In a heartfelt exploration of your furry companion's emotional health, veterinarian Ashley Heymans reveals key signs of pet depression and how to provide the care and attention they may need.

ActionSA’s eThekwini mayoral candidate Zwakele Mncwango says he would prioritise ethical governance, economic growth and stronger crime prevention if elected.

Junior chess is booming in Gauteng, with close to 2 000 players, parents, coaches and supporters gathering at St Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls in Boksburg on Saturday for the Gauteng Closed Chess Championships. Hundreds of players between seven and 20 years old competed in five rounds of chess, hoping to secure places in the provincial team travelling to Bloemfontein for the Mzansi Youth Inter-Provincial Championships in December. The turnout reflected the growing popularity of a sport that is attracting more children, schools, families and corporate sponsors. Ridgewood College teacher and chess coach Melanide Griffiths said the growth had been extraordinary. Five years ago, chess at the Benoni school attracted only a handful of pupils. Today, its players compete successfully against established teams across the province. “When we started, we had almost no children playing chess and regularly finished last at tournaments. Today, we’re competing and winning tournaments. The growth has been phenomenal,” she said. She said chess was also attracting children who might otherwise struggle to find their place in conventional school sports. Beyond building concentration and problem-solving skills, competitions encouraged independence and confidence. “Once they’re sitting at that board, they’re completely on their own. There’s no parent or teacher to help them. They have to make their own decisions, solve problems and find the confidence to speak up when something isn’t right,” Griffiths said. Chess coach and tournament arbiter Ncedo Buthelezi said the expanding tournament circuit was creating opportunities for young players to progress from school and community chess to provincial, national and international competition. He said that he discovered chess while growing up in a township, where the game provided an escape from difficult surroundings. “Chess teaches children to think critically and make decisions. But there’s also an important social element. When you play the game, it’s a dialogue. You make your move, and I have to wait and respect you,” he said. Arbiter Albert Nel oversees the action. Pictures: Hein Kaiser Energy drink Mofaya’s Ronaldo Ferrinha said his son’s involvement in chess had introduced the family to a growing community of young players, parents, and coaches who spent much of their weekends at tournaments. Watching his son compete also gave him a greater appreciation for the concentration and tactical thinking the game requires. “As we attended more tournaments, we realised there was a great opportunity to get involved and interact with these children and their families,” he said. Ferrinha said the number of families attending competitions had surprised him, with children spending entire days playing chess while parents gathered in groups to support them. His own experience as a chess parent had drawn his attention to the scale of junior participation and the opportunities it presented for greater involvement in the game.

Prospective students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications for selected programmes that remain open for the 2027 academic year. Explore 2027 Programmes: for 2027 through CAO: The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is inviting prospective students to apply for selected academic programmes that remain open for the 2027 academic year. As one of SA’s leading universities of technology, DUT offers industry-relevant qualifications designed to equip graduates with the knowledge, practical skills and workplace experience needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Recognised for its commitment to innovation, excellence and student success, DUT provides programmes aligned with the needs of industry and society. Through applied learning, research, entrepreneurship and technology-driven education, the university prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities. Applications remain open Applications remain open in selected programmes within the and the , providing learners who may have missed earlier deadlines with another opportunity to pursue their academic ambitions. Explore opportunities in the faculty of applied sciences The faculty of applied sciences offers a diverse range of qualifications that combine scientific knowledge with practical application. These programmes prepare graduates for careers in biotechnology, food science, environmental sustainability, sport science, chemistry and other sectors that contribute significantly to economic development and innovation. Prospective students may still apply for: Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Biotechnology Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Food Science and Technology Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Industrial Chemistry Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Sport Science and Management Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Textile Science Diploma in Nautical Studies (Sea Going) Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture and Landscaping Applications for these programmes close on October 31 2026. Learn more about the Faculty of Applied Sciences: Build the future with engineering and the built environment The faculty of engineering and the built environment continues to attract students seeking careers in engineering, infrastructure development and the built environment. Engineering remains one of the world’s most sought-after fields, offering opportunities to drive technological innovation, industrial growth and sustainable development. DUT currently has applications open for several Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) qualifications. These programmes provide additional academic support while enabling students to achieve the same qualification outcomes as mainstream programmes. Available programmes include: Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Power Engineering Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electronic Engineering Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Industrial Engineering Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Chemical Engineering Bachelor of the Built Environment in Architecture Bachelor of the Built Environment in Construction Studies Applications for these programmes remain open until December 31 2026. Explore the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: Why choose DUT? Choosing a university programme is one of the most important decisions a student will make. DUT offers a student-centred environment that promotes academic excellence, innovation and holistic development. Students benefit from: Modern learning and research facilities Experienced academics and researchers Industry partnerships and work-integrated learning opportunities Academic support and development programmes Career guidance and counselling services Entrepreneurship initiatives Leadership and student development opportunities Beyond academics, DUT is committed to creating a vibrant student experience that supports both personal and professional growth. Through its ENVISION2030 strategy, the university continues to advance innovation, sustainability, integrity and excellence. Take the next step towards your future With selected programmes still accepting applications for 2027, you still have time to secure your place at a university committed to producing graduates ready to make a positive impact in society and industry. Explore 2027 Programmes: Apply for 2027 Through CAO: Need assistance? For application-related enquiries, contact the CAO office on 031 268 4444. Your future starts at DUT. Explore your options, apply today, and take the first step towards a successful career.

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show saved its biggest surprise for last. It wasn’t one of the famous Angels who wore the Fantasy Bra. It was a reality star and beauty mogul making her runway debut. And the bra she wore is the most valuable ever made. The 2026 show took place at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, Los Angeles, on Sunday, 18 October. In South Africa, it streamed live on YouTube in the early hours of Monday, 19 October. KYLIE JENNER’S SURPRISE DEBUT The night’s biggest moment came at the end of the show, when Kylie Jenner, 29, stepped onto the runway in the Fantasy Bra. The diamond-covered piece is valued at $50 million (about R823 million), making it the most valuable Fantasy Bra ever made. According to reports, Jenner is the first model outside the official Victoria’s Secret line-up to wear it. She paired it with white angel wings, while boyfriend Timothée Chalamet and mom Kris Jenner watched from the audience. kylie jenner's fantasy bra moment at victoria’s secret fashion show pic.twitter.com/4qXyRlfYmW— ˖᯽ ݁˖ pop backup ˖᯽ ݁˖ (@popbackupp) October 19, 2026 THE RETURN OF THE FANTASY BRA It’s the first time a Fantasy Bra has appeared on the runway since 2018, when Swedish model Elsa Hosk wore it. The tradition dates back to 1996, when supermodel Claudia Schiffer wore the first one. This year’s bra was created with a luxury jewellery house, and features diamonds in a range of shapes and sizes. Its centrepiece is a yellow diamond, reportedly worth around $22 million (about R362 million). Not everyone was impressed. Some fans took to social media to question why the honour went to Jenner, rather than one of the show’s long-time models. MZANSI’S ANGEL SHINES South Africa had its own star on the runway. Candice Swanepoel, who grew up in Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal, wore several looks during the show, including a gleaming gold number. She walked alongside fellow Victoria’s Secret favourites, including Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio and Joan Smalls. Other big names on the runway included Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, Anok Yai, Liu Wen and Alex Consani. yes candice swanepoel at the victoria’s secret show pic.twitter.com/ND1VS5p3jZ— 2000s (@PopCulture2000s) October 18, 2026 WHO PERFORMED AT THE VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW? The music was just as star-studded as the runway. Megan Thee Stallion performed her hit Body as models walked alongside her. Tate McRae performed Sports Car, and sang her new single Housewife live for the first time, as Gigi Hadid returned to the runway. KATSEYE brought the pop-star energy. Megan Moroney also performed. Megan Thee Stallion performing ‘Her’ & ‘Body’ at the 2026 Victoria Secret Fashion Show! pic.twitter.com/OQR9oi7CXv— Stallion Stats (@MegansStats) October 19, 2026 WHO WAS IN THE AUDIENCE? Besides Chalamet and Kris Jenner, the crowd included actress Nicole Kidman and singer Tinashe. One notable absence was Kylie’s sister, Kendall Jenner, who has walked for Victoria’s Secret in the past. A RETURN TO LOS ANGELES This year’s show marked the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show’s return to Los Angeles for the first time in 19 years. It’s the third show since the brand relaunched its runway event in 2024, after a break of several years. I’ll admit, I didn’t see the Kylie Jenner moment coming. But my favourite part of the night? Seeing Candice Swanepoel on that runway, still flying the flag for Mzansi. From Mooi River to Los Angeles, she’s proof that South African talent can shine on any stage. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENT FROM THE VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW? Let us know in the comments below…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana tables the MTBPS 2026 this week, and analysts say it’s going to be a tough one. Because February’s Budget speech was written before the US-Iran war, and that economic world more or less no longer exists. Oh, what a difference eight months can make. Fuel costs have skyrocketed to record levels and previous growth forecasts look positively absurd in the current economy. As such, here’s the ‘reality check’ analysts predict we’ll face this week … MTBPS 2026 Growth: Treasury forecast 1.6% for 2026 in February. The IMF cut its 2026 forecast to just 1% last week. And 1.3% projected for 2027. South Africa’s GDP contracted 0.2% year-on-year in the second quarter. Fuel and inflation: Brent crude is above $100 a barrel, and diesel has jumped from about R17 to R33 a litre. As such, Stanlib’s Kevin Lings expects inflation to top 5%. Interest rates: Reserve Bank has hiked them twice, taking the repo rate to 7.25% in September. This is instead of the cuts expected in February’s Budget. TWO CAMPS ON BUDGET DEFICIT The trajectory of SASSA grants has an enormous bearing on national finances. Image: File Moreover, the SA Institute for Taxation (SAIT) expects a delay to Treasury’s debt-stabilisation forecast. Higher interest rates and a weaker rand lift debt costs and slow growth. Meanwhile, PSG expects a revenue overrun of R50 billion or more, with the deficit narrowing to about 3.5% of GDP. This is against a government deficit target of 3.7%. A separate analysis puts the windfall higher at R70 billion, driven by corporate tax from gold and precious metals. Furthermore, PSG expects a fiscally conservative MTBPS 2026 that could set up ratings upgrades from Moody’s or S&P. As far as taxes go, SAIT calls it a resilience test, noting the minister kept his promise not to raise taxes in 2026. Therefore, it doesn’t expect any rate changes to be announced this Wednesday. THE BIG GRANT QUESTION Minister Godongwana said back in February that the details of the ‘expanded’ SASSA SRD grant would be revealed in the MTBPS 2026. Now is as good a time as any to finally put up or shut up. The R370 grant is funded until 31 March 2027, and the case on its regulations is before the courts. Estimates on expanding the grant to Basic Income Support could cost the National Treasury roughly R90 billion a year. Core SASSA grant beneficiaries will also be watching for any indication of movement on grants after October payments passed without zero top-up. In conclusion, here’s what to watch for in MTBPS 2026 this Wednesday 21 October 2026: Treasury’s revised growth forecast, versus IMF’s predicted 1.0%. The deficit and primary surplus, versus the original 3.5%. Whether debt stabilisation is pushed out to 2027. Any signal on tax increases for 2027. Core and SRD SASSA grant future plans and costs. But what do you think? Is there anything you’d like to see addressed directly in MTBPS 2026? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below …

Telecoms companies, fintechs and retailers will be able to connect directly to the national payments system.

The Reserve Bank wants all of South Africa's ATMs white-labelled, with free transactions below a threshold, starting with a pilot in January.