First National Bank (FNB) and WomenIN Festival 2025 Join Forces to Back Bold, Inclusive Growth for Women across South Africa

Source: APO

First National Bank (FNB) has announced its partnership with WomenIN Festival 2025 (www.WeAreWomenIn.com), as a lead empowerment partner for the iconic event that brings together women from all walks of life for a phenomenal anticipated two days of celebrating women with purpose.

Taking place on 13–14 November at Cape Town’s Newlands Cricket Ground, the Festival brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and community builders under the banner: “Limitless: No Labels, No Limits, No Apologies.” For FNB, the partnership isn’t just about presence—it’s about purpose. “As a financial institution, we’re intentional about supporting women in each and every role they play—business owners, leaders, caregivers, and changemakers,” says Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB. “Partnering with the WomenIN Festival 2025 allows us to show up in a way that’s visible, grounded, and future-focused.”

FNB’s decision to align with WomenIN stems from a shared belief – empowering women unlocks broader social and economic impact.

Both organisations are committed to building systems and  providing tools that enable women not just to participate—but to lead, grow, and thrive. “WomenIN is more than a festival. It’s a platform for transformation,” Sykes says. “It encapsulates and mirrors our values around access, equity, and building something bigger than ourselves.”

The collaboration includes a range of initiatives designed to create real, tangible value for women. These include financial wellness sessions focused on money management and wealth-building, dynamic leadership roundtables bringing together trailblazers from across sectors through FNB’s Nav Marketplace and the WomenIN platform.

FNB will also highlight real, authentic stories—like women-led businesses that have grown through its enterprise development programmes—putting a face to the kind of change and impact it wants to scale. The WomenIN 2025 Festival is one aspect of our broader vision: “We’re not just showing up for the two days. We want to create ongoing pathways for women to connect, lead, and build lasting financial independence,” says Sykes. “Our vision is long-term. It’s legacy-focused.”

According to Sykes, it’s a mix of reach, track record, and a deep commitment to being more than just a financial institution. “We’ve built platforms, resources, and support systems tailored specifically for women in business. We’re not new to this. This partnership just takes it further.”

Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj, founder of WomenIN, sees the collaboration as a catalyst. “This is bigger than an event or a campaign. It’s a movement, a call to action,” she says. “Together with FNB, we’re creating space for women to dream bigger, grow stronger, and connect in ways that have real impact—building not just confidence and soft skills, but also financial literacy and practical hard skills that empower women to succeed personally and professionally.”

Women entrepreneurs, professionals, and supporters can take part by attending WomenIN Festival 2025 and FNB-hosted sessions, joining FNB’s digital channels for ongoing educational programmes and initiatives tailored to Women in Business, designed to support growth at every stage.

Women across industries and life stages are encouraged to show up, speak out, and step into spaces built for real change.

“This is more than a partnership, it’s a movement. We invite every woman to step into her power, connect, and grow with us. We’re here to walk the journey with women, whether you’re building a business, leading a team, supporting your family and social circles or shaping your future. FNB is your partner in progress,”  emphasises Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB.

Join the Movement

The WomenIN Festival is more than an event—it’s a holistic movement for women who are ready to step into their power, speak truth to systems, and create a future defined by collaboration, sisterhood, and impact.

Download the Full Programme:
WiN Festival 2025 Programme (PDF) (https://apo-opa.co/3WJKJ9o)

Registration for the Festival:
Register Here (https://apo-opa.co/47s0ubl)

Partnership and Sponsorship for the Festival:
Submit Interest (https://apo-opa.co/4hIpEpo)

Purchase Tickets:
Buy Tickets (https://apo-opa.co/4hIzCXP)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For press & media enquiries or interviews please contact: 
Tishala Communications
Elize Engle 
pr1@tishalacommunications.com 
063 574 5249

About WomenIN (WiN):
WomenIN (WiN) (www.WeAreWomenIn.com) is a dynamic women’s empowerment portfolio within the VUKA Group, dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and uplifting women from all walks of life. WiN creates platforms for connection, collaboration, and capacity-building across sectors including mining, mobility, energy, gaming, green economy, customer experience, and more. Through in-person events, masterclasses, wellness activations, and networking initiatives, WiN fosters leadership, amplifies voices, and drives lasting impact.
For more information, visit www.WeAreWomenIn.com

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group
brings people and organisations together to connect through platforms that drive growth and transformation across Africa’s industries. With over 20 years of experience on the continent, VUKA delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Mobility, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

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Opening address by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the International Women’s Forum Global Cornerstone Conference, Cape Town International Convention Centre

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director;
President of the International Women’s Forum, Ms Kimberly Cooper;
Global CEO of the IWF, Ms Stephanie O’Keefe;
President of IWF South Africa, Ms Nolitha Fakude;
IWF Global Board member, Ms Irene Charnley;
Secretary-General of UNCTAD, Ms Rebeca Grynspan;
Distinguished delegates;
Guests;
Ladies and gentlemen.

Good morning and welcome to Cape Town. 

It is an honour to open this Conference, which celebrates women’s leadership and which advances empowerment and equality.

This Conference invokes the concept and the practice of Ubuntu: “I am because we are.” 

This is a call to recognise our shared humanity, our interdependence and the collective power of women in shaping society. 

South Africa is honoured to host this gathering of thought leaders, innovators and change-makers who are shaping the contours of our global future. 

Your presence here signals a shared determination to confront entrenched inequalities, to champion inclusive growth and to create pathways that empower women everywhere. 

The work of the International Women’s Forum echoes the principles underpinning South Africa’s G20 Presidency – Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.

Just two days ago, we launched the first-ever G20 Report on Global Inequality.

The report was produced by an Extraordinary Committee led by Nobel Laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz.

The report sounds an alarm about the “inequality emergency” the world is facing today. 

The report shows that between 2000 and 2024, one percent of the world’s population captured 41 percent of all new wealth, while just 1 percent of new wealth went to the poorest half of humanity. 

It found that in more economically unequal societies, fewer women complete higher education or are represented in the legislature, and the pay gap between women and men is wider.

These are significant barriers to women’s advancement and development.

This Conference comes just days after ministers from G20 countries responsible for women’s empowerment convened in the province of Gauteng. 

The ministers’ meeting placed women’s empowerment at the centre of the G20 agenda, focusing on advancing the care economy, expanding women’s financial inclusion and eliminating gender-based violence and femicide. 

The recognition, reduction and redistribution of unpaid care and domestic work is essential to addressing structural barriers to women’s empowerment. 

Expanding women’s access to finance, digital tools and entrepreneurship opportunities must take place alongside efforts to end gender-based violence and femicide. 

Together, these initiatives reflect a shared commitment to a world where women can realise their full potential. 

In this effort, we are inspired by the many women who, against extraordinary odds, have transformed adversity into opportunity. 

Women who, despite systemic discrimination, have pioneered businesses, led communities and developed innovative solutions that have improved the lives of millions. 

These are the women who have raised families while pursuing education, who have crossed cultural and structural barriers to lead in fields where they were once invisible. 

These stories of resilience remind us that progress is not just about policy. It is about courage, creativity and persistence. 

The International Women’s Forum exemplifies this message. 

With over 8,400 members throughout the world, representing business, government, academia and civil society, the IWF community demonstrates the power of collective leadership and ethical, progressive influence. 

This conference is a platform to examine how women in leadership can not only respond to today’s challenges but anticipate the opportunities of tomorrow. 

The sessions at this conference bring global perspectives from women leading large institutions and shaping entire communities. 

These discussions are especially timely in a world of shifting geopolitics, where multilateralism is tested and new forms of cooperation are urgently needed. 

There is a resurgence of resistance to the gains made on human rights and gender equality. There is a danger that the advancements made with respect to women’s empowerment, women’s rights and gender equality may be unravelled. 

My call to everyone here today is: let us work together to ensure there is no backsliding on the progress we have achieved so far. Let us move forward with greater purpose and determination.

As we proceed, we must continue to be guided by the spirit of Ubuntu. 

We must recognise that our progress is intertwined. That when women rise, societies rise with them. 

When women prosper, the whole community benefits. 

When girls are educated, the economy flourishes. 

Today, we celebrate not only the leaders in this room but also the millions of women worldwide who, through courage, and ingenuity, are transforming their communities and breaking down barriers for the next generation. 

This is our moment to reflect, to strategise and to act. 

The outcomes of this conference must extend beyond these walls, influencing policy, transforming institutions, and ultimately, creating a more equitable and just world. 

I thank you.

South Africa and Lesotho to launch joint time release study report

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

The Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, will today join the Revenue Service Lesotho for the launch of Joint end-to-end Time Release Study report between Lesotho and South Africa.

“The launch ceremony marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, supported by World Customs Organisation Trade Facilitation Programme, a first joint end-to-end Time Release Study between South Africa and Lesotho,” the Border Management Authority said in a statement.

The ceremony reflects the two countries’ commitment to the World Trade Organisation Trade Facilitation Agreement and to drive data-led border management reforms in the Southern African Customs Union region.

The Time Release Study is a tool and platform to reflect developments in the trade environment and on opportunities for Customs Administration and Other Government Agencies to improve cross-border processes and procedures. 

It serves as a key analytical tool designed by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to measure the time required to release and clear goods or cargo from the time of arrival at a port until they are released. – SAnews.gov.za

Two suspects in AKA murder case to be extradited to South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

Two men accused of the murder of South African musician, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend, Tebello “TIBZ” Motsoane, are expected to be extradited to South Africa on 11 November 2025.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi has received the extradition order from the Kingdom of Eswatini where double murder accused Siyabonga Gezani Ndimande and Malusi Dave Ndimande are being held.

The brothers, who were arrested in Mbabane, have reportedly abandoned their appeal of the extradition.

“Consequently, the Acting Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini has granted the extradition order.

“The Department has received confirmation that the pair will be brought back to South Africa on 11 November 2025 to stand trial on charges that include murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition,” the department said.

The brothers are accused of killing Forbes and Motsoane in a brazen attack outside a Durban restaurant in February 2023.

“All logistical arrangements regarding their handover and collection will be coordinated by the South African Police Service through established diplomatic and law enforcement channels,” the department said. 

SAPS received a surrender order 

Meanwhile, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has reported that the Interpol South Africa and Interpol Eswatini are in talks to arrange the handing over of the brothers to the South African authorities.

The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola confirmed that the department is finalising logistical arrangements to execute the order on Tuesday, 11 November 2025. 

Masemola commended the Eswatini authorities for their cooperation and assistance in apprehending the pair and ultimately ensuring that they are brought back to the country to answer to crimes committed. 

“The SAPS remains confident that it has a water-tight case against the pair, who face 24 charges relating to three cases. These include conspiracy to commit murder, murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of automatic firearms and ammunition, amongst a host of other charges,” the SAPS said in a statement. 

The brothers were arrested in early 2024 at a rented house in Mbabane, Eswatini, following months of coordinated work between SAPS and Interpol.

Forbes and Motsoane were gunned down while outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban on 10 February 2023. Five suspects were arrested in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Suspected SA mercenaries in Ukraine call for government help

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the recruitment of 17 young men into suspected mercenary activities in the war-torn region of Donbas in the Ukraine.

This according to a statement released by the Presidency on Thursday morning.

“The government of South Africa has received distress calls for assistance to return home, from 17 South African men, between the ages of 20 – 39 years, who are trapped in the war-torn Donbas, Ukraine. 

“The seventeen, 16 of whom come from KwaZulu-Natal and one from the Eastern Cape, were lured to join mercenary forces involved in the Ukraine-Russia war under the pretext of lucrative employment contracts,” the statement read.

South Africa’s Foreign Military Assistance Act of 1998 prohibits South African citizens and entities from offering or providing “military assistance to foreign governments or participate in armies of foreign governments unless authorised by the South African government”.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the recruitment of these young men into these seemingly mercenary activities. The South African government is working through diplomatic channels to secure the return of these young men following their calls for assistance to return home.

“President Ramaphosa and the South African government strongly condemn the exploitation of young vulnerable people by individuals working with foreign military entities,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

New mobile app puts laboratory user handbook at clinicians’ fingertips

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

In a significant advancement for digital transformation in public health, the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) has launched a unique mobile application for its laboratory user handbook.

Now available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, this app provides clinicians and healthcare practitioners with immediate access to essential laboratory information from any location and at any time.

The NHLS believes that this development enhances diagnostic support and improves service delivery across South Africa.

The NHLS Laboratory User Handbook app is a comprehensive, user-friendly digital guide to laboratory tests, procedures, and diagnostic protocols.

Developed specifically for clinicians and healthcare practitioners, the NHLS stated that the app enhances access to crucial information, aids in accurate and timely clinical decision-making, and improves healthcare service delivery in both public and private sectors.

“By putting essential laboratory guidance directly into the hands of healthcare professionals, the app reinforces NHLS’ commitment to innovation, quality, and improved patient care nationwide.”

The app is available for free download, and users can find the “NHLS Laboratory User Handbook” by searching for it on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

“This forms part of the NHLS’ broader digital transformation agenda aimed at improving access to information, enhancing laboratory efficiency, and supporting clinicians with real-time tools that make a difference at the point of care.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Youth Charter Launches “Youth 4 Africa” Framework

Source: APO – Report:

The Youth Charter (YC) (www.YouthCharter.org) today announced the Africa-focused expansion of its acclaimed Youth 4 Africa Framework, calling for a new era of holistic, integrated and cross-sector youth development across the continent. Building on over 30 years of global experience in Sport for Development and Peace (SDP), the Youth Charter is urging African governments, CAF member associations, Pan-African institutions, NGOs, the private sector, and international development agencies to align sport, education, health, employment and peacebuilding into a unified strategy for delivering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

This announcement comes as African partners accelerate youth-focused initiatives across the continent, including the Tibu Africa–IOM Morocco Africa Cup of Living Together and the CAF x Afreximbank Schools Football Programme, both of which demonstrate the growing commitment to using sport as a driver of human development, opportunity and social cohesion.

Sport as a Catalyst for African Youth Empowerment

According to Geoff Thompson, Youth Charter Founder & Executive Chair:

“Africa’s youth are the greatest asset the continent possesses. But to unlock their potential, we must move beyond isolated projects and adopt an integrated, holistic model of community transformation. Sport—linked with education, employability, health and peace—is a powerful engine for hope, aspiration and opportunity.”

The Youth 4 Africa approach builds on the Youth Charter’s Community Campus Model, an ecosystem that integrates:

  • Sport & Physical Activity
  • Education & Digital Skills
  • Health, Wellbeing & Life Skills
  • Arts, Culture & Creative Expression
  • Training, Employment & Enterprise Pathways
  • Peacebuilding, Citizenship & Social Cohesion

A Continental Shift: Evidence from Morocco & the CAF Ecosystem

The Youth Charter highlights recent African initiatives as evidence of an emerging continental movement:

1. Tibu Africa & IOM Morocco – Africa Cup of Living Together

A model of sport as social inclusion, engaging migrant and Moroccan youth with education, leadership, and employability pathways—advancing SDGs on quality education, reduced inequalities, sustainable communities and peace.

2. CAF x Afreximbank Schools Football Development

A landmark partnership positioning football as a workforce pipeline for African youth, connecting early-age sport participation to career pathways across coaching, administration, media, events, technology and sport entrepreneurship.

These initiatives demonstrate how sport, when embedded within national strategies, can strengthen Africa’s human capital, reduce inequality and support peaceful, cohesive societies.

Call to African Institutions and International Partners

The Youth Charter is calling for:

  • African Union (AU) bodies to integrate holistic sport-for-development frameworks into Agenda 2063 implementation.
  • CAF, Member Associations and Ministries of Sport/Education to expand community-based sport ecosystems linked with learning and employment.
  • Afreximbank, African Development Bank (AfDB) and private sector partners to invest in sport-driven youth development and community infrastructure.
  • International agencies (UNDP, UNICEF, IOM, UNESCO) to embed sport and culture within youth, migration, peacebuilding and resilience programmes.

“Sport is Africa’s universal language,” Thompson added. “If we integrate it with education, skills and opportunity, we can empower millions of young Africans to become tomorrow’s leaders, entrepreneurs and peacebuilders.”

– on behalf of Youth Charter.

Media Contact:
Youth Charter International Secretariat
Email: info@youthcharter.org
Website: www.YouthCharter.org
Phone: +44 (0)161 223 2440

Youth Charter @ Social Media:
LinkedIn: @ YouthCharter
Facebook: @ YouthCharter
Instagram: @ youthchartersdp
YouTube: @ YouthCharter
X: @ YOUTHCHARTER

Youth Charter #Hashtags:
#International Olympic Committee 
#Olympism
#Fight4theStreets
#YoungLivesLost
#Call2Action 
#LegacyOpportunity4All
#SportDevelopmentPeace
#Empowerthenextgeneration
#CommonwealthSecretariat
#UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals

About Youth Charter:
The Youth Charter is a UK registered charity and UN accredited non-governmental organisation. Launched in 1993 as part of the Manchester 2000 Olympic Bid and the 2002 Commonwealth Games, the Youth Charter has Campaigned and Promoted the role and value of sport, art, culture and digital technology in the lives of disaffected young people from disadvantaged communities nationally and internationally. The Youth Charter has a proven track record in the creation and delivery of social and human development programmes with the overall aim of providing young people with an opportunity to develop in life.

Specifically, The Youth Charter Tackles educational non-attainment, health inequality, anti-social behaviour and the negative effects of crime, drugs, gang related activity and racism by applying the ethics of sporting and artistic excellence. These can then be translated to provide social and economic benefits of citizenship, rights responsibilities, with improved education, health, social order, environment and college, university, employment and enterprise.

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Canon launches versatile EOS R6 Mark III and innovative RF 45mm F1.2 STM lens, expanding creative possibilities for visual storytellers

Source: APO – Report:

Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) unveils an exciting dual release: the powerful EOS R6 Mark III and innovative RF 45mm F1.2 STM prime lens – both designed for storytellers looking to elevate their creativity.

The EOS R6 Mark III is a powerful stills camera with advanced filmmaking features, offering exceptional quality and control for photographers covering a range of subjects from sports and wildlife to weddings and portraits. Positioned above the EOS R6 Mark II, the EOS R6 Mark III offers significant upgrades in resolution, tracking, and connectivity offering additional choice alongside the existing EOS R5 and EOS R6 models.

Joining the lineup is the innovative RF 45mm F1.2 STM, Canon’s lightest f/1.2 RF lens at just 346g. This lens stands out in its category – it is ultra-fast, features smooth autofocus and delivers performance without a professional-level price tag. The lens introduces Canon’s widest aperture to the enthusiast range for the first time, offering excellent low-light performance and greater creativity. The RF 45mm F1.2 STM is a game-changer for photographers seeking depth of field control and outstanding creative results.

EOS R6 Mark III: Quality meets performance

The EOS R6 Mark III delivers an exceptional balance of resolution, speed and reliability – making it a versatile tool for a wide range of photography styles. Featuring a newly developed 32.5 megapixel full frame sensor and 40fps continuous shooting [1], it captures more detail than the EOS R6 Mark II while maintaining impressive speed. With an expanded buffer capable of handling up to 150 RAW images in a single burst (when using CFexpress cards), intelligent autofocus tracking, and robust filmmaking features, the EOS R6 Mark III is built for action. Its customisable controls and weather-resistant body [2] make it a resilient and adaptable camera that fits seamlessly into any creative workflow – from sports and wildlife to events, landscapes and portraits.

The EOS R6 Mark III excels in low light [3], offering an ISO range up to 64,000 for clean, detailed images even in challenging conditions. In-camera crop modes effectively extend reach – perfect for wildlife and sports – while up to 8.5 stops [4] of combined image stabilisation keep handheld shots sharp and steady.

This camera also demands less storage than the EOS R5 line, offering a well-balanced trade-off between file size and performance. It supports faster workflows, eases storage requirements and still delivers the image quality that users expect.

Never miss a moment

The EOS R6 Mark III is a reliable companion for high-pressure occasions like sporting events, weddings, and red carpets, with several new and improved features over its predecessors. Improved tracking algorithms lock onto moving subjects – including trains, airplanes, and horses – with greater ease, while the Register People Priority function allows users to pre-select 10 faces for priority tracking. For even more peace of mind, pre-continuous shooting records 20 frames in H+ mode before the shutter is pressed, in full RAW, JPEG, or HEIF.

Discover your inner filmmaker

For photographers expanding into video, the EOS R6 Mark III offers a seamless and confident entry into the world of filmmaking. It captures stunning 7K RAW Light footage up to 60p, delivers beautifully detailed oversampled 4K 60p with cinematic motion and supports 4K 120p for even slower, more dramatic results. Full HD 180fps recording is also available for creative slow-motion effects.

Content can easily be repurposed across platforms with Open Gate, a capability that captures the entire sensor’s output to enable more flexibility in framing, stabilisation, and post-processing. It also supports pro-level tools like waveform monitor, proxies, metadata tagging, full-size HDMI, and 4-channel audio.

Built for a smoother workflow

The EOS R6 Mark III introduces a range of new and improved features that also support a smarter, faster workflow. Dual aspect markers frame for multiple platforms in one shot, while a redesigned control tab offers a customised shooting experience. For better organisation and security, dual card slots support the fast and high-capacity CFexpress Type B and the widely used UHS-II SD. Quick and secure file transfers are also guaranteed thanks to built-in wireless connectivity, with support for the latest 5 GHz Wi-Fi [5] and Bluetooth 5.1.

Key features of EOS R6 Mark III:

  • 32.5 megapixel resolution
  • 40fps [1] electronic shutter
  • Up to 8.5-stop IS [4]
  • Wi-Fi [5] and Bluetooth
  • CFexpress and UHS-II SD card slots
  • Up to 7K RAW video
  • Open Gate

RF 45mm F1.2 STM: Fast aperture, high impact

The RF 45mm F1.2 STM marks several firsts, introducing Canon’s first f/1.2 aperture non-professional RF lens, weighing under 350g and offering autofocus at an accessible price point. Positioned within the enthusiast RF lens range, it is designed to inspire creative experimentation with beautifully shallow depth of field and expressive low-light imagery. Until now, the super-fast f/1.2 aperture was exclusive to lenses costing much more, with users now able to explore cinematic storytelling, lifestyle shoots and portraits with stunning clarity and mood. Canon’s STM AF technology ensures subjects stay sharp, allowing photographers to focus on their vision. 

Designed for everyday versatility

The RF 45mm F1.2 STM is highly versatile with a constant length with separate focus and control rings making it a strong choice for hybrid storytellers. The RF 45mm F1.2 STM also has a convenient 67mm filter size and a minimum focusing distance of 45cm, giving creatives the freedom to fine-tune their results. This new lens also features a durable metal mount, 9-blade aperture, and compatibility with Canon’s focus breathing correction technology, all working together to deliver lasting performance and stunning results.

Key features of RF 45mm F1.2 STM

  • Lightweight at 346g
  • 45mm standard focal length
  • Super-fast f/1.2 aperture
  • STM autofocus motor
  • Dedicated control ring
  • 9-blade aperture
  • Super Spectra coating
  • Focus breathing correction compatibility

More power. More creativity.

Launched side by side, these two products expand Canon’s growing EOS R System of high-performance creative tools. The EOS R6 Mark III bridges the gap between the EOS R5 Mark II and EOS R6 Mark II for storytellers that need both resolution and speed, while the RF 45mm F1.2 STM sets a new benchmark for fast-aperture lenses. Together, these launches continue Canon’s mission to empower photographers with tools that are designed to elevate creativity at every level. 


[1] Up to 40 fps continuous shooting with electronic shutter. Speed may vary depending on subject, shooting conditions, or battery level.

[2] Dust and water resistance requires all covers (card/battery, terminal, shoe cover, etc.) to be securely closed. While designed for durability, the camera is not fully impervious to dust or water droplets.

[3] Low-light autofocus down to –6.5 EV is achievable during still photo shooting, with an f/1.2 lens, Centre AF point, One-Shot AF, at 23°C/73°F, ISO100. Excluding RF lenses with Defocus Smoothing coating.

[4] Up to 8.5-stops of stabilisation based on CIPA standard using the Electronic Shutter. Performance may vary depending on lens used and shooting conditions.

[5] Wi-Fi use may be restricted in certain countries or regions.

– on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/4hLqsdi) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

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NiCE & iNOVO Named Lead Sponsor for CEM Africa Johannesburg and The Customer Experience (CX) Africa Awards 2025

Source: APO – Report:

CEM Africa today announces that NiCE, in partnership with iNOVO, has been appointed Lead Sponsor for the CEM Africa Johannesburg Edition, and the 2025 Customer Experience Africa Awards (CXAs), both of which will take place on Thursday, 20 November 2025 at the NH Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg.

NiCE’s leadership in AI‑driven customer experience, coupled with iNOVO’s deep contact centre expertise, will power a high‑impact programme in Johannesburg designed to convert CX ambition into measurable business outcomes across South Africa’s economic hub.

A day built for ROI: practical AI, measurable outcomes

Anchored in CEM Africa’s commitment to create enterprise value from CX, the Johannesburg agenda features:

  • NiCE: AI Vision to Reality – The Why (09:00–10:00): A strategic session exploring the real business value of AI in customer experience, guided by NiCE and iNOVO CX/AI specialists.
  • NiCE: AI Vision to Reality – The How (12:00–13:00): A practical workshop showing how to translate AI strategy into scalable execution with the right tools, workflows and delivery approach, guided by NiCE and iNOVO CX/AI specialists.

“We absolutely love attending CEM Africa and are proud to be the Lead Sponsor for the Johannesburg edition. CEM is such a brilliant place to connect with like-minded people who are thinking differently about how the market works. The level of engagement and the insights you gain from these conversations are incredible, and the team behind CEM always does a fantastic job bringing it all together.” – Keith Jackson, VP Partner Sales, NiCE International

Speakers from NiCE and iNOVO

Delegates will hear from a strong combined bench, including:

  • Keith Jackson, VP Partner Sales, NiCE International
  • Andre van Eeden, Portfolio Solution Engineer, NiCE
  • Kerri Prissman, Head of Client Value Management, iNOVO;
  • Parusha Naidoo, Head of Business Solutions, iNOVO
  • Michael Ludeke, Regional Head: Business Development, iNOVO.

A day of high impact learning and connecting

The complete programme for the day spans a diverse set of workshops that will give attendees practical insights on measuring CX ROI, driving human‑centric digital transformation, and prioritising employee engagement.

Sessions explore keeping CX human in the age of AI, turning strategy into action with executive buy‑in, and leveraging smarter knowledge for better CX.

Featured contributors include Greg Jarvis (Connect SA), Tatiana Ndlovu (Nedbank Africa Regions), Palesa Nhlapo (FNB South Africa), Khwathelani Tshikovhi (Santam Insurance), and Grace Brown (JSE), to name just a few of the incredible CX leaders who will be sharing their insights in Johannesburg.

“CEM Africa has always been about more than great content, it is about cultivating a strong community of CX leaders who collaborate to raise the bar across the continent. Our partnership with NiCE reflects that spirit of collaboration, uniting innovation and expertise to drive measurable impact and elevate customer experience standards across Africa.” commented Terry Southam, Co-founder of CEM Africa

Event details – CEM Africa Johannesburg Edition

  • Date: Thursday, 20 November 2025
  • Venue: NH Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg
  • Format: One‑day roadshow with expert‑led workshops, networking, and the CXA Awards evening

Why attend

  • Turn AI vision into operational reality with proven methods and live demonstrations.
  • Benchmark CX ROI metrics and secure executive buy‑in with practical frameworks.
  • Build peer connections across banking, retail, healthcare, and telecoms.

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

Registration and media enquiries:
Delegate and sponsorship enquiries: Here (https://apo-opa.co/3Ligu79)

Media contact: 
steven.dennett@wearevuka.com

About CEM Africa:
CEM Africa is a brand built on the power of customer experience to drive meaningful change. Through market news, expert knowledge, and a series of digital offerings and in-person events across the continent, we bring together innovation, collaboration, and action to shape the future of CX. Guided by our commitment to “Excellence in Every Experience,” we are dedicated to advancing customer engagement and empowering organisations to deliver exceptional value to their customers.

CEM Johannesburg Edition Website – https://apo-opa.co/4hLfcO5
CEM Flagship edition website – https://apo-opa.co/47BrchP

About the CXAs:
The Customer Experience Africa Awards is an evening that recognises people, innovation, and transformation across the continent’s CX community – from CX Leader of the Year to Best Use of AI, Best Enterprise Contact Centre Platform, and Best Customer Experience Team. The awards are proudly aligned with the CEM Africa Johannesburg Edition 2025.

CXA website – https://apo-opa.co/4hQBUo8

Media files

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Le Youth Charter lance le cadre “Youth 4 Africa”

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Youth Charter (YC) (www.YouthCharter.org) annonce aujourd’hui l’expansion panafricaine de son cadre stratégique Youth 4 Africa, appelant à une nouvelle ère de développement intégré, holistique et transversal de la jeunesse sur tout le continent. Fort de plus de 30 ans d’expérience mondiale dans le domaine du Sport pour le Développement et la Paix (SDP), le Youth Charter invite les gouvernements africains, les associations membres de la CAF, les institutions panafricaines, les ONG, le secteur privé et les agences internationales de développement à aligner le sport, l’éducation, la santé, l’emploi et la consolidation de la paix dans une stratégie unifiée pour atteindre les Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD) d’ici 2030.

Cette annonce intervient alors que de nouveaux projets centrés sur la jeunesse prennent de l’ampleur à travers l’Afrique, notamment la Coupe d’Afrique du Vivre-Ensemble de Tibu Africa et de l’OIM au Maroc, ainsi que le programme scolaire de football CAF x Afreximbank, qui démontrent l’engagement croissant envers le sport comme moteur de développement humain, d’opportunités et de cohésion sociale

Le sport comme catalyseur de l’autonomisation des jeunes en Afrique

Selon Geoff Thompson, fondateur et président exécutif du Youth Charter :

« La jeunesse africaine est la plus grande richesse du continent. Mais pour libérer tout son potentiel, nous devons dépasser les interventions fragmentées et adopter un modèle intégré et holistique de transformation communautaire. Associé à l’éducation, à l’employabilité, à la santé et à la paix, le sport devient un moteur puissant d’espoir, d’ambition et d’opportunité. »

L’approche Youth 4 Africa repose sur le Community Campus Model du Youth Charter, un écosystème intégré comprenant :

  • Sport et activité physique
  • Éducation, compétences numériques et apprentissage
  • Santé, bien-être et compétences de vie
  • Arts, culture et expression créative
  • Formation, emploi et entreprenariat
  • Citoyenneté, cohésion sociale et consolidation de la paix

Un mouvement continental : les preuves du Maroc et du système CAF

Le Youth Charter met en avant des initiatives récentes comme preuves d’un mouvement continental émergent :

1. Tibu Africa & OIM Maroc – Coupe d’Afrique du Vivre-Ensemble

Un modèle de sport comme inclusion sociale, réunissant jeunes migrants et jeunes Marocains autour d’activités éducatives, de leadership et d’employabilité — contribuant directement aux ODD pour l’éducation de qualité, la réduction des inégalités, les communautés durables et la paix.

2. CAF x Afreximbank – Développement du football scolaire

Un partenariat stratégique qui positionne le football comme un levier de développement économique et professionnel, ouvrant des carrières dans l’entraînement, l’administration, les médias, l’événementiel, la technologie et l’entreprenariat sportif.

Ces initiatives démontrent que lorsqu’il est intégré aux politiques publiques, le sport peut renforcer le capital humain, réduire les inégalités et soutenir des sociétés pacifiques et résilientes.

Appel aux institutions africaines et partenaires internationaux

Le Youth Charter appelle :

  • Les organes de l’Union Africaine (UA) à intégrer des modèles holistiques de sport pour le développement dans la mise en œuvre de l’Agenda 2063.
  • La CAF, les associations membres et les ministères du Sport/Éducation à étendre des écosystèmes sportifs communautaires liés à l’apprentissage et à l’emploi.
  • Afreximbank, la Banque Africaine de Développement (BAD) et le secteur privé à investir dans des infrastructures communautaires et des programmes de jeunesse basés sur le sport.
  • Les agences internationales (PNUD, UNICEF, OIM, UNESCO) à intégrer le sport et la culture dans leurs programmes jeunesse, migration, paix et résilience.

« Le sport est la langue universelle de l’Afrique », ajoute Thompson. « Associé à l’éducation, aux compétences et aux opportunités, il peut permettre à des millions de jeunes Africains de devenir les leaders, innovateurs et artisans de paix de demain. »

Distribué par APO Group pour Youth Charter.

Contact Presse :
Secrétariat International du Youth Charter
Email : info@youthcharter.org
Site : www.YouthCharter.org
Téléphone : +44 (0)161 223 2440

Charte de la Jeunesse @ Réseaux sociaux :
LinkedIn : @ YouthCharter
Facebook : @ YouthCharter
Instagram : @ youthchartersdp
YouTube : @ YouthCharter
X : @ YOUTHCHARTER

#Hashtags de la Charte de la Jeunesse :
#Comité International Olympique
#Olympisme
#CombattreLaRue
#JeunesViesPerdues
#AppelÀL’Action
#HéritageOpportunitéPourTous
#SportDéveloppementPaix
#AutonomiserLaProchaineGénération
#SecrétariatDuCommonwealth
#ObjectifsDeDéveloppementDurableDeL’ONU

À propos de la Charte de la Jeunesse :
La Charte de la Jeunesse est une organisation caritative enregistrée au Royaume-Uni et une organisation non gouvernementale accréditée auprès des Nations Unies. Lancée en 1993 dans le cadre de la candidature olympique de Manchester 2000 et des Jeux du Commonwealth de 2002, la Charte de la Jeunesse a milité et promu le rôle et la valeur du sport, de l’art, de la culture et des technologies numériques dans la vie des jeunes en difficulté issus de communautés défavorisées, aux niveaux national et international. La Charte de la Jeunesse a fait ses preuves dans la création et la mise en œuvre de programmes de développement social et humain, dont l’objectif général est d’offrir aux jeunes la possibilité de s’épanouir.

Plus précisément, la Charte de la Jeunesse s’attaque à l’échec scolaire, aux inégalités en matière de santé, aux comportements antisociaux et aux effets négatifs de la criminalité, de la drogue, des gangs et du racisme, en appliquant l’éthique de l’excellence sportive et artistique. Ces éléments peuvent ensuite se traduire par des avantages sociaux et économiques en matière de citoyenneté, de droits et de responsabilités, avec une amélioration de l’éducation, de la santé, de l’ordre social, de l’environnement, de l’enseignement supérieur, de l’emploi et de l’entrepreneuriat.

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