The Lunch Break

Shakira Gaffar joins us to share more about the Tongaat Muslim Society’s upcoming Market and Fun Day, a family-friendly event raising funds for the Habibiya Soofie Saheb Musjid. From local small-business and home-based vendors to the society’s sustainable garden initiative, discover the activities planned for the day and how the community can get involved in supporting this worthy cause.

In this episode, we sit down with Treasure Mlima, a proudly South African visual artist whose distinctive carved-wood sculptures reflect his upbringing, architectural draughting background and exploration of the human form within space.From his roots in Durban to showcasing his work locally and internationally, including in South Korea, Treasure is steadily making his mark on the African contemporary art scene. We explore his artistic journey, creative philosophy and what it means to remain true to his vision.We also celebrate his achievement as the 2026 recipient of the Absa L’Atelier Art Gerard Sekoto Award and look ahead to his upcoming three-month residency in Paris in April 2027. Join us as Treasure shares his ambitions, the opportunities that lie ahead, and words of encouragement for emerging South African artists striving to have their work seen and recognised.

Lotus FM’s annual Night of Hope returns for its fourth year, bringing thousands of people together for an inspiring evening of faith, unity, healing and renewed hope. Joining us in studio, Pastor Lazarus Pillay, South African religious leader, founder and community advocate, shares the vision behind this much-anticipated gathering, what attendees can expect from the programme, and the role of Pastor Niven Lalmund, host of Lotus FM’s Gospel Hour and visionary behind the event. Find out how you can be part of this special occasion, which is free to attend and will be broadcast live on Lotus FM and SABC Plus.

The 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations are underway, with a record 962,832 candidates registered nationwide. While this is an exciting milestone for the Class of 2026, the exam period can also bring pressure, stress and anxiety. Prof Linda Meyer, MD of Rosebank International and Visiting Professor at Nelson Mandela University, joins us to share practical advice on preparing mentally and emotionally, studying smarter, avoiding burnout, managing exam anxiety and bouncing back from a difficult paper. Tune in for valuable tips to help matric learners stay focused, build confidence and perform at their best throughout the examination period.

Durban filmmaker and writer Dayakar Padayachee joins us to discuss his fantasy novel, The Ancient Scrolls of Lukutona, and its journey from page to screen. Following the preview screening of The Ancient Scrolls of Lukutona: The Maiden and The Tree at the Poetry Africa Film Festival, he shares insights into his creative process, the art of adapting his own work for film, and the challenges of bringing fantasy and folklore to South African audiences. We also explore the movie’s pitching phase, his award-recognised filmmaking career, and the projects shaping his storytelling journey.

Early detection of breast cancer can make a significant difference to treatment outcomes and survival, but the journey does not end when treatment is over. In this Lifestyle conversation, Cape Town-based Specialist Surgeon Dr Fatima Hoosain discusses the importance of recognising breast changes, seeking timely medical assessment, and navigating life after a breast cancer diagnosis. The discussion explores reclaiming daily routines, managing long-term physical and emotional well-being, and the vital role families play in supporting patients throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Dr Hoosain also reflects on her prestigious international recognition as First Place recipient in the European Fellowship Class and Fellow of the European Board of Surgery.

Palliative care is often misunderstood as care reserved for the final stages of life, but it can begin much earlier to improve quality of life for patients and support their families. In this Lifestyle conversation, Motlalentoa Motsoane, CEO of the Association of Palliative Care Centres of South Africa, discusses the importance of early access to palliative care, the challenges surrounding public awareness, and the role of healthcare professionals in ensuring timely support. He also unpacks South Africa’s efforts to integrate palliative care into the healthcare system and explains how patients and families can find accredited palliative care providers in their communities. 

Media personality and Joy Activist Jane Linley-Thomas joins psychologist, author and parenting and career specialist Paul Bushell for a heartfelt conversation about kindness, community empowerment and supporting older South Africans. They share the inspiring work of Hello Poppy, an organisation dedicated to celebrating and connecting the elderly through storytelling and meaningful human connection. The conversation also explores the Gogo Olympics 2026 and Durban Loves Delfi, a sold-out fundraising variety show supporting the Teranes family after the fire that destroyed their Greek taverna in Windermere.

The Backstage in Action Festival at Durban University of Technology’s Courtyard Theatre brings students and theatre practitioners together in a hands-on learning and performance environment. Curator Clare Craighead discusses how the festival gives students practical experience in theatre production, collaboration and problem-solving, while showcasing productions across theatre, dance and music, including Flatfoot Dance Company’s History is a Home Address.

Content creator, reality TV star and media personality Ashay Sewlall joins us to chat about his rise to fame, his Zulu heritage and love for African culture, his viral social media moments, and his journey on Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12. He also opens up about his football background, career ambitions, his partnership with Wiseman, and using his platform to raise awareness around gender-based violence.