared, reflecting on her diverse life journey that transitioned from kitchen artistry to pageantry. "My journey has taken me from the kitchen to the crown … A baker turned beauty queen. I am also a survivor of gender-based violence, a role that fuels my advocacy and purpose," shared Naidoo. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Lee-Ann Naidoo. Image: Facebook. "My experience in pageantry runs deep; in 2023, I was crowned Mrs Grand South Africa ... Beyond the stage, I am a pageant coach and a committed advocate for women's empowerment. I am passionate about philanthropy and community service, particularly in addressing period poverty and combating gender-based violence." Her resilience and commitment were undeniably shaped by her South African heritage, fostering a belief in her responsibility to represent her community on the global stage. "Growing up, opportunities for Indian women to enter the world of international pageantry were few and far between. But we saw them, admired the glamour and dreamed quietly. They always felt distant, like something meant for someone else. "For an Indian girl in a close-knit Indian community, global stage pageantry felt just out of reach," she said. For Naidoo, the journey to this moment was one filled with preparation, enthusiasm and a forceful drive to challenge herself. 'I never imagined competing at an international level,' she confessed, crediting her father's dreams and teachings of etiquette and poise as pivotal in her early life. "From a young age, he immersed me in the world of modelling and pageantry ... Though I often resisted, he remained firm in his belief that his daughters were destined for the world stage. 'At 42, I finally stepped into the dream he had planted decades earlier. Winning Mrs Grand South Africa in 2023 and going on to represent my country internationally was more than a personal victory; it was the fulfilment of my father's dream. "Bringing home the title was a moment of immense pride, not just for me, but for South Africa. It was a win for every dream he quietly nurtured, and I am deeply grateful to have honoured him and my country in that way. Preparing for the pageant required immense discipline and commitment, pushing Naidoo to new heights physically, mentally and emotionally. 'I overcame doubts and challenges, including securing sponsorships and managing my family responsibilities. Ultimately, I drew strength from my husband and my sister queens, reminding myself that I was not alone in this fight for excellence.' Lee-Ann Naidoo being crowned at the pageant. Image: Facebook. The preparation process included training in essential skills such as posture, public speaking and even an energetic talent performance of Shakira's "Waka Waka", which Naidoo selected for its themes of unity and empowerment. Her every move was aimed not just at winning but to represent South Africa with dignity and pride. Competing against over 60 talented women from around the world, Naidoo spoke of the "sisterhood" that developed during the competition. "The sisterhood among the international queens was something extraordinary. Though we were competitors, we laughed together, cried together and shared moments that have created lifelong bonds." When the moment arrived for the announcement of the winner, Naidoo described feeling surreal and overwhelmed. "Honestly, it took me about six hours before the reality of my win truly sank in. I didn't fully grasp the magnitude of my title until it was thoroughly explained by the directorship. "It was an incredible moment, one I still find hard to believe, a genuine pinch-me experience." Since stepping off that stage, life has begun to transform dramatically for Naidoo, with opportunities for fashion week in Milan and Paris already on the horizon. "I'm excited to see how my year unfolds and what doors are opened as I embark on a queen's journey holding the crown for South Africa." Lee-Ann Naidoo. Image: Facebook. Naidoo's message to other aspiring Indian South African women is to dream big and embrace their unique paths. "Seek knowledge, master your craft and greatness will follow. Lead with an open heart, filled with love and acceptance and inspire others by example. "Remember, we rise stronger as a collective ... Stay true to yourself, lead with honour and integrity, and embrace your authentic self fully ... The human spirit triumphs over adversity when we believe in our own strength and capacity. Fight for your dreams, live with purpose and serve others generously."
IOL News
11-07-2025
- IOL News
Durban parents bring home their slain 'baby girl' Paige Bell from the Bahamas
Durbanite Paige Bell was working as a stewardess on a superyacht in the Bahamas when she was murdered on July 3. Image: Sweet Emocean HEARTBROKEN Durban parents Michelle and John Bell are preparing to bring home the body of their 'baby girl' who was murdered in the Bahamas last week. Paige Bell was living the dream; working as a stewardess on a superyacht, surrounded by idyllic beaches and billionaires. Tragically, it ended in a nightmare. Last Thursday the former schoolgirl from Hillcrest High School in Durban was found dead in the engine room of the yacht where she was stationed, just days before her 21st birthday. Her throat was slit and there were signs that she had struggled with her attacker. According to reports it appeared as if Bell may also have been sexually assaulted. Police are currently investigating a homicide and a suicide attempt. Paige Bell with her parents Michelle and John Bell in happier times. Image: Facebook Speaking to the Independent on Saturday via Facebook, her dad John said they would be back home next week. 'We are in the Bahamas arranging a cremation and to bring Paige home. I don't want to comment any further at this stage. We are still trying to process what has happened and grieve our baby girl.' According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Bell was on board the superyacht, Far From It, in the waters off Harbour Island, Eleuthera, when she was killed. A 39-year old Mexican engineer Brigido Munoz was arrested and appeared in the magistrate's court on Wednesday. In their initial media release police said that shortly after 1pm on July 3, they were alerted to the incident and proceeded to the marina area. 'Once on board the vessel, officers discovered a woman unresponsive with visible signs of injuries and a man suffering from severe injuries to his arms. The local doctor visited the scene, examined the victim and pronounced her deceased.' Durban's Paige Bell and the Mexican engineer Brigido Munoz who has been charged with her murder. Image: Facebook Police say it also emerged that Bell had been missing for a 'short period' before she was found 'unresponsive' in the engine room with the suspect who was 'apprehended", and 'cautioned'. Following that he was taken to a nearby clinic for medical treatment. In a telephone conversation with the Independent on Saturday yesterday, Superintendent Leonard Ramsey, the deputy in charge of public relations for the Royal Bahamas Police Force said that while he couldn't reveal how many people were arrested, he could confirm that one person was charged. He said that the police have also met with the Bell family. 'It is the normal practice that if the family came into the Bahamas, they would have met with detectives at our criminal investigation department. That is a normal procedure for all homicide matters. We always meet with the family or both families. So if they came from Africa, or wherever they came from, automatically we would have given out a family meeting and to update them on the incident.' The initial media statement regarding the murder of Paige Bell which was released by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Image: Supplied News of Bell's death sent waves of grief through South Africa and yachting communities alike. Hillcrest High School (HHS) paid tribute to their former pupil on the school's Facebook page. 'Paige matriculated in 2022 and is remembered by our community as an incredibly special young lady who was the happiest, most bubbly person. We know that her untimely and tragic death is a great loss to all who knew Paige, and beyond devastating to her parents and family. As a school we will be holding them in our thoughts and prayers.' The school also called on the community to help bring Bell home by donating money to the GoFundMe account that was set up to assist her family financially. In a previous public message the family also appealed for assistance, saying that they were devastated beyond words. 'This heartbreaking loss has been deeply felt by everyone who knew and loved Paigey, and now we must also navigate complex and costly legal proceedings in a foreign country - something far beyond our family's financial means. We are humbly asking for your support. "Whether it's by sharing this message or contributing financially, every bit helps. 'Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we fight for Paigey. We are grateful for your love, support, and solidarity during this incredibly difficult time." Bell's murder has also highlighted the dark side of the yachting crew industry and members of various crew social media groups have advocated for more stringent background checks on crew members to prevent such violence. Captain Frank Prest from the motor yacht Sweet Emocean set up the GoFundMe account. Speaking on behalf of previous and current crew, he said that even though Bell had left their crew in December she would always be part of its family. 'Paige was more than a teammate, she was family. Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her. Whether it was long days at sea or quiet moments under the stars, she brought light and warmth wherever she went.' So far the GoFundMe account has almost reached its target of $60 000 (R1m) and had just surpassed $50 000 yesterday. On Monday friends and family from across the globe will have a slice of red velvet cake (Paige's favourite) to commemorate her life. But this won't be a joyful celebration, instead it's a heartbreaking farewell to a young woman on the cusp of a promising life.
The South African
16-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Jordy Smith retains no.1 position in world surf rankings
No. 1 position in the world surf rankings is secure for Jordy Smith for now, even after an early exit at the Trestles Pro in San Clemente, California. The 38-year-old veteran is the oldest surfer on tour and retains a slender lead over his competitors after last week's eighth stop of the 2025 WSL tour. South Africa's Jordy Smith was resplendent in yellow at Lower Trestles but was unable to advance beyond the Round of 16. After the mid-season cut – which eliminates the bottom 32 competitors on the world surf rankings – tour events take on a different, punchier format … Unfortunately, a wave-starved heat meant the big man couldn't open up on the waves like he's done in El Salvador and Western Australia. Image: File/Fotor As such, first-round heats after the mid-season cut are a Round of 32 match-up between three surfers. With the bottom 32 gone, it really is strength versus strength from the first wave. Win this and you advance straight to the Round of 16. Jordy Smith managed to do so with a buzzer beater decided by the judges after the surfers had left the water. However, in the next round, Smith's points accumulation towards the world surf rankings would stall. He came up against highly fancied local surfer Cole Houshmand, who had plenty of support at his home break. The goofy footer's left broke cleaner than Smith's rights and California won narrowly. It's the type of match-up that can undo anyone at any time on the tour. We're sure the whole of South Africa would love to see another sporting World Champion added to the list. Siya Kolisi meets Smith in Cape Town. Image: Tyron Bradley Red Bull Content Pool Thankfully, the next-best placed surfer on the world surf rankings – Brazil's Italo Ferreira – also suffered a Round of 16 defeat. Which means the Durbanite retains the no. 1 world surf rankings yellow jersey for now. However, Brazil's Yago Dora – who won the Trestles event outright – and Japan's Kanoa Igarashi have closed the gap to Smith. RANK SURFER POINTS 1. Jordy Smith (RSA) 39 450 2. Yago Dora (BRA) 38 885 3. Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) 36 390 4. Italo Ferreira (BRA) 34 610 5. Barron Mamiya (HAW) 31 470 Two talented Australians, Ethan Ewing and Jack Robinson, are just outside of the top five. With Brazil's Felipe Toledo, American Griffin Colapinto and Italian Leo Fioravanti still in the running for a final five birth. They say it's harder to surf in the leader's yellow jersey because you have a target on your back. Image: WSL website Things couldn't be tighter on the world surf rankings with three events left before the WSL Finals in Fiji in August. The finals format sees the top five competitors on the world surf rankings battling it out in man-on-man heats. The higher Jordy Smith can finish in the top five rankings the better, to have a higher seeding in the finals. Be sure to catch Jordy Smith at the remaining events of the 2025 tour, with Brazil starting this weekend: June 21-29 – Vivo Rio Pro (BRA) July 11-20 – J-Bay Open (RSA) August 7-16 – Tahiti Pro (TAH) August 27-September 4 – WSL Finals Fiji (FIJ) 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.
The South African
27-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
World no. 1 Jordy Smith powers to VICTORY in Australia
World no. 1 Jordy Smith showed all the class and experience of 18-years on the Championship Tour to secure his second event victory in 2025. The prize on finals day in Margaret River, Western Australia, would be immense if world no. 1 Jordy Smith could hit his marks early … Solidifying no. 1 in the world, and a brand-new GWM Tank SUV for securing the 'Aussie Treble.' First, the 37-year-old Durbanite had to dispatch Crosby Colapinto in his semi-final heat. Something he did with astute surfing in dropping swell on Australia's west coast. Rather than wait for inconsistent set waves disrupted by strong off-shore winds, world no. 1 Jordy Smith set to work on the inside. He caught multiple waves to build up a winning heat total, while his competitor sat rooted out the back, only surfing one scoring wave. Smith sets to work on a larger set wave at Margaret River, Western Australia in the final against Griffin Colapinto. Image: World Surf League Then it was onto the final with another San Clemente phenom, Griffin Colapinto. Arguably the form surfer of the competition – scoring a perfect 10 in the quarterfinals – Colapinto would be no pushover in a man-on-man heat. However, world no. 1 Jordy Smith clicked into high gear and dominated the exchanges (watch the highlights below). There is no denying that world no. 1 Jordy Smith is surfing the best he ever has in his long career. He is able to combine shrewd heat IQ with his signature power surfing that always looks controlled and elegant, no matter the conditions. Video: World Surf League on YouTube Victory for world no. 1 Jordy Smith cements his position atop the WSL Championship Tour rankings. He currently sits on 36 130 points, with the next best surfer, Brazil's Italo Ferreira, on 31 290. Rather shrewdly, Smith opted not to surf in the leader's yellow jersey today. But he almost certainly will wear it in Lower Trestles, California, next month. The rest of the 2025 WSL Championship Tour sees four stops that will suit the powerful surfing of world no. 1 Jordy Smith. The top five competitors on the ranking will battle it out in Fiji for the world title. The remaining stops are: June 9-17 – Trestles Pro (USA) June 21-29 – Vivo Rio Pro (Brazil) July 11-20 – J-Bay Open (SA) August 7-16 – Tahiti Pro (Tahiti) August 27-September 4 – WSL Finals Fiji (Fiji) 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.
