A few proud moments

Author

Stellen-Buzz with SMF
August 08, 2025

Dear reader,

Something very exciting (and scandalous) has happened in the world of journalism, and the BAHons Journalism class of 2025 might have a front row seat to see how it unfolds.

A video released by Daily Maverick on Wednesday shows Tebogo Malaka, the Independent Development Trust’s (IDT) recently-suspended CEO, and spokesperson Phasha Makgolane attempting to bribe a journalist into dropping an ongoing investigation. The IDT has been a topic of investigation for Daily Maverick since 2024, when they reported on the R836-million oxygen plants scandal. 

The journalist in the video is none other than Pieter-Louis Myburgh, who doubles as our investigative journalism lecturer. We have been hearing stories of sketchy deals and attempted bribes this whole year, from a number of notable figures. But to see our very own lecturer calmly turn away a massive wad of cash (R60 000!) is, for lack of a better word, crazy. According to the article released with the video, this is “possibly the most brazen act of attempted bribery ever recorded on camera in this country”. In two weeks, when we have an investigative journalism class, it might feel a bit like being lectured by a celebrity. I am very much looking forward to the firsthand account of how this all transpired.

In other news, on Thursday, we officially got to watch a month of hard work come to fruition. The documentaries that we have been working on were screened in the Neelsie Cinema. While many of us were too nervous to fully appreciate the free popcorn, I have to extend a huge congratulations to my whole class. The first three weeks of the semester presented a challenge that felt impossible at times, but the 10-minute films showcased a special care for the stories that we were trying to tell. I am continuously impressed by what the class is capable of. For a sneak peek into the films that were presented, see the posters below:

However, this momentary break from the newsroom was, indeed, momentary. We are entering into another newsweek, so any academic pressure currently felt will be escalating. It feels a tad bit unfair after the week we just went through. Adobe’s behaviour was yet again, and as always, extremely troublesome. The meaning of time-sensitive was intensely debated. Many tears were shed. 

Still, the pursuit of great journalism continues. Articles upon articles will soon be arriving in your inbox.

Anke Spies, newsletter editor.

The weekly rundown:

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Stellenbosch University (SU) has confirmed that Chris Sheffers, the student who passed away on 2 August, died of meningococcal meningitis.

By Nadia Swart

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By Reid Donson

A South African army unit recently donated 100 pairs of school shoes to a local special needs school. This is according to Anthea Williams, principal of Dorothea Special School in Cloetesville.

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Stellenbosch Municipality recently hosted an event in Kayamandi that allowed residents to exchange recyclable waste for essential household goods and other useful items. 

By Hlomla Mdala

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By Jared Moorgas

Stellenbosch University’s women’s basketball team recently beat the University of the Western Cape (UWC) 55-45 in the season opener. 

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Visual of the week:

Seeds of change

A group of 20 Stellenbosch University (SU) student and staff volunteers joined the SU facilities management environmental sustainability team in planting ten indigenous trees in celebration of World Nature Conservation Day on 28 July, according to Christine Groenewald, SU facilities management environmental sustainability engagement coordinator. The team maintains the importance of collaborating with SU students and staff in their projects, said Groenewald.

By Lienke Norval

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Get to know me!

  1. What is your favourite song and who is your favourite artist?

    Currently, my favorite song is Way That I’m Going by Vance Joy.

    And, ugh, it’s embarrassing, but I’m a big Swiftie!

  2. What is your favourite film?

    The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. (Mouthful but sooooo good.)

  3. What is your favourite book, and what are you currently reading?

    My favorite book is Kringe in die Bos, and I’m currently reading A Count in Moscow.

  4. What is your favourite place you’ve ever visited and why?

    The Scottish Highlands. I can’t describe the feeling, but that water and green mountains are magic.

  5. If you could meet anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

    Charlie Mackesy. He seems like a really nice guy who just gets it. And he likes tea.

  6. If you weren’t studying journalism, what would you be doing?

    It’s something different every week. But after filming a documentary for a week in the drama department, I’m considering a career in acting.

  7. What is something most people don’t know about you?

    That I really like ducks. Like, a lot. Like, there is a big duck on my bed.

  8. What is your current guilty pleasure?

    Baking chocolate chip cookies, and then eating the dough.

  9. What do you do if you’re not busy working?

    I love spending time with my friends and going on mini adventures.

  10. What do you want to achieve this year?

    This question always freaks me out. It feels so new year’s resolution-y. But I’m all about people so probably to have a FULL dinner table whenever I can.

What we’re watching:

What we’re listening to:

Wild Horses

The Rolling Stones

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