Latest news with #Govender
IOL News
11 hours ago
- General
- IOL News
Uplifting Chatsworth: how the Sharing Joy Foundation is making a difference
Pupils holding up the socks they received in their goody bags Image: Supplied ARTHI Govender transformed a childhood observation into a mission to uplift schools and feed hungry children. The CEO of the Sharing Joy Foundation said she was just 11-years-old and in Grade 6 when she noticed that some of her friends and other pupils at school did not eat during the lunch breaks. 'When I asked my teachers why this was so, they explained that there were some children that could not afford to eat more than one meal a day. This meant they could not afford to bring lunch to school,' said Govender, 53, formerly from Arena Park in Chatsworth. She now lives in Edenvale, Johannesburg. She said as the days progressed and she noticed the plight of more children, she began to feel sad and helpless. 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 ✕ Arthi Govender Image: Supplied 'As an 11-year-old I thought what could I possibly do to make a difference to help improve the lives of these hungry children?' asked Govender. 'I decided to start a sandwich club. I received permission from the principal to canvas all the pupils that had brought sandwiches to school, to share just one slice with somebody who did not have lunch. 'I collected the sandwiches before the break. Any child who wanted a sandwich was welcome to collect it from our teachers staff room during lunch. This project grew as the months went by. By the end of the year, we had collected and handed out more than 300 sandwiches. Now, as an adult I am determined to help as many children as I can through the Sharing Joy Foundation. Recently, pupils at Glenheights Primary School in Silverglen benefited from Govender's foundation when they were treated to a meal and a winter care pack, which consisted of a pair of socks, a beanie and a water bottle. Govender said the lunch pack, which included breyani, juice and chocolate, were met with squeals of delight. After lunch, The Sharing Joy Foundation members and other guests were treated to entertainment by the pupils. The principal, Mrs GN Nyawo, said her school catered for pupils from diverse backgrounds. 'We are a needy school, but with the support of our community, we thrive. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to The Sharing Joy Foundation, which always gives amazing support to our school. We really appreciate them,' said Nyawo. As part of its Winter Warmth Spreading Joy campaign, the foundation also donated warm jackets to the elderly women at the ABH Homes in Chatsworth. POSTPLUS
IOL News
14 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Karate instructor wins gold at WUKF World Karate Championships
Vijay Govender. Image: Supplied Vijay Govender, a karate instructor from Phoenix, recently triumphed at the recent WUKF World Karate Championships in Malmo, Sweden, winning gold in traditional kumite and earning her international coaching certification. Govender won gold for Shobu Sanbon Kumite in the veterans category (51 to 60 years), becoming the new world champion. The karate instructor also won silver in her first international competition in Kobudo long weapons and fourth for kata in the veterans 51 to 60 year category. 'This championship has brought my dreams to reality. After many challenges, full of emotions, I stood on the highest stage of the podium. Nothing can describe this feeling when you hear your country's national anthem being played for you,' said Govender. Govender was not only awarded medals at the WUKF World Karate Championships but also received her international certification as a senior coach by the WUKF World Coaching Commission and EurEthICS. 'It's not just about the medals, it's a symbol of every drop of sweat and tears. Every moment of pain and heartaches endured. This is the result of years of hard work, many injuries, tears, perseverance but also countless moments of joy, passion, commitment and determination. "This success wouldn't be possible without the amazing people around me. Dreams do come true. You need to believe in yourself and know that giving up is not an option,' said Govender. The POST
IOL News
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
TikTok to centre stage: how Ashlen Govender is striking a chord across South Africa
Ashlen Govender is carving a unique niche for himself in the South African music scene. Image: Supplied Ashlen Govender, a 36-year-old musician brimming with passion and dedication, is carving a unique niche for himself in the South African music scene. Hailing from Richards Bay, a small town on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Govender is currently based in Durban, where he continues to cultivate his love for music. With an innate ability to sing in multiple languages, his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in a family steeped in musical talent, Govender had an early introduction to the world of sound and rhythm. "I was always exposed to music from a young age, often lost in the vibrant melodies of Bollywood films," he shared. This early love led him to mimic playback singers, paving his path toward musical performance. His debut may have started with singing at religious services, but it didn't take long for his talents to shine on stage, capturing the hearts of many. 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 Next Stay Close ✕ With an innate ability to sing in multiple languages, Ashlen Govender's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Image: Supplied Govender credits his musical influences to legendary artists such as Sonu Nigam and Michael Jackson, whose artistry continues to inspire him. Today, he finds motivation in contemporary singers such as Arijit Singh, Sid Sriram and Ed Sheeran. "Their craft resonates with me," Govender explained, "and their success encourages me to push my boundaries." One defining aspect of Govender's creativity is his commitment to collaboration, expressing a profound belief that a true artist is always learning. "Collabs are super fun," he noted, adding that every partnership brings fresh perspectives and invaluable lessons. Not only does Govender boast a remarkable vocal range, but his multilingual ability allows him to adapt his sound to various genres and languages. While he explores the realms of composition and production, he takes pride in performing and recording, leaving the technical aspects to the experts, at least for now. Today, he enjoys a considerable following on social media - with nearly 80,000 admirers on TikTok and 60,000 on Facebook - finding that the digital landscape has reshaped the way artists connect with their audience. "Social media has given me my biggest break," he reflected, highlighting its role in building a global fan base effortlessly. This platform has provided opportunities beyond traditional music realms, fostering deeper engagement with fans through candid, light-hearted content. Despite these advantages, Govender faces challenges inherent to the music industry, particularly in a country where event budgets can be tight. 'There's a flood of new talent lately, but many offer subpar services at unsustainable rates, which can harm the overall market,' he lamented. Balancing artistic passion with financial sustainability remains a continual focus as he navigates these complexities. Among his proudest moments are performing alongside international artists and becoming a source of inspiration for younger generations. "I often hear that kids want to imitate my hairstyle!" he laughed, reflecting on the impact his journey has had on others. Feedback resonates deeply with him; fans have told him that he "sings with a lot of feeling," making each performance an emotional experience. 'I want listeners to connect with the essence of the lyrics and feel every emotion,' he said earnestly. Govender's journey in music may just be beginning, but if his passion is any indication, there are grand horizons ahead. Were it not for his musical pursuits, he admitted he might have returned to his previous job as an operator at a paper mill. But for now, he is fully immersed in his calling, determined to spread his melodious magic to audiences far and wide.
IOL News
21-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Fighting litter with love: Kay Govender's green crusade in Chatsworth
Kay Govender Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers KAY Govender is spearheading a movement to combat illegal dumping and transform neglected spaces into flourishing gardens, inspiring community pride and action. Where trash once festered, lush gardens now bloom in the heart of Chatsworth. The retired businessman and resident is leading a quiet revolution against illegal dumping and inspiring residents to turn littered verges into vibrant community spaces. With deep roots in Silverglen, dating back to 1967, Govender has watched the neighbourhood evolve for better and for worse. 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 Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Sthembiso Ngcongo, from left, Lee Pather and Kay Govender. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers 'Since 1995, I noticed our streets were deteriorating. We could not rely on municipal services, so I decided to act,' he said. In 2022, Govender launched the Chatsworth Community Projects (CCP), a grassroots initiative transforming unsightly public spaces into thriving green verges. What started as a one-man mission using his own funds had blossomed into a growing movement, with volunteers, WhatsApp groups, and even part-time workers helping to maintain the newly-created gardens." But the fight is far from over. Illegal dumping remains a pressing issue in Chatsworth. 'We are not just cleaning. We are restoring pride,' said a determined Govender. He has seen firsthand the impact of neglect - open piles of garbage that breed disease and destroy community morale. CCP's message is simple: take responsibility, report offenders, and educate one another. Every street, he believes, should have an environmental team leader to coordinate cleanup and awareness. Govender is now engaging with municipal departments to begin a once-a-month Sunday cleanup campaign, rallying citizens to become active environmental warriors. 'We can't always wait for services. It starts with us,' he said. His passion has not gone unnoticed. Govender was recently honoured at the Unsung Heroes awards at Sastri College. This was a well-earned tribute to someone who does not just talk about change but cultivates it daily, one bag of weeds and one rubbish bag at a time. Govender's message is as clear as his gardens are green: 'If we all do a little, we can accomplish a lot.' Residents interested in volunteering with CCP can WhatsApp him on 082 828 0959, or follow the initiative on Facebook: Chatsworth Community Projects. In a time of neglect, Govender has planted purpose - and it's growing beautifully. POSTPLUS
IOL News
18-07-2025
- IOL News
Statement regarding article published in October 2019 – "Chatsworth man who scammed pensioners disappears"
The Daily News is committed to fair and responsible journalism. Image: File In October 2019, the Daily News published an article titled 'Chatsworth Man Who Scammed Pensioners Disappears.' The article named Mr. Morgan Govender as the individual who allegedly defrauded 21 pensioners in the Malvern area out of over R50,000, and further reported on a judgment obtained against him for the repayment of R150,000 he had allegedly borrowed. At the time of publication, the Daily News undertook its standard editorial checks and endeavoured to comply with the applicable standards of ethical journalism. The story was published in the belief that it served the public interest, particularly in highlighting concerns raised by vulnerable members of the community. However, Mr. Govender, the plaintiff in the matter, has since raised concerns that he was not afforded an adequate opportunity to respond to the allegations before the article was published. As a responsible media institution, the Daily News takes such concerns seriously. We recognise the importance of the right of reply, especially in stories that may impact an individual's reputation or dignity. 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 Next Stay Close ✕ The Daily News is committed to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity and transparency. We operate in accordance with the South African Press Code and our internal editorial policies, which include provisions to ensure fairness, accuracy, and balance in reporting. In light of the concerns raised, the Daily News wishes to offer a sincere and unequivocal apology to Mr. Govender. We confirm that there was no intention to cause harm or act with malice. The omission of Mr. Govender's perspective was not deliberate, and we regret any distress this may have caused him. We remain committed to correcting the record where appropriate and will continue to review and improve our processes to ensure that similar concerns are avoided in the future. Issued by: Editorial Team Daily News
