Good News 14:00

BULLETIN 13 August pm

Good afternoon, here is your Good News:

# A 19-year-old KwaZulu-Natal learner has invented an autonomous solar-powered car. This groundbreaking vehicle includes a wireless trailer with a supercharging station, highlighting innovations in renewable energy and self-driving technology. The Grade 12 learner at Mandla Mthethwa School of Excellence, Sqiniseko Mpontshane, showcased his invention at the International Science Technology Engineering Competition earlier this year. His school praised his achievement, saying this proves that the future of transportation is greener and smarter.

# Award-winning visual artist and Walter Sisulu University student, Nomvula Millicent Hoko, is preparing to host a workshop aimed at empowering young and aspiring artists. The workshop, titled Echoes of Affirmation, will delve into the intricate art and techniques of printmaking, offering participants a unique experiential learning opportunity. Hoko was honoured with the Best Visual Artist: 2D award at the fifth annual provincial Arts, Culture and Heritage Awards earlier this year. The week-long workshop will be held at the Anne Bryant Gallery in East London starting August 31st.

# Phase two of the University of Pretoria’s partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, will see the total number of scholars increase to 600. This phase will include a greater percentage of women, refugees, internally displaced individuals and people with disabilities from all over Africa. Mastercard’s Grace Ramafi says the programme is dedicated to nurturing future transformational leaders through relevant academic training, comprehensive support systems, enriching community engagement activities and entrepreneurship skills.

# The Santa Shoebox Project has opened team pledges, allowing groups, schools, and companies to provide gift boxes to children in need during the festive season. Since its inception in 2006, the project has reached over a million children. Team pledges start at 20 boxes. Each box must include toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, a washcloth, clothing, educational supplies, and sweets. Individual pledges will open next month.

# And The SAG-AFTRA Foundation has officially opened its doors to its brand new Los Angeles headquarters, the Meryl Streep Centre for Performing Artists. The state-of-the-art facility is in honour of the legendary actress, the most philanthropic donor in the foundation’s nearly 40-year history. The foundation says the facility is a hub designed to help SAG-AFTRA artists fine-tune their skills and advance their careers. Other spaces within the centre have been named after other actors and actresses who have been similarly supportive, including Nicole Kidman, Tom Hanks, and Leonardo DiCaprio.