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	<title>Culture Archives - Alt News Network</title>
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	<description>Where Truth Finds the Headlines</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:06:04 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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	<title>Culture Archives - Alt News Network</title>
	<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/category/highlights/culture/</link>
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	<item>
		<title>Liberty Midlands Mall Announces ARTopia 2026 Winners</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-announces-artopia-2026-winners/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:06:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events & Experiences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARTopia 2026]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberty Midlands Mall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ocean Odyssey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pietermaritzburg Art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Young Artists]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=15963</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Twenty-three schools contributed 652 artworks to Liberty Midlands Mall’s Ocean Odyssey exhibition. Pietermaritzburg, 11 August...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-announces-artopia-2026-winners/">Liberty Midlands Mall Announces ARTopia 2026 Winners</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Twenty-three schools contributed 652 artworks to Liberty Midlands Mall’s Ocean Odyssey exhibition.</em></h2>
<p><strong>Pietermaritzburg, 11 August 2026: </strong>Liberty Midlands Mall’s <strong>ARTopia 2026</strong>, themed “Ocean Odyssey”, has drawn to a close following a vibrant celebration of creativity and young artistic talent. The record-breaking exhibition brought together 23 schools from Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands, with learners from Grades 1 to 7 contributing an impressive 652 artworks, making this the biggest ARTopia campaign to date.</p>
<p>Throughout the exhibition, the mall’s Centre Court was transformed into a vibrant gallery of underwater imagination. From colourful coral reefs and marine life to mythical sea creatures, hidden treasures and ocean adventures, the 652 artworks demonstrated the remarkable creativity and individuality of the region’s young artists.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="595955" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #595955;" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15964 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-1-winner_Springhaven-Primary.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026 winners" width="1080" height="810" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-1-winner_Springhaven-Primary.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-1-winner_Springhaven-Primary-300x225.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-1-winner_Springhaven-Primary-1024x768.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-1-winner_Springhaven-Primary-768x576.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h3>Celebrating our 2026 Winners</h3>
<p>Following the public voting process, three schools emerged as the winners of ARTopia 2026, each winning R15 000, sharing a total prize pool of R45 000.</p>
<p><strong>Liberty Midlands Mall congratulates:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Category 1 – Springhaven Primary School – represented by Tumoho Mbatha</li>
<li>Category 2 – Allandale Primary School – represented by Azrah Dawood</li>
<li>Category 3 – Scottsville Primary School – represented by Ayanelisa Gwala</li>
</ul>
<p>Special congratulations go to all learners whose creativity captured the imagination of shoppers, as well as their schools, teachers and families who encouraged and supported their artistic journeys. The three overall winning artworks will now live beyond the exhibition as they are transformed into exclusive ARTopia merchandise, including colouring books, pencil cases and sling bags, which will be introduced later this year.</p>
<p>While three schools ultimately took home the top prizes, <strong>ARTopia 2026</strong> was a celebration of every learner who participated. The incredible response reflects the depth of young creative talent within Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands, as well as the enthusiasm of local schools to provide learners with opportunities to express themselves through art.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="6e6561" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #6e6561;" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15966 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-3-Winner_Scottsville-Primary-.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026 winners" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-3-Winner_Scottsville-Primary-.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-3-Winner_Scottsville-Primary--300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-3-Winner_Scottsville-Primary--1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Category-3-Winner_Scottsville-Primary--768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<p>Lawrence Joubert, General Manager of Liberty Midlands Mall, says this year’s response demonstrated how ARTopia continues to grow as a platform for young creativity. <em>“ARTopia 2026 has been an incredible celebration of our young artists and the schools that support them. To have 23 schools participate and receive 652 artworks is something we are immensely proud of. We congratulate our winning schools and learners, but we also celebrate every child who contributed an artwork and helped bring Ocean Odyssey to life. Their creativity, imagination and enthusiasm made this year’s exhibition truly special.”</em></p>
<p>Liberty Midlands Mall also extends its appreciation to the schools, educators, parents, families and shoppers who supported <strong>ARTopia 2026</strong>. A special thank you goes to Exclusive Books, Execuspecs, Vodacom, McDonald’s, SD Pather and Wicked Karting for generously sponsoring gifts for the winners and runners-up. Their support helped make ARTopia 2026 an even more memorable and rewarding experience for the young artists.</p>
<p>From encouraging learners to participate to visiting the exhibition and casting votes, the community played an important role in making this year’s campaign the biggest ARTopia yet. The conclusion of the Ocean Odyssey exhibition may mark the end of this chapter. Still, the creativity of its young artists will continue to be reflected in the winning designs and the next phase of the project.</p>
<p>For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and upcoming events, visit <a href="https://midlandsmall.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">midlandsmall.co.za</a> or follow @libertymidlandsmall on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MidlandsMall" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/libertymidlandsmall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-announces-artopia-2026-winners/">Liberty Midlands Mall Announces ARTopia 2026 Winners</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>ARTopia 2026 Opens at Midlands Mall With 652 Learner Artworks</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/artopia-2026-opens-at-midlands-mall-with-652-learner-artworks/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 06:56:29 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARTopia 2026]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberty Midlands Mall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ocean Odyssey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pietermaritzburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Art Exhibition]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=15719</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Liberty Midlands Mall Unveils Its Biggest ARTopia Exhibition Yet Pietermaritzburg, 10 July 2026: Liberty Midlands...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/artopia-2026-opens-at-midlands-mall-with-652-learner-artworks/">ARTopia 2026 Opens at Midlands Mall With 652 Learner Artworks</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Liberty Midlands Mall Unveils Its Biggest ARTopia Exhibition Yet</em></h2>
<p><strong>Pietermaritzburg, 10 July 2026: </strong>Liberty Midlands Mall&#8217;s Centre Court has come alive with colour as ARTopia 2026 opens to the public, inviting visitors to explore this year&#8217;s <strong data-start="156" data-end="175">&#8220;Ocean Odyssey&#8221;</strong> themed school art exhibition. A record 23 schools from Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands have submitted 652 artworks, making this the largest ARTopia showcase ever hosted by the mall.</p>
<p>Now on until Sunday, 19 July, the exhibition celebrates the creativity and imagination of learners from grades 1 to 7, whose interpretations of life beneath the ocean have turned the mall into an immersive celebration of colour, storytelling and artistic talent.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="cab2ed" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #cab2ed;" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15720 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-vibrant-celebration-of-young-creativity-has-transformed-the-exhibition-space-into-an-underwater-world-of-imagination.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-vibrant-celebration-of-young-creativity-has-transformed-the-exhibition-space-into-an-underwater-world-of-imagination.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-vibrant-celebration-of-young-creativity-has-transformed-the-exhibition-space-into-an-underwater-world-of-imagination-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-vibrant-celebration-of-young-creativity-has-transformed-the-exhibition-space-into-an-underwater-world-of-imagination-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/A-vibrant-celebration-of-young-creativity-has-transformed-the-exhibition-space-into-an-underwater-world-of-imagination-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h3>A Gallery Filled With Imagination</h3>
<p>From colourful coral reefs and marine life to mythical underwater creatures, hidden treasure and imaginative ocean adventures, every artwork offers a unique perspective on this year&#8217;s Ocean Odyssey theme. Visitors can wander through the exhibition at their own pace, taking in a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, collages and mixed-media creations. Each piece reflects the creativity, talent and individuality of the young artists who have brought the exhibition to life.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="c29dc5" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #c29dc5;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15721 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Every-artwork-reflects-the-unique-perspective-of-a-young-artist-creating-an-inspiring-exhibition-that-celebrates-talent-learning-and-artistic-achievement.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026" width="1080" height="607" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Every-artwork-reflects-the-unique-perspective-of-a-young-artist-creating-an-inspiring-exhibition-that-celebrates-talent-learning-and-artistic-achievement.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Every-artwork-reflects-the-unique-perspective-of-a-young-artist-creating-an-inspiring-exhibition-that-celebrates-talent-learning-and-artistic-achievement-300x169.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Every-artwork-reflects-the-unique-perspective-of-a-young-artist-creating-an-inspiring-exhibition-that-celebrates-talent-learning-and-artistic-achievement-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Every-artwork-reflects-the-unique-perspective-of-a-young-artist-creating-an-inspiring-exhibition-that-celebrates-talent-learning-and-artistic-achievement-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h3>Every Vote Counts</h3>
<p>Shoppers are encouraged to support the participating schools by voting for their favourite artworks throughout the exhibition.</p>
<p><strong>Voting is simple:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Shop at any Liberty Midlands Mall store.</li>
<li>Recycle your till slip at the ARTopia exhibition by writing your name &amp; number on the back.</li>
<li>Then, cast your vote for your favourite artwork by adding the code of the artwork you’re voting for.</li>
<li>Drop it into the voting box, and you have done your part</li>
</ul>
<p>Schools are competing for a share of R45 000 in cash prizes, with the winning school in each of the three categories receiving R15 000. As an added incentive, one lucky shopper who casts a valid vote will win a R2 000 Liberty Midlands Mall Gift Card.</p>
<p>The excitement doesn&#8217;t end there. The three overall winning artworks will be transformed into exclusive ARTopia merchandise, including colouring books, pencil cases and sling bags, which will be introduced during the campaign&#8217;s third phase, ensuring these young artists leave a lasting legacy beyond the exhibition.</p>
<p>Lawrence Joubert, General Manager of Liberty Midlands Mall, says the exhibition has exceeded expectations.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>&#8220;ARTopia continues to grow each year, and seeing 23 schools and 652 young artists represented in our Centre Court is something we&#8217;re incredibly proud of. The exhibition is a celebration of creativity, community and young talent, and we encourage everyone to visit, enjoy the incredible artwork and support these learners by casting a vote.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote>
<p>The ARTopia Ocean Odyssey exhibition will be open daily at Liberty Midlands Mall until 19 July 2026, giving families, shoppers and art enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the work of talented young artists while supporting local schools competing for prize money.</p>
<p>For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and upcoming events, visit <a href="https://www.midlandsmall.co.za" target="_blank" rel="noopener">midlandsmall.co.za</a> or follow @libertymidlandsmall on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/artopia-2026-opens-at-midlands-mall-with-652-learner-artworks/">ARTopia 2026 Opens at Midlands Mall With 652 Learner Artworks</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>The Next OMSA 2026: Where Reputation Meets Empowerment</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/lifestyle/events-experiences/the-next-omsa-2026-where-reputation-meets-empowerment/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 07:45:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events & Experiences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Johan Ungerer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sun International]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SunBet Arena]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Next Opulent Model South Africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yolanda Monyai]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=15615</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Reputation Defines the Next Chapter of The Next OMSA Pretoria, South Africa: The Next Opulent...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/lifestyle/events-experiences/the-next-omsa-2026-where-reputation-meets-empowerment/">The Next OMSA 2026: Where Reputation Meets Empowerment</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Reputation Defines the Next Chapter of The Next OMSA</em></h2>
<p data-path-to-node="1"><strong>Pretoria, South Africa:</strong> The Next Opulent Model South Africa™ (The Next OMSA), proudly brought to you by Sun International, enters its eleventh year with a powerful theme that reflects both its legacy and future vision: &#8220;Reputation.&#8221; More than a word, it represents the values of integrity, excellence, discipline, and opportunity that have established The Next OMSA as one of South Africa&#8217;s most respected modelling and fitness platforms.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="1"><img data-dominant-color="282828" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #282828;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15619 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-8.webp" alt="The Next Opulent Model South Africa 2026" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-8.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-8-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-8-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-8-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h2 data-path-to-node="2">The Grand Finale Production at SunBet Arena</h2>
<p data-path-to-node="3">On 20 August 2026, the Grand Finale will take place at the iconic SunBet Arena, Time Square, proudly presented by Sun International in collaboration with Johan Ungerer Signature Events. More than 200 finalists will compete before an audience of nearly 5,000 guests, making it one of the largest modelling and fitness productions in South Africa.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="4">The event will be directed by internationally acclaimed Creative Director Willie Venter, recognised by The American Guild of Artists, ensuring a world-class showcase of fashion, entertainment, and performance.</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="5">Securing International Modeling Opportunities</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="6">For more than a decade, The Next OMSA has remained committed to discovering, developing, and elevating talent. As the exclusive South African partner of Top Model Worldwide London, the platform has consistently created international opportunities for South African models, many of whom have gone on to walk at London Fashion Week, SA Fashion Week, and secure campaigns across Europe, Asia, and New York.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="6"><img data-dominant-color="9a9a9a" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #9a9a9a;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15618 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-4.webp" alt="The Next Opulent Model South Africa 2026" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-4.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-4-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-4-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Next-OMSA-4-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h2 data-path-to-node="7">Yolanda Monyai: A Success Story of Empowerment</h2>
<p data-path-to-node="8">The competition&#8217;s impact is best reflected through the lives it has helped transform. One such success story is Yolanda Monyai, an award-winning South African fashion model, digital influencer, podcast host, and proud Friend of the Brand.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9">Like many aspiring models, Yolanda began her journey with ambition and determination but limited access to industry networks and opportunities. Through her association with The Next Opulent Models South Africa, she was exposed to a professional environment that encouraged growth, personal branding, confidence, and industry excellence.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="10">Today, Yolanda has become one of the most recognisable personalities associated with the brand. Her achievements in modelling, media, and digital influence have earned her widespread recognition, culminating in her appointment as a distinguished judge for the 2025 The Next Opulent Models South Africa competition.</p>
<blockquote data-path-to-node="11">
<p data-path-to-node="11,0"><em>&#8220;The Next Opulent Models South Africa gave me more than a platform, it gave me belief, mentorship, and the confidence to pursue opportunities I once thought were beyond my reach,&#8221; says Monyai. &#8220;The experience transformed the way I saw myself and what I believed was possible.&#8221;</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p data-path-to-node="12">Her journey represents the very essence of The Next OMSA&#8217;s mission: creating opportunities that empower individuals to unlock their full potential and build lasting careers.</p>
<h2 data-path-to-node="13">Building Reputation and Changing Lives</h2>
<p data-path-to-node="14">According to Johan Ungerer, the Next OMSA Founder and CEO, reputation is built through action, consistency, and a willingness to invest in people.</p>
<blockquote>
<p data-path-to-node="15"><em>&#8220;For eleven years, The Next OMSA has been committed to creating opportunities that change lives. We do not simply host a competition; we develop people, build confidence, and create pathways to success. Watching individuals like Yolanda Monyai grow into respected industry professionals is exactly why The Next OMSA exists. Their success becomes part of our legacy, and their journeys inspire the next generation of talent.&#8221;</em></p>
</blockquote>
<h3 data-path-to-node="16">Contestant Workshops and Skills Development</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="17">Empowerment remains central to The Next OMSA&#8217;s vision. Contestants are given access to immersive workshops, mentorship programmes, catwalk training, photographic development, social media strategy, and personal branding guidance. These initiatives ensure that every finalist leaves with valuable skills, increased confidence, and greater readiness for the competitive fashion and entertainment industries.</p>
<h2 data-path-to-node="18">Celebrating South Africa&#8217;s Creative Economy</h2>
<p data-path-to-node="19">The Grand Finale is also a celebration of South Africa&#8217;s creative economy. Fashion designers, photographers, makeup artists, hair stylists, performers, and industry professionals are provided with a national platform to showcase their talents. By creating opportunities without financial barriers, The Next OMSA continues to foster inclusion, innovation, and industry growth.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="20">This year&#8217;s judging panel will feature leading celebrities, business leaders, and industry experts who will help identify the country&#8217;s next generation of modelling stars. With categories spanning runway, editorial, commercial, and fitness modelling, The Next OMSA continues to embrace diversity and individuality while maintaining world-class standards.</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="21">A Legacy of Growth and Expansion</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="22">From humble beginnings in a hotel conference room with only 20 finalists, The Next OMSA has grown into a nationally recognised production attended by thousands. Its journey reflects vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the power of opportunity.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="23">As The Next OMSA enters its second decade, the organisation remains focused on expanding opportunities for South African talent, strengthening international partnerships, and ensuring local models continue to compete successfully on the global stage.</p>
<h2 data-path-to-node="24">Ticket Information for the Grand Finale</h2>
<p data-path-to-node="25">Tickets for the Grand Finale are available exclusively through <a href="https://itickets.co.za/events/485699" target="_blank" rel="noopener">iTickets</a>. General seating tickets are priced at R320, while a limited number of VIP experiences are available at R1,350. VIP guests will enjoy red carpet arrivals, exclusive photo opportunities, premium seating, and a three-course dinner catered by Time Square.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="26">The Next Opulent Model South Africa™ continues to prove that when reputation meets empowerment, extraordinary success stories follow.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/lifestyle/events-experiences/the-next-omsa-2026-where-reputation-meets-empowerment/">The Next OMSA 2026: Where Reputation Meets Empowerment</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>23 Schools Join ARTopia 2026 Art Exhibition in Pietermaritzburg</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/social-development/education/education-policy/23-schools-join-artopia-2026-art-exhibition-in-pietermaritzburg/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 08:28:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education & Policy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARTopia 2026]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Midlands Mall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ocean Odyssey Theme]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Art Competition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Youth Creativity]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=15528</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ARTopia 2026 returns with expanded school participation Pietermaritzburg, 24 June 2026: Midlands Mall will open...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/social-development/education/education-policy/23-schools-join-artopia-2026-art-exhibition-in-pietermaritzburg/">23 Schools Join ARTopia 2026 Art Exhibition in Pietermaritzburg</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>ARTopia 2026 returns with expanded school participation</em></h2>
<p><strong>Pietermaritzburg, 24 June 2026: </strong>Midlands Mall will open the 2026 ARTopia exhibition next week, offering visitors a chance to engage with a colourful celebration of creativity, following its highest participation to date. A total of 23 schools from Pietermaritzburg and surrounding regions entered this year’s Ocean Odyssey-themed contest, exceeding the numbers recorded in 2025.</p>
<p>Running from Tuesday 30 June to Sunday 19 July, the exhibition invites visitors to step into a colourful gallery of imagination, where learners from Grades 1 to 7 have brought their interpretations of the underwater world to life in the most colourful ways.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="b59f9a" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #b59f9a;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15530 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ARTopia-2025-transformed-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-into-a-vibrant-gallery-showcasing-the-creativity-and-talent-of-learners-from-across-the-Midlands.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026 Midlands Mall Exhibition" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ARTopia-2025-transformed-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-into-a-vibrant-gallery-showcasing-the-creativity-and-talent-of-learners-from-across-the-Midlands.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ARTopia-2025-transformed-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-into-a-vibrant-gallery-showcasing-the-creativity-and-talent-of-learners-from-across-the-Midlands-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ARTopia-2025-transformed-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-into-a-vibrant-gallery-showcasing-the-creativity-and-talent-of-learners-from-across-the-Midlands-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ARTopia-2025-transformed-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-into-a-vibrant-gallery-showcasing-the-creativity-and-talent-of-learners-from-across-the-Midlands-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h3>From Classroom Creativity to Centre Stage</h3>
<p>Over the past few months, learners have been hard at work on their artworks at their schools, exploring the Ocean Odyssey theme through a range of visual media. The Midlands Mall marketing team have also visited numerous schools, encouraging them to put their best foot forward.</p>
<p>The brief encouraged learners to interpret the ocean in their own way, with artworks capturing everything from vibrant coral reefs and marine life to imaginative scenes featuring mythical sea creatures, hidden treasure and underwater adventures.</p>
<p>Soon, at the mall, selected artworks from each school will be curated into a lively exhibition space, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the work up close. From detailed drawings and paintings to textured collages and three-dimensional creations, each piece reflects a unique perspective on life beneath the waves.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="b6aea5" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #b6aea5;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15532 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Visitors-explored-an-impressive-collection-of-learner-artwork-during-ARTopia-2025-one-of-Liberty-Midlands-Mallss-flagship-community-initiatives.webp" alt="ARTopia 2026 Midlands Mall Exhibition" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Visitors-explored-an-impressive-collection-of-learner-artwork-during-ARTopia-2025-one-of-Liberty-Midlands-Mallss-flagship-community-initiatives.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Visitors-explored-an-impressive-collection-of-learner-artwork-during-ARTopia-2025-one-of-Liberty-Midlands-Mallss-flagship-community-initiatives-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Visitors-explored-an-impressive-collection-of-learner-artwork-during-ARTopia-2025-one-of-Liberty-Midlands-Mallss-flagship-community-initiatives-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Visitors-explored-an-impressive-collection-of-learner-artwork-during-ARTopia-2025-one-of-Liberty-Midlands-Mallss-flagship-community-initiatives-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h3>The Public Has Its Say</h3>
<p>As part of the exhibition, shoppers are invited to vote for their favourite artworks across three grade categories, ranging from grades 1 to 7. Voting will remain open throughout the exhibition period, with the final winners determined by the votes received. One lucky voter will win a R2 000 Liberty Midlands Mall gift voucher.</p>
<p>There is R45 000 in prize money up for grabs, with each winning learner’s school set to receive R15 000. In addition, the three winning artworks will be transformed into limited-edition keepsakes such as colouring-in books, pencil cases and sling bags, to be shared with shoppers in phase 3 of the project, extending the impact of the learners’ creativity beyond the exhibition itself.</p>
<p>Lawrence Joubert, General Manager of Midlands Mall, says the response this year has been exceptional. “Seeing 23 schools take part in ARTopia 2026 is really special. The exhibition is filled with imagination, colour and thoughtful storytelling, and it is wonderful to see how learners have interpreted the theme in such different ways. We encourage shoppers to come through, spend time at the exhibition and support these young artists by casting their votes.”</p>
<p>The ARTopia exhibition will be open to the public at Midlands Mall from 30 June to 19 July. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the display and to vote for the artworks that stand out to them.</p>
<p>For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and its events, go to <a href="https://www.midlandsmall.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">midlandsmall.co.za</a> or follow Liberty Midlands Mall on social media @libertymidlandsmall.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/social-development/education/education-policy/23-schools-join-artopia-2026-art-exhibition-in-pietermaritzburg/">23 Schools Join ARTopia 2026 Art Exhibition in Pietermaritzburg</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Rachel Kolisi Launches Memoir Falling Forward at Cavendish Square</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/rachel-kolisi-launches-memoir-falling-forward-at-cavendish-square/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:51:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cavendish Square]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Exclusive Books Event]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Falling Forward Memoir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rachel Kolisi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zibu Sithole]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=14319</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Rachel Kolisi introduces her memoir Falling Forward at Cavendish Square in Cape Town Cape Town,...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/rachel-kolisi-launches-memoir-falling-forward-at-cavendish-square/">Rachel Kolisi Launches Memoir Falling Forward at Cavendish Square</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Rachel Kolisi introduces her memoir Falling Forward at Cavendish Square in Cape Town</em></h2>
<p><b>Cape Town, 8 April 2026:</b> Cavendish Square will host an intimate evening with Rachel Kolisi on Wednesday, 15 April, as she launches her memoir <b><i>Falling Forward</i></b>, co-written with author and journalist Zibu Sithole. Taking place in centre court and hosted by Exclusive Books, the event will begin at 18h00 for 18h30 start, offering readers the opportunity to hear directly from Kolisi and engage with the lady behind the story.</p>
<figure id="attachment_14323" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-14323" style="width: 1080px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img data-dominant-color="664d46" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #664d46;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-14323 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rachel-Kolisi-Invite-April-1200-x-880-pixels.webp" alt="Rachel Kolisi memoir launch" width="1080" height="792" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rachel-Kolisi-Invite-April-1200-x-880-pixels.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rachel-Kolisi-Invite-April-1200-x-880-pixels-300x220.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rachel-Kolisi-Invite-April-1200-x-880-pixels-1024x751.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rachel-Kolisi-Invite-April-1200-x-880-pixels-768x563.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-14323" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Rachel Kolisi memoir launch</em></figcaption></figure>
<h3>A Story of Rebuilding and Becoming</h3>
<p><i>Falling Forward</i> is a deeply personal account of identity, resilience and reinvention. In the memoir, released alongside her documentary, Kolisi reflects on the private moments that have shaped her life, from childhood and motherhood to love, loss and the realities of living in the public eye. With honesty and clarity, she explores what it means to let go of expectation and step into a more authentic sense of self.</p>
<p>Co-authored with Zibu Sithole, a respected novelist and journalist, the book is shaped with a thoughtful narrative voice that brings depth and perspective to Kolisi’s story, capturing both its vulnerability and strength.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="c4b0a4" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #c4b0a4;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-14320 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Falling-Forward-cover.webp" alt="Rachel Kolisi memoir launch" width="690" height="1080" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Falling-Forward-cover.webp 690w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Falling-Forward-cover-192x300.webp 192w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Falling-Forward-cover-654x1024.webp 654w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px" /></p>
<h3>An Evening With the Author</h3>
<p>Guests attending the launch can expect a thoughtful discussion with Kolisi, followed by an opportunity to purchase copies of <i>Falling Forward</i> and have them signed. Entry is free, with RSVP required via the Exclusive Books events page.</p>
<p>Faizah Behardien, Centre Manager at Cavendish Square, said, “Rachel Kolisi’s story is one that resonates on many levels, and we are honoured to be hosting this launch at Cavendish Square. It is a wonderful opportunity for readers to connect with her journey in an interactive way.”</p>
<p>There is no cost to attend the launch, but booking is required and may be done at <a href="https://exclusivebooks.co.za/pages/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exclusive Books</a>.</p>
<p>For more details on Cavendish Square shopping centre stores and promotions, visit <a href="https://cavendish.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cavendish.co.za</a> or follow the centre on social media for regular updates at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cavendishsquare/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">instagram.com</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/rachel-kolisi-launches-memoir-falling-forward-at-cavendish-square/">Rachel Kolisi Launches Memoir Falling Forward at Cavendish Square</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Why Regulate Christianity So Much?</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/editorial-and-opinion/letter-to-the-editor/why-regulate-christianity-so-much/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mr L Oosthuizen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:54:19 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Editor Picks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Letter to the Editor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Religion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christianity in South Africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Church and State]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Faith and Law]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Government Regulation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Religious Freedom]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=13263</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>There is a push from the government to start regulating Christian pastors by forcing them...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/editorial-and-opinion/letter-to-the-editor/why-regulate-christianity-so-much/">Why Regulate Christianity So Much?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There is a push from the government to start regulating Christian pastors by forcing them to register with the State first, before practising their faith or preaching the gospel. One wonders where this is all coming from, especially in a country like SA, which was built on Judeo-Christian values and foundations.</p>
<p>Are we as a country busy losing our identity? I recently also noted that in the Western Cape, pro-Palestine teachings are said to be taught at schools- this was covered extensively by podcaster Byron Sheperd on YouTube. Since he is a very unbiased person who always presents facts before lies, I tend to follow him regularly.</p>
<p>The moment the state and the church are merged, we are going to have serious problems. This is not say that Christianity cannot be criticized or tested, but since when is the state, which we all know is corrupt to the core, allowed to regulate or limit the expansion of the freedom-loving Christian faith? Christ teaches us in His Word that we must love our enemies and turn the other cheek, and when His disciples ask Him how many times one should forgive, He answered: 7 times 70. In other words, Christian teaching is not based upon subverting other human beings, dominating other people groups or using force in any way, to attain certain outcomes.</p>
<p>When we look at the UK today, it has become unrecognizable. Why? Because Kier Starmer, the prime minister, decided to flood the streets of London with illegal immigrants- much like Biden did in 2020- many from Muslim countries, despite living in a country built upon Judeo-Christian values, like SA. Despite this, we still do not see Islam, for instance, being regulated as much as Christianity in SA. Why is this? Especially in light of the Bondi Beach tragedy that took place last year in Australia, another peace-loving nation, it is almost unthinkable that the majority of South Africans, who practice some level of Christianity, must stand by idly whilst our government plays power games and pretends to know what is best for us!</p>
<p>As a Christian believer myself, I cannot help but express deep concern for the lack of pushback from my fellow believers in the face of a clear and obvious onslaught on our faith, or so it seems.<br />
Ultimately, it should be our choice about which faith or religion we would like to practice. There are many bad examples of pastors, evangelists, teachers and other religious leaders from other faiths, but this does not mean that the State now has a license to over-regulate our churches! If the ANC, or the GNU for that matter, had any moral authority or acted in a way which instilled trust in our citizens, maybe then they could&#8217;ve had a say, but as for my family and I &#8211; we will never be regulated by the State! Especially not by our banana government!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/editorial-and-opinion/letter-to-the-editor/why-regulate-christianity-so-much/">Why Regulate Christianity So Much?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Liberty Midlands Mall ARTopia 2025 Winners Announced</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-artopia-2025-winners-announced/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2025 06:18:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events & Experiences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARTopia 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-Art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberty Midlands Mall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pietermaritzburg Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Youth Creativity]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=8201</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Liberty Midlands Mall Crowns ARTopia Winners With Eco-Friendly Tote Bag Designs Pietermaritzburg, 12 August 2025:...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-artopia-2025-winners-announced/">Liberty Midlands Mall ARTopia 2025 Winners Announced</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Liberty Midlands Mall Crowns ARTopia Winners With Eco-Friendly Tote Bag Designs</em></h2>
<p><strong>Pietermaritzburg, 12 August 2025:</strong> The 2025 ARTopia School Arts Project at Liberty Midlands Mall has reached its final stage, with the announcement of the winning learners whose artworks captured the public’s attention and brought important environmental themes to life. After weeks of creativity, community participation and strong youth-led messaging around sustainability, the campaign now culminates in a shopper reward initiative that brings these artworks into everyday use.</p>
<p><strong>The winners are: </strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 40px;">1st Winning School: Deccan Road Primary School<br />
Winning Learner: Anamika Maikoo – Grade 1</p>
<p style="padding-left: 40px;">2nd Winning School: Toybox School<br />
Winning Learner:  Anesu Ngcobo – Grade 3</p>
<p style="padding-left: 40px;">3rd Winning School: Athlone Primary School<br />
Winning Learner: Natara Govender – Grade 7</p>
<p>Each of these learners presented a distinct and imaginative perspective on sustainability. Their art pieces will now be printed onto a collection of limited-edition eco- friendly tote bags, giving shoppers a tangible way to enjoy the project’s environmental vision. Their schools have each won R 10 000, based on the number of votes their learners’ artworks received.</p>
<p>The top 3 category winners each received a R1 000 Midlands Mall shopping voucher, a large hamper from Yokico, as well as hampers and gift cards from Bargain Books, CUM Books, Exclusive books, McDonalds and Standard Bank. The runners up in each category received Midlands Mall shopping vouchers and gift hampers from Bargain Books, CUM Books, Exclusive Books and Standard Bank.</p>
<figure id="attachment_8205" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8205" style="width: 1080px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img data-dominant-color="8a6d66" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #8a6d66;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-8205 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Deccan-Road-Primary-School-Principal-Mr-G-Ramlal-Liberty-Midlands-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-Anamika-Maikoo-winner-of-category-1-in-ARTopia.webp" alt="Deccan Road Primary School Principal - Mr G Ramlal, Liberty Midlands Marketing Manager - Ronael Seyambu and Anamika Maikoo, winner of category 1 in ARTopia" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Deccan-Road-Primary-School-Principal-Mr-G-Ramlal-Liberty-Midlands-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-Anamika-Maikoo-winner-of-category-1-in-ARTopia.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Deccan-Road-Primary-School-Principal-Mr-G-Ramlal-Liberty-Midlands-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-Anamika-Maikoo-winner-of-category-1-in-ARTopia-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Deccan-Road-Primary-School-Principal-Mr-G-Ramlal-Liberty-Midlands-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-Anamika-Maikoo-winner-of-category-1-in-ARTopia-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Deccan-Road-Primary-School-Principal-Mr-G-Ramlal-Liberty-Midlands-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-Anamika-Maikoo-winner-of-category-1-in-ARTopia-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8205" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Deccan Road Primary School Principal &#8211; Mr G Ramlal, Liberty Midlands Marketing Manager &#8211; Ronael Seyambu and Anamika Maikoo, winner of category 1 in ARTopia</em></figcaption></figure>
<p><strong>A platform for young voices</strong></p>
<p>Earlier phases of the project saw more than 300 learners from Grades 1 to 7 across Pietermaritzburg submit original artworks highlighting themes such as recycling, green spaces and clean energy. During July, Liberty Midlands Mall hosted a public exhibition in the centre court, offering visitors a chance to view the artworks and vote for their favourites.</p>
<p>The exhibition drew wide participation from schools, families and shoppers, and served as a platform not only for artistic expression but also for meaningful community dialogue around sustainability. The voting process ensured that the public played an active role in selecting the final winners.</p>
<figure id="attachment_8208" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8208" style="width: 1080px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img data-dominant-color="9a8287" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #9a8287;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-8208 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Principal-of-Toybox-School-Ms-Shaik-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-winner-of-Category-2-Anesu-Ngcobo.webp" alt="Principal of Toybox School - Ms Shaik, Liberty Midlands Mall Marketing Manager - Ronael Seyambu and winner of Category 2 - Anesu Ngcobo" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Principal-of-Toybox-School-Ms-Shaik-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-winner-of-Category-2-Anesu-Ngcobo.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Principal-of-Toybox-School-Ms-Shaik-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-winner-of-Category-2-Anesu-Ngcobo-300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Principal-of-Toybox-School-Ms-Shaik-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-winner-of-Category-2-Anesu-Ngcobo-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Principal-of-Toybox-School-Ms-Shaik-Liberty-Midlands-Mall-Marketing-Manager-Ronael-Seyambu-and-winner-of-Category-2-Anesu-Ngcobo-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8208" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Principal of Toybox School &#8211; Ms Shaik, Liberty Midlands Mall Marketing Manager &#8211; Ronael Seyambu and winner of Category 2 &#8211; Anesu Ngcobo</em></figcaption></figure>
<p><strong>Collect a limited-edition tote bag</strong></p>
<p>From 16 to 31 August, shoppers who spend R350 or more anywhere in the mall will be eligible to collect one of the three specially designed tote bags featuring the winning artworks. Shoppers can visit the activation station with their till slips and collect their personalised bags from our young artists, while stocks last.</p>
<p>These reusable bags are a creative extension of the campaign’s environmental message and a celebration of the young artists’ efforts to influence change through visual storytelling.</p>
<p><em>“ARTopia has been an inspiring project that brought the community together in support of both the arts and the environment,”</em> said Lawrence Joubert, General Manager at Liberty Midlands Mall. <em>“We are proud to recognise the talent and vision of these young learners and to give their work a platform that lives beyond the exhibition.”</em></p>

<a href='https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School.webp'><img width="240" height="300" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School-240x300.webp" class="attachment-medium size-medium not-transparent" alt="Natara Govender, winner of Category 3 in the inaugural ARTopia competition, proudly celebrates her achievement on behalf of Athlone Primary School" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School-240x300.webp 240w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School-819x1024.webp 819w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School-768x960.webp 768w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Natara-Govender-winner-of-Category-3-in-the-inaugural-ARTopia-competition-proudly-celebrates-her-achievement-on-behalf-of-Athlone-Primary-School.webp 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" data-has-transparency="false" data-dominant-color="726b62" style="--dominant-color: #726b62;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" /></a>
<a href='https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement.webp'><img width="240" height="300" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement-240x300.webp" class="attachment-medium size-medium not-transparent" alt="Anesu Ngcobo, winner in Category 2 of the ARTopia competition, proudly represents Toybox School as she celebrates her creative achievement" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement-240x300.webp 240w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement-819x1024.webp 819w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement-768x960.webp 768w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anesu-Ngcobo-winner-in-Category-2-of-the-ARTopia-competition-proudly-represents-Toybox-School-as-she-celebrates-her-creative-achievement.webp 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" data-has-transparency="false" data-dominant-color="7f6f77" style="--dominant-color: #7f6f77;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" /></a>
<a href='https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School.webp'><img width="240" height="300" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School-240x300.webp" class="attachment-medium size-medium not-transparent" alt="Anamika Maikoo, winner in Category 1 of the ARTopia competition, shines with pride as she brings home top honours for Deccan Road Primary School" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School-240x300.webp 240w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School-819x1024.webp 819w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School-768x960.webp 768w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Anamika-Maikoo-winner-in-Category-1-of-the-ARTopia-competition-shines-with-pride-as-she-brings-home-top-honours-for-Deccan-Road-Primary-School.webp 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" data-has-transparency="false" data-dominant-color="6e5a52" style="--dominant-color: #6e5a52;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" /></a>

<p>With the final phase now in motion, Liberty Midlands Mall closes this year’s ARTopia campaign by placing meaningful art into the hands of the community, encouraging more conscious choices and celebrating the voices of tomorrow.</p>
<p>For more information on how to participate, please contact Ronael Seyambu at <a href="mailto:Ronael.Seyambu@epsgroup.co.za">Ronael.Seyambu@epsgroup.co.za</a>. For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and its projects, go to <a href="https://www.midlandsmall.co.za/">midlandsmall.co.za</a> or follow Liberty Midlands Mall on social media @libertymidlandsmall.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-artopia-2025-winners-announced/">Liberty Midlands Mall ARTopia 2025 Winners Announced</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Sandton City Launches Mental Health Awareness Campaign</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/sandton-city-launches-mental-health-awareness-campaign/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jul 2025 07:58:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Artivism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Riky Rick Foundation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sandton City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Africa]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=7978</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Sandton City and Riky Rick Foundation Unite for Mental Health Awareness Through the Words That...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/sandton-city-launches-mental-health-awareness-campaign/">Sandton City Launches Mental Health Awareness Campaign</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Sandton City and Riky Rick Foundation Unite for Mental Health Awareness Through the Words That Heal Campaign</em></h2>
<p><strong>Johannesburg, 25 July 2025: </strong>Sandton City, Africa’s most iconic retail destination, has launched a mental health initiative titled “Words That Heal” in collaboration with the Riky Rick Foundation for the promotion of “artivism.” The campaign aims to open up conversations around mental health and encourage South Africans to share messages of hope and healing.</p>
<p>The Riky Rick Foundation was established to honour the life of the late rapper and to promote “artivism,” the intersection of artistic expression and activism. Through its work, the Foundation advocates for mental wellness, creativity and social awareness, particularly among South Africa’s youth.</p>
<p><strong>A Platform for Healing Through Words</strong></p>
<p>Mental health continues to affect many South Africans, especially young people, with over 60% of the youth in South Africa reporting challenges in this area. Through “Words That Heal”, Sandton City aims to create a space where individuals can offer support to others by sharing personal messages of encouragement to anyone struggling mentally.</p>
<p>To participate, members of the public can submit a voice note via WhatsApp 063 980 5816 to help uplift someone who needs it.  Messages received before 8 August 2025 will be considered for inclusion in a curated song of hope that will be released on streaming platforms later this year, in an effort to raise funds to provide free therapy for the youth, driven through the Riky Rick Foundation.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="797774" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #797774;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7981 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Words-that-Heal_Sandton-City-x-Riky-Rick-Foundation.webp" alt="" width="837" height="1080" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Words-that-Heal_Sandton-City-x-Riky-Rick-Foundation.webp 837w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Words-that-Heal_Sandton-City-x-Riky-Rick-Foundation-233x300.webp 233w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Words-that-Heal_Sandton-City-x-Riky-Rick-Foundation-794x1024.webp 794w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Words-that-Heal_Sandton-City-x-Riky-Rick-Foundation-768x991.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 837px) 100vw, 837px" /></p>
<p><strong>Phase Two to Launch During Mental Health Month</strong></p>
<p>Next, during September and October, the second phase of the initiative will take the project into a more immersive space. Shoppers at Sandton City will be encouraged to listen to the song that was created or to listen to Riky Rick’s final album as a tribute to his life and legacy.</p>
<p>Here, a pop-up retail space will open in the centre, featuring limited-edition merchandise with the option to personalise items on site in collaboration with artist Samurai Farai. All proceeds from merchandise sales and supporting pledges from corporate partners will go to the Riky Rick Foundation to continue their work in creating safe spaces for youth and promoting creative expression as a tool for healing. The date for this activation will be announced in due course.</p>
<p><strong>Inspiring Words for a New Generation</strong></p>
<p>As former Riky Rick once said, “Please believe in young people. Give them as many opportunities as they need to prove themselves.” This campaign builds on that belief, using words and creativity to change lives and raise awareness about mental health in an accessible, impactful way.</p>
<p>To join the healing movement, visit sandtoncity.com for more information or send your voice note message of hope to 063 980 5816. Terms and conditions apply.</p>
<p>With an unmatched mix of retail with over 300 stores, entertainment and world-class attractions, Sandton City continues to set the pace as Africa’s most iconic centre. For regular updates go to <a href="http://www.sandtoncity.com">www.sandtoncity.com</a> or follow Sandton City on social media @sandtoncitymall.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/sandton-city-launches-mental-health-awareness-campaign/">Sandton City Launches Mental Health Awareness Campaign</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Celebrate Mandela Day With Community Art At Liberty Promenade</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/celebrate-mandela-day-with-community-art-at-liberty-promenade/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2025 07:56:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Fun]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Glow Kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberty Promenade]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mandela Day 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mitchells Plain]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=7825</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Liberty Promenade Introduces A Neon-Lit Art Studio Where Kids Can Create and Support Local Charities...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/celebrate-mandela-day-with-community-art-at-liberty-promenade/">Celebrate Mandela Day With Community Art At Liberty Promenade</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><em>Liberty Promenade Introduces A Neon-Lit Art Studio Where Kids Can Create and Support Local Charities This Mandela Day</em></h2>
<p><strong>Cape Town, 11 July 2025:</strong> These July school holidays, Liberty Promenade in Mitchell’s Plain is set to light up the chilly winter days with a colourful new activation that brings art, community, and connection together under one glowing roof. From 7 to 20 July, children and their families can explore an interactive studio filled with glow-in-the-dark walls, vibrant paints, and bold markers, a space designed to let young imaginations run wild.</p>
<p>Located in the former cinema area in the mall’s Food District, this pop-up experience invites children to get messy, have fun, and create freely in a playful space unlike any traditional play area. The entire experience takes place in a darkened studio where the fun quite literally glows, bringing every brushstroke to life in neon colour. The entry fee is R20 per person, and all bookings must be made in person at the on-site registration desk.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="71473f" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #71473f;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7827 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-3-.webp" alt="" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-3-.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-3--300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-3--1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-3--768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<p><strong>Creativity with a Cause</strong></p>
<p>This activation is more than a holiday activity. Every ticket purchased will contribute directly to a local NPO or daycare in need of art supplies, ensuring that the joy of creativity is shared with others in the wider community. The initiative is designed to honour Mandela Day by supporting grassroots organisations and everyday heroes who make a difference through education and care.</p>
<p><img data-dominant-color="704667" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #704667;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7829 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-2-.webp" alt="" width="1080" height="720" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-2-.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-2--300x200.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-2--1024x683.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Liberty-Promenade-Glow-Kids-2--768x512.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<p><strong>Share the Glow</strong></p>
<p>Families visiting Promenade can also take part in exciting giveaways during the activation. By posting a photo or video of their experience using the hashtag #LPGlowKids, shoppers stand a chance to win one of four R500 Liberty Promenade Gift Cards.</p>
<p>This is the first time an experience like this has come to the Mitchell&#8217;s Plain area, making it a must-visit for families. Whether it’s the thrill of painting on walls, the joy of a shared family outing, or the knowledge that your participation helps others, the Glow Walls experience brings together play and purpose in a meaningful way. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm from 7 to 20 July, the Glow Kids Studio is an ideal opportunity for screen-free time and spontaneous expression.</p>
<p>For more details, visit <a class="" href="http://www.libertypromenade.co.za" target="_new" rel="noopener" data-start="2362" data-end="2425">libertypromenade.co.za</a> or follow them on<span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MidlandsMall" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook, </a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/libertypromenademall_za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram,</a></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MidlandsMall" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> and </a><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@libertypromenademall" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/celebrate-mandela-day-with-community-art-at-liberty-promenade/">Celebrate Mandela Day With Community Art At Liberty Promenade</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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		<title>Liberty Midlands Mall Launches ARTopia School Arts Project</title>
		<link>https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-launches-artopia-school-arts-project/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Staff Writer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:49:05 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sustainability]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARTopia School Arts Project]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Environmental Awareness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberty Midlands Mall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pietermaritzburg Schools]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sustainable Art]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/?p=7566</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Inspiring Young Artists To Embrace Sustainability Through Visual Arts Pietermaritzburg, 17 June 2025 – In...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-launches-artopia-school-arts-project/">Liberty Midlands Mall Launches ARTopia School Arts Project</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 data-start="128" data-end="203"><em>Inspiring Young Artists To Embrace Sustainability Through Visual Arts</em></h2>
<p data-start="205" data-end="700"><strong data-start="205" data-end="239">Pietermaritzburg, 17 June 2025</strong> – In a commendable move towards promoting eco-consciousness among the youth, <strong data-start="317" data-end="342">Liberty Midlands Mall</strong> has officially launched the <strong data-start="371" data-end="402">ARTopia School Arts Project</strong> — a dynamic, environmentally themed visual arts initiative for primary school learners in Pietermaritzburg. This year’s edition, aptly titled <strong data-start="545" data-end="571">&#8220;Sustainable Strokes,&#8221;</strong> invites students from Grades 1 to 7 to express their views on pressing environmental topics through original, creative artworks.</p>
<p data-start="702" data-end="928">The initiative fuses artistic expression with environmental awareness, offering learners an engaging platform to interpret sustainability, climate change, conservation, and renewable energy through their own creative lenses.</p>
<h2 data-start="930" data-end="969">A Creative Platform With A Purpose</h2>
<p data-start="971" data-end="1351">The <strong data-start="975" data-end="1006">ARTopia School Arts Project</strong> isn’t merely a contest; it’s a vehicle for environmental education and creative expression. Participating students are required to use <strong data-start="1142" data-end="1160">recycled paper</strong> and eco-friendly materials to craft original pieces of art that confront issues like recycling, the impact of climate change, conservation efforts, and the prospects of a sustainable future.</p>
<p data-start="1353" data-end="1642">With a total of <strong data-start="1369" data-end="1408">R30,000 in cash prizes up for grabs—</strong>split into R10,000 per winning school—and additional prizes planned, the stakes are high. The competition aims not just to reward artistic merit but to embed sustainable values in young minds in an imaginative and lasting manner.</p>
<h2 data-start="1644" data-end="1668">Key Campaign Phases</h2>
<p data-start="1670" data-end="1886"><strong data-start="1670" data-end="1726">Phase 1 – Artwork Creation (Now until 27 June 2025):</strong><br data-start="1726" data-end="1729" />Participating learners, from Grade 1 through Grade 7, are currently creating artworks using recycled materials, with submissions closing on <strong data-start="1869" data-end="1885">27 June 2025</strong>.</p>
<p data-start="1888" data-end="2220"><strong data-start="1888" data-end="1937">Phase 2 – Public Exhibition (1–14 July 2025):</strong><br data-start="1937" data-end="1940" />A curated selection of artworks—up to 15 per category from each participating school—will be showcased at <strong data-start="2050" data-end="2075">Liberty Midlands Mall</strong>. Visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite pieces, engaging the community in this youth-led conversation on sustainability.</p>
<p data-start="2222" data-end="2545"><strong data-start="2222" data-end="2254">Phase 3 – Winners Announced:</strong><br data-start="2254" data-end="2257" />Winning entries, as determined by public vote, will be featured on limited-edition <strong data-start="2340" data-end="2360">canvas tote bags—</strong>a collectable nod to eco-conscious living. These will be distributed at Liberty Midlands Mall, ensuring young artists see their work translated into functional, meaningful keepsakes.</p>
<p data-start="2222" data-end="2545"><img data-dominant-color="625c4e" data-has-transparency="false" style="--dominant-color: #625c4e;" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7569 not-transparent" src="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity.webp" alt="" width="1080" height="1080" srcset="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity.webp 1080w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity-300x300.webp 300w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity-150x150.webp 150w, https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kids-in-action-showing-off-creativity-and-color-showing-how-ART-brings-unity-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h2 data-start="2547" data-end="2587">Building Tomorrow’s Thought Leaders</h2>
<p data-start="2589" data-end="3070"><strong data-start="2589" data-end="2609">Lawrence Joubert</strong>, General Manager at Liberty Midlands Mall, stated, <em data-start="2661" data-end="3070">“The ARTopia School Arts Project offers learners a platform to showcase their creativity while engaging deeply with the concept of sustainability. We’re eager to witness the powerful messages these young artists will convey through their work and to celebrate their talent through our public exhibition. This is one of many ways we strive to support impactful, community-driven initiatives in the Midlands.”</em></p>
<h2 data-start="3072" data-end="3099">Key Dates To Remember:</h2>
<ul data-start="3101" data-end="3194">
<li data-start="3101" data-end="3151">
<p data-start="3103" data-end="3151"><strong data-start="3103" data-end="3133">Final artwork submissions:</strong> by 27 June 2025</p>
</li>
<li data-start="3152" data-end="3194">
<p data-start="3154" data-end="3194"><strong data-start="3154" data-end="3177">ARTopia Exhibition:</strong> 1–14 July 2025</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="3196" data-end="3526">For more information on how to participate, contact <strong data-start="3248" data-end="3266">Ronael Seyambu</strong> at <a class="cursor-pointer" href="mailto:Ronael.Seyambu@epsgroup.co.za" rel="noopener" data-start="3270" data-end="3339">Ronael.Seyambu@epsgroup.co.za</a>. Learn more about <strong data-start="3358" data-end="3383">Liberty Midlands Mall</strong> and its community initiatives via <a class="" href="https://www.midlandsmall.co.za" target="_new" rel="noopener" data-start="3418" data-end="3474">www.midlandsmall.co.za</a> or follow <strong data-start="3485" data-end="3509">@libertymidlandsmall</strong> on social media.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za/highlights/culture/arts-culture/liberty-midlands-mall-launches-artopia-school-arts-project/">Liberty Midlands Mall Launches ARTopia School Arts Project</a> appeared first on <a href="https://altnewsnetwork.co.za">Alt News Network</a>.</p>
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