Latest news with #UKZN
IOL News
24-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Sibusiso Myeni's Franko golfer T-shirt sells out: A fashion success story
Designer Sibusiso Myeni holding Amazulu's Franko golfer that is consistently sold out. Image: Supplied Sibusiso Myeni, the Durban-based fashion designer behind Betway Premiership side Amazulu's in-demand Franko golfer, delivered his latest batch of the popular T-shirt on Thursday afternoon, and it was sold out the following day. The trendy clothing item has repeatedly been sold out on the club's online shop, and on Thursday, it was no different despite Myeni's delivery. Amazulu players wearing the club's in-demand Franko golfers. Image: Supplied Myeni is in his second season producing the Franko golfer after being approached by Amazulu in 2023/24, when officials saw some of its players wearing designs from his label, El Dambie, which is associated with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) geography, environmental management, and public policy Honours graduate. 'My clothing line is very popular among soccer players. I just received a call, and I suspect they were referred by one of their players, like Hendrick Ekstein. The players were very influential in getting me to work with the club,' he explained. Myeni said the batch he delivered on Thursday around 4pm was sold out by late Friday, and this was over-the-counter sales at the Moses Mabhida Stadium-based Amazulu shop and online. 'Working with Amazulu has helped me greatly in terms of growth because I used to do material for the brand based on orders, but now I am able to produce in bulk,' he said. In the battle of cotton golf T-shirts, Amazulu is up against Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs, and Orlando Pirates, which have also teamed up with Old School to produce long-sleeve golfers. And Myeni is unfazed by the competition from the country's two most supported clubs and is ambitious. 'Everyone wants to work with well-known brands that have an international reach,' he added. Myeni said he is also open to working with other brands in and outside football and sports. 'I'm not limited to sport and El Dambie is very aligned with sports people,' the Richards Bay-born designer said. Myeni started in 2018 while studying at UKZN, where he was the best-dressed male for three consecutive years. That is when he realised he could do something about his often complemented fashion sense, as he observed that his peers could see something in the way he dressed. Myeni said he looked up to football stars such as ex-Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star Teko Modise. He plans to complete his Master's degree in business studies after dropping out at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. El Dambie operates from Doone House in the Durban central business district. While Amazulu's short-sleeve Franko golfer fetches R1 000, Chiefs and Pirates' range is priced between R950 and R2 500. Earlier this month, Old School co-founders and owners, Daneel and Stephan Steinmann, expressed their joy with the response from Chiefs fans at the Soweto Derby league encounter at the FNB Stadium. 'For us, it's been such an incredible honour with the largest football club in Africa,' Daneel said. [email protected]
IOL News
24-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Double doctors: Meet the couple who both earned their PhDs in medicine
Dr Shalendra Misser and Dr Usha Chhagan. Image: Supplied Dr Usha Chhagan and Dr Shalendra Misser, a married couple from Musgrave, have both achieved their PhDs in medicine, showcasing their dedication to their fields and the community. They graduated from the UKZN's Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine in 1998. Chhagan, who matriculated from Durban Girls' Secondary School, is the senior specialist of a psychiatry unit in the public sector and lectures in the Department of Psychiatry at UKZN. She has two Masters degrees - in psychiatry and philosophy and ethics of mental health. 'I grew up and completed schooling in Durban, while Shalen moved around South Africa, having lived in several cities and towns. However, even as a child I had one intention – to become a doctor and to serve our community,' said Chhagan. 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 ✕ Her PhD research explored the interplay between HIV, substance use, and first episode psychosis (FEP), a field that required mental health responses in South Africa. 'I wanted to better understand the complex dynamics affecting mental health in our communities, especially among people living with HIV and struggling with substance use. 'My findings highlighted the critical need for tailored treatment strategies for individuals bearing the triple burden of HIV, psychosis and substance use. I called for mental health to be prioritised at the national policy level." Both of them are the first doctors in their respective families. 'I was always interested in academics, so I stayed attached to UKZN's medical school, and at the same time provided clinical services in the public sector. I spent 5 years on my Phd. However, with the interruption during Covid-19, clinical care became a priority. There was also a hold on research due to Covid-19 restrictions, so I took longer to complete the PhD." Misser is a paediatric neuroradiologist at Lake Smit and Partners. He has multiple qualifications, including a Master's in medical sciences and several diplomas from the European Society of Neuroradiology. 'I was born in Durban and raised in towns across South Africa. I became a doctor because of my father. He was a school principal, who once dreamed of becoming a doctor himself,' said Misser. Misser conducted in-depth neuroradiological research focusing on hypoxic-ischaemic brain injury (HIBI), a key contributor to cerebral palsy and how it could be better understood and classified using MRI. 'I was always interested in radiology since this is a field that interacts with patients and doctors from all aspects of medicine, which is what I love about it. I went further and gained a PhD because I always strived for excellence and wanted to improve." He said studying towards a PhD was "not an easy undertaking". "Usha is based at one of the busiest units in Durban, and I am at a busy private practice. We are also raising two teenagers. It was difficult, especially without compromising on family time but we made it through." He said that having accomplished a PhD together had not yet sunk in but they knew it would help them further their respective careers. 'We mostly feel humbled that so many people have reached out to congratulate us and be part of the celebration of this achievement. This allows a specialist to really improve as a researcher, to learn so much more about the field of medicine, and make a lasting contribution to society." Misser said they hoped to now take it easy. 'Usha is looking forward to enjoying her clinical work in the public sector, while I believe my path will continue to evolve. I have always maintained that a rolling stone gathers no moss. Who knows what's next for me,' said Misser. THE POST
IOL News
23-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
The legal landscape of influencer marketing: insights from Gabrielle Naidoo's research
Gabrielle Naidoo Image: Supplied Aspiring legal professional Gabrielle Naidoo, driving by an insatiable curiosity about the world, particularly where law technology, and society intersect, recently graduated with a Master of Laws (LLM) at UKZN. The 25-year-old's background, rooted in strong family ties and inspired by stories of women breaking barriers, fuelled her passion for justice and storytelling. Naidoo's academic journey has culminated in a research study that probes one of the most modern and complex issues in today's legal landscape: the rise of social media influencer marketing and the regulatory gaps that come with it. Her study, 'Uncharted Waters: Mapping the Potential Legal Concerns and Current Legislative Measures Governing Social Media Influencer Marketing in South Africa', delves into the underregulated world of influencer marketing, where the line between genuine content and paid promotion is increasingly blurred. 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 ✕ She found that influencers often failed to disclose paid partnerships, manipulated follower metrics, and used misleading language - all of which compromised consumer trust and distorted fair market competition. With South Africa relying primarily on a Social Media Code by the Advertising Regulatory Board, Naidoo argued that this framework, while internationally aligned, lacked the teeth to offer lasting protection to consumers and businesses alike. Naidoo recommended the introduction of formal legislation alongside regular educational initiatives aimed at influencers and businesses. "In a rapidly evolving digital economy, I believe that trust and transparency must be legally enforced, not just encouraged. My work stands to benefit a broad spectrum of society - from everyday consumers to small businesses, influencers, marketing agencies, and even policymakers aiming to build a safer digital economy." Naidoo's research is a testament to the fact that law is not just for lawyers - it extends well beyond the courtroom. "As someone who developed a keen interest in cyber law during my LLB studies, I have witnessed how easily people can fall victim to the digital grey areas. My research is a call to make legal knowledge more accessible." She hopes to one day publish her findings, speak at conferences, and use digital platforms to simplify complex legal ideas for the public. Her vision is to create value and clarity in an online world that often thrives on ambiguity - all while challenging the norms. Naidoo is formerly from Malvern in Durban and currently resides in Pretoria. THE POST
IOL News
23-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
'Family motivated me to explore engineering'
Muhammad Azeez Image: Supplied THROUGHOUT his schooling years, Muhammad Azeez was always confused about what career to study. With a summa cum laude engineering degree now under his belt, it would be safe to say that Azeez opted for the right choice when he chose to study civil engineering at UKZN. "Choosing just one field seemed daunting to me," said Azeez, 22. "Ultimately, my family were the ones who motivated me to explore engineering. Out of all the different engineering branches, I think I chose civil engineering because of its direct impact on the running of cities, from roads to buildings to water infrastructure. I knew studying civil engineering would allow me to influence the state of essential infrastructure in our country." Growing up in Morningside in Durban, UKZN was a natural choice of institution. 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 "I think what solidified my decision, however, was the virtual open day held by the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science during Covid-19, as it showed me what studying engineering at UKZN would be like." Azeez said he covered a wide variety of subjects during the course of his degree. He enjoyed the structures modules, while his favorite module was fluids 3. "It introduced me to the behaviour of water flowing in open channels like rivers, and hydrology, which helps us understand and analyse rainfall and floods." In his fourth and final undergraduate year of study, Azeez had to tackle a full design project and a research project. For his design project, he was tasked with designing a water reservoir for the Westown development near Shongweni. This included compiling a design report, professional engineering drawings and design calculations. "While it was definitely stressful, it was also exciting and fulfilling to be able to apply the skills I learned over the past four years." For his research project Azeez investigated the use of silver nanoparticles in cement mortar linings of water supply pipes. "This was a very interesting experience for me as it included quite a bit of chemistry and microbiology and applying these concepts to the civil engineering field. I was fortunate to have amazing supervisors for both my design project and dissertation, who helped me through my projects while giving me the space to explore and discover my own solutions to problems." Azeez is currently working in Pretoria as a graduate civil engineer for the engineering consultancy, Zutari, as part of their Water Unit (dams and hydropower team). His future plans include registering as a professional engineer once he obtains the necessary experience, and pursuing a Master's degree as he enjoys doing research. He thanked his lecturers who, he said, pushed him to his limits. "They always knew how to get me to achieve my full potential." Azeez also thanked his friends and extended family. "I was fortunate to have a close-knit circle of people I could rely on both on and away from campus, which definitely alleviated some of the stress." In his spare time, Azeez enjoys reading as a method to disconnect from work and to relax, as well as building Lego. "Yes they're for adults as well." THE POST
IOL News
22-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
UKZN academic receives prestigious award
Dr Sandile Kubheka at the 10th annual Titanium Awards ceremony in Cape Town. Image: Supplied University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) clinical educator, Dr Sandile Kubheka who made history in 2014 as the University's youngest ever medical graduate at the age of 20, has been awarded the Dr Clarence Mini Titanium Young Achiever Award. The 10th Annual Titanium Awards ceremony was held during the 24th Annual Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) Conference in Cape Town. The Titanium Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the South African healthcare sector, recognising individuals, institutions and innovations that are advancing access, quality and sustainability in healthcare. Introduced by the BHF, the awards celebrate excellence and impact across the industry. Reflecting on the Titanium Award, Kubheka said: 'This recognition holds weight. It's not about being the youngest or first — it's about contributing meaningfully to a system that must keep evolving. I'm deeply honoured to be part of that process.' Kubheka received the Young Achiever Award — which includes a R50 000 cash prize — for his significant contributions to improving healthcare delivery and mentoring future healthcare professionals. The official citation noted that 'his dedication to public health advocacy sets a benchmark for young professionals in the healthcare sector'. Kubheka's recognition stands out not only because of his age but for the depth of his influence across multiple dimensions of healthcare. The award further acknowledged his role as a physician-educator whose work reflects consistency, values-driven leadership and long-term vision. 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 ✕ As a clinical educator at UKZN, Kubheka coordinates the third-year Internal Medicine programme and lectures students from third to sixth year. He is known for his structured teaching, hands-on mentorship and leadership in strengthening the design and delivery of clinical assessments such as OSCEs. His teaching is consistently praised for being clear, relevant and grounded in real-world practice. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he completed his registrar training while serving in frontline care and contributing to the international RECOVERY trial, which informed global treatment protocols. His work extends beyond the hospital — through public and professional engagements, he has advocated for strengthening primary healthcare, including early diagnosis of chronic illness, improved hypertension care and better access to nephrology services. As a medical student, Kubheka served in leadership roles, including as Deputy President of the Happy Valley student clinic. He received the Yashiv Sham Bursary and the Enid Gordon Jacob Good Fellowship Award for clinical excellence, leadership, and compassion. These early acknowledgements laid the foundation for a career defined by service, integrity, and impact. His professional accolades include being named Young South African of the Year in 2014, inclusion in the Mail & Guardian's 200 Young South Africans, and recognition as Best Registrar by UKZN's College of Health Sciences in 2022. SUNDAY TRIBUNE
