A South African forensic artist is on a rare mission: conserving ancient rock art by replicating it millimetre by millimetre.

South Africa (27 May 2025) – Stephen Townley Bassett is a forensic artist on a unique mission. Millimetre by millimetre, Stephen recreates rock art found across ancient caves in Southern Africa; symbols, thoughts, depictions and perhaps even spiritual inklings left behind by the ancient ones years and years ago.

His mission is to conserve the rock art panel by panel with hopes that his recreations of each one can either restore a former master piece, help researchers, uncover more about why the works were created, and allow these works to become more accessible in their replicated form.

Recently, Stephen was spotlighted to the world thanks to a CNN feature (his latest moment in front of the world, having been featured in documentaries before). In the piece, the Cape Town-born forensic artist explains his meticulous process, his ‘why’ and how it all began.

Fascinatingly, Stephen only works with mediums that people like the San would’ve had access to. This is how he’s figured out which materials help enhance certain colours (for example, white raptor feces and ostrich eggshells heated by fire make that white pigment) and how he’s come to the suspicion that a bee bi-product helped make a kind glue used to stick animal hairs that created an ancient brush.

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For Stephen, it is a matter of protecting the rich cultural heritage that lies within caves. With decades of experience and a diligence like no other, the forensic artist’s efforts are the kind all of us can salute, especially in a world where natural challenges, vandalism and a flair of arrogance in thinking all of history has already been figured out threaten the legacy of generations upon generations before.

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

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In fantastic news from the chess world, South Africa’s own Caleb Levitan has become an International Master (IM) of chess at only 14 years old!

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 May 2025) — South Africa’s latest International Master (IM) of chess has officially been announced as fourteen-year-old Caleb Levitan.

It’s a monumental achievement for any chess player, let alone one who is still in high school. In fact, there are only a handful of International Masters of chess in South Africa. As such, Caleb has accomplished what most spend lifetimes striving toward!

Per Chess South Africa, Caleb is “the youngest ever to do so by achieving 3 IM norms and crossing the elite FIDE Elo rating of 2400.”

The young firecracker was also recently recognised as South Africa’s Top Active Chess Player by Rating.

“Caleb’s achievement is really meaningful,” says Emil Sutovsky, FIDE CEO. “It speaks volumes about his potential—which was noticeable already a few years back. Caleb participated in several camps and training sessions—as well as many championships organised by FIDE, and we are looking forward to providing more opportunities, including educational programs, aimed at the world’s most talented young players. South Africa is on its way to have a new Grandmaster after a long hiatus—and FIDE is happy and proud about that.”

All About Becoming an IM of Chess

The International Master title is awarded by FIDE, the global chess federation. It is awarded to chess players who demonstrate sustained excellence at a high level and are just one step below the Grandmaster title, AKA the black belt of the chess world.

To earn an IM title, a player needs to have achieved three ‘IM norms’; tournament performances that meet strict international standards and reach a FIDE rating of 2400 or higher at any point. This way, FIDE can ensure that the title reflects not only peak achievement but also consistent competitive strength.

More About Caleb Levitan

Caleb’s chess development, though seemingly rapid, is actually the result of years of disciplined play in both local and international arenas. His first big break came about in 2018 when he was just 8 years old. Then, he and his twin brother Judah shared first place at the African Youth Chess Championship in Kenya! Judah is currently a Candidate Master, who is currently ranked among the top 10 chess players in South Africa. Together, the twins are making South Africa proud with each move!

Caleb continued to ascend throughout different competitions, and in 2024 became the youngest South African to represent the rainbow nation at the Chess Olympiad that year.

Of his International Master title, Caleb shares:

“There have been a lot of sacrifices to get to this level, and I’m relieved that all the hard work paid off…I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, friends, and my amazing coaches. Hopefully there’s more to come—my dream is to become a Grandmaster.”

Sources: Email Submission 

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History has been made for Peet Crowther and Chris Oldnall, who recently became the first and second solo swimmers to swim from Robben Island all the way to Dassen Island (over 50kms in fierce conditions). But, this wasn’t just a swim for the sake of it…

Western Cape, South Africa (10 April 2025) — When Peet Crowther and Chris Oldnall told their friends that they were planning on swimming the Robben Island to Dassen Island crossing solo, we’re sure they were met with many sceptical eyebrows.

But the challenge was clear in their minds—do the impossible to make opportunities possible for others.

See, Peet and Chris were not just swimming for the sake of it. As the Deputy Headmaster of Pretoria Boys High School, Mr Oldnall knew that using an extreme sport to garner support could make a world of difference for underprivileged learners. With Chris coming on board, the men channeled all their efforts toward the Trilogy Ocean Challenge and raising funds to make bursaries possible for boys in need through the South African hall of Fame Legacy Project (which has already supported 35 scholars).

The first leg of the challenge tasked them to swim the False Bay Crossing (33kms), which was completed last year. The second took them to Robben Island to fight for a place in history; no one has completed this channel to Dassen Island as a solo open water swim before.

That was until the news came in today that Peet made history, followed by Chris shortly thereafter!

Peet reached the end with a time of 18:23:20.37, while Chris followed with 20:26:21.37 on the clock. Putting this into perspective, they battled blisteringly cold waters for hours on end for around 53kms not to mention the sharks and jellyfish they had to keep watch for. 

The risks were high—exhaustion to extreme degrees, dehydration, and, of course, hyperthermia.

As such, the men’s mission has rightfully earned cheers from all over the country and soon, the world.

But this isn’t their last challenge. Leg 3 is pencilled for November, where they’ll attempt another ‘never been done solo before’ through the False Bay Double Crossing.

You can best congratulate them by contributing to the cause, driving it all forward, here. 

Sources: South African Hall of Fame; Pretoria Old Boy’s Association 

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A life-sized, bronze statue of the late legend Johnny Clegg has joined the likes of Nelson Mandela and OR Tambo in the Long March to Freedom exhibition!

Cape Town, South Africa (28 March 2025) — The Long March to Freedom’s heroes in bronze have welcomed another legend to join them in their immortalised march: the late Johnny Clegg.

Clegg’s life-sized, bronze statue was unveiled yesterday, 27 March, at the Century City landmark and the world’s greatest exhibition in bronze.

Here, Clegg’s statue took its rightful place in South Africa’s history and the story of our fight for democracy.

What is the Long March to Freedom?

The Long March to Freedom is a unique and monumental procession of life-size bronze statues, each of which depicts freedom fighters who never gave up the idea of a liberated South Africa. It tells a story of South Africa that spans 350 years; boasting the company of everyone from Khoi leaders who ruled hundreds of years ago, proud Zulu and Xhosa kings and those who led South Africa to light during our fiercest fight for freedom including Nelson and Winnie Mandela, Beyers Naude, Albert Luthuli, OR Tambo and now, Johnny Clegg.

Johnny Clegg’s Role as an Activist

Many know the artist for his music, but Clegg was far more than a talented songster. Born in England in 1953 and raised in South Africa, Clegg became deeply involved in Zulu culture. As a young man, he defied apartheid and the separation it stood for by forming multi-racial bands like Savuka and Juluka. This defiance was not taken lightly by the apartheid regime, which inflicted deep censorship.

However, Clegg’s voice couldn’t be silenced. His songs, Asimbonanga and Scatterings of Africa, boomed as anthems of unity and still give fans goosebumps to this day.

Beyond the music, Clegg was an unapologetic advocate for social justice. He used his success to challenge the government and promote racial reconciliation, and lived long into the days of a democratic South Africa.

The legend passed away in 2019, passing the baton on to a new generation of changemakers.

“Including Johnny Clegg in Long March to Freedom is a tribute to the social transformation artists can generate through their work” says Dali Tambo, CEO of the National Heritage Project NPC, developers, owners, and operators of the Long March to Freedom.

“Johnny was an exceptional individual; known as the ‘White Zulu’ he bridged cultures with his music, he used it as a weapon of resistance, he challenged injustice, and proved that music transcends all divides. His music was a rallying cry and a message of unity, resistance and hope during some of South Africa’s darkest days. Johnny’s spirit lives on today, not just in the music he created, but in the hearts of those he inspired.”

The sculpture was created by Cape Town artists Barry Jackson and Xhanti Mpakama and was cast by Loup Fine Art Foundry in White River, Mpumalanga.

Sources: Nina Jones/ National Heritage NPC

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The Critically Endangered Wolkberg Zulu Butterfly has been given a game-changing boost in its battle to survive thanks to a conservation first!

South Africa (25 February 2025) — In a first for South African butterflies and a fantastic feat for conservation efforts, the small but resilient Wolkberg Zulu Butterfly (Alaena margaritacea) has finally been granted a glimmer of hope and legal protection after almost a century of facing extinction. 

A Critically Endangered species, the Wolkberg Zulu Butterfly is only found in two locations, as the Endangered Wildlife Trust (who helped pushed for its protective boost) explain.

Because these locations are so critical to the remaining populations, people like Dr Dave Edge Dr (who ideated the edge of conservation servitude for the species) knew that legal protective intervention would be a game-changer for the Limpopo butterfly’s chances at survival.

When landowner Mr Gustav van Veijeren came on board to support the effort that would see his land become a place of hope for the few wings left, the ball got rolling in a big way.

Thanks to Mr van Veijeren, the Endangered Wildlife Trust and the Lepidopterists’ Society of Africa amid others, the butterfly has been granted a conservation servitude for its Woodbush Granite Grassland home!

As LSA Custodian for the Wolkberg Zulu Etienne Terblanche said to Daily Maverick:

“Thanks to the servitude regulations provided by the state, which have been gaining traction over the past decade only, it is possible to arrange for the conservation of an organism and/or place privately.”

The portion of Mr van Veijeren’s farm that is now dedication to conservation was a choice the landowner made to the gratitude of many, and one that has made history for the butterflies as well as conservation in South Africa.

Looking forward, there is a refreshing sense of hope within the conservation community centred around future opportunities in which private land might see more protective efforts for species that need it.

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

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At an incredible 102 years old, Mr Swanepoel (affectionately known as the “Oldest Old Boy”) reunited with his former school to celebrate with the youngsters at the annual inter-house athletics championship!

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (27 January 2025) — Almost a century ago, Mr Piet Swanepoel was not all that different from the youngsters who attend Maritzburg College in Pietermaritzburg today. Then, he couldn’t have possibly known that he’d go on to become the ‘Oldest Old Boy’, an honour that celebrates both a long life and its humble beginnings.

‘The Oldest Old Boy’ recently took a trip down memory lane in what was a very rare, full-circle moment at the Msunduzi Athletics Stadium.

At an incredible 102-years-old, Mr Swanepoel joined in on the festivities underway in light of the school’s annual inter-house athletics championship. Lore has it that Mr Swanepoel was quite the athlete himself back in the day, boasting championship titles for the u1 100, 220 and 440 yards in 1937 when he competed.

Arriving at the stadium, Mr Swanepoel was met with an extra-special standing ovation from the crowds. He then took to the blue track to congratulate the u15 100m race winner, Lian Bezidenhout, on his achievements—one track star from bygone decades to another.

For Maritzburg College, the moment was one filled with honour. After all, how many schools can say their ‘Oldest Old Boy’ has seen everything from the start of colour television to the development of Artificial Intelligence?

Meanwhile, in other news where time and honour held hands, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens recently celebrated a bitter-sweet farewell to four legendary retirees who had collectively given the glorious garden 150 years!

Sources: Maritzburg College; Maritzburg College Old Boys Association 

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Maureen, the 112-year-old locomotive, has triumphantly returned to the tracks, breathing life into South Africa’s rich railway heritage after a 12-year transformation that’s nothing short of remarkable.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (22 December 2024) – The rhythmic chug of a century-old locomotive echoes through the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal, signalling a triumphant return to service. Maureen, Umgeni Steam Railway’s (USR) beloved 112-year-old Class 3BR locomotive no. 1486, has been brought back to life after an incredible 12-year overhaul.

This marks a milestone for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike, celebrating not just a machine but a legacy of craftsmanship and nostalgia.

The grand occasion was recently commemorated in true style at Inchanga Railway Station. Ashley Peters, representing USR, delved into Maureen’s rich history, recounting the locomotive’s storied past and importance to the heritage railway. Colin Healey, one of USR’s founding members, added a touch of ceremonial tradition by breaking a bottle of champagne against Maureen’s frame, marking the beginning of her new chapter. In a symbolic gesture of teamwork and dedication, the locomotive’s logbook was ceremoniously handed over from Engineering to Operations.

And just like that, Maureen roared back to life, pulling eager passengers on three scenic trips. Each journey, lasting approximately 75 minutes, offered passengers an unforgettable experience through the picturesque landscapes of KZN. The route from Inchanga Railway Station weaves through rolling hills, dips into one of South Africa’s oldest operating tunnels, and reveals the awe-inspiring views of the Valley of 1000 Hills before making its way back to Inchanga.

For those stepping aboard, the experience is far more than a train ride. The Inchanga Station is a hub of activity, featuring a bustling craft market with treasures to discover, delicious food stalls catering to all tastes, and activities for the entire family. The Inchanga Railway Museum, located in the historic Old Station Master’s House, offers a fascinating glimpse into railway history. For the little ones (and young at heart), the Modeller’s Shed on the platform, home to Thomas & Friends, is a must-see.

Maureen’s return isn’t just a victory for train enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of passion, dedication, and the preservation of history. After years of meticulous effort by the USR team, this 112-year-old masterpiece is once again delighting passengers and creating memories for generations to come.

As we’re deep into the festive season, now is the perfect time to plan your visit. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a nostalgic journey, or a chance to immerse yourself in history, Umgeni Steam Railway promises an experience unlike any other. Book early to secure your seat – spaces are limited, and Maureen’s adventures are sure to fill up quickly!

For more information or to book your journey, visit www.umgenisteamrailway.com. Don’t forget to bring cash or use Zapper as card facilities aren’t available. Arrive half an hour early to collect your tickets and get ready to embark on a trip back in time.

Sources: Umgeni Steam Railway 

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Beneath the surface of South Africa’s Vaal Dam lies a hidden chapter of history, one that resurfaces only when the waters retreat – an underwater grave site.

Vaal, South Africa (14 December 2024) – South Africa’s rich history often reveals itself in the most unexpected ways. Sometimes, it rises from beneath our feet – or, in this case, from under the waters of the Vaal Dam.

Every few years, when the dam’s water level drops significantly, an eerie yet fascinating sight emerges: an underwater grave site that tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and community.

And photos of these graves are going viral on social media again in 2024.

The underwater grave site is a remnant of life before the dam’s creation in the early 20th century. Built in 1938 to supply water to the growing Johannesburg region, the Vaal Dam submerged several farms and small settlements, along with their cemeteries.

The current drop in water levels, with the dam standing at just 26.5% capacity as of 9 December 2024, has uncovered the grave site for the first time since November 2020. Before that, the graves were last exposed in November 2016, when the dam hit a record low of 26.3%.

Why Are Water Levels So Low?

The decline in the dam’s capacity is due to a combination of factors. A particularly dry summer with scorching temperatures has accelerated evaporation. Additionally, maintenance on the Lesotho Highlands Water Project—a crucial source of water for the dam—has reduced inflows. Experts believe that climate change, shifting rainfall patterns, and a lack of adequate rainfall in the Vaal catchment area have also played significant roles.

Despite the visible effects of the drought, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has reassured South Africans that there’s no immediate cause for concern.

The Sterkfontein Dam, a reserve water supply, is ready to bolster the system should the Vaal Dam’s level drop below 18%. However, the DWS continues to urge responsible water use, highlighting that every drop saved helps to ease the strain on our systems.

Why This Story is a Good Thing

The reappearance of the grave site serves as a powerful reminder of our shared history. It’s a moment to reflect on the ingenuity and determination that shaped South Africa’s water infrastructure while also paying respect to the lives and stories now intertwined with this dam.

This moment also brings an opportunity for education. The visible graves have sparked discussions about water conservation, climate resilience, and the impact of human activity on natural resources. It’s a chance for communities to unite in efforts to preserve and protect the water that sustains us all.

These graves have withstood decades of submersion, and their reappearance reminds us of the resilience that defines South Africa’s people and landscapes.

In the spirit of optimism, let’s use this moment to recommit to sustainable water use, celebrate the progress we’ve made in managing our resources, and honour the history revealed by the waters of the Vaal Dam. Together, we can ensure that future generations will also marvel at the stories that connect us to our past.

Sources: Department of Water and Sanitation | Africa Check 

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South African soprano Pretty Yende helped usher in the new era of the Notre Dame Cathedral with a goosebump-inducing rendition of Amazing Grace:

Paris, France (10 December 2024) — It’s been years since Paris’ cultural, historical and religious landmark, Notre Dame Cathedral, welcomed people who weren’t construction workers. After the devastating fire of 2019, the restoration processes have been lengthy and laborious. But, last weekend, the cathedral opened to the public once more, and South African soprano Pretty Yende helped make the reopening a breathtaking moment for all.

The reopening ceremony saw VIP guests from all over the world in attendance. World leaders, royalty, cultural figures, donors and Elon Musk all gathered to celebrate Notre Dame’s new chapter on Saturday, while Sunday saw the French public invited to attend Mass at Notre Dame for the first time in over five years.

Amid all the excitement, there was a sure amount of pressure for the talent tasked with ushering in the historic moment. Among them was South Africa’s Pretty Yende, who did the reopening gorgeous justice with her spectacular rendition of Amazing Grace.

Of the experience, Pretty shared poetically:

“It’s Warmth, Peace, Unity, Holy Spirit leave a divine mark. The Holy Walls of Her Majesty Notre Dame resonated in my gift, a duel perpetuated in the acoustics of my heart and this divine place.”

For the opera darling, taking the inner court was nothing short of  “a divine moment” all its own.

“The intention was to focus on each and every heart that would hear the call of Amazing Grace. It is abundant, available for all,” she shared of her choice that slightly changed the arrangement in a bid to add effect for a full and rich bloom of the orchestra.

This follows numerous other high notes for Pretty Yende’s career that have made South Africans so unbelievably proud, including performing at King Charles III’s coronation and claiming the role of Queen Mary in Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda opera.

Watch: Pretty Yende Brings Notre Dame Back to Life with  Amazing Grace

 

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A post shared by PRETTY YENDE (@pretty_yende_official)

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

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The Cape Water Lily has made an iconic homecoming after decades in which it was considered locally extinct!

False Bay Nature Reserve, South Africa (14 November 2024) — It was a big day at the False Bay Nature Reserve’s Rondevlei section last week as a flower considered locally extinct made a triumphant return. The Cape Water Lily is back at long last and for many people in the Cape, it’s an occasion that marries biodiversity and heritage.

Ever wondered where Lotus River’s name comes from? The Cape Water Lily (Nymphaea nouchali var. caerulea) was once found in abundance in parts of the Cape and across the Cape Flats on the lowland wetlands. This was until the mid-20th century when habitat loss, pollution and augmentation, amongst other reasons, caused it to become locally extinct for nearly 100 years.

But during Earthshot Week, the Cape Water Lily became the star of the Cape once again.

In a proud moment for the whole City, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis reintroduced the flower to the False Bay Nature Reserve’s Rondevlei portion—a Ramsar site of wetland significance on the Cape Flats.

“This lily is in many ways a symbol of the legacy Earthshot leaves in our city—giving recognition to local climate and conservation heroes and helping them scale their work so that it can make a big impact. We can now affectionately refer to it as the Earthshot Lily,” the Mayor added.

Cllr Alex Lasdowne, Deputy Chairperson of the Advisory Committee: Water Quality in Wetlands, Waterways and the Coastal Environment explains that returning the lily to the Cape Flats is also significant for wetland conservation.

“Future generations will now be able to see the Cape Water Lily in its natural habitat. This species will enhance the wetland ecosystem where it occurs and will support many other important species,” Cllr Lansdowne said.

Sources: City of Cape Town 

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