A very festive and happy greeting to you, my dear friends!
This past weekend, I was exclusively invited by Mzansi Magic to witness the Big Brother Mzansi Reunion Party, which coincided with the launch of its 7th edition. I was pleasantly surprised to bump into my friend there—you know, that one who isn’t even in the media landscape, but knows everything about everyone. Phew!
Anyway, the fancy do took place at Chartwell in Fourways, Johannesburg. It was refreshing to experience a properly executed event where promoters and publicists pocket 70% of the budget… kikikikiki. The former housemates showed up and showed off, the champagne flowed, and spirits rose.
My friend asked if I noticed how we received better treatment in a foreign country. I replied with a simple Bible verse: “A prophet has no honour in his own town.” Everything ran on time, the venue was decorated appropriately, and we were on main-character energy—just as Big Brother told us: Dala what you must.
While it’s natural to need the restroom occasionally, I noticed guests remained seated most of the time, following the proceedings orderly. Not like our usual shitshows where seven people are exiting and crisscrossing five others who are entering throughout the event.
Thank you, Big Brother and Mnet, for recognising Southern Eye and inviting InkWhispers to the ultimate party. I send your regards to my readers, who are also your audience… hahaha.
AND…
The following day, Sunday, we attended the 31st annual South African Music Awards at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. Boy, oh boy, did it get better! The organisation is something to be mimicked—BAAs, NAMAs, ZIMAs, and Zim Hip-Hop Awards, I hope you’re all taking notes.
- Mahlalela resumes production after Covid-19 break
- Zim Hip Hop Awards launches Beat Box music app
- Kikky Badass leads Changamire Awards nominations
- Kokota to change face of Sunday’s prime time TV
Keep Reading
A dedicated team was stationed in the parking lot, about 100 metres from the venue, ready to shuttle guests as they arrived. The guest list was verified smoothly as we entered. Presenters were on point, improvising on script and playing with words. The fashion was sharp, welcome drinks and snacks were provided, and the after-party flowed seamlessly.
Might I mention how real legends are humble? We received the warmest welcome from gospel icon Jabu Hlongwane, who not only invited us to his table but made genuine efforts to ask how we were doing and sent love to his Bulawayo audience, which he called his second home.
I share all this so local promoters can LEARN and implement. When curating events, please do not pocket the whole budget. Hire professionals. Do not gatekeep. And, by all intents and purposes, respect the media through your actions and attitude.
Thank you, Recording Industry of South Africa, for recognising Southern Eye and InkWhispers, too.
BACK HOME
A few days before departing for Mzansi, we were hosted at a media luncheon by NetOne—an annual affair. I believe this is a noble and necessary public relations gesture. I don’t agree with attitudes of being ungrateful, but I must say this: it’s unsettling to witness senior journalists scrambling for T-shirts and caps like pigeons over breadcrumbs. It’s both touching and embarrassing.
Give more meaningful gifts that enhance their work—monthly data, airtime, power banks, and the like. This goes for other event organisers who maintain strange relationships with the media (a certain city council spokesperson comes to mind). Do better next year. Take a leaf from Delta Beverages—they know how it’s done.
THE BULAWAYO FASHION SHOW and THE BAAs
I unfortunately missed Kottair’s Fashion Show as I was away—not that I was invited anyway, kikiki. I expect everything went well if the build-up was anything to go by.
I also humbly plead with you, my fellow lovers of things artistic: let us buy tickets and support local fashion shows. This one wasn’t even pricey. Doing so ensures models get paid and costs are covered. Congratulations, Kottair, on hosting the Bulawayo Fashion Show. I wish you the best going forward—keep an open mind and improve where you can.
Next time we catch up, we’ll be looking at the Bulawayo Arts Awards, set to take place this coming weekend at the ZITF in Famona. I send my best wishes to all nominees—may the best ones win. Remember to dress to the nines, like the stars you are, and shine brightly.
Goodbye for now. Go get your outfits ready, and tag us when you post—@SouthernEye on Instagram. See you on the red carpet!
