Category: Media Office

Johannesburg – Friday, 24 October 2025 – S3 is pleased to announce that the channel will broadcast the Miss SA 2025 pageant live from the SunBet Arena, Times Square, in Pretoria on Saturday, 25 October 2025 at 19:00. The main event will be preceded by the AFI Red Carpet at 18:30.

Miss South Africa is a premier national beauty pageant aiming to empower young women to become leaders and change-makers through its flagship mission, Empower Youth Africa.

Hosted by powerhouses  Nomalanga Shozi and Pamela Mtanga, this year’s pageant promises to be a night of glamour, inspiration, and transformation, as nine talented finalists compete for the coveted title. Each finalist has committed to driving meaningful change in their communities, focusing on job creation, education, health, civic engagement, and Pan-African collaboration as part of the Empower Youth Africa movement.

The evening will feature top-tier entertainment by some of South Africa’s remarkable talent, including music, dance, and breathtaking local designs.

Viewers will be captivated by Ciza Nkululeko “Ciza” Nciza, Makhadzi, Lordkez Keziah Zoe Meyers, Demi Lee Moore, Karen Zoid, Langa Mavuso, Bucie, and Xolly Mncwango.

The miss SA top 9 contestants are Qhawekazi Mazaleni, Nelly Mashile, Luyanda Zuma, Nthabiseng Kgasi, Karabo Mareka, Ghee-Ann Rademan, Bridgette Jones, Zanele Phakathi and Gizelle Venske.

“As S3 we are excited to bring the 2025 Miss SA pageant to our viewers for the 3^rd year in row. We saw significant growth with the pageant last year and were proud to crown Mia and all that she represents in universal access, inclusion and health. We hope South Africans will tune in their numbers to see our new queen and cultural ambassador crowned live on S3 yet again.” – Sane Zondi, S3 Head of Channel.

Don’t miss the broadcast of the 2025 Miss SA on Saturday, 25 October 2025 at 19:00, on S3 and SABC Plus.

Miss SA pictures are available on the link below

https://fromsmash.com/eZ3iWLfhui-dt

To view the promo, click on the link below

https://fromsmash.com/VsCLSCyqZr-dt

For media enquiries:

Synopsis: Comedians and best friends Joel Dommett and Nish Kumar are back, taking on even tougher challenges. Joel might pride himself on his fitness and Nish on his knowledge – but how will they cope when they’re pitted against some of the toughest communities on the planet? As they explore their own masculinity in a series of frequently comic adventures, Joel and Nish attempt to tame wild horses with the Argentinian Gauchos, wrestle with the Sumo in Japan, and try to keep up with the strongmen of Tahiti.

Episode Highlights

Episode 1 – Monday, 20 October 2025

(Peru)

Joel Dommett and Nish Kumar trek through the Andes with the Peruvian porters. Their job is to carry the bags of tourists and set up camps before nightfall. The arduous journey through the mountains is all so they can meet the legendary Scissor Dancers, but the boys get more than they bargained for when they arrive.

Episode 2 – Tuesday, 21 October 2025

(Kodo)

Joel and Nish enroll in the Kodo drumming school on a remote island in Japan. To pass, students must undergo an intensive regime, waking up at dawn every morning to exercise, do chores and drums all day for two years. The daily tasks include cleaning the school and taking turns to cook for the class, while mobile phones and TV are strictly prohibited. Drumming takes discipline, rhythm and teamwork and only a handful of students will be selected at the end of the course.

Episode 3 – Wednesday, 22 October 2025

(Argentina)

Joel and Nish spend a week in the tough, no-nonsense world of the Argentinian Gauchos, learning how to ride horses and herd cattle across the South American Pampas. The Gauchos are expert horsemen and at the end of the week Joel and Nish’s mission is to camp out underneath the stars and join them on a cattle drive. But with almost no riding experience, Joel and Nish going to need to learn fast if they’re to have any chance of surviving the week!

Episode 4 – Monday, 27 October 2025

(Tahiti)

Joel and Nish go up against the rock lifters of Tahiti in a strongman competition on the remote island of Rurutu, where the events include a fruit race and a dance off. On the island they also meet “mahu” Philippe, the traditional French Polynesian role where men are raised with women to do domestic chores and are often called the third gender. Philippe talks about the struggles of being a “mahu” on a religious island.

Episode 5 – Tuesday, 28 October 2025

(Japan)

Joel and Nish travel to Tokyo to meet Japan’s professional sumo wrestlers. They are given exclusive access to a stable – the house where the fighters all live and train together before a big tournament. The boys then head to the remote Oki Islands where legend has it sumo was born and where the islanders learn sumo from childhood. Here, Joel and Nish sign up to a tournament against some of the island’s toughest wrestlers

Episode 6 – Wednesday, 29 October 2025

(New Zealand)

Joel and Nish join a gang of sheep shearers in New Zealand. Being a sheer involves brute strength and getting your hands very dirty. If the boys can’t shear then they’ll have to do one of the other tough jobs, from dragging to wool handling. No matter what role they have, everyone in the gang must be ready for a drink at the end of their shift.

Don’t miss Tribal Bootcamp Mondays – Fridays at 22:00, on S3 and SABC Plus.

To view the promo, click on the link below

https://fromsmash.com/uN_pmteVQB-dt

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Johannesburg – Thursday, 16 October 2025 – S3 is pleased to introduce a new financial education programme titled The Getting Crypto Show on Saturdays at 15:00, starting 18 October 2025.

As cryptocurrency adoption accelerates across Africa, many South Africans still face a steep learning curve in understanding the fundamentals of blockchain, digital wallets, and decentralised finance. In response to this growing educational gap, Binance, the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem, launches a new crypto-focused show to make digital finance accessible to all. 

Hosted by South Africa’s very own Financial Bunny, Nicolette Mashile, The Getting Crypto will air six limited episodes. A first for Africa, the show will simplify cryptocurrency for everyday South Africans by breaking down complex concepts into plain, relatable language, without the complex tech jargon.

“Cryptocurrency doesn’t need to be intimidating or reserved for certain people. With The Getting Crypto Show, we aim to empower South Africans by demonstrating that crypto is not only understandable but also has numerous practical applications in their everyday lives locally. Many people are hearing about crypto but don’t know where to begin. We launched this show to help people build real confidence in understanding and using crypto as part of their financial future,” said Yande Nomvete, Operations Manager at Binance Africa.

Nicolette Mashile adds, “Crypto still feels complex and out of reach for many South Africans but it doesn’t have to be. With The Getting Crypto Show, we’re making the conversation part of everyday life, using clear language, practical examples, and relatable stories. Financial literacy is evolving, and digital assets should be part of that evolution.”

Sane Zondi, S3 Head of Channel remarks “Our viewers are change leaders and early adopters of innovation, and this is the next step. We’re moving past the basics, accelerating adoption, and helping them master the skills needed to confidently own the future of finance in a digital world. We can’t wait to hear the success stories—hopefully, the series inspires the acquisition of products and digital assets in our viewers’ lives in the months and years ahead.”

Co-hosted by Actor Anton David Jeftha, the series will cover everything from what cryptocurrency is and how to invest in it, to real-world applications like paying for groceries with Binance Pay at Pick n Pay, showcasing how digital assets such as Binance Pay can seamlessly integrate into daily life while transacting safely.

Each episode blends expert interviews, explainers, and community Q&As to ensure both newcomers and those already involved in crypto find value.

Open up with The Getting Crypto Show every Saturday at 15:00, on S3 and SABC Plus.

To view a promo, click on the link below: –  

https://we.tl/t-KxGcEActWZ

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For media enquiries contact:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Synopsis : Are ghosts real? Acclaimed writer and podcaster Danny Robins ventures back into the shadows to continue his spine-tingling search for the truth. From global smash-hit podcasts The Battersea Poltergeist and The Witch Farm, to West End sell-out shocker 2:22 A Ghost Story, Danny Robins’ infectious fascination for the supernatural continues to thrill and chill audiences far and wide. Now his television series exploring alleged hauntings returns for a new series of brave and bizarre investigations. Helping him examine the evidence are resident sceptic Dr Ciarán O’Keeffe and parapsychologist and believer Evelyn Hollow. Together, they try to help those who have experienced the inexplicable decide whether it was all in the mind… or if things really do go bump in the night.

Episode Highlights

Episode 1 – 16 October 2025

In the first case of this series, Danny Robins is joined in the studio by Liam, who grew up on a remote farm near Bury. His happy childhood was marred by ghostly sightings of a little boy and an overbearing, oppressive presence, making him so terrified that, even as an adult, he refused to go upstairs in his house alone. For years, nobody around Liam would acknowledge the strange and frightening activity. When his parents finally opened up, Liam discovered that not only had they seen things too – but that this had been going on for generations before him.

Episode 2 – 23 October 2025

Danny is joined by Sybil, the manager of a charity shop in the home counties. From the day she opened, Sybil felt a strange presence, which only heightened when other workers also said they sensed someone in the shop with them. As time went on and more workers had the same experience, activity began to ramp up. Things started to move in front of multiple witnesses, and when building work was done on the shop, the presence finally revealed itself – to terrifying effect. After the discovery of a hidden room, clues as to who this presence could be come to light.

Episode 3 – 30 October 2025

Danny is joined by Julian for what could be one of the scariest and most unsettling cases he’s ever investigated. After Julian’s family moved into a new house in Crofton near Wakefield in the early 90s, tragedy struck his family on multiple occasions, and a malign presence taking the form of a towering, terrifying shadow man seemed to appear to him and many of his friends. Danny looks into the cultural history of shadow figures, from Inuit folk history to modern internet phenomena, and asks Ciaran and Evelyn to help him unpack Julian’s unsettling account. Could these folkloric tales actually be based on facts?

Episode 4 – 6 November 2025

In the final case of the series, Danny is joined in the studio by Angela and her daughter Emily. They tell him about events that happened to them in the early 2000s when Emily was a child. A seemingly supernatural presence that began as what Angela thought was an imaginary friend, soon grew into something far more terrifying. Both Emily and her sister became too scared to sleep in their rooms, supposedly beset by the malign presence of an old man who threatened Emily and her family. When Angela’s friends and babysitters began to experience things too, refusing to return to the house, Angela worried for the safety of her daughter. Events escalated to the point where the family felt they were physically in danger. 

Don’t miss Uncanny on Thursdays at 22:00 on S3 and SABC Plus.

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Synopsis: – Join Sara Davies, Fred Sirieix and Raj Somaiya as they embark on the search for the Ultimate Wedding Planner. Eight aspiring wedding planners battle it out to become Ultimate Wedding Planner, as six brave couples agree to let them take control of the biggest day of their lives.

The planners are set to take over the design and guest experience for six real-life weddings. From table scaping, incredible floral centrepieces, hand crafted aisle runners, personalised set menus, and bespoke themed installation builds to spectacular firework displays, acrobatics, choreographed dance troops or incredible light displays, each week the planners have just three days to make the couples’ wildest dreams a reality, supersizing their wedding day to transform it from ordinary to extraordinary.

With exclusive mentoring from industry expert Raj up for grabs, and an ultimate prize package designed to help one of them launch their own wedding business, let the battle to be named Ultimate Wedding Planner commence! Will it be wedded bliss or a nuptial nightmare?

Episode Highlights

Episode 1 – 12 September 2025

The competition gets off to an explosive start as the planners transform an industrial Concorde hangar. The gloves are off as they try to pull off the ultimate high-flying wedding.

Episode 2 – 19 September 2025

Tensions rise as the planners compete to create a sustainable farmyard festival wedding for one couple and their 94 animals – and it’s the final straw for one fledgling planner.

Episode 3 – 26 September 2025

It’s up to the wire as the planners battle to impress the judges and pull off a millionaire’s garden party for Lauren and Jodie.

Episode 4 – 3 October 2025

Sparks fly as the planners clash over plans for a multi-themed wedding, their toughest challenge yet. With two venues to arrange, can they pull together and impress the judges?

Episode 5 – 10 October 2025

With a place in the final at stake, it’s an adrenaline overload as the planners compete to transform wintry Worthy into a swinging 1950s LA beach party for Tash and Jay.

Episode 6 – 17 October 2025

The grand final and toughest challenge yet as two planners go head-to-head to pull off a wedding from scratch in just three days. Who will be crowned the Ultimate Wedding Planner?

Don’t miss Ultimate Wedding Planner on Fridays at 22:00, only on S3

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Drink Masters is the first competition to showcase cocktails as liquid art and the mixology artists who make them.

Hosted by comedian Tone Bell and judged by two titans of the cocktail world, Frankie Solarik and Julie Reiner, Drink Masters will make you forget everything you think you know about cocktails.

Twelve talented mixologists from across North America, each with a dream to make their mark in the world of mixology, compete in a series of challenges designed to push their skills to the limit. Round after round, they’ll put their heart, talent and technique on the line to deliver mind-bending cocktails that redefine the genre. One by one, they’ll be eliminated until the winner claims the coveted title of Ultimate Drink Master and the life-changing grand prize of $100,000 cash prize. 

The Drink Masters contestants are Taoufike “Tao” Zrafi, Loyd Von Rose, Natalie Migliarini, Raj Shukla, Meredith Barry, Aisling Gammill, Kapri Robinson, Michael R. Anderson, Alex Velez, Kate Gerwin, Christian “Suzu” Suzuki-Orellana, and Lauren “LP” Paylor.  

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

Episode 1 – 11 September 2025

The mixologists put their own spin on the world’s most popular cocktail, the Margarita. Later, in a dramatic Mix-Off Battle, one mixologist will be smoked out of the competition.

Episode 2 – 18 September 2025

The mixologists concoct colourful cocktails from an array of fresh fruit. And in a nerve-wracking Mix-Off battle, a sour classic cocktail will topple one more mixologist from the competition.

Episode 3 – 25 September 2025

Flowers and herbs abound as Cocktail King Dale DeGroff drops in to guest judge the mixologists in a blooming botanical cocktail challenge. Later, a Cosmopolitan Mix-Off battle leaves one mixologist in the dirt.

Episode 4 – 2 October 2025

Travel back in time to a raging prohibition party, full of showboating bartenders and guys and dolls looking to fill up on giggle water. Later, a nail-biting Canadian Rye Mix-Off Battle sends one mixologist packing.

Episode 5 – 9 October 2025

Guest judge and chocolatier Gonzo Jimenez encourages the mixologists to tap into their

sweetest side with a dessert cocktail challenge. Then, a caffeinated Mix-Off Battle hangs one mixologist out to dry.

Episode 6 – 16 October 2025

The quest for the Ultimate Drink Master kicks into hyperdrive in a jaw-dropping cocktail tournament that puts the mixologists’ skill, technique and speed to the test. Seven will become six after three fastpaced rounds of cocktail-making.

Episode 7 – 23 October 2025

The mixologists put their palates to the test with a food and drink pairing challenge as Chef Edward Lee joins the judging panel for an action-packed cocktail service. Later, in a tricky colour-inspired Mix-Off battle, one mixologist is blacklisted from the competition.

Episode 8 – 30 October 2025

Special guest judge Tiffany Barriere inspires the mixologists pour their passions into hot, spicy and delicious cocktails that bring the heat. Later, the chill

blast of a winter-themed Mix-Off Battle leaves one more mixologist out in the cold.

Special guest judge, bartender Tiffany Barriere inspires the mixologists to tap into their passionate side and create a hot and spicy cocktail.

Episode 9 – 6 November 2025

The mixologists target the finals with a flight of 3 cocktails made from the judges’ favourite spirits. Later, two mixologists must show off their signature style as they battle for the remaining spot in the Finale.

Episode 10 – 13 November 2025

The finalists pull out all the stops to create a delicious 3-course drink menu. Who will nab the crown? The three finalists must create an original 3-course drink menu to prove that they have what it takes to be the Ultimate Drink Master.

Catch Drink Masters every Thursday at 19:00,  only on S3.

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Johannesburg – Tuesday, 20 August 2025 – S3 is proud to be the official media partner for the upcoming AI in Film: Empowering African Filmmakers Conference, taking place on Friday, 5 September 2025 at the IDC Auditorium in Sandton.

This partnership reflects S3’s commitment to support innovation, inclusion, and the evolution of storytelling in South Africa and across the continent.

The conference will be hosted by media personalities Penny Lebyane and Masechaba  Mposwa who will be joined by speakers from the Film industry, Digital, Marketing, Broadcasting, Tech and Creative industries such as renowned  Filmmaker and Actor Tumisho Masha,  SABC Video Entertainment Marketing Manager Dichaba Phalatse, Filmmaker and Producer BusaBuntu and SCI-Thagorus Digital ‘s Lwazi Sithole and other captains of the industry.  

Under the theme “AI’s Role in African Storytelling’s Future,” the conference brings together leading voices from film, technology, media, and policy to explore how AI is transforming storytelling in Africa, while protecting its cultural roots and creative integrity. Keynote addresses, panel discussions, live tech demonstrations, and networking masterclasses will equip attendees—filmmakers, animators, writers, digital entrepreneurs, legal professionals, and broadcasters—with the insight and ethical frameworks needed to integrate AI responsibly into their creative practices. Speakers and facilitators will include actor and film producer pioneering AI integration in storytelling; Tumisho Masha among many other industry leaders. 

“This conversation is long overdue for African creatives and media institutions. We must lead the dialogue, not follow, if we are to shape a future where innovation uplifts our voices and values.” says Mfundo Ntsibande, Creative Director of the AI in Film Conference. 

Dichaba Phalatse, Marketing Manager for Video Entertainment adds “As a channel that champions compelling global content and creative excellence, S3 appreciates the urgency of conversations around the role of artificial intelligence in film—especially as it relates to ownership, authenticity, cultural integrity, and the future of work in the creative sector.”

Attendance will be at no cover charge, but registration is essential as seats will remain limited. Click here to register:  https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/FBFcLW6qmB

Tickets are limited.

For updated event details, registration, media accreditation or sponsorship enquiries, please contact:

Email: info@sci-thagorus.co.za
Mahlatse Rampjapedi – 072 212 7387
Mfundo Ntsibande – 073 366 3350
Lwazi Sithole – 071 256 6311

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Johannesburg – Friday, 11 July 2025 – S3 is excited to introduce The Insurance Apprentice on Thursdays at 19:00, starting 17 July 2025, proudly headlined by Sasria SOC Ltd.

Hosted by a dynamic media personality, Pabi Moloi, the series will feature eight high-impact episodes packed with real-world insurance challenges.

The Insurance Apprentice is a prestigious reality-style competition designed to identify and celebrate emerging talent in the insurance industry, while dispelling common misconceptions and fostering leadership.

Filmed over one week, ten contestants will face a series of real-world challenges, eliminations, and expert guidance, showcasing their skills, knowledge, and innovation as they compete for the coveted title of The Insurance Apprentice.

The Insurance Apprentice judges Simon Coleman, the CEO of The Liability Company, with 30 years of experience in the insurance industry as a liability specialist and Nox Dlamini, Co-Founder of BYOR Insurance & Risk Specialists will guide the contestants through the weekly challenges.

The show is more than just a competition, as it serves to attract new talent, highlight the diverse opportunities within the sector, and educate audiences on the vital role insurance plays, far beyond call centers and funeral policies. 

Muzi Dladla, Executive Manager: Stakeholder Management at Sasria SOC Ltd, says – “As the main sponsor of The Insurance Apprentice (TIA), Sasria SOC Limited proudly partners with the insurance industry to shape the future and highlight insurance’s vital role, and investing in TIA reinforces Sasria’s role as a thought leader supporting resilience in both public and private sectors.” 

Pabi Moloi adds – “Hosting Season 11 of The Insurance Apprentice is an exciting and rewarding experience. Each episode gives me the chance to engage with dynamic young professionals who are not only passionate about the insurance industry but are also shaping its future. What makes this show so special is how it brings important topics to life in a way that’s accessible, insightful, and real. Inspired by the resilience, intelligence, and drive of the contestants, I learn as much as I guide. It’s a privilege to be part of a platform that educates, elevates, and celebrates the industry while spotlighting emerging talent. I’m enjoying every moment of this journey and proud to be telling these stories.” 

The winner of The Insurance Apprentice competition will walk away with R100,000 in cash courtesy of Aon South Africa, Luxury travel from Bryte Insurance and Kunene Makopo Risk Solutions (KMRS), R50,000 investment from EasyEquities, a Bursary sponsored by Milpark Education, Leadership Coaching & tech gadgets from Paton Personnel and Global Choices and Lloyd’s of London experience, corporate photoshoot, driving day, iisa conference access, and more! 

Viewers stand a chance to win great prizes by voting for their favourite contestants via a WhatsApp line to be shared from Episode 1.

Do not miss S3’s exciting new reality series every Thursday at 19:00, starting 17 July 2025.

For media enquiries:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Johannesburg – Wednesday, 2 July 2025 – Africa’s Greatest Horseracing event is almost here, and S3 and SABC Sport are rolling out the red carpet, as the channel gets ready to broadcast the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July Experience on Saturday, 5 July 2025 from 13:00.

Hollywoodbets Durban July is South Africa’s premier horse racing event, bringing together a culture and social setting. The event is held annually on the first Saturday of July at Greyville Racecourse in Durban.

The glitz and glamour of the VIP Celebrity Experience will be brought to life by Zanele Potelwa and Kat Sinivasan will cover the Fashion Experience.

The hosts of the in-studio broadcast will be Neil Andrews as the Studio Anchor, Rahiel Radhakrishna and Rachel Venniker as co-hosts for the 3 – 6 races, and Carol Tshabalala and Anthony Delpech as co-hosts for the principal race.

The broadcast will focus on four content pillars: Racing, Celebrity and Entertainment, High Fashion and Continuity. The Racing aspect will highlight the live racing, betting updates and highlights; the Celebrity and Entertainment will feature celebrities on the red carpet as well as the main stage concerts; the High Fashion aspect will encompass exclusive race day fashion and exclusive style content; and the Continuity will include commentary from the studio hosts and presenters.

Signature highlights audiences can look forward to are the Jockey Introductions from the Parade Ring, followed by a short Red Carpet crossing to the Hollywoodbets marquee to capture VIP and Celebrity excitement building just before the Main Race, including some of South Africa’s biggest sports star impressions of the race day and which horse they think will win.

“S3 is bringing back live lifestyle events that resonate with our viewers. The Hollywoodbets Durban July has always been a hit with the S3 audiences and is the platform that allows for the brand to connect on the ground.” – mentions Sane Zondi – Channel Head S3.

Do not miss the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, 5 July 2025 from 13:00, on S3, simulcast on SABC+.

For media enquiries contact:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za