The Lunch Break

South African student, Matome Ramakgolo, chose India as his international study destination, where he has been engaging with the diverse international student community and blending in with the rich cultural heritage of the country.  He chats to Varshan Sookhun on The Lunch Break this afternoon about his experiences and shares some of his personal thoughts on "student mobility" with us. 

South Africa has recorded its lowest festive season road crashes and fatalities in five years.  Varshan Sookhun chats road safety with Lebogang Mashigo, Senior Programmes Manager at AWARE.org on The Lunch Break.

Peggie Mars joins Varshan Sookhun on The Lunch Break for an important discussion on scholar transport safety and some of the crucial rules and regulations pertaining to child road safety for children.

In celebration of the International Day of Education, this episode explores the power of youth in shaping the future of learning. Dr Belinda Huntley, a mathematics educator and member of the South African Mathematics Challenge Problem Committee, discusses the importance of learner voices, the role of mathematics in developing critical thinking skills, and how the South African Mathematics Challeng...

In this episode, we explore the powerful role of mentorship in driving sustainable entrepreneurship and job creation in South Africa. Joined by Mitchan Adams, Founder and CEO of Aions Ventures, the conversation unpacks why mentorship is just as critical as funding, how it helps prevent common entrepreneurial mistakes, and its impact on skills development, economic inclusion, and resilient business...

Veteran actor and broadcaster Mehboob Bawa joins us to reflect on his 30-year journey in South Africa’s entertainment industry. From radio and television to iconic film roles and his latest appearance in Die Kantoor , Mehboob shares insights on longevity, partnerships, and staying relevant in the media space.

The rise of Blue Health is changing how South Africans travel. In this Lifestyle conversation, Nicci Welgemoed, Sunsail’s Business and Development Manager for Africa and Asia, unpacks why water-based escapes, wellness-focused trips and meaningful group getaways are growing in popularity. From quieter holidays and multi-generational travel to emerging tourism trends for 2026, this episode exp...

As matric results are released, Dr Linda Meyer, Managing Director at Rosebank College, discusses what the outcomes mean for learners and highlights alternative pathways for students who may not meet their initial tertiary admission requirements. The conversation explores APS criteria, matric rewrites, gap years, and practical options to help students stay on track toward achieving their career goa...

South Africa’s King of Couture, Jacques Lagrange, joins  Varshan Sookhun on The Lunch Break to reflect on 30 years in fashion, a standout year of international recognition, and his vision for conscious luxury. He shares insights into his new heritage-inspired venture African Ritual, his belief that couture is a lifestyle, and offers a stylish fashion preview for 2026, from nostalgic pri...

We chat with Cape Town–based vocalist Fayyazi Mohamed Sayed about her musical journey, family roots in music, and over a decade of performing to enthusiastic audiences. She shares insights into live performances, her collaboration with Noor Leeman, the strong Bollywood music following in the Mother City, and what inspires her as an artist — including a special live moment on air.

A heartwarming community interview highlighting the work of Khanya Hospice in Umkomaas as it prepares for its annual fundraising fair at the DSB Grounds from 13–15 February. Hon. Mr Narend Singh shares personal memories of Umkomaas, insights into the hospice’s mission and reliance on community support, and details of the exciting activities planned, including the “Khanya’s...

South Africa’s commercial property sector is showing signs of recovery, with improved tenant payment behaviour and stabilising rental trends. Finance expert Waldo Marcus from TPN Credit Bureau breaks down what’s driving this shift, the challenges in the office market, how economic pressures are shaping strategies, and what the outlook looks like moving forward.

A heartfelt look back with broadcasting pioneer Amitha Anand, who was part of Lotus FM from its very first day. She recalls the golden era of radio, the station’s early milestones, influential figures, unforgettable birthday celebrations, and her emotional departure at the height of her career, celebrating Lotus FM’s heritage and legacy.

A reflective and nostalgic conversation with former Lotus FM presenter Ameeta Merhoye, who looks back on her radio journey, memorable Birthday celebrations, iconic celebrity encounters, and the powerful role Lotus FM played in shaping culture and community. She also shares inspiring advice for young people pursuing broadcasting and media careers.

South African jazz icon Dr Natalie Rungan joins forces with Ghanaian piano virtuoso Victor Dey Jr to create African Breyani — a bold, soulful jazz collaboration rooted deeply in African heritage. This feature explores music legacy, education, cultural exchange, and how African jazz continues to evolve across borders and generations. Podcasted for audiences at home and abroad.

The KZN South Coast property market is evolving, driven by semi-migration, growing demand for gated communities, and lifestyle-focused coastal living. Property developer Paul Tedder shares insights into investment potential, sustainability trends, affordability, and what buyers can expect as the market moves toward 2026.

With the festive season in full swing and thousands of South Africans hitting the roads, AWARE.org is urging the public to rethink drinking and driving through its powerful #Shiy’imoto campaign. The message is simple but life-saving: no celebration is worth risking a life. CEO of AWARE.org, Mokebe Thulo, joins Varshan Sookhun on  The Lunch Break to unpack the campaign, alarming road saf...

Varshan Sookhun chats to an attorney  Kelly Jade Reddy , who shares practical legal advice for the festive season. She discusses key risks to watch out for — including the rise in GBV, road safety issues, alcohol-related offences, accident reporting duties, and common holiday disputes. With millions of visitors expected in KZN, Kelly offers clear guidance on staying safe, informed, and...

2025 was a breakthrough year for South African women in sport. Strength and Conditioning Coach Ridhaa Allie joins us to reflect on Banyana Banyana’s achievements, the growth of gender equity in sport, and his own journey — from career-changing injuries to becoming a mentor and motivator for female athletes. He also shares insights on family, personal goals, and how listeners can prepar...

In this insightful lifestyle and business crossover conversation, we speak with Eshmael Mpabanga, Country Head & SVP at Intellect Design, on how the recent G20 Summit has spotlighted Africa’s growing influence in global governance and strengthened the powerful partnership between South Africa and India. From fintech innovation and digital public infrastructure to cloud-native banking and...

Varshan Sookhun sit down with respected medical aesthetic doctor and Skin Recode co-founder Dr Danielle Gounder to unpack the biggest skincare shifts of 2025 and what they mean for the year ahead. From personalised, science-backed treatments and skin-barrier repair to the rise of subtle, natural aesthetics, our guest shares expert insights into why authenticity is the new beauty standard. We...

Mike Saunders, CEO of Digitlab, TEDx speaker and globally recognised digital marketing expert, about the key findings from Digitlab’s third annual State of Digital Survey . He unpacks the growing performance gap between stats-driven businesses and those relying on instinct, and shares how organisations can use data, strategy and digital tools to plan smarter for 2026. From building confidenc...

In our second CSI OB interview, we speak with Winnie Mkhize, Manager of Cheshire Homes, about the organisation’s frontline role in community upliftment—especially during initiatives like the 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Child Abuse. Winnie highlights how Cheshire Homes supports victims, the importance of their Wish List for the Merewent Cheshire Home, and why service to t...

On today’s CSI Outside Broadcast, we welcome Raven Naidoo, Chairperson of Cheshire Homes, to shine a light on the remarkable legacy and ongoing work of the global Cheshire Homes network. From its international beginnings to its impactful partnership with APD, Raven shares insights into the organisation’s major projects, fundraising initiatives, and its continued role in promoting...

This Arts & Entertainment feature spotlights the festive stage production A Christmas Carol . Music director Des Govender joins us to share insights into her creative process, surprises audiences can expect in the musical score, and the importance of youth development through The Young Performers Project. With shows running from 5–21 December at The Playhouse in Durban, Des tells us why...