Latest news with #fold
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Where the voice fails, a pen takes over – The life of Denzel
Where the voice fails, a pen takes over – The life of Denzel A dream turned into an inked reality. A pen voiced out feelings that the voice knew nothing about. Meet Denzel Mabona, a 21-year-old poet, writer, and singer from the City of Coal. Denzel was born and raised in Phola, where his talents unfolded. Denzel recently published a book called 'The dark desires to the throne'. The book was inspired by a dream that Denzel had, and his love for the English language made everything possible. 'I should say, I don't just take the glory, but I give God the glory too, because when I wrote this piece, I was just writing as I am a poet, not knowing that I am also a writer,' said Denzel. According to Denzel, he had a dream one night, and he didn't want to forget about it, therefore, he chose to ink everything and believed in the power of pen and paper. The book was published in January this year, and several institutions, including Tshwane University of Technology, have reviewed the book. Denzel did not just sit and let the talents do the work for him; he also saw the need for education in his life, and he is also pursuing his studies at TUT. Another marked milestone worth Denzel's effort was winning the TUT short stories competition for the year 2024. 'I am really excited about the piece that I published,' Denzel said. It seems like Denzel does not know about the word 'enough', the young author cannot sit and fold his hands, and his voice can't help but want to make an impact on the lives of people. He is also a preacher, using his voice and knowledge to touch lives. Denzel's journey can be an inspiration to numbers. His consistency, dedication, love, and courage proved that talents can unlock other talents. The author is looking forward to flying the Mpumalanga flag in the creative industry. Breaking news at your fingertips … Follow WITBANK NEWS on our website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or TikTok Chat to us: info@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Euronews
11-05-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Hungarian filmmakers in the shadow of Trump's tariff threat
Earlier this week, the US President Donald Trump posted on his social media site that he plans to impose a 100 per cent tariff on films produced outside the United States. "The US film industry is dying at a rapid pace. Other countries are offering all sorts of incentives to lure filmmakers and studios away from the U.S. (...) Therefore, I am authorising the Department of Commerce to immediately begin the process of imposing a 100 per cent tariff on all foreign-made films coming into our country," Donald Trump said in his post. Back in 2010, soon after becoming Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orbán overhauled the film support system after 2010, with Hollywood producer Andy Vajna (Rambo, Total Recall, Evita) at the centre of the reforms. Vajna set up a new system of state support for Hungarian films, with a greater emphasis on saleability. He also used his connections to bring Hungarian artists into the fold, resulting in a new Hungarian Oscar after decades and a good showing for Hungarian films at the Cannes Film Festival. The Hungarian state gave a corporate tax credit of 25 per cent and then 30 per cent on production costs in Hungary, with the aim of benefiting the domestic production base. Several large studios were set up, professional crews strengthened, and income from foreign labour increased. Vajna's death in 2019 has left a noticeable dent in the support system for Hungarian films, which has recorded fewer international successes. Still, the growth of Hungarian production companies has not slowed. Between 2018 and 2023, service revenues quadrupled, with government film commissioner Csaba Káel estimating they will reach nearly $1 billion. Around 85-90 per cent of Hungarian film spending is US-sourced, writes Károly Radnai, managing partner of Andersen Adótanácsadó Zrt. Despite accounting for 90% of the revenues of the Hungarian film industry, which employs 20,000 people and is also identified by Prime Minister Orbán as a strategic sector, film industry players reached by Euronews are taking a wait-and-see stance. "The intention to make more films in the United States and export fewer films overseas is not something that has just been invented, but has been heard louder and louder for 4-5 years," Mihály Tóth, marketing director of Origo Flmstúdió, told Euronews. The current situation is an exclamation mark: we understand that there is such a need. We also want more films to be shot in Hungary. " "The decision to shoot American films in Hungary was not made by us, but by American filmmakers, on the simple basis of where a film can be produced most efficiently. Nobody understands the kind of customs clearance system that is now being suggested, because you can't tax a cultural product in this way," added Mihály Tóth. He also had questions for Gergő Balika, producer of Mid Atlantic Films, who told Euronews that he did not know the basis for the duty. What qualifies as a foreign-made film? Would the duty apply only to cinema films, or would it also apply to works made for streaming? Balika also stressed that even a film shot in Hungary has a myriad of work processes in the US. Overall, he said that this is now a tentative announcement, which shows the direction of US intentions, but details are still to be seen. The problem is also theoretical at the moment because making a film is a long process. According to Mihály Tóth, Origo's clients are undoubtful, and that the work in progress must continue. How the rules will change along the way and the timing of these changes remain to be seen, but work has to continue in the meantime. "Today's rain will affect the filming outside more than this announcement," Mihály Tóth told Euronews. Like him, Gergő Balika also sees it as unlikely that production of big productions that are already booked (such as the next two seasons of the 3-body-problem) will be brought back to the US. However, several sources have pointed out that the global film industry cannot be pinned down. A Mission: Impossible or a James Bond movie is not shot in one country, and that will not change. "For example, filming a Harry Potter movie requires a medieval castle. It costs more money to build that than to go to a castle and shoot a scene there. To suddenly have medieval castles in a country where there are none, you can't expect that, because economically it doesn't go anywhere," said Mihály Tóth. Csaba Káel, the head of the Hungarian National Film Institute, the central organisation of the Hungarian film industry, expressed a similar view in a one-paragraph statement. "Hungarian film studios are currently full of international and domestic productions. Working out the details of possible US safeguard tariffs affecting the domestic film industry and their introduction is a longer process. In the meantime, we are discussing further cooperation and co-production opportunities with our foreign partners on several continents around the world that will benefit the Hungarian film industry." The fluidity of the issue is reflected by the fact that President Trump later promised to hold talks with representatives of the US film industry, and the White House said that no final decision on tariffs for films made abroad has yet been made. Responding to questions from journalists, Trump stressed that film production and the relocation of filming abroad had "decimated" the US film industry and that he wanted to help, not harm, the industry, which receives financial and other support abroad. "We are watching the international news. What I was really looking forward to was the reaction from the United States, and the governor of California said that California has a successful support model, so why don't they take it to the federal level? This kind of reaction is a good message, structural problems should be addressed locally," said Mihály Tóth. However, Gergő Balika thinks the US government may eventually pressure studios to keep more of their film production work at home. According to Károly Radnai, managing partner of Andersen Adótanácsadó Zrt, the real target may not be Hungary, but Canada, the UK and Australia. As it is a service, the problem cannot be dealt with by classical customs measures, which means that Hungary can negotiate with the US independently of the EU for facilitations or exemptions. "It would be important," Radnai writes, "for the Hungarian government to act as soon as possible and use the good relations with the Trump administration to assert our country's interests diplomatically." Is Harry Styles now living in Berlin? According to the German daily tabloid Bild, the British singer has bought a flat in the capital - and TikTok users report having spotted him in Berlin-Mitte: dressed in blue, friendly, generous - he is even said to have paid for taxis for strangers. But why is Harry Styles really in Berlin? A source revealed to Britain's The Sun newspaper that the pop star is currently working on a new album. And why Berlin of all places? Styles is following in the footsteps of one of Britain's greatest music legends: David Bowie. The singer has been spotted several times with producer Kid Harpoon - the man behind his hit album Harry's House from 2022, including the global number one hit "As It Was", the best-selling song of the year worldwide. "Harry wanted to take a break after the mega-success of his last tour and the release of Harry's House," says the inside source. "Now he's working hard on his next album - and like Bowie once did, Berlin seems to inspire him. Harry loves the mysterious. Just like Bowie used to." David Bowie lived in Berlin's Schöneberg neighbourhood between 1976 and 1978 - a time that shaped him both musically and personally. His iconic song "Heroes", inspired by a pair of lovers at the Berlin Wall, was written during this period. Berlin was a place of retreat for Bowie: far away from the cameras in London and Los Angeles, and far away from the addiction problem that increasingly burdened him. Together with Iggy Pop, he lived in a small flat at 155 Hauptstraße, painted, composed - and sought peace and quiet. "I think Bowie wanted to find himself again in Berlin - and he succeeded," says director Francis Whately, who produced the documentary Bowie in Berlin. Of his so-called "Berlin trilogy", "Heroes" is probably the best known. It's also worth mentioning the atmospheric instrumental piece "Neuköln" (with only one "l"), which has been described by critics as a picture of the mood. Bowie remained connected to the city. In 1987 he returned to play a live concert in West Berlin - so close to the border that many East Berliners gathered along the wall to listen. Bowie heard people on the other side singing along and later called it "one of the most emotional performances I've ever experienced." Bowie also produced the entire soundtrack to the iconic Berlin film Christiane F. - Wir Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo, which tells the story of drug-addicted teenagers from Gropiusstadt. The comparison is obvious. Like Bowie, Styles also breaks with gender norms in fashion, wearing skirts, pearl necklaces and silk blouses. But not everyone is convinced. Bowie's former producer criticised the attempt to sell Styles as a "modern Bowie" suggesting the context and zeitgeist were too different. Styles himself, however, has repeatedly described Bowie as a role model; an "absolute hero" who "can do no wrong". Does he consciously place himself in Bowie's tradition? Perhaps. But Berlin today is no longer the Berlin of yesteryear. While Bowie was able to live almost anonymously in Schöneberg, Styles is unlikely to go unnoticed for long in Mitte. Apparently, most Berliners knew who Bowie was - and didn't care. Perhaps Styles, who has already been spotted in Berlin without bodyguards, is hoping for the same kind of anonymity?
The South African
05-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
Orlando Pirates make move by reuniting with treble-winning man
Orlando Pirates to make a power move by reuniting with a treble-winning man. The Buccaneers are gearing up for a bold administrative shakeup as they prepare to welcome back one of their most accomplished former officials, Senzo Mbatha. According to a source, Pirates are finalizing plans to reinstate the experienced football administrator as part of a major strategic revamp ahead of the upcoming season. Industry insiders confirm the move aims to build a high-powered backroom unit that can match the club's on-field ambitions. 'What they are trying to do is build a strong backroom staff with well-learned and travelled administrators,' a source revealed. 'That's why they are also believed to be bringing in Senzo Mbatha.' Mbatha is expected to join a heavyweight administrative trio alongside current officials Floyd Mbele and Mcebo Dlamini. This elite team will spearhead the club's mission for dominance across all levels of operation. 'If all goes according to plan, they will have Senzo, Floyd Mbele, and Mcebo Dlamini working together for the good of the team,' the source added. 'So apparently, Mbatha will be joining the team at the start of the new season.' Though not officially reinstated yet, Mbatha has reportedly already started contributing to the club's operations behind closed doors. 'As far as we know, there were other things that Senzo was helping the team with,' said the source. 'I can't exactly say what it was, but during some of the CAF Champions League games, he was hands-on with the team. But it's believed that he will be returning full-time to the club next season.' Senzo Mbatha brings more than just experience—he brings a winning pedigree. Having previously played a key role in Pirates' historic treble-winning campaign, his return promises stability, structure, and international flair. His resume includes stints at Bay United, the University of Pretoria, and Platinum Stars. On the international stage, Mbatha led Tanzanian clubs Yanga SC and Simba SC as CEO and worked with the Botswana Football Association. By bringing Mbatha back into the fold, Orlando Pirates aren't just hiring a familiar face, they're rearming with one of the most respected football minds in Africa. Stay tuned with The South African as Orlando Pirates to make a power move by reuniting with a treble-winning man. 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.
Daily Mirror
25-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
HMRC says people earning under £80,000 may be 'missing out'
Those who previously opted out could still get support The rules for Child Benefit eligibility saw a significant shift last year, subsequently bringing more families into the fold. However, it seems that some parents, who are now within the range to qualify, had previously opted out of claiming the benefit. A year since the amended regulations were introduced, HMRC has put out a call on X, particularly targeting those who might not realise they now qualify, saying: "Opted out of Child Benefit payments and earn under £80k? "You may be missing out on support. The amount you or your partner can earn before you start paying the High Income Child Benefit charge is now £60k." For those who stepped away from the scheme but are now eligible, there's an online service or a form available at to restart their Child Benefit. Parents should note that the process for the benefit payments to commence could take up to 28 days from when the application is received by the Child Benefit Office. In some cases, individuals may receive backdated payments, and the department will inform them about their entitlement including the reason and the amount to be backdated. Receiving Child Benefit again will mean becoming accountable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge if earnings exceed the threshold. Families are encouraged to use the online Child Benefit tax calculator to understand if this applies to them. Lastly, anyone receiving Child Benefit must alert HMRC to any change in circumstances that might alter their eligibility, such as additional children, shifts in income, or partners moving in or out of their homes. Under the previous Child Benefit rules, parents could only claim until the highest salary in the household reached £50,000. At this point, they would be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge. Once their income hit £60,000, their Child Benefit was entirely withdrawn. However, these thresholds were significantly increased last April. Now, you can receive the full Child Benefit rate until your earnings reach £60,000. Beyond this, you'll be charged 1% of your Child Benefit amount for every additional £200 you earn above this threshold. If your income hits £80,000, the benefit will be fully withdrawn. You may now qualify for Child Benefit if your earnings are below £80,000 and you're responsible for raising a child under 16, or under 20 if they're in approved education or training. Only one person can receive Child Benefit payments for a child, but there's no limit to how many children a person can claim for. Currently, Child Benefit is paid at a weekly rate of £26.05 for the eldest or only child and £17.25 for each additional child.
Telegraph
06-04-2025
- Sport
- Telegraph
It is shameful of the Masters to roll out red carpet for serial abuser Angel Cabrera
Whatever is on the menu for the Champions Dinner at the Masters, you can be sure that the bitter taste of disgust will linger. Maybe not so much in the Augusta National clubhouse itself, where the winners will gather for the annual parade of the green jackets, but certainly to many in the world at large. To think, in 2022, the word was that it had been 'strongly suggested' to LIV rebel Phil Mickelson that it would be better if he stayed away, so as not to add any discomfort to such a venerable occasion. Just three years on, Angel Cabrera will be welcomed back into the fold at the 89th Masters. They will roll out the green carpet. All a bit odd, no? You might suspect that the Argentine's presence would be a tad awkward, seeing as he recently served 30 months in prison for domestic abuse. But, hey, this is a men-only function and there will be no need for any of that. Another serving of twisted morals, anyone? Of course, the cry will go up that Cabrera, the 2009 winner who only missed playing in last year's Masters because he could not obtain a visa, has served his time and should be able to resume his employment. Fair enough. However, Augusta goes out of its way to call its participants 'invitees'. It was their choice. Nobody else's. So Cabrera will take his place among the legends and smile for the picture that goes around the globe. You know the score, a Jack Nicklaus here, a Gary Player there, a Tiger Woods at the back. Great golfers, even better humans, blah, blah, blah. Excuse a few women if they do not find the scenario at all honourable and instead are struck by utter revulsion and repulsion. And please mind those of us who will wonder why the feelings of those abused are deemed less important than the so-called rehabilitation of the abuser himself, and think of the words uttered by Jamie Klingler, the co-founded of Reclaim These Streets, earlier this week. 'As long as male athletes can excel at hitting a ball, we excuse those same men hitting women,' the women's activist told Telegraph Sport. 'Because that trophy is valued more than his victim's life.' Let us be honest, Cecilia Torres Mana, Silva Rivadero and Micaela Teresa Escudero are being badly let down by professional golf. They deserve better and the game should be ashamed. Torres was Cabrera's girlfriend and it was the violence he meted upon her that finally led to his first sentence of two years in July 2021. Torres detailed how Cabrera, 'physically, psychologically, and sexually abused me' and how he was so violently controlling that on one occasion, when he believed she might try to escape a hotel room, 'he locked me in, took my documents, and made me sleep in the closet'. At that moment she was praying to simply emerge with her life intact. Torres somehow plucked up the courage to run and go to the police – 'Angel always said that if I reported him, it would hurt his career and told me about all of his political contacts' – and spoke of her joy when he was sent down. 'But I am still afraid,' she added, explaining how her brother was robbed at his own home when he refused to inform Cabrera and his people as to her whereabouts. 'I cannot be completely free or calm, knowing what kind of person he is and the threats he made. I believe my family and I are still at risk.' The next year, Cabrera was sentenced to another two years and four months – to run concurrently – for assaulting Micaela Escudero, who came forward after Torres's complaints. A sickening and very obvious theme became clear. In 2016, his ex-wife, Silva Rivadero, accused Cabrera of physical assault. He initially survived that investigation, but as the net closed he chose to avoid justice by sidestepping his homeland. The two-time major winner was eventually captured in Rio de Janeiro in 2020. The Brazilian authorities were adamant he had no intention of returning to Argentina, despite being the subject of an Interpol warrant for his arrest. Yet since late 2023 Cabrera has been free and able to report the terrible conditions in which he was contained for the first five months in a Cordoba jail nicknamed 'The Prison of Hell'. From hell to golfing heaven, eh? From a cement bed to the Champions' Locker Room? That is where repenting can take you if you have the right CV, as he has pointed out himself.. 'I am repentant and embarrassed,' Cabrera told Golf Digest. 'I made serious mistakes. I refused to listen to anyone and did what I wanted, how I wanted and when I wanted. I ask Micaela for forgiveness. I ask Cecilia for forgiveness. They had the bad luck of crossing paths with me when I was at my worst. I wasn't the devil, but I did bad things.' Cabrera had a tough childhood – he was so poor he had no shoes and they call him 'El Pato' because he still walks like a duck – and he has said sorry. So let him go out there in front of millions and, alongside the great veterans such as Bernhard Langer and Fred Couples, make a few birdies and remind us of his glories from yesteryear. What is the problem? The answer is that his victims could and almost certainly will face further pain and trauma because of their own particular memories of Cabrera. And should not that be the primary concern here and in the ongoing debate about the rehabilitation of sportsmen – yes it is always men – from serious crimes against women in the public eye? You can talk about second chances, about responsibilities as role models, about the wisdom of sporting authorities drawing moral lines – yet seemingly every point made in this multi-sided argument continues to ignore the rights of the innocent. Ask yourself which is more important: Cabrera's right, at 55, to resume the fulfilment of a sporting dream; or the rights of Torres, Escudero and Rivadero to move on with their lives and not feel haunted by their attacker's image and witness him being feted as some sort of returning hero? If you were convicted of such crimes, do you think your employers would act so generously? Do you even think you could travel to the United States? It is a point picked up by Lisa Longstaff, from Women Against Rape. 'Violence against women and girls is a global pandemic: every 10 minutes a woman is killed by her partner or a family member,' she told Telegraph Sport. 'The public should boycott Angel Cabrera and businesses that promote many a sportsman, entertainer, politician, businessman, policeman, soldier who think they're above the law because money and status protect them. 'It's repugnant to promote men who sexually abuse their power over women. And how could he get into the US with a criminal conviction?' Indeed. The gates of privilege have been conveniently re-opened and it would be nice, but maybe naive, to believe that the Masters patrons will not all cheer on regardless.
