When the Springboks take on the Barbarians, it’s never just a game — it’s a celebration of rugby at its purest. Tradition, flair, physicality, and unpredictability will collide in what promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the sport’s most iconic names. SA Rugby Scheduled for later this year, this fixture has fans on both sides of the equator fired up. For the Barbarians, it’s a chance to showcase their free-spirited, fast-paced brand of rugby. For the Springboks, it’s an opportunity to assert their power, precision, and unmatched physical dominance. Matches like this offer something rare: a fusion of grit and entertainment. Expect bold offloads, crunching tackles, and moments of pure brilliance. With the world watching, both sides will be looking to make a statement. A late change in captaincy sees Jesse Kriel stepping up to lead the Boks, with regular skipper Siya Kolisi ruled out due to a niggle. It’s a leadership shift that brings fresh intensity — and a strong statement of depth within the Bok squad. Whether you're backing the structure and might of the Boks or the flair and spontaneity of the Baa-Baas, one thing’s for sure — rugby wins.

The 2024 Nedbank Golf Challenge was a breathtaking spectacle, a celebration of sport, culture, and community spirit. Held from December 5th to 8th at the iconic Gary Player Country Club in Sun City, South Africa, the event blended world-class golfing talent, exquisite hospitality, and the vibrant creativity of local artisans. Attending the event was a journey of inspiration, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. The event is in honour of Mr Gary player, South African Golfing Legend. A Suite with a View: Emirates Hospitality on the 18th Green at the Nedbank Golf Challenge For those seeking the ultimate way to experience the Nedbank Golf Challenge tournament, the Emirates Hospitality Suite on the 18th green was nothing short of extraordinary. I was fortunate enough to spend a day there, and it was a revelation. The suite was a cool oasis in the South African summer heat, with its air-conditioned interiors offering a welcome retreat. The terrace, however, was the true star—offering a perfect view of the 18th green where the tournament’s most dramatic moments unfolded. The hospitality was impeccable. Breakfast was a delightful affair with freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and hearty options for those who needed more sustenance. As the day progressed, lunch was a gourmet feast, with dishes that wouldn’t be out of place in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Afternoon snacks included dainty desserts and savoury bites that paired perfectly with the drinks flowing from the open bar. The Buffalo Trace bourbon tasting added a touch of sophistication, and the coffee station ensured we stayed energized for every thrilling shot. What stood out most was the atmosphere in the suite. It was lively and electric, with fans sharing predictions and bonding over their shared love of the game. There were moments of collective gasps and cheers as players battled it out on the course, and the excitement was infectious. The suite also offered exclusive perks like live TV feeds to keep up with the action elsewhere, including a fabulous ice-cream stocked fridge to keep cool throughout. It was an experience that epitomised luxury and passion for the sport. The Yarn Bomb Initiative: Art Meets Purpose As I wandered through the course, I was struck by the vibrant splashes of black & white and the artistic talent adorning the trees and landscaped features. This was the Yarn Bomb initiative, a remarkable project that brought vibrant art to Sun City’s fairways, showcasing the immense talent of local Kasi knitting artists. The intricate yarn installations, created by women from the nearby village of Mahobieskraal, were not just decorations—they were a testament to the power of creativity and community. A team of passionate ladies & a gentleman from the village in the Moses Kotane Municipality spent months meticulously crocheting over 144 kilometres of yarn, transforming the golf course into a living canvas of art. Beyond the visual impact, the initiative enriched the artists' lives, providing them with a platform to share their skills and a sense of pride in their contributions to Africa’s Major. Nedbank Golf Challenge - Yarn Bomb initiative One could see the joy and empowerment this project had brought them. It was a poignant reminder of how art can uplift and inspire, even in unexpected places. The Stars Align: Max Homa and a Field of Champions Of course, the heart of the event was the golf itself, and this year’s field was nothing short of stellar. The tournament brought together 66 of the world’s top players from the DP World Tour, PGA Tour, Sunshine Tour, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and Olympic Games. Leading the charge was defending champion Max Homa, who returned to Sun City with his sights set on becoming only the eighth player to successfully defend his title. Watching him play was a masterclass in precision and poise, and the crowd’s admiration for him was evident. But Homa wasn’t the only star of the show. The field also included notable names like Will Zalatoris, Corey Conners, and Mackenzie Hughes, all eager to etch their names into the tournament’s storied history. The South African contingent, including Thriston Lawrence, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, and Aldrich Potgieter, brought an added layer of excitement as fans rallied behind their homegrown heroes. The prospect of a South African champion for the first time since Branden Grace in 2017 added an extra layer of anticipation to every swing. A Celebration of Culture and Connection What set the 2024 Nedbank Golf Challenge apart was its ability to seamlessly blend world-class sport with local culture and community involvement. From the luxurious hospitality to the vibrant Yarn Bomb initiative, every aspect of the event was thoughtfully curated to create an experience that was as enriching as it was entertaining. It wasn’t just about golf; it was about celebrating the spirit of South Africa and the people who make it so special. Walking away from the event, I felt a deep sense of gratitude—not just for the incredible golf I had witnessed, but for the stories I had heard the connections I had made, and the creativity I had seen on display. The Nedbank Golf Challenge is often referred to as “Africa’s Major,” and after experiencing it firsthand, I can confidently say it lives up to that title. It’s more than a tournament; it’s a celebration of excellence, artistry, and community. As the sun set over the Gary Player Country Club on the final day, I couldn’t help but feel that this was more than just a sporting event—it was a reminder of the beauty that can be found when people come together to create something truly extraordinary. A massive congratulations to USA's Johannes Veerman, who came from behind to ultimately take the win! Absolute favourite Golfing event of the year, THANK YOU Emirates.

Every year, South Africa joins the world in showering our mothers with love and appreciation. It's a day to reflect on the incredible strength and dedication our moms show every single day, not just for us, but for the generations to come. And guess what? Our favourite celebrities are no different! We're so used to seeing our stars' polished and glamorous side on social media, but Mother's Day brings a heartwarming change. Celebrities are sharing heartfelt tributes to the amazing women they cherish every day. Here, we take a look at the touching ways your favourite South African personalities and sporting heroes are marking this special occasion. While Mother's Day is celebrated on the many different days globally, here in Mzansi, we celebrate it on the second Sunday of May. Scroll on to see the emotional messages and family photos. ACTRESS, SINGER, TV-PRODUCER & ENTREPRENEUR - Dineo Langa Image credit: Picture supplied - Dineo and her mom, Kgomotso "KG" Moeketsi. "To the most spectacular Mother I could have ever asked for. This Mother's Day, I want you to know how cherished you are and how grateful I am for you. Life may life but I sit at the point of privilege of having you as a Mom. I love you to no end, my Mom. Happy Mother's Day." Dineo plans to spoil her mom today and give her a special lunch and a relaxing massage. PROFESSIONAL CRICKET PLAYER - Corbin Bosch Image credit: Picture supplied - Corbin and his mom, Karen-Anne. "A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take. Happy Mother's Day Mom x" Corbin plans to spend the Monday evening with his mom and family celebrating over a huge dinner, as his mom is travelling. SPORTS BROADCASTER - Layla Arrison. Image credit: Pictures supplied - Layla and her mom, Desireé "On this special day, purely dedicated to you I want to recoginise you for your unwavering support, love that knows no bounds and endless sacrifices. Your guidance, a light in the darkest times. Your love is the foundation upon which our lives are built. Happy Mothers day!" She said she was a few couple of thousand km's away from her mom, but her sister would be there celebrating for them both. A special wish and call and she is there in spirit. PROFESSIONAL CRICKET PLAYER - Junior Dala Image credit: Pictures supplied - Junior with his mom Beatrice & Wife who is a mom-to-be to twin boys, Jess "I want to wish the incredible women in my life a very Happy mother's day. How lucky am I to have such incredible, strong women surrounding me." They plan on spending the day celebrating together. PROFESSIONAL WOMEN'S RUGBY PLAYER - Zintle Mpupha Image credit: Pictures supplied - Zintle and her mom, Nomatheko. "My Rock, My why... Happy Mother's Day to the incredible women who have shaped my life with love, wisdom, and endless support. Mom, your strength and kindness inspire me every day. To all the mother figures in my life and mothers around the world, your selflessness and compassion make the world a better place. Thank you for all that you do. Today and every day, you are cherished and celebrated. She will unfortunately not be with Mom on this special day BUT she has given her big brother strict orders to take mom out for a Sunday Breakfast feast! PROFESSIONAL CRICKET PLAYER - Daryn Dupavillon Image credit: Pictures supplied - Daryn, wife & new mom Taubin and their daughter Delta-Rose. "Wishing you the happiest of Mother's Day! I’m so proud of you and how you've taken everything in your stride and how you're growing into the most incredible mum to our baby Delta. Happy Mother's day." Daryn is home visiting the family from the UK as he is currently playing country cricket so they will be celebrating together at home as a family. This Mother's Day, we celebrate the incredible women behind our favourite stars, the ones who nurtured them and shaped them into the phenomenal people they are today. So let's raise a glass (or a cup of rooibos tea!) to all the Mzansi moms – your dedication and love inspire us all! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL MOMS - THE GRAND-MOMS, THE STEP-MOMS, THE DOG MOMS, THE CAT MOMS, THE GOD-MOMS, THE FOSTER-MOMS, THE AUNTS, THE BIG SISTERS, the any shape or form of mom, we celebrate you today!

https://www.netwerk24.com/huisgenoot/bekendes/ekslusiewe-troufotos-hg-vier-saam-fees-by-manie-en-verna-se-groot-dag-20241011

Layla isn’t your typical rugby commentator. With a background steeped in athletic excellence and a passion for the sport that burns bright, she’s recently taken the rugby world by storm, making a sensational debut at the Singapore Sevens. But Layla Arrison and her journey to the commentary box is fascinating, filled with sporting triumphs, unwavering dedication, and a love for the game that transcends the pitch. We caught up with Layla to delve deeper into her incredible story: A Life Steeped in Sports: “Sports have always been my lifeblood,” Layla beams, her enthusiasm infectious. “Growing up, I was that kid who never seemed to stop moving. My parents are huge sports fans, so I guess you could say it’s in my DNA!” Layla’s talent blossomed early on. During her high school years, she was the undisputed champion, earning the prestigious Victrix Ludorum title for a remarkable five years straight. Her athletic prowess was multifaceted – she was a force to be reckoned with on the netball court, one of the only two girls on the first-team cricket squad, and a track and field star, excelling as both a sprinter and a dominant shot putter. Balancing the Scales: Academics and Athletics Maintaining stellar grades while juggling a demanding sports schedule is no easy feat. Layla sheds light on her approach: “It was all about meticulous time management,” she explains. “I learned to compartmentalise my day, dedicating focused blocks to academics and then giving everything I had to train during practice. But let’s be honest, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. There were moments when I stumbled, but the key was to get back up and keep striving for that perfect balance.” Leading the Charge: Captain of Stellenbosch University’s First All-Female 7s Team Layla’s leadership qualities shone brightly when she became captain of Stellenbosch University’s first all-female 7s rugby team. “It was an incredible experience, but it wasn’t without its challenges,” she admits. “Sometimes, the challenges seemed to outweigh the rewards, but leading that team was an honour I wouldn’t trade for anything.” Layla describes the importance of leading by example. “My teammates needed to see a leader who walked the walk, not just talked the talk,” she reflects. “There were stumbles along the way, but we had each other’s backs. One bonus? Being the first female team meant limited access to the main field. We often trained in the sandy volleyball courts – talk about intense conditioning!” From the Pitch to the Commentary Box: A New Passion Ignites Layla’s transition from player to commentator wasn’t always planned. “While playing at university, I never envisioned myself in the commentary box,” she confesses. “However, I always had a fascination with the broadcasting world, initially leaning towards cricket commentary.” A chance encounter sparked a new passion. “After a cricket match, my dad mentioned Kass Naidoo, a leading female commentator in the cricket space,” Layla recalls. “Her journey resonated with me, and I realised that I could use my voice to elevate the sport I loved differently.” Breaking Barriers: A Role Model for Aspiring Rugby Players Layla’s debut at the Singapore Sevens was a watershed moment. Not only did it showcase her insightful commentary and infectious enthusiasm, but it also served as a powerful symbol of progress in the traditionally male-dominated world of rugby commentary. “Representation matters,” Layla emphasizes. “Little girls need to see themselves reflected in the world of sports, both on and off the pitch. I hope my journey can inspire young athletes to chase their dreams, regardless of gender stereotypes.” Looking Ahead: A Future Filled with Rugby Layla’s future in the world of rugby is bright. With her dedication, knowledge, and captivating personality, she’s poised to become a leading voice in the sport. “Rugby has given me so much,” she concludes. “Whether I’m playing, leading, or commentating, I’m grateful to be part of this incredible community. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the sport and for my journey within it.” Layla’s story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. She’s not just a commentator; she’s an inspiration, reminding us all that the love for the game can take you to extraordinary places. Want to stay up to date on all things “Layla Related”? Follow her on social media! Instagram: @layla.arrison Tiktok: @laylaarrison & @lazy_layli https://tellafriend.co.za/voice-of-the-game-layla-arrisons-rugby-revolution/

Layla Arrison's Rise to Sports Presentation Fame and Her Top 5 Tips for Owning Your Brand Layla Arrison’s voice has become synonymous with South African rugby. Her infectious energy, insightful commentary, and unwavering passion for the sport have propelled her to the forefront of sports presentation, shattering stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of fans. But Layla’s journey to the top wasn’t without its challenges. It was her unwavering belief in her own brand that took her from the sidelines to centre stage. Finding Her Voice: A Rugby Revolution Layla’s love for rugby began at a young age. However, the traditional commentary box was often dominated by male voices. Layla refused to be deterred. She honed her skills, built her knowledge, and eventually landed her first presenting role with Super Rugby Unlocked – a groundbreaking moment for both Layla and the sport Beyond the Try Line: Owning Your Brand Layla’s story serves as a powerful testament to the importance of believing in yourself. Here, Layla shares her top 5 tips for anyone looking to own their brand and take up space: Know Your Worth: Layla emphasises the importance of self-belief. Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong. Identify your strengths, hone your skills, and be confident in the value you bring. Embrace Your Uniqueness: What makes you, you, is your greatest asset. Don’t try to fit into a mould. Let your personality shine through and connect with your audience in an authentic way. Be Prepared to Work Hard: Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be prepared to put in the hard work, constantly learn, and refine your craft. Find Your Voice: Develop a clear, confident, and engaging communication style. Project your voice with authority and passion. Never Stop Learning: The world of sports is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on the latest developments, trends, and strategies. Layla’s Impact Layla Arrison’s rise to prominence is more than just a personal success story. It’s a testament to the power of believing in yourself and the importance of diversity in sports media. By owning her brand and refusing to be silenced, Layla has inspired countless others to pursue their passions and challenge the status quo. So, the next time you hear Layla’s voice grace the airwaves, remember the journey that led her there. It’s a story of resilience, self-belief, and the power of a brand that dared to take up space. https://southafricatoday.net/lifestyle/from-sidelines-to-center-stage-layla-arrisons-rise-to-sports-presentation-fame-and-her-top-5-tips-for-owning-your-brand/

Layla Arrison is tackling stereotypes and scoring big in the hard-hitting world of rugby. Recently, she made waves as the first English female commentator for SuperSport, debuting at the electrifying Singapore Sevens Rugby Tournament on World Rugby Day. Layla’s journey from a rugby-loving girl to a groundbreaking commentator is a thrilling story of passion, grit, and breaking the scrum of tradition. In this lively interview, Layla shares her exhilarating path, the hurdles she’s jumped, and her vibrant vision for the future of women in rugby. Buckle up for an inspiring ride through Layla’s remarkable adventure! Layla, tell us a bit about your background. What sparked your interest in rugby? "Rugby has always been a big part of my life. Both my parents are incredibly sporty and from as young as I can remember we would braai on a Friday or a Saturday, put the game on and support our team on the day. I remember incredibly vividly the 2007 RWC that we won, and how that made me feel. Even as a young girl, I was overcome with emotion and I knew in that moment how much sport could impact a life." You received your BA in Humanities with a specialisation in Sport Science at Stellenbosch University. How did your studies influence your passion for rugby? "It was such a defining moment for me. I only started playing rugby at university and had to choose a specialisation – I ended up choosing rugby and somehow it just clicked. I was actually a cricket player at university and then when I ended up choosing rugby somehow the doors just opened. I always wanted to understand the intricacies of rugby and how we as women could 'do it better' and so I dove into it head-on." Did you always envision a career in the realm of rugby, or was commentary a later discovery? "Surprisingly, I always thought I would go into the broadcast at some point, in my mind though as a cricket broadcaster. I remember one day after a cricket match my dad mentioned Kass Naidoo and what she is doing for women in the cricket space and I wanted to do that. I studied a coaching specialisation and so I wanted to be on the rugby field as a coach to try and shape the future, but later on, I learnt that I had a greater voice outside the four lines and the fact that it ended up being commentary and broadcasting it just matched seamlessly." *On Breaking Barriers Debuting at the Singapore Sevens as the first female commentator must have been a surreal experience. Can you describe your emotions and the significance of this moment? "Being the first female English commentator selected from such a prestigious broadcast team in the country and at SuperSport was really a surreal moment for me. It’s something you always work towards to try and work at an international level and to have done it within such a short time period of starting my career was overwhelming. I actually sat in the stadium before the first game I did (which was the first game of the day) and cried a tear or two. It just felt like a moment of 'finally', all those hours you put in, all the moments of imposter syndrome, you finally get to do what you love on an international stage." Have you faced any challenges along the way in pursuing your commentary career? If so, how did you overcome them? "I’ve been really lucky in the sense that I haven’t faced any severe challenges. It is more about the challenges within myself, and believing that I am good enough, and that I do deserve to be in the positions I am put. There are still moments in my career where I am working with male World Cup winners or broadcasters who have been doing it for years and trying to compare myself to the way they do things without forgetting that being uniquely me is what has allowed me to be here in the first place." What do you hope your presence as a female commentator will achieve for the future of women in rugby, both on and off the field? "It’s more about showing young girls and women that there is a career and a space for all of us around the table. That after-school that is an option to dream about. Rugby in both my playing career and now my working career has taken me worldwide. I have seen places and done things in my life that I never thought possible and it is only through rugby that I have been able to do that. That’s what I would like young women and girls to see. That they can be in this space and their voice will be heard." *Her Passion and Expertise Beyond the technical aspects, commentary requires a deep understanding of the game. How do you stay informed about the latest strategies and player movements? "Having played the game helps me tremendously, but all my friends are currently still playing or only recently stopped playing. It’s all about trying to immerse myself in what rugby is and has become recently and also using the experience I have to be able to implement the words I am saying. I have to make the viewer believe what I am saying, there has to be credibility and because it’s not work, but rather my passion, staying up to date with what’s happening doesn’t feel like work, but rather an incredible privilege." What qualities do you believe make a great commentator, and how do you strive to develop them in your own style? "It’s all about being relatable and having the viewer believe what you’re saying. But you don’t want to be a mundane commentator just spitting information, you want to be enjoyable and engaging with the viewer. They want to be let in on the action and you have to really bring the viewer in. Lots of commentators before me have done it and many after me will continue to do it, but you have to find your own style that works for you that you believe makes you the most authentic version of you." Beyond the Singapore Sevens, do you have any specific goals or dream commentary assignments for the future? "The Women’s RWC is in England next year so that is my next big goal. I really want to be the first South African voice on a Women’s Rugby World Cup, so short term that would be the goal. Long term it would be to eventually work at the large men’s tournaments and to make an even bigger mark in the men’s space." *What Does Life Beyond Rugby Look Like? As a young woman with a demanding career, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? "That is often so tough. I strive to be the best, always available and to be willing to do my work, however, sometimes things can happen at the last minute and you have to sacrifice a lot of your personal life. But that’s what comes with this career choice. I made a promise to myself to never allow work to infringe on my personal life, but that’s not always easy. However, I do try to be conscious around making time to maintain a healthy work-life balance." What are some of your hobbies and passions outside of the world of rugby? "I have been really lucky to be blessed with some sort of musical talent, so when I just want to switch off, I grab my guitar, sit outside in the sunshine and play a tune or two, when I’m not doing that my partner and I have a little staffy boy named Gilbert, so we take him to the park and run around with him there. I am currently also trying to do a golf deep dive and teach myself how to play, so one day when I master that art form, I’ll list that as a hobby!" Do you have any advice for young girls who might be interested in pursuing a career in sports, be it as a player or commentator? "Oh absolutely, it is about taking your chances. Be open and accepting to every possible opportunity that could come your way. Have an open mind, keep your head down, work hard and you’ll reap your reward." Layla Arrison's story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her journey from a sports-loving child to a pioneering commentator in rugby showcases the impact of breaking barriers and challenging norms. Layla's dedication to her craft and her desire to inspire young women around the world make her a true trailblazer. To keep up with all things Layla and join her on this exciting journey, follow her on Instagram at @layla.arrison . Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the life of this remarkable rugby commentator.

Layla Arrison is tackling stereotypes and scoring big in the hard-hitting world of rugby. Recently, she made waves as the first English female commentator for SuperSport, debuting at the electrifying Singapore Sevens Rugby Tournament on World Rugby Day. Layla’s journey from a rugby-loving girl to a groundbreaking commentator is a thrilling story of passion, grit, and breaking the scrum of tradition. In this lively interview, Layla shares her exhilarating path, the hurdles she’s jumped, and her vibrant vision for the future of women in rugby. Buckle up for an inspiring ride through Layla’s remarkable adventure! Layla, tell us a bit about your background. What sparked your interest in rugby? "Rugby has always been a big part of my life. Both my parents are incredibly sporty and from as young as I can remember we would braai on a Friday or a Saturday, put the game on and support our team on the day. I remember incredibly vividly the 2007 RWC that we won, and how that made me feel. Even as a young girl, I was overcome with emotion and I knew in that moment how much sport could impact a life." You received your BA in Humanities with a specialisation in Sport Science at Stellenbosch University. How did your studies influence your passion for rugby? "It was such a defining moment for me. I only started playing rugby at university and had to choose a specialisation – I ended up choosing rugby and somehow it just clicked. I was actually a cricket player at university and then when I ended up choosing rugby somehow the doors just opened. I always wanted to understand the intricacies of rugby and how we as women could 'do it better' and so I dove into it head on." Did you always envision a career in the realm of rugby, or was commentary a later discovery? "Surprisingly, I always thought I would go into broadcast at some point, in my mind though as a cricket broadcaster. I remember one day after a cricket match my dad mentioned Kass Naidoo and what she is doing for women in the cricket space and I wanted to do that. I studied a coaching specialisation and so I wanted to be on the rugby field as a coach to try and shape the future, but later on I learnt that I had a greater voice outside the four lines and the fact that it ended up being commentary and broadcasting it just matched seamlessly." *On Breaking Barriers Debuting at the Singapore Sevens as the first female commentator must have been a surreal experience. Can you describe your emotions and the significance of this moment? "Being the first female English commentator selected from such a prestigious broadcast team in the country and at SuperSport was really a surreal moment for me. It’s something you always work towards to try and work at an international level and to have done it within such a short time period of starting my career was overwhelming. I actually sat in the stadium before the first game I did (which was the first game of the day) and cried a tear or two. It just felt like a moment of 'finally', all those hours you put in, all the moments of imposter syndrome, you finally get to do what you love on an international stage." Have you faced any challenges along the way in pursuing your commentary career? If so, how did you overcome them? "I’ve been really lucky in the sense that I haven’t faced any severe challenges. It is more about the challenges within myself, and actually believing that I am good enough, and that I do deserve to be in the positions I am put. There are still moments in my career where I am working with male World Cup winners, or broadcasters that have been doing it for years and trying to compare myself to the way they do things without forgetting that being uniquely me is what has given me the opportunity to be here in the first place." What do you hope your presence as a female commentator will achieve for the future of women in rugby, both on and off the field? "It’s more about showing young girls and women that there is a career and a space for all of us around the table. That after school that is an option to dream about. Rugby in both my playing career and now my working career has taken me worldwide. I have seen places and done things in my life that I never thought possible and it is only through rugby that I have been able to do that. That’s what I would like young women and girls to see. That they can be in this space and their voice will be heard." *Her Passion and Expertise Beyond the technical aspects, commentary requires a deep understanding of the game. How do you stay informed about the latest strategies and player movements? "Having played the game helps me tremendously, but all my friends are currently still playing or only recently stopped playing. It’s all about trying to immerse myself in what rugby is and has become recently and also using the experience I have to be able to implement the words I am saying. I have to make the viewer believe what I am saying, there has to be credibility and because it’s not a work, but rather my passion, staying up to date with what’s happening doesn’t feel like work, but rather an incredible privilege." What qualities do you believe make a great commentator, and how do you strive to develop them in your own style? "It’s all about being relatable and having the viewer believe what you’re saying. But you don’t want to be a mundane commentator just spitting information, you want to be enjoyable and engaging with the viewer. They want to be let in on the action and you have to really bring the viewer in. Lots of commentators before me have done it and many after me will continue to do it, but you have to find your own style that works for you that you believe makes you the most authentic version of you." Beyond the Singapore Sevens, do you have any specific goals or dream commentary assignments for the future? "The Women’s RWC is in England next year so that is my next big goal. I really want to be the first South African voice on a Women’s Rugby World Cup, so short term that would be the goal. Long term it would be to eventually work at the large men’s tournaments and to make an even bigger mark in the men’s space." *What Does Life Beyond Rugby Look Like? As a young woman with a demanding career, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? "That is often so tough. I strive to be the best, always available and to be willing to do my work, however sometimes things can happen at the last minute and you have to sacrifice a lot of your personal life. But that’s what comes with this career choice. I made a promise to myself to never allow work to infringe on my personal life, but that’s not always easy. However, I do try to be conscious around making time to maintain a healthy work-life balance." What are some of your hobbies and passions outside of the world of rugby? "I have been really lucky to be blessed with some sort of musical talent, so when I just want to switch off, I grab my guitar, sit outside in the sunshine and play a tune or two, when I’m not doing that my partner and I have a little staffy boy named Gilbert, so we take him to the park and run around with him there. I am currently also trying to do a golf deep dive and teach myself how to play, so one day when I master that art form, I’ll list that as a hobby!" Do you have any advice for young girls who might be interested in pursuing a career in sports, be it as a player or commentator? "Oh absolutely, it is about taking your chances. Be open and accepting to every possible opportunity that could come your way. Have an open mind, keep your head down, work hard and you’ll reap your reward." Layla Arrison's story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her journey from a sports-loving child to a pioneering commentator in rugby showcases the impact of breaking barriers and challenging norms. Layla's dedication to her craft and her desire to inspire young women around the world make her a true trailblazer. To keep up with all things Layla and join her on this exciting journey, follow her on Instagram at @layla.arrison . Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the life of this remarkable rugby commentator.

Liezel van der Westhuizen is one of those celebrity personalities that captures the true essence of what being in the spotlight is all about. A seasoned professional, L iezel, has graced our screens for over a decade; entertained us for many hours on radio and brought us captivating digital content that will be remembered as not only insightful but also educational. So what is she up to of late? nounouche.online has all the deets! ➡️ https://nounouche.online/what-is-liezl-van-der-westhuizen-up-to/ #pr #prsouthafrica #prafrica #feature #nounouche

Longing for a break from reality? Does it feel as though you haven’t had a proper escape from your constant routine of everyday life? Have you been feeling restless after months of hard work? Then it’s time for you to indulge in a luxurious nature escape that will captivate your inner wild-child, at a location known for its biodiversity, topography, geology and climate – the Klein Karoo. Unlike your typical holiday destinations, the Klein Karoo boasts a number of enticing elements that will not only heal your tired, restless soul but also reignite that passionate inner child within yourself. Whether you’re a typical ‘bush over beach’ kind of vacationer, heading on a nature-filled splendour is always filled with excitement and baited-breath as to what you might see and experience. A wilderness retreat is a holiday option that ignites the soul and invigorates the mind and is slowly becoming one of the more popular retreat options to date. Whether it’s the sunrises, the smells, or the animal sightings that get your heart-rate rising, when it comes to the joys of the bush, there’s a big difference between that of a Kruger getaway to that of a Karoo adventure – some of which are unknown to most. Read the full feature here: https://responsibletraveller.co.za/why-a-karoo-wilderness-retreat-is-just-what-you-might-need-right-now/ #whitelionlodge #sanbonawildlifereserve #wildlife

WAXIT, the popular wax bar known for its commitment to providing the silkiest and smoothest waxing experiences, proudly announces the grand opening of its 16th store – WAXIT The Club Hazelwood. As the sole franchisee of Smooth, Masego Mokoene brings her passion for the brand and experience in running a franchise business to provide expert and discreet waxing services to the residents of Pretoria East. The highly anticipated opening of WAXIT The Club Hazelwood took place on August 1, 2023, at The Club Retail, situated in the prestigious area of Hazelwood, Pretoria. The store boasts a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment, resonating with the values of compassion, professionalism, and privacy that the WAXIT brand represents. With over 15 successful stores across Gauteng, Cape Town, and Kwa-Zulu Natal already in practice, WAXIT is known for offering quick, quality, and affordable waxing services; but also ensuring every customer's skin is cleansed, nourished, and soothed before and after their treatment. At WAXIT The Club Hazelwood, men and women alike can experience waxing expertise free from the intrusions typically associated with full-service salons. To celebrate the grand opening, WAXIT The Club Hazelwood is offering all its newcomers an exclusive opening special of 15% off on all waxing services from August 1 to August 7th, allowing clients to experience the brand-new wax bar at an irresistible value. Masego Mokoene, the dynamic and young Franchisee of Smooth, expressed her excitement about bringing WAXIT to Pretoria East. ‘I am incredibly excited for this new venture which I get to pour my heart and soul into,” she said. With a background in hospitality and managing three fast-food franchises, Masego understands the essentials of running a successful business. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs whose endeavours include agriculture, HR and hospitality, Masego’s passions for the brand and its values align with WAXIT's commitment to providing top-quality services to the community, catering to all individuals seeking the perfect wax. The launch event at WAXIT The Club Hazelwood was a resounding success, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a joyful launch party to celebrate the brand's growth and showcase its new look. The event brought together like-minded individuals who share a common love for waxing, highlighting the strong support and loyalty the WAXIT brand receives from its customers and fans. As WAXIT continues to expand, Marketing Manager, Michelle Bittkau expressed her hopes for the Pretoria East wax bar. ’We wanted to bring quick, quality, and affordable waxing to Pretoria East, and we know that Masego will fly our flag high! In addition, as we grow, we gain incredible support from our loyal clients and WAXIT fans. We are so appreciative of the support and love that we get," she added. As the WAXIT brand expands its reach, Michelle goes on to share that the next focus area is WAXIT Melrose Arch, which is set to open on September 1st, with more exciting locations planned for later in the year. “Whether you’re an athlete who wants to look sharp when competing, or a man or woman who is just discovering waxing and values privacy and professionalism, I encourage you to try WAXIT. I sincerely cannot wait to be a part of the growth of the brand and increase WAXIT’s footprint in Pretoria East,” Masego ends off. For more information about WAXIT and its services, visit their website at https://www.waxit.co.za/ or contact them at support@waxit.co.za or call 010 100 3603.

Get tough and achieve your 2023 fitness goals with U nder Armour's newest additions to its iconic RUSH apparel collection. Featured in Fitness Magazine. This range is designed to keep athletes at the top of their game for a variety of sports activities at any level of training. This collection is available and in stores nationwide, now. https://www.fitnessmag.co.za/feel-the-rush-with-under-armours-newest-performance-apparel/ #pr #prafrica #prsouthafrica #fitnessapparel #rushcollection