Stacey Norman

Stacey and J Sbu asked the kids of KZN on the Kiddies Hotline: What would you do if you had one day with no grown-ups around? Take a listen to their answers in case you missed it!

Ever tried moving house without losing your mind or your grandmother's vase? Recently, Stacey Norman and J Sbu got real about the emotional rollercoaster that is moving day. Stacey spills the tea on her own recent move (spoiler: it was a mess) while you called in to share your wildest moving disasters from missing boxes to shattered memories. J Sbu gave some solid advice for staying sane during the chaos and let's just say bubble wrap might not be enough. Catch all the laughs, lessons and a few “OMG same!” moments because moving is never just about packing boxes.

The Springbok Women's rugby team is gearing up for an exciting journey to the World Cup and they need the support of the nation behind them. Through their inspiring #PlusOne Campaign, the team hopes to rally South Africans to come together and support these incredible athletes as they strive for World Cup success. The Stories Behind the Players Libbie Janse van Rensburg and Anathi Qolo, key players in the team, shared their insights and passion for rugby. Libbie, who recently took on the role of fly-half at the Bulls Daisies, has had an impressive career transition from sevens to fifteens rugby post-COVID, proudly adding 'Olympian' to her list of accomplishments. Anathi, who began her rugby journey in East London in 2015, has risen to be a Rugby Africa Women champion captain, capturing hearts with her dedication to the sport. What is the Plus One Campaign? The Plus One Campaign is about more than just cheering from the sidelines. It's a powerful movement aimed at uniting South Africans to support the Springbok Women's team. The campaign encourages every fan to bring a 'plus one' to the games; be it a friend, family member, or colleague. Anathi explains, "We believe everyone has a plus one. If you can bring your plus one to the games on Fridays or simply spread the word about our matches, you can make a real difference." This initiative is particularly vital as the team heads towards the World Cup, where national support could be a game-changer. Unity in Diversity Speaking about what makes their team so unique. Libbie shared noted that the team is rich in diversity. The team's cultural variety is not viewed as a hurdle but as a source of strength and unity. Libbie states, “Our differences bring us together. It's what makes us stronger as a team.” This powerful solidarity is part of what makes the #PlusOne Campaign resonate so deeply. It's about inclusivity and the power of coming together, no matter the background. As the team prepares for the World Cup, hearts and minds are focused on the task at hand. The anticipation builds as the players vie for a spot in the squad. "Focusing on our games and preparations is crucial," shares Libbie, underscoring the importance of staying in the present. With games against formidable opponents and the World Cup just ahead, the Springbok Women's team is set for an intense yet exhilarating season. “What an amazing achievement it would be if we make this team,” says Libbie. “It's something we're immensely proud of and it could be an incredible year for us at the World Cup.” The Springbok Women's team is encouraging all supporters to join the #PlusOne Campaign. Whether you're an avid rugby fan or new to the sport, your presence can make a profound impact. Together, we can show our Springbok heroes that their nation is behind them, cheering them on every step of the way.

Stacey and J Sbu received a juicy confession from Rob about his relationship that let all hell break loose! Rob was unfaithful to his partner, but to make matters worse, he confided in his friend, who threatened to out him. Stacey and J Sbu asked you to weigh in and the opposing views were everywhere. While some believed his friend had a good heart others weren't so sure about the loyalty aspect. If you missed the drama live, listen in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu explored the post-holiday rollercoaster many parents face. As the kids head back to school, Stacey and J Sbu activated the Kiddies Hotline to find out how the little ones spent their holidays. From surprising treasures found during a house move to the panic-inducing world of helping with tricky homework, this is packed with relatable moments for every parent and child. Stacey and J Sbu keep the laughs coming while tackling the real struggles of parenting. If you missed it live, tune in!

The complexities of in-laws in relationships were the focus of a recent East Coast Radio topic with Stacey Norman and J Sbu. They discussed whether in-laws can be supportive cheerleaders or meddling agents causing disruption. Stacey shared that while parents often continue to see their children as youths, navigating in-law involvement is crucial for relationship peace. Throughout the show, you shared your personal experiences. Keith highlighted the destructive impact of his in-laws who are emotionally attached to his wife's ex, leading to a separation despite his efforts to maintain harmony. In contrast, Troy described his supportive in-laws who respect boundaries and offer help only when asked, contributing positively to his relationship's stability. A dramatic story from Linda revealed a 25-year betrayal by her in-law. If you missed it live, listen in!

East Coast Radio Drive Show's Sports Lead Nick Tatham hosted a comprehensive discussion with KZN Netball's spokesperson Philani Mabaso. They spoke about the recent Telkom Netball League held in Durban, a significant event filled with thrilling action both on and off the court. Philani shared insights on the excitement of hosting the league games after years, the contributions of key stakeholders and the outstanding performance of the Kingdom Stars. If you missed it live, tune in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu from the Drive Show at East Coast Radio invited listeners to share their most closely held secrets without revealing full details. They discussed the nature of secrets, how long people have kept them and why sharing even a hint can be such a relief. From tales of workplace affairs to family mysteries, listeners call in to breadcrumb their secrets, allowing Stacey and J Sbu to stitch the untold stories together. A mix of light-hearted banter and genuine curiosity drives the show, making it a captivating listen for anyone curious about the hidden facets of human nature. If you missed it live, tune in!

South African cricketer Nonkululeko Mlaba spoke to Sports Lead Nick Tatham about her relentless preparation for the upcoming season amidst a typically busy schedule. From winning finals to dealing with the rising expectations after the men's World Cup triumph, Nonkululeko opens up about the growing stature and popularity of women's cricket in South Africa. With nominations for five prestigious CSA awards, including T20 Player of the Year, ODI Player of the Year and SA Fans Player of the Year, Nonkululeko shares the significance of these recognitions in a team sport and how they act as a powerful motivator. If you missed this inspiring chat between Nonkululeko Mlaba and Nick Tatham, filled with insights, aspirations, and a peek into the future of women's cricket in South Africa - tune in!

Nick Tatham dives into the exhilarating journey of South Africa's victory in the World Test Championship. Keshav Maharaj opens up about the team's remarkable achievements, the emotional rollercoaster of their win against Australia and the joy of finally clinching the championship title. Nick takes a look at the inner workings of the squad, the rise of new talents and explores Maharaj's reflections on captaining the national team across all formats. If you missed this candid and inspiring interview with one of cricket's most dedicated players, tune in now!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu received a confession from Sandra about peer pressure that she just can't seem to shake. Sandra said: “The pressure I feel to look rich to fit in with my friends is crippling. I'm working just as hard as them but I'm not seeing near the same results.” After feeling the pain in her words, they opened the hotlines for you to weigh in. We might just have to start a Ted Talk with the people of KZN with the amount of sound of advice Sandra received. If you missed it live, listen in!

After hearing some concerning landlord-related stories from the people of KZN, Stacey Norman and J Sbu were left curious. The East Coast Drive team felt it was only right to hear BOTH sides and gave the landlord of our province the opportunity to share their stories. Some were heartwrenching and others left us thinking! If you missed it live, listen in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu wanted to hear from the parents of the province today and boy, did they hear it all! While we know every situation is different and every child is different, Stacey and J Sbu still asked you: When is the 'right' time to STOP bedsharing with your little one. From kids being in their parents' bed for a mere 6 months to them bed sharing for 8 years, we learnt a lot. If you missed it live, listen in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu opened the hotlines to you after asking a tricky question: "What was the last squabble you had with your landlord". You did not hold back with your stories from landlords turning lights off to them pocketing insurance money, we heard it all! If you missed it live, tune in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu asked YOU what can you say or do today that you couldn't last year. We heard tons of inspiring stories. From being a proud new homeowner to quitting smoking, the stories shared are nothing short of inspiring. Sharon from the Bluff shared her triumph over a four-year smoking habit, while Stacey proudly mentions nurturing a healthy relationship with herself and buying a new house. Natasha from Durban North chimed in about completing a 10km run, marvelling at her body's capabilities and relishing the mental peace it brings. Londi from Umhlanga, recounted the challenging journey of her premature baby girl, Alexandra, now thriving as a one-year-old. We heard so many special and inspiring stories that will tug on your heartstrings. If you missed it live, tune in!

Have you heard of ROMO aka the Relief of Missing Out? Stacey and J Sbu share personal stories and listener experiences that look at the joy of staying in and avoiding the chaos often associated with going out. From unexpected savings to avoiding unpleasant encounters, listeners call in with their relief stories, bringing laughter and relatability to the conversation. J Sbu's story about avoiding a costly night out and Stacey's delight in simple home comforts are the perfect ROMO examples. If you missed it live, tune in!

At just eight years old, Aleah Ramouthar isn't your typical primary school learner. With a spark for adventure and a love for Chinese culture, she's diving headfirst into the world of Mandarin. Guided by her enthusiastic teacher, Vivian Zeng, Ramouthar has already started making waves on the Mandarin language scene. Ramouthar's journey began when she was introduced to Mandarin at her school's extramural course, led by Zeng. What makes Ramouthar stand out is her exceptional talent in picking up the language quickly. Zeng recalls, "Aleah is one of my star students. She memorised a Chinese song in just one week!" It's this eagerness to learn and excel that sets Ramouthar apart. Despite having only started learning Mandarin in February, Ramouthar participated in the Chinese Bridge competition in Cape Town this June. With just three and a half months of preparation, she clinched second place. Sporting a traditional Chinese outfit, meeting new people and being celebrated for her efforts, Ramouthar found the entire experience exhilarating. She's not stopping there. Ramouthar is already gearing up for next year's competition, aiming for that coveted first-place spot. Zeng, equally excited, says, "If Aleah wins first place, she gets a chance to go to China with one of her parents and compete in the World Chinese Bridge competition for her age group." Ramouthar's dedication and passion for learning Mandarin are truly inspirational. With Zeng's expert guidance and her own hard work, the sky is the limit for this young prodigy. Who knows? We might soon see Ramouthar shining on an even bigger stage, bridging cultures and bringing people together. "I want to take my mom and dad to China, meet the pandas and eat Chinese food," she says.

Stacey Norman and J Sbu heard a listener's confession about insecurities when one's partner starts looking fitter and seemingly getting 'out of their league'. You joined in and shared your perspectives on relationships and self-worth. As the conversation unfolds, Stacey and J Sbu shed light on how to navigate these emotional complexities within relationships, offering both humour and heartfelt advice. If you missed it live, tune in!

Stacey Norman and J Sbu explored a lively conversation about renaming the Republic of South Africa to the Republic of Azania. Along the way, they took a look at the fun side of renaming everyday items with their listeners. From calling vapes 'clouds of lies' to dubbing air fryers 'game changers,' Stacey and J Sbu's imaginative names will leave you laughing. If you missed it live, tune in!

Stacey & J Sbu opened the Parents Hotline and asked YOU to share life hacks that make life easier and more enjoyable for both parents and kids. From practical cleaning tips to timeless advice on saving money, this episode is packed with valuable stories and tips. KZN listeners call in to share their own experiences, offering a rich tapestry of advice passed down through generations. Whether it's finding creative ways to get children to eat their veggies or clever hacks for household chores we found a treasure trove of practical wisdom.

Stacey and J took things a little bit deeper for this kiddies hotline. Instead of the fun, innocent questions, they wanted to know just how inspiring the parents of KZN are. Which of these lessons have you taught your kid?

Stacey, J Sbu and Nick Tatham opened up the hotline for all the husbands in KZN! You know they need it. Listen to the hilarious (and slightly painful) confessions the husbands of KZN had to share

East Coast Radio caught up with Monde Mkalipi, spokesperson for the Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA), who addressed the growing concern surrounding fake news about the AARTO Act. The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act aims to promote road safety by standardising traffic violations and implementing a demerit system for offenders. "We are very concerned about the proliferation of fake news around the implementation date of AARTO," said Mkalipi. "We urge road users and the public to be cautious of this misinformation, as it is not authentic." Mkalipi emphasised that the AARTO Act has not yet been proclaimed for national implementation. Currently, the AARTO website is only available in specific regions. "The date for the national rollout has not been proclaimed. What's operational now is limited to certain areas," Mkalipi clarified. Understanding the Demerit System Mkalipi provided an in-depth explanation of the demerit system under the AARTO Act. Contrary to some beliefs, a single traffic fine will not immediately lead to a licence suspension. "The point demerit system is not yet operational everywhere. When it does come into effect, it will serve as a deterrent," Mkalipi said. Under the demerit system, points will be added to a driver's record for traffic infringements. The severity of the offence will determine the number of points. For example, driving without a license may result in three points, while driving under the influence could add six points. "Once you exceed 15 points, your driving licence will be suspended, initially for three months," explained Mkalipi. Suspensions escalate with repeated offences. "On the third occasion of exceeding the 15-point threshold, the driving licence will be revoked," Mkalipi added. Drivers with accumulated points may reduce them by participating in a voluntary rehabilitation programme. Misinformation surrounding the AARTO Act The spread of misinformation has caused public concern. "There is a state of panic among drivers due to misperceptions about how the AARTO Act works," Mkalipi noted. He shared that the RTIA is working diligently to dispel these myths and provide accurate information. "The AARTO Act is designed to be a road safety intervention, aimed at changing driver behaviour. It's about voluntary compliance without needing to see traffic officers," said Mkalipi. How to verify information about AARTO The RTIA is informing the public through various platforms, including social media. "We post regular updates on our official social media accounts. We urge drivers to visit these platforms for accurate information," Mkalipi advised. He also encouraged the use of government statements and updates from provincial and municipal colleagues. "It's important for road users to stay informed through legitimate information dissemination platforms to avoid being swayed by fake news," Mkalipi concluded.

From hairbrush concerts to superhero movie marathons, Stacey and J Sbu are throwing it back and tapping into the things that keep us feeling young, no matter what our ID says! They share personal stories and hear from you, our listeners. Whether it's belting ballads in pyjama pants, nailing trending dance moves or vibing to the Spice Girls (a 30th anniversary tour?!), this chat is a hilarious and heartfelt reminder that growing older is a gift, but staying young at heart is a choice.

Stacey and J Sbu are joined by Jan Vermeulen, editor at MyBroadband, to break down the recent internet disruptions caused by a fault in the West Africa Cable System (WACS). Jan explains how a damaged branching unit off the coast of Namibia led to emergency repairs, what this means for South African internet users, and why some service providers were hit harder than others. From underwater diagnostics to redundancy planning and the role of major tech players like Google and Meta, this episode dives into the complex world of undersea internet infrastructure and why most of us barely noticed it was broken.

Fresh off the energy of the Comrades Marathon, Stacey and J Sbu flip the conversation around success on its head by asking: What's something you'd NEVER win an Olympic medal for? From missed deadlines to burnt toast, this is a hilarious and brutally honest look at our everyday struggles and imperfections. Whether it's Stacey's war with admin and paperwork, J Sbu's weakness for soul food or listeners confessing they're chronically late, directionally challenged, or incapable of sending short voice notes - this podcast is a goldmine of self-awareness and laughter. It's all about embracing the things we don't excel at and finding comfort in knowing we're not alone.

Xander McNeill has accomplished one of the greatest achievements at the youngest age... he has completed the Comrades Marathon at only 20 years old! He made it with a few minutes to spare and was the youngest finisher in 2025. Was it a walk in the park or the toughest thing he ever did? Why did he do it at this age? Catch up on this epic conversation with Stacey, J Sbu and sports lead Nick Tatham.

At just 20 years old, Zander McNeil took on the ultimate challenge - the 90km Comrades Marathon - and finished strong in 11:56:44! Stacey and J Sbu chat to the youngest participant of Comrades 2025 about his experience, the mental game behind the run and what pushed him to take on such a gruelling race at such a young age. Zander reflects on his motivation, the example set by his dad and how challenges shape growth. "Difficulty is just a measure of the bottom… and the extent you're willing to push it," Zander says.

In an effort to address the critical issue of food insecurity in South Africa, Union Against Hunger (UAH) has initiated a compelling petition urging the government to implement measures to lower food prices. Dr. Busiso Moyo, a post-doctoral fellow at the Centre of Excellence in Food Security at the University of the Western Cape and a key figure within UAH recently elaborated on the petition and its objectives during an interview with East Coast Radio. "Ours is a question of how do we confront the issue of hunger in South Africa? The first point of reference is, how is it that people are making sense of the food system? We wanted to zone in on food pricing in particular," Dr. Moyo stated. The UAH's petition underscores the disparity between food prices and the economic realities faced by many South African households. With high unemployment rates and widespread poverty, the petition focuses on the need for food equity and calls for government intervention to ensure fair food pricing. Reflecting on conversations with community members, Dr. Moyo touched on the significant challenges faced by various groups. "We were in conversation with domestic workers who talked about their frustrations in this space [and] how they are anchoring the food systems of the affluent but are very much food insecure. It's about purchasing power." This situation extends to farm workers, described by Dr. Moyo as experiencing "seasonal hunger on these farms. The very people that [sic] produce our food are in a very precarious situation when we look at their food security context." UAH's petition seeks backing from the public to address these systemic issues. Dr. Moyo explained, "We need the masses to really rally behind this petition in an attempt to have some kind of interface with these corporate actors who seem to be absent when we're speaking about socioeconomic objectives in the country." The ultimate goal is to bring corporate entities to the table to identify and implement viable solutions. "A large part of this conversation is underpinned by land and agrarian reform concerns," Dr. Moyo emphasised. The petition pushes for a holistic approach to address hunger, which includes land reform, better social safety nets and more transparent corporate practices. The call for corporate transparency is a significant aspect of the petition. "Annual reports indicate that 10 million tonnes of food go to waste in South Africa. This is very unsustainable in a context like ours," noted Dr. Moyo. To achieve fair food pricing, the petition advocates for a basic needs basket that outlines essential, nutritious foods. According to Dr. Moyo, "Once we are clear on that, maybe the state can subsidise those foods or introduce intervention mechanisms like maximum price settings. The possibilities are endless." Government is aware of this initiative, as Dr Moyo explained: “We had an opportunity to be given an audience by the Department of Social Development in particular.” Additionally, UAH highlights the influential role of informal food sectors in sustaining large sections of the population. Dr. Moyo stated, "It's about the state's power to convene so that there can be a meeting of minds to grapple with the issue of hunger in South Africa." For those interested in supporting the petition, it can be accessed via UAH's website, unionagainsthunger.org. Dr. Moyo noted, "The petition has been flighted with the assistance of our partners at Amandla.mobi. Alternatively, a range of petitions is available on their platform." As UAH continues to push for critical changes, the need for collective action becomes ever more pressing. Dr. Moyo concluded by thanking the public for their support and encouraged continued advocacy: "We need your voices to echo our call for food equity and justice in South Africa." From discussions with domestic and farm workers to engagements with government officials, UAH's petition is a comprehensive call to action. Their efforts exem

An anonymous listener shared the following confession with Stacey and J Sbu: "I accidentally found out that my partner of nine years bought an engagement ring. I really don't want to tell him that I know, because it will obviously ruin the surprise. I am nervous about our future (not in a bad way), but now that I know it's happening soon, I feel like I'm losing my mind. Should I be open and tell him that I know or should I just suck it up and carry the secret and let it consume my entire being?" The Drive Team duo then asked you, the people of KZN, to weigh in on the confusing matter. Here's what you had to say.

Ahead of the Comrades marathon this weekend, Stacey and J Sbu caught up with listener Clive Hockly. Hockly has run the comrades marathon but in a rather unique manner. Shortly after qualifying for the world-renowned marathon, Hockly faced a hurdle. One that impacted his training. He shared his unique story with us and let's just say, we were SHOOK! If you missed it live, tune in!

We're now well into winter, meaning the kids of KZN are leaving to school when the sun is rising and some are getting home after it sets. Given the change in seasons, Aunty Stacey and Uncle J Sbu decided to ask the kids of our lovely province which they prefer between a sunset and sunrise and why. Just when you think these kiddos can't get any cuter they shared in-depth reasons for their answers. If you missed it live, tune in!

In the vibrant city of Mombasa, Kenya, a young South African chess sensation has made history. Jorah Soojay, a 16-year-old Grade 11 student at Ashton International College, Ballito, stunned the continent with a perfect 9/9 score, securing the U17 championship title and earning his provisional FIDE Master (FM) title at the African Schools Individual Chess Championship. Jorah's journey to victory was a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. Despite falling ill with a terrible flu on the second day, he fought through the gruelling matches, proving that true champions rise above adversity. His flawless streak was not just about skill, but about perseverance and faith. "I am filled with immense gratitude and pride," Jorah said, reflecting on his achievement. "Scoring a perfect 9/9 is truly special, and it reinforces my belief that perseverance, preparation, and faith lead to success." The competition was fierce, with matches lasting up to five hours, testing Jorah's mental strength, endurance, and precision. He faced some of Africa's most skilled young players, but his strategic thinking and composure under pressure paid off. Jorah's victory is not just a personal milestone; it's a moment that inspires young chess players across South Africa and beyond. His achievement proves that hard work, faith, and determination can defy expectations. With his sights set on the International Master (IM) title, Jorah's journey is just beginning. Beyond chess, Jorah prioritises his academics, recognising that the skills he has developed from the game, time management, strategic thinking, and composure under pressure help him succeed in school. He aspires to pursue actuarial science or data analysis and entrepreneurship, while continuing to grow in chess. Jorah's story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us that true strength lies not just in skill but in resilience and determination. As he embarks on his next challenge, the chess world will be watching, eager to see what this young prodigy achieves next.

After chatting about J Sbu's interview with Get It Magazine, the team asked the parents of KZN what they enjoy most about being a parent. We heard the most heartfelt messages from the parents of the province and could not get enough of their passion and love for their little ones. If you missed it live, tune in!

A disturbing trend has emerged on TikTok, known as "Skinny Tok," where users promote extreme thinness under the guise of wellness and lifestyle advice. This movement, led by a number of influences, has sparked widespread concern about its potential to normalise disordered eating and perpetuate negative body image. What is Skinny Tok? Skinny Tok is a trend that promotes extreme calorie restriction and regular body checks, where users document their shrinking bodies. Proponents of this trend share very low-calorie diets and frame weight loss and extreme thinness as the ultimate sign of health. The trend is currently active on TikTok, with over 74,000 videos shared under the #skinnytok hashtag. Chief of Clinical Psychology at Turning Point Mental Services, Mrs Mbali Mthembu, highlights the concerning impact of such trends, stating: “Social media platforms like TikTok often present unrealistic beauty standards, glorifying thinness and promoting unhealthy dieting habits. Young people, particularly girls, are frequently exposed to this content, which can trigger disordered eating behaviours like restrictive dieting and excessive exercising.” The portrayal of these unrealistic beauty standards can lead to body dissatisfaction among teenagers. They may feel their bodies do not measure up to the ideals they see online, resulting in lower self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Mthembu explains: “Young people begin to think that their body weight is not ideal, even if they are at a healthy weight. They might develop a distorted view of their body shape, leading to dissatisfaction and severe mental health issues.” Mthembu's practice has seen a rise in cases of young individuals struggling with body image issues and eating disorders. She notes: “We have observed an increasing number of young people trying to cope with eating disorders. Many feel dissatisfied with their body shape and weight, often influenced by what they consume on social media.” Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach. One key strategy is fostering open, non-judgmental discussions about body image and the content young people are exposed to online. “Encouraging open conversations about how social media can affect their perception of body image is crucial,” Mthembu says. “Reassuring young people and highlighting their positive attributes, unrelated to their body weight, can help build self-esteem.” Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in monitoring their children's media consumption and ensuring they understand the unrealistic nature of the content they view. Mthembu advises, “It's important for parents to check in with their children regularly, discussing their meals and being sensitive about commenting on their body weight. Highlighting other positive features, like their intelligence or kindness, can be more constructive.” Furthermore, implementing parental control measures to monitor and limit exposure to harmful content can help. “Parents can use features that block certain content and monitor the amount of time their children spend online. This helps in reducing the exposure to potentially harmful trends such as Skinny Tok,” Mthembu advises. Education around responsible social media use is also vital. “Teaching young people to critically evaluate the content they come across on social media and understand the unrealistic expectations it sets is essential,” emphasises Mthembu. “Schools can contribute by providing resources and support through counselling services to help reduce the stigma around eating disorders and promote healthy body image.” Bullying, a significant factor contributing to body image issues, must also be addressed. Providing a safe space where young people can speak openly about their experiences and concerns is crucial. “Allowing children and teenagers to express their worries without judgment can help uncover underlying issues, including bullying, that may contribute to disordered eating,” Mthembu points out.

Patrick Williams owns a stunning restaurant in London inspired by South African cooking. Growing up in Durban, down the South Coast he loved the sunshine and the beach life. At 17, with no clear direction, Patrick found inspiration in his older brother, a chef working in Cape Town. Moving to live and train with his brother was a significant life change but one filled with promise. Leaving the familiar shores of Durban for the bustling city of Cape Town was a cultural shift, but Patrick quickly acclimated and thrived. He spent 10 years working with esteemed chefs, where he progressed to junior sous chef. His culinary journey further led him to work with PJ Vadas, another signature restaurant on a South African wine farm. “ PJ was a bit of a mentor. My brother was a mentor and another good chef friend of mine who, now lives in Australia,” he told East Coast Radio. At 26, Patrick's mentors suggested he move overseas to deepen his culinary expertise, with the possibility of returning to head up his own restaurant. Embracing this advice, Patrick relocated to London, a move that would ignite his future successes. “So I moved over to London,” he shared. London brought Patrick new culinary experiences and personal milestones. Working with Robin Gill, a chef full of energy and creativity, significantly influenced Patrick's culinary approach. During this period, he also met his now-wife, Amy, a steadfast supporter through the demanding London culinary scene. With Amy's background in a restaurant family and a career in design, the couple decided to venture into their own culinary enterprise. The idea was born from their shared desire to infuse their heritage and creativity into a unique dining experience. The South African influence was a central theme, driven by Patrick's pride in his roots and the untapped potential he saw in introducing London to polished South African flavours. Determined to create a restaurant that stood out, they brainstormed for a name reflecting their vision. The Kudu, a stunning animal and a fitting logo, perfectly encapsulated their South African identity. Kudu's culinary offerings bear the distinctive mark of Durban's vibrant spice profile. With a team of South African chefs, the restaurant's dishes carry regional inspiration. Their newest venture, a dry spice rub monkfish dish, epitomises this blend of authenticity and innovation. “ There wasn't really anybody doing it on sort of more of a higher end. Not saying that we are a fine dining restaurant, but something that was a bit more polished and it really showcased what South African flavours could be,” he explained. For Patrick, these touches ensure that their cuisine resonates with familiarity for South African patrons while offering a fresh take on traditional flavours. Patrick's journey, from the sunny beaches of Durban to the dynamic food scene of London, displays the utmost resilience and passion. His advice for aspiring chefs is to dive in wholeheartedly, invest in continuous learning, and surround oneself with supportive, like-minded mentors. This relentless pursuit of improvement and community is what fuels Patrick's culinary success.

We caught up with Ash Padayachee, the creator of NeuroGroove SA, who made a catchy Afro-house beat about East Coast Radio's Stacey and J Sbu. "I've been professionally DJing for many years. I started in my early teens, so it's been roughly about 25 years of being in the music industry. So the track 'Stacey and J Sbu' was inspired by the energy and the vibe that they bring to the drive time show," the Pietermaritzburg native said. According to Padayachee, he was inspired by their electric chemistry and how they're unapologetically themselves. "They represent such a strong part of KZN culture, so I wanted to capture that feeling in a track that's sort of like a beat that feels like a Friday afternoon, windows down, volume up kind of vibe. It's a celebration of who they are and what they mean to so many listeners across the province," said Padayachee. He explained that the Drive Team's energy after a long day at work “brings your vibe back.” After learning that Stacey and J Sbu heard his song, he said: "I think it's also that they've listened to it and the fact that they enjoy it. I think I'm excited to know that somebody out there is, you know, appreciating the work that we do."

Every Wednesday, Stacey and J Sbu open the hotline for the kids of KZN to share their thoughts on air. This week, J Sbu was on his own but that didn't stop him from chatting with the little ones of our province. He opened the hotline by asking the minis of our province who their best friends are and why? We received a number of answers that ranged from adorable to down right emotional! J Sbu even shared a voicenote from his son, Zanda. If you missed it live, tune in!

Ahead of J Sbu's birthday this weekend, the team spoke all things gifting. Speaking about his experience of never really receiving what he's wanted, J Sbu asked you, the people of KZN, about gifting. Stacey Norman weighed in, sharing that she usually tells people what she wants, so she's never disappointed by the gift. You shared your thoughts and the results were conflicting. If you missed it live, listen in!

There are celebrations all around for Northlands Primary School as their team, Smooth Sailors, achieved top honours at the Open Africa Championship (OAC) of the First Lego League (FLL). The league was held from 7 to 9 May 2025 in Cape Town and teams from 42 countries were in attendance. Out of the 106 teams who were invited, globally, the Smooth Sailors from Northlands Primary School were the highest-ranked SA team. They earned second place in the “Core Values” category. Principal Mr Alistair Naidu shared praise for the team's amazing achievement, saying: “Smooth Sailors have not only made us proud as a school, but also as a country. Their recognition at an international level speaks volumes of their dedication, humility, and ability to lead with purpose. This is the kind of global excellence we are cultivating at Northlands.” Team lead and coach Mr. Steven Kent shared that the First Lego League was more than just coding. “It's a gateway to lifelong learning. We're building a generation that is curious, empathetic, and eager to solve real-world challenges. Smooth Sailors have shown that South African youth can compete with the world's best and excel,” said the proud coach.

At just eight-years-old, Emily Eloff is making waves in the BMX racing world. Currently ranked number one in South Africa in her age group, Emily has been passionate about BMX racing since the age of five. "I think I am very brave, not scared and I love riding my bike very fast," she says, attributing her success to her bravery and dedication to training. Emily's journey began when she was just four-years-old, watching her friend Chad race his BMX. She nagged her parents to buy her a BMX bike and on her fifth birthday, she got one. Despite falling during her first race, Emily was determined to continue riding. "I fell during my very first race but I was brave and didn't want to stop riding," she recalls. Now, Emily is set to take her talents to the international stage, competing in the UCI BMX World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 29 July to 3 August, 2025. "I am very excited to go on an aeroplane and race my BMX overseas for South Africa," she says, admitting to getting butterflies in her tummy when thinking about it. "I can't wait to meet all my BMX heroes." As a role model for young girls, Emily encourages others to take up the sport. "I would like it if I could get more girls to come and race BMX with me. It is exciting and so much fun," she says. Her advice to younger kids is to visit a BMX track and watch the racers in action. To make her dream a reality, Emily's family is looking to raise R80,000 to cover expenses such as travel, competition fees and race kit. With the support of donors, Emily will be able to represent South Africa with pride on the international stage.

Since the kiddos of KZN haven't had a holiday in a few weeks, Stacey and J Sbu tried to bring magic back into their lives. This Wednesday, Stacey and J Sbu asked the little ones of the province what they think is the most magical place in the world before asking where they'd like to go. We heard quite a few impressive answers, including Hawaii! One things for sure, these littles are smarter than we think. If you missed it live, tune in!