Merck Foundation marks World Heart Day by building cardiovascular preventive, cardiology, diabetes care and endocrinology capacity through more than 950 specialized scholarships across 52 countries.

NAIROBI, Kenya — Merck Foundation, the German not-for-profit organisation, is marking World Heart Day 2026 together with First Ladies of Africa and Asia and partners including ministries of health, medical societies and academia through its Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation, said the organisation is marking World Heart Day by building cardiovascular and diabetes care capacity across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

“At Merck Foundation we mark ‘World Heart Day’ by building cardiovascular and diabetes care capacity in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

“I am proud to share that together with our Ambassadors, the First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and partners including Ministries of Health, Medical Societies and Academia, Merck Foundation has provided 956 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries, of One-Year Online PG Diplomas and Two-Year Online Master’s Degrees in Diabetes, Cardiovascular Preventive Care, Endocrinology, Cardiology, and Obesity & Weight Management, as well as One-Year Clinical Cardiovascular Care and Clinical Diabetes Onsite Fellowship Programs.”

Bringing Specialist Care Closer to Communities

Kelej said Merck Foundation remains committed to bringing specialist healthcare capacity closer to the communities that need it, particularly outside major capital cities.

“We are committed to bringing specialized healthcare capacity closer to the communities that need it. By providing scholarships for healthcare providers from different parts of countries, beyond the major capital cities, we are helping create local experts who can provide specialized cardiovascular and diabetes care and also contribute to prevention, early detection, and greater health awareness in their communities.”

“This is how we build sustainable healthcare capacity: by empowering healthcare providers to become local experts and a lasting resource for their communities.”

In total, Merck Foundation has provided more than 2,750 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries across 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Dr. Husein Jivanji, a Merck Foundation alumnus from Kenya, said the opportunity to pursue a postgraduate diploma in cardiovascular preventive medicine strengthened his clinical knowledge and practical skills.

“I am very thankful to Merck Foundation for providing me with the opportunity to pursue a PG Diploma in Cardiovascular Preventive Medicine. The training program has significantly strengthened my clinical knowledge and practical skills. With my increased knowledge and skills, I have started a specialized cardiology clinic in the public sector. I have been able to enhance patient management practices and contribute more effectively to improving healthcare services in my community.”

Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension in Africa

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases have emerged as the leading cause of noncommunicable disease deaths in the African region, with more than 1 million cardiovascular deaths estimated in 2019.

Hypertension remains a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, with fewer than one-third of people living with hypertension receiving treatment and only about 12% having their condition under control.

To raise awareness, Merck Foundation has also launched several community awareness programmes in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia, focusing on the prevention and early detection of hypertension and diabetes, which are closely linked, while promoting healthier lifestyles within communities.

Teaching Healthy Habits From an Early Age

Merck Foundation, together with First Ladies, has launched the children’s storybooks Mark’s Pressure and Sugar Free Jude, aimed at encouraging children and families to adopt healthier lifestyles and helping to prevent hypertension, diabetes and related complications.

The foundation has also adapted the storybooks into animated films.

“Healthy habits are easiest to build from an early age. Therefore, through our storybooks and animation films, we are educating children and young people about the importance of making healthy choices, including reducing salt and sugar intake, exercising regularly, eating balanced meals and avoiding smoking. By helping children develop healthy habits today, we can empower them to lead healthier lives tomorrow,” Kelej said.

• Watch the Mark’s Pressure animation film on YouTube.
• Watch the Sugar Free Jude animation film on YouTube.

‘Our Africa’ Takes Health Awareness to Television

Merck Foundation’s pan-African TV programme Our Africa is conceptualised, produced, directed and co-hosted by Kelej.

Through conversations with African fashion designers, singers and experts from different fields, the programme raises awareness of social and health issues, with episodes dedicated to diabetes and promoting healthier lifestyles.

• Watch Our Africa by Merck Foundation — Episode 1: Diabetes Awareness on YouTube.
• Watch Our Africa by Merck Foundation — Episode 4: Promoting Healthy Lifestyle on YouTube.

Our Africa is currently broadcast on KTN in Kenya and TV3 Ghana and has also aired on national and major television stations in Burundi, Botswana, The Gambia, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Zambia.

The programme is also available through the social media pages of Dr. Rasha Kelej on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube, as well as Merck Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Merck Foundation Awards Focus on Diabetes and Hypertension

Merck Foundation, together with First Ladies of Africa and Asia, annually launches awards recognising media professionals, filmmakers, fashion designers, singers, musicians and emerging talent.

The awards aim to promote healthier lifestyles and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 — Diabetes & Hypertension

Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Submission deadline: Oct. 30, 2026.

Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 — Diabetes & Hypertension

Filmmakers, students at filmmaking training institutions and young talent are invited to create and share long or short films, including dramas, documentaries or docudramas, carrying strong and influential messages promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Submission deadline: Oct. 30, 2026.

Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 — Diabetes & Hypertension

Students and designers are invited to create and share designs carrying strong and influential messages promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Submission deadline: Oct. 30, 2026.

Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 — Diabetes & Hypertension

Singers and musical artists are invited to create and share a song aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Submission deadline: Oct. 30, 2026.

Applications can be submitted through the Merck Foundation Awards Online Application Form.

Entries for all awards can also be submitted via email to submit@merck-foundation.com.

Join the Conversation

Follow Merck Foundation through its social media platforms:

Facebook: Merck Foundation
X: @MerckFoundation
YouTube: MerckFoundation
Instagram: Merck Foundation
Threads: Merck Foundation
Flickr: Merck Foundation
Website: Merck Foundation
App: Download the Merck Foundation App

About Merck Foundation

Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is a German not-for-profit organisation that aims to improve the health and well-being of people and advance their lives.

The foundation focuses on improving access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions, building healthcare, scientific research and media capacity, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girls’ education.

Merck Foundation works across more than 50 countries with First Ladies, their foundations, ministries and other key stakeholders through complementary roles in advocacy, local government coordination, healthcare and media capacity building, girls’ education and community awareness initiatives.

It is this coordinated ecosystem of partnerships — with distinct responsibilities and a shared vision — that enables Merck Foundation to build local capacity, create sustainable impact and contribute to long-term transformation in healthcare and society.

Through its various programmes and initiatives, Merck Foundation has provided more than 2,750 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries across 44 critical and underserved specialties, awarded more than 1,570 scholarships to underprivileged African schoolgirls across 21 countries, trained more than 4,000 media professionals, recognised 980 award winners and reached more than 9 million followers across 15 social media channels, driving lasting impact in healthcare, education and awareness across Africa and Asia.

Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments, to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation states that it remains strictly neutral in political matters.

It does not engage in or support political activities, elections or regimes, focusing solely on its stated mission to improve people’s lives and well-being while maintaining a nonpolitical position.

All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by email at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation website.

Source: Merck Foundation

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The accident happened at home when Peyton fell into a bath of piping hot water. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, the little boy sustained extensive second- and third-degree burns and was rushed to the nearest private hospital for emergency treatment.

Without medical aid and facing costs that were simply beyond the family’s financial means, Peyton was later transferred to a state hospital in Pretoria, where he has since stabilised. His family continues to provide the pain medication he needs with the help of donations.

Peyton’s mother, Sheramé, is a much-loved teacher at the pre-school Peyton attends, and news of his accident quickly brought the school community together. Friends, parents and members of the wider community have rallied around the family, with several people also reaching out to Good Morning Angels on their behalf.

Around R400,000 has already been raised towards Peyton’s medical care, but with a long recovery ahead and the full cost of his treatment still unknown, the family urgently needs continued support.

The Wahl family’s story touched Len Enslin, CEO of Gearvest, and Lorna Enslin, CEO of Harvest Floor, the implementing partner of the recent Legends for Charity Golf Day. The pair, together with the Legends for Charity Golf Day, its players and supporters, have pledged R125,000 towards Peyton’s medical treatment.

The Good Morning Angels Fund has contributed a further R100,000, while after hearing Peyton’s story on air, Marno Boshoff from King Price called into the show with an additional R25,000.

Together, the three contributions bring the total raised through this week’s Good Morning Angels appeal to R250,000.

For Peyton’s parents, the journey continues to be an emotional and exhausting one. They travel between their home in Kempton Park and Pretoria every day to be at their little boy’s side as he begins the long process of healing.

“Peyton’s story touched so many people, because accidents like this can happen in an instant, and he is just three years old. So many people reached out to us, particularly from the school community where his mom works. Having his dad in studio, hearing him tell Peyton’s story and seeing the emotion behind it was incredibly moving,” Martin Bester, host of Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast With Martin Bester. “To see the Angels come together again, as they do every Wednesday, to make a difference in this young family’s life means so much. We’re wishing Peyton all the strength for the road ahead. His family now knows that they have a whole network of Angels behind them, people they know and people they may never meet, who genuinely care.”

The funds raised will assist the Wahl family with ongoing medical bills, specialized burn care, and transportation expenses as Peyton continues his treatment.

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The Bedford Rooftop Fitness Takeover will take place on Saturday, 3 October 2026, on the open deck parking area between entrances 1 and 2, inviting the community to swap the gym floor for fresh air and a morning of movement, music and fun.

Registration will open at 7:30 AM, with the first session starting at 8:00 AM. The morning will begin with yoga, followed by Planet Fitness’s high-energy PF20 workout and a hybrid and dance session to finish things off.

There is no need to be a Planet Fitness member to join in. The event is open to people of all fitness levels, whether they exercise regularly or simply want to try something different and get moving outdoors.

Move, Win and Give Back

There will be a little extra motivation along the way, with Bedford stores contributing prizes worth a total of R20,000. Everyone taking part will also receive a goodie bag containing discount vouchers from participating stores.

The morning will have a community purpose too. Those attending are encouraged to bring pre-loved gym shoes and fitness clothing, which will be collected and donated to people in need, giving unused fitness gear a new purpose.

“Spring is such a great time to get outdoors and get moving, and we wanted to create something that people could enjoy together in a completely different part of Bedford,” says Linda Linnow, General Manager of Bedford. “You don’t have to be incredibly fit or belong to a gym. Come along, try a class, have some fun and, if you can, bring something to donate too.”

The Rooftop Fitness Takeover is free, but spaces are limited, and pre-booking is essential. The booking link and further information will be available through @bedfordcentre on social media, Bedford’s website, the centre management office and information desk.

For more information about Bedford, its stores and projects, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

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The Grand Finale brought together some of South Africa’s emerging modelling and fitness talent for an evening of competition, achievement and opportunity. This year’s theme, Reputation, reflected the courage, discipline and consistency required to build a name, pursue ambition and step confidently into the spotlight.

Directed by internationally acclaimed Creative Director Willie Venter, the Grand Finale was staged as a full-scale production that transformed the SunBet Arena into a dynamic fashion and entertainment showcase. The production brought together runway and fitness categories with high-impact lighting, music, choreography and carefully timed transitions, creating a polished show experience for the nearly 5,000 guests in attendance. Finalists stepped onto the runway in designer clothing by a range of South African designers, with each segment combining fashion, movement and individual presence to give contestants the opportunity to demonstrate not only their modelling ability, but also the confidence and stage presence that have become central to The Next OMSA platform. The entertainment offering was elevated further by a live performance from South African artist Nadia Nakai, adding another high-energy element to the evening.

Guiding the evening as Masters of Ceremonies were Ewan Strydom and Shashi Naidoo, who led guests through the programme and key moments of the competition. Finalists were evaluated by an esteemed judging panel comprising Bongani Fassie, Lady Zamar, Kushie Pietersen, Gareth Cliff, Bryan O’Connor, Yolanda Monyai, Adv. Gerrie Nel and Tuani Domijan. Together, the hosts, judges, performers, designers and production team contributed to a Grand Finale that went beyond the announcement of winners, presenting The Next OMSA as a fully realised live production that celebrates South African talent across modelling, fitness, fashion and entertainment.

Through its association with Top Model Worldwide London, The Next OMSA also provides opportunities for South African talent to gain international exposure and take their ambitions beyond the local stage. The 2026 Runway Male and Runway Female winners, Mfumo Baloyi and Duney Fourie, will represent South Africa and compete at Top Model Worldwide in London on 19 September 2026.

The announcement of the 2026 winners marked the culmination of months of preparation, commitment and determination.

The Next OMSA 2026 Winners:

• Beautiful Fresh Face: Carla Berg – Kimberley, Northern Cape
• Body of the Year Male (Age Group 17–33): Clinton Samons – Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng
• Body of the Year Male (Age Group 34–55): Shepherd Mfakose – Pretoria, Gauteng
• Curve: Nadine van Staden – Krugersdorp, Gauteng
• Fitness Physique Female (Age Group 17–33): Shanaya Salt – Pretoria, Gauteng
• Fitness Physique Female (Age Group 34–55): Pauline Roos – Heidelberg, Gauteng
• Fitness Physique Male (Age Group 17–29): Eric Penny – Roodepoort, Gauteng
• Fitness Physique Male (Age Group 30–55): Thabo Mpshe – Rustenburg, North West
• Men’s Open: Jaco Engelbrecht – Kriel, Mpumalanga
• Mr. Opulent: Thapelo Tsoai – Welkom, Free State
• Mrs. Opulent: Chané Venter – Pretoria, Gauteng
• Over 25s Female: Lebogang Matshediso – Rustenburg, North West
• Over 25s Male: Nardus Botes – Roodepoort, Gauteng
• Runway Male: Mfumo Baloyi – Sandton, Gauteng
• Runway Female: Duney Fourie – Klerksdorp, North West
• Brand Ambassador Male: Jason de Jager – Morningside, Sandton, Gauteng
• Brand Ambassador Female: Melissa Meiring – Pretoria, Gauteng

CEO Johan Ungerer reflected on the significance of the milestone: “For twelve years, The Next OMSA has stood for more than crowns and titles. It has stood for the belief that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when given the right platform. We saw reputations forged in front of us, reputations that will carry these winners into futures they once only imagined.”

His words reflect The Next OMSA’s ongoing mission to invest in people and create pathways that extend beyond the competition itself.

For the newly crowned winners, the Grand Finale represented more than receiving a title. It marked the next chapter in journeys shaped by persistence, individuality, and personal growth.

One of the newly crowned winners reflected on the experience: “This victory is not about perfection; it is about persistence. The Next OMSA gave me the tools to believe in myself, to stand taller, and to embrace my individuality. Winning tonight is proof that every struggle, every rehearsal, every moment of doubt was worth it.”

As The Next OMSA moves into its next chapter, it continues to contribute to South Africa’s modelling, fitness and creative industries by creating platforms where emerging talent can develop, gain exposure and pursue opportunities locally and internationally.

As the 2026 winners look ahead to new opportunities, the Grand Finale brought this year’s theme of Reputation into sharp focus. Building a reputation takes more than recognition; it requires courage, consistency and the confidence to step forward.

After 12 years, The Next OMSA continues to create opportunities for South African talent, helping contestants develop their potential, build their profiles and pursue ambitions that extend beyond the runway and the competition itself.

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A fitness enthusiast who regularly shares her wellness journey with listeners and followers, Rozanne believes that consistency, community, and finding joy in movement are the real secrets to maintaining healthy habits throughout the season.

“Winter is often when we are most tempted to slow down, but I’ve found that staying active actually helps me feel better physically and mentally,” Rozanne says. “You don’t need to punish yourself or chase unrealistic goals. You just need to find something that works for you and commit to showing up.”

Here are Rozanne’s top winter fitness tips:

Prepare the Night Before

One of Rozanne’s biggest tips is to remove as many obstacles as possible before the day begins. “Pack your gym bag the night before and have everything ready to go,” she advises. “It eliminates the stress and decision-making in the morning. The less admin you have, the easier it is to stick to your routine,” the Jacaranda FM personality says.

She also believes feeling comfortable and confident in what you wear can make a surprising difference. “You don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive activewear brands. There are so many affordable options available. I always find that when I feel good in what I’m wearing, I train harder and enjoy my workout so much more.”

Find a Workout You Actually Enjoy

Rozanne explains that one of the biggest mistakes people make in their fitness journey is forcing themselves into exercise routines they dread. “Fitness should never feel like punishment,” she says. “If you hate running, don’t run. If you love dancing, dance. If you enjoy walking with friends, do that. The most important thing is simply to move.”

The presenter adds that the community has been one of the biggest motivators. “I love the sense of community that comes with training. Being surrounded by people who encourage and challenge you makes all the difference. Whether it’s CrossFit, a walking club or even a line dancing class, having people around you who share your goals can be incredibly motivating.”

Ditch the ‘Summer Body’ Pressure

Rozanne is also passionate about rejecting the pressure and unrealistic expectations often associated with fitness. “There’s no such thing as a summer body,” she says. “Everybody is a body, and your body is your body. Don’t fall for fad training programmes or trends that promise quick fixes.”

Instead, she encourages people to focus on building healthy habits and prioritising proper form over flashy workouts. “It’s not about doing what looks cool on social media. It’s about doing what works for your body and building strength and confidence in a sustainable way.”

Make Training a Non-Negotiable

The secret to success is consistency. “Make your training time non-negotiable,” Rozanne continues. “Schedule it in your diary if you have to, just like you would an important meeting. Once you stop negotiating with yourself, it becomes part of your lifestyle rather than something you have to constantly convince yourself to do.”

As South Africans navigate the colder months, Rozanne hopes people will approach fitness with kindness and consistency rather than pressure. “You don’t have to be perfect,” she says. “You just have to keep showing up. Small, consistent steps add up over time, and winter is actually the perfect time to build habits that will carry you through the rest of the year.”

For Rozanne McKenzie, the secret to staying active through winter is about finding joy in movement and making your wellbeing a priority, one workout at a time.

Listen to Rozanne McKenzie on The Drive With Rob & Roz every weekday afternoon between 16:00 and 19:00 only on Jacaranda FM.

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Taking place in the Cavendish Square parking area on P3 from 09h00 to 13h00, the event will transform the space into a race-day arena where athletes, fitness enthusiasts and curious spectators can expect a high-energy morning of competition, music and endurance.

Designed as part of Planet Fitness’ Season 1 Hybrid Games calendar, the event will see participants push through a demanding circuit in a bid to qualify for the finals taking place later this year.

A Fitness Event Built for Spectators Too

While competitors will be pushing themselves to the limit, Simulation Saturday has also been designed as a lively spectator experience. Expect pumping music, an electric atmosphere and plenty of crowd energy as heats unfold throughout the morning.

DJ BamBam will keep momentum high from the first heat to the final sprint, while activation stands from Discovery Vitality and USN will add to the experience with samples, treats and giveaways.

Whether visitors arrive to compete or simply happen upon the event during a Saturday shopping trip, the energy of the Hybrid Games is expected to turn plenty of heads.

What Competitors Can Expect

Heats will run from 09h00 to 13h00, with participants taking on a six-station challenge completed across 23 minutes. Athletes will rotate through a demanding sequence of Run, SkiErg, Walking Lunges with Sandbag, Row and Wall Balls, with two minutes of maximum effort at each station and one-minute recovery periods in between.

Top-performing male and female athletes across age groups will qualify for the Hybrid Games finals in November.

Participation is open to anyone aged 16 to 70, whether or not a Planet Fitness member. Entry costs R150 for Planet Fitness and Elevate members, and R200 for Discovery Vitality members and non-members. Registration is essential, and tickets will not be sold on the day.

• To register, visit: planetfitness.co.za

For more details on Cavendish Square shopping centre’s stores and promotions, visit cavendish.co.za or follow the centre on social media for regular updates on instagram.com.

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Hillary Chumo and Marelise Retief took top honours in the 21.1 km half marathon, leading a strong field of entrants and clocking impressive times on the well-managed route. All races began and ended at The Grove, where runners and their families enjoyed secure parking, easy access to stores and restaurants, and the support of a vibrant crowd.

Race day impact

Held under the regulations of Athletics South Africa and Athletics Gauteng North, the race was professionally coordinated and well supported. While the focus remained on providing a high-quality running experience, the broader impact was felt in the community too.

Thanks to the success of this year’s event, The Grove Mall will be donating R50 000 to Sungardens Hospice, the non-profit organisation that provides palliative care to people with terminal illnesses. The donation is an extension of the centre’s ongoing commitment to initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

A continued tradition

Now in its thirteenth year, The Grove Mall Race has become a highlight on the Pretoria running calendar. Its mix of distances appeals to a wide base, from competitive runners chasing personal bests to community members taking part in the 5 km fun run.

Julie-Anne Claassen, General Manager at The Grove, said, “We’re proud to have hosted another successful event that brought people together through a shared commitment to health, endurance and community spirit. Our thanks go to all the runners, organisers and teams involved in making this race possible.”

For updates on future events at The Grove and information about its stores and campaigns, visit www.thegrovemall.co.za or follow @TheGroveMallSA on social media.

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In a deeply moving show of unity, shoppers were invited to write the names of loved ones impacted by cancer on coloured balls and place them into a giant ribbon structure. With every ball added, the installation became a growing tribute to the people and stories behind the disease, a quiet, visual symbol of love, remembrance and resilience.

For Gateway’s Marketing Manager, Ayesha Sewbaran, who was the first to add her ball, the moment was particularly personal. “I wrote my uncle’s name,” she said. “He passed away in 2020, and I was with him through every stage of his journey. It was emotional, but also grounding. This project feels like it’s about more than loss. It’s about doing something that could help others in future.”

The activation in the centre court also served a more urgent purpose: enabling people to contribute to South Africa’s first patient-led cancer registry. Visitors could register their own experience or that of someone close to them, adding to a powerful new database that aims to reshape the way cancer is tracked and treated across the country.

The four-day event included talks from survivors, healthcare professionals and community voices. The project also welcomed back a familiar face to the centre: Kesavan Govender, a former Facilities Manager at Gateway and a proud resident of Durban North. Diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2022, Kesavan shared his journey of strength, treatment and hope with visitors, providing a reminder of the importance of early detection, support systems and the courage it takes to keep going.

For more information about the Living with Cancer initiative and how to register or support it, visit livingwithcancersa.co.za.

For more about Gateway, its stores and promotions, visit www.gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on social media: @gatewayumhlanga.

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Cavendish Square, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Phumulani Mall, Riverside Mall, The Zone @ Rosebank, Bedford Centre, Kagiso Mall and Vincent Park will each host events designed to get shoppers talking, sharing and showing support for cancer from 30 May to 2 June 2025. Even though the specific activations at each mall may differ, the key message is the same: Your cancer counts.

Shoppers will be able to contribute by sharing the details of their own or their loved one’s cancer on the first South African patient-led cancer registry. Visitors will also get an opportunity to share their struggle with cancer with volunteers at the activation, commemorate loved ones, gain valuable health insights, or simply lend their voice to the cause.

A Collective effort, one name at a time

A symbolic giant ribbon statue will stand at the heart of each event, gradually filled with balls: for survivors and for those who have passed on. Visitors can personalise these by writing the name of someone affected by cancer before placing them into the structure. This installation will serve as a powerful, visual reminder of the impact cancer has on families across South Africa.

Location dependent, shoppers will have access to guidance from the likes of hospice professionals, dieticians, psychologists, and grief counsellors. Healthcare professionals will be on hand to share information about early detection, symptoms and screening referrals, especially for common cancers such as breast, prostate and cervical. A will-drafting service will also be available to highlight the importance of planning for the future at selected malls.

Information, access and real support

A selection of the malls will feature expert talks from professionals, offering insight and support on everything from nutrition during treatment to managing grief. Talks will be run in the morning and afternoon, with comfortable seating provided for attendees. Shoppers can follow their local mall’s social media or subscribe to newsletters to stay up to date with speaker times and registration details. This information will also be available on the National Institute for Communicable Diseases social media pages.

An important aspect of the campaign will be the communication of information from Living With Cancer SA on how to register patient records through the first patient led cancer registry.

Michelle Shelley, Group Marketing Portfolio Manager at EBM for the Old Mutual Property portfolio, explains:

“Cancer is not just a health issue, it’s a community issue. We’re proud to support this initiative that brings practical resources, real conversations, and moments of solidarity for cancer patients to our malls. If our spaces can help someone feel seen, supported, or better informed, then we’ve done something worthwhile.”

Taking action where it counts

The “Your Cancer Counts” project is an extension of Old Mutual Property’s commitment to corporate social investment, in collaboration with Living with Cancer SA, the National Cancer Registry, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and Campaigning for Cancer. With the growing cancer burden in South Africa, and National Cancer Survivors Day around the corner, the timing could not be more relevant.

The South African National Cancer Registry (NCR), a division of National Health Laboratory Services, serves as South Africa’s main source of national cancer incidence data. Since 1986, the NCR has conducted pathology-based cancer surveillance, where data on cancer cases diagnosed by histology, cytology and bone marrow aspirate and trephine are collected, analysed and reported annually. Through its partnership with Living with Cancer SA, South Africa’s first patient-led cancer registry and support platform the NCR is enhancing its reach beyond clinical data to include lived experience, awareness, and advocacy.  For more about NCR click here.

Whether it’s a contribution to the cancer registry, a conversation, leaving your mark on the cancer statue, or a new understanding of symptoms to watch for, every interaction counts. Visit your nearest participating mall this May and June to take part. For more details, follow your mall’s official social media pages or visit the website.

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A World-Class Court Experience

Net Set Padel Sandton City has been designed to meet the highest international standards. All eight courts were sourced from Spain’s renowned PADEL ALBA and are fully compliant with the specifications of both the Spanish Padel Federation and the International Padel Federation. The facility includes four ALBA classic outdoor courts and four full panoramic indoor courts, ensuring players enjoy a top-tier experience across 1,600 square metres of dedicated padel space.

The indoor courts feature Supercourt XN astro turf, an innovative synthetic surface that ensures optimal ball bounce and consistency. With added court spacing to accommodate “player run outs,” the centre caters to advanced players who thrive on high-speed rallies and strategic play.

A Padel Venue Like No Other

Beyond the game itself, the setting of Net Set Padel Sandton City is as impressive as its courts. The indoor arena is fitted with PlaySight Camera Systems, an internationally acclaimed technology that enables live streaming, instant replays, and match analysis for player development. A mezzanine-level viewing deck provides a striking vantage point over the action, while a fully blacked-out playing environment eliminates glare and even allows for glow-in-the-dark padel events.

Adding to the allure, plans are in motion for a rooftop sunset bar overlooking the Sandton skyline, creating a space where players can relax and socialise after a match. Premium showers and ablution facilities round out the experience, ensuring comfort from start to finish.

Innovation from the Ground Up

Constructing a padel centre of this scale on a rooftop required innovative solutions. Each court was assembled by hand to navigate weight restrictions, with a specially designed foam-based court base slab used to ensure structural integrity without compromising player experience. With a vertical clearance surpassing that of other indoor padel venues, Net Set Padel Sandton City enhances playability in a way that few other facilities can match. To book a game, go to netsetsandtoncity.co.za

“Sandton City is constantly evolving to meet market demands, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of global trends and offer our shoppers the world at their fingertips,” says Dimitri Kokinos, Asset Manager at Sandton City. “From our world-class courts and cutting-edge technology to our unique rooftop location, we’ve created an experience that takes padel to the next level.”

For more information and regular updates go to www.sandtoncity.com or follow Sandton City on social media @sandtoncitymall.

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