“Violent Conflict Is Not the Solution; Both Nations Must Seek Peaceful Solutions through Dialogue”
In June 2025, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) expressed deep concerns over the violent conflict between Israel and Iran, and condemned the grave threat it poses to international peace and security. In an official statement, HWPL urged the immediate cessation of hostilities and called for a peaceful resolution to the situation. The organization strongly denounced the violence, emphasizing that it has led to the loss of innocent civilian lives.
Israel launched a large-scale airstrike targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities—including Natanz—and other military installations on the 13th, marking an escalation in direct military confrontation between the two nations. Thousands of innocent civilians have been killed or injured, and the destruction of infrastructure in both countries has reached a level of ‘social collapse,’ posing a serious threat to international security.
The global community is increasingly recognizing the gravity of the current situation and showing various responses. International organizations, including the United Nations, along with leaders of major countries, have expressed concerns over the prolonged violence and are calling for immediate restraint and a negotiated settlement.
HWPL has reaffirmed, “The people of Israel and Iran want peace, as the entire global community hopes for peace to be restored.” It then reinforced its appeal for both sides to lay down their arms and pursue a diplomatic solution through dialogue and negotiation, in accordance with international law.
Continuing its efforts for global peace, it emphasized its commitment to working closely with international peace organizations, civil society, and national governments to sow and nurture the seeds of peace, ensuring that humanity does not repeat the tragedies of war. The statement concluded with a hopeful message that people around the world will support the efforts of both nations toward a peaceful future.
About HWPL:
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) is an international peace organization contributing to the promotion of global peace through its special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and its partnership with the United Nations Department of Global Communications (DGC). Based on the “Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW),” HWPL conducts various activities aimed at ending war and establishing sustainable peace worldwide.
Shincheonji Volunteers were recognised with a Silver Award at the 2025 World Blood Donor Day Recognition Ceremony hosted by the Namibia Blood Transfusion Service (NamBTS) on Wednesday, June 12. The ceremony, held at the NUST Hotel School in Windhoek, celebrated outstanding contributions to voluntary blood donation across the country.
The prestigious accolade was presented to Shincheonji Volunteers by Windhoek Deputy Mayor, Mr. Joseph Uapingene, in recognition of the group’s consistent and organised blood drives that contributed significantly to the national blood bank over the past year.
“This award affirms what we’ve always believed: genuine love for life and service will always make a difference,” said Shincheonji Volunteers representative, Ethel Akayombokwa. “We’re proud to serve Namibia and inspired to keep going.”
The event brought together over 100 stakeholders, including government officials, health professionals, educators, and civil society leaders. Among the evening’s most memorable moments was when the MC mispronounced “Shincheonji,” prompting a lighthearted moment as the audience collectively repeated the name. It was an unexpected gesture that helped normalise and familiarise the faith-based group’s presence.
“When you see a room of Namibian leaders saying our name, laughing with us, and clapping for our efforts… it means so much. It shows that what unites us is greater than what divides us,” said Akayombokwa.
This year’s ceremony placed special focus on community engagement and healing strained partnerships, with organisers noting the growing collaboration between Shincheonji Volunteers and NamBTS. Once distanced by misunderstanding, the relationship has evolved through transparent cooperation and shared humanitarian goals.
World Blood Donor Day, commemorated globally on June 14, aims to raise awareness around the need for safe blood and honour unpaid donors for their life-saving generosity. In Namibia, where volunteer donors are a cornerstone of public health, such recognition plays a vital role in inspiring continued civic participation.
Shincheonji Volunteers expressed deep gratitude for the acknowledgment and pledged to continue their service, setting their sights on next year’s Gold Award.
IWPG South Africa Successfully Hosts the 7th International Loving Peace Art Competition
‘The 7th International Loving Peace Art Competition’ held on June 16, at Bonteheuwel High School, concluded successfully. This event aimed to naturally instill the significance of peace in children, encouraging them to creatively express ways to achieve peace through art.
Organized by the Bonteheuwel IWPG (International Women’s Peace Group) Peace Committee, the contest welcomed a total of 146 participants at the school, where they conveyed messages of peace through their drawings. Contestants passionately created their artworks based on the given evaluation criteria, and the judging panel selected outstanding pieces.
Under the theme “Peace, Let’s Be Friends! What can we do to achieve peace?”, participants explored the concept of peace through their own unique perspectives. Their works featured scenes of empathy, cultural harmony, and a world without conflict—each painting capturing the sincere hopes of a younger generation dreaming of a better future.
Cllr McKenzie, Bonteheuwel Ward Councillor said “I’ve watched this competition over the years and seen real change—kids growing stronger, the community becoming more active and safer. Thanks to IWPG and BWL(Bonteheuwel Walking Ladies), who truly engage with children, not just tick boxes, but nurture their talents and dreams.”
An IWPG official stated, “We will continue supporting children in expressing peace through their drawings and fostering awareness of peace. Our goal is to ensure that more schools hold peace drawing contests in the future.”
IWPG is an international women’s NGO registered in UN ECOSOC and UN DGC. It has 115 branches in 122 countries, and 808 partner organizations in 68 countries. Under the vision “achieving sustainable world peace,” IWPG is actively working to build peace networks, spread peace culture, conduct women’s peace education, and support the legislation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).
In a powerful blend of heritage and high-performance design, Nike and SA Rugby have unveiled the 2025 Springboks kit, paying tribute to one of the most iconic moments in South African sporting history — the 1995 Rugby World Cup victory. The newly released kit features both a modern playing strip and a retro-inspired heritage jersey that honours the historic triumph and the unity it symbolized.
The unveiling took place on a deeply significant date: exactly 30 years since then-President Nelson Mandela handed the Webb Ellis Cup to Springbok captain Francois Pienaar, a moment that became a global symbol of post-apartheid reconciliation. The heritage jersey, part of the commemorative release, channels the design of that legendary 1995 shirt — deep green with a traditional white collar, gold detailing, and a badge that mirrors the one worn during the World Cup campaign three decades ago.
“This jersey is more than just a kit — it’s a story of pride, unity, and legacy,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby. “To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the 1995 victory with this design reminds us where we’ve come from, and what we represent every time we wear green and gold.”
Nike, in collaboration with SA Rugby, has crafted the 2025 playing jersey with cutting-edge fabric technology to meet the demands of the modern game, while staying true to the Springboks’ identity. The combination of tradition and innovation symbolizes the team’s commitment to both honoring its roots and looking ahead to continued excellence on the field.
Special Test Match in Gqeberha
The Springboks will don the new kit for the first time in a highly anticipated test match against Italy on July 12, 2025, at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). The match forms part of the Castle Lager Incoming Series and will mark a poignant return to the venue for the Boks, who last played there in 2021 against Argentina — a series held without fans due to COVID-19 restrictions.
This upcoming fixture will be the first Springbok match at the stadium with spectators in four years and promises to be a festive celebration of rugby and heritage. It’s also fitting that the match will take place in the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, named after the man who helped forge the legacy being honoured by the new kit.
Both the playing kit and the limited-edition heritage jersey will be made available to fans nationwide, with pre-orders launching later this week. Rugby supporters are already expressing excitement on social media, eager to get their hands on a piece of history.
With the 2025 season underway and the Springboks preparing to defend their world champion status, the release of this kit serves as a powerful reminder of where South African rugby has come from — and where it’s headed.
Every year on June 16, South Africa marks Youth Day—a national commemoration of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, when thousands of students rose up against the apartheid regime’s oppressive education system. Their courage and sacrifice, symbolized by the haunting image of Hector Pieterson, galvanized international awareness and intensified the struggle for freedom. Nearly five decades later, Youth Day remains a powerful reminder of the role young people have played—and continue to play—in shaping the nation’s future.
But as we observe Youth Day in 2025, the question arises: what does this day truly mean for today’s youth? Is it merely a moment to look back, or a call to action in the present?
South Africa’s youth are facing a different kind of battle. While the oppressive system of apartheid is behind us, the lingering effects of structural inequality remain deeply entrenched. The most glaring example is youth unemployment. As of early 2025, the official youth unemployment rate hovers around 46.1%¹, a staggering figure that speaks to lost potential, growing frustration, and widening inequality.
For many young South Africans, having a matric certificate or even a university degree no longer guarantees economic security. The job market is tight, with limited opportunities, particularly for those from under-resourced communities. The digital economy, while growing, remains largely inaccessible to youth lacking internet access, digital literacy, or capital to start entrepreneurial ventures.
Gender-Based Violence: A Silent War
Another crisis plaguing the youth—particularly young women and LGBTQIA+ individuals—is gender-based violence (GBV). Despite national awareness campaigns and government pledges, GBV remains widespread and underreported. Schools and universities, which should be spaces of safety and growth, are often sites of harassment and violence.
Young women in South Africa live in a constant state of alertness—walking home with phones clutched tightly, avoiding certain taxis, fearing the shadows. Youth Day in 2025 cannot ignore their reality. Just as students in 1976 defied an unjust system, today’s youth are pushing back against a culture of violence, demanding protection, accountability, and social transformation.
Voices of Change
Despite these challenges, today’s youth are not silent. Across the country, they are organizing, innovating, and speaking out—on TikTok, in community meetings, through art and music, and in protest. Movements like #FeesMustFall, #AmINext, and various youth-led climate action groups show that the spirit of resistance and advocacy lives on.
But they need more than symbolic recognition. They need platforms, resources, and genuine inclusion in decision-making processes. Token consultations and youth-themed campaigns are not enough. Real progress requires structural change—investment in education and skills development, support for youth entrepreneurship, mental health services, and strong legal action against GBV perpetrators.
From Protest to Progress
Youth Day in 2025 should not just be about remembering the past—it must be about acting in the present. It must ask tough questions of our leaders and ourselves: Have we done enough to empower young people? Are we building a society that values their voices, protects their bodies, and nurtures their dreams?
The legacy of 1976 compels us to do more than honour history. It calls us to action. In the words of Nelson Mandela: “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”
This Youth Day, let us remember—but more importantly, let us respond. The youth have always led. It’s time the country followed through.
The Peace Art Competition turns Manchester Museum into a canvas for hope and harmony.
Cape Town, 28 May 2025 – The 7th International Loving Peace Art Competition, hosted by the South Africa branch of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), was successfully held at Sherwood Community Hall in Manenberg. The event gathered enthusiastic participation from children and youth representing 11 local schools, who expressed their visions of peace through powerful and heartfelt artwork.
Under the theme “Peace, Let’s Be Friends! What can we do to achieve peace?”, participants explored the concept of peace through their own unique perspectives. Their works featured scenes of empathy, cultural harmony, and a world without conflict—each painting capturing the sincere hopes of a younger generation dreaming of a better future.
The event began at 10:00 a.m. with an opening prayer and dua, followed by a welcome address by IWPG and local representative Patsy Daniels, a peace message from a guest speaker, a cultural performance, and the art competition itself. The program concluded with adjudication, lunch, and an award ceremony recognizing the most outstanding pieces.
Judging was conducted by artists Gardie Judge, Preyser-Grantham, and Raeff John from the Butterfly Art Foundation, who praised the creativity and sincerity expressed in the students’ works. Select winning pieces may also be featured in upcoming international exhibitions hosted by IWPG.
The event was made possible through the generous support of local organizations. The Butterfly Art Foundation sponsored all necessary art materials and paper, while the Ward Councillor, Food for Life and Mustadafin Foundation provided nourishing meals for all participants and attendees. The Manenberg Drivers Club also volunteered transport services, to transport the students to and from their schools to the competition venue, free of charge. The venue was graciously provided free of charge, reflecting the strong spirit of community collaboration.
“This competition was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the true value of peace through the eyes of children,” said an IWPG representative. “We hope this event has planted seeds of peace within the community of Manenberg.”
The competition concluded on a high note, with warm support from parents, teachers, local leaders, and community members who joined in to witness and celebrate the voices of peace expressed through art.
IWPG is an international women’s NGO registered in UN ECOSOC and UN DGC. It has 115 branches in 122 countries, and 808 partner organizations in 68 countries. Under the vision “achieving sustainable world peace,” IWPG is actively working to build peace networks, spread peace culture, conduct women’s peace education, and support the legislation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).
On 29 April 2025, the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Namibia hosted its first official event in Henties Bay, commemorating the 6th International Women’s Peace Day under the theme “Peace and I.” Held at the Roman Catholic Holy Redeemer Parish Hall, the gathering aimed to empower local women to become active contributors to peace within their communities.
International Women’s Peace Day was proclaimed in 2019 by the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) as a day dedicated to achieving the cessation of war and promoting world peace by uniting women who share a common motherly heart in protecting the precious lives of children. The purpose of International Women’s Peace Day is to inspire and encourage women peace activists globally – transcending borders, races, religions, and ideologies – to actively support peace initiatives and inspire more women to participate in peace-building activities.
The program featured a welcoming address by Mr. Hermann Honeb, a speech by Ms. Elizabeth Uahindua from the University of Namibia in Henties Bay, and active group discussions among the participants.
Mr. Hermann Honeb, who serves as an HWPL Peace Ambassador, has been promoting peace for the past 10 years. His longstanding commitment to peace advocacy has inspired many within and beyond Namibia. Through his involvement in various peace-building programs, Mr. Honeb continues to serve as a bridge between communities, encouraging dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding.
Delivering a keynote speech, Ms. Celine Mpareke, Coordinator of the IWPG Namibia Branch, stated, “Peace is not a distant ideal, but a personal choice and a journey that begins within ourselves.” She continued, “When women recognize their own value, their influence extends beyond their families and communities to the entire world.”
Ms. Mpareke also introduced IWPG’s core initiatives, including: ▲ Advocating for the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), an international legal framework for peace, ▲ Women’s Peace Education, and ▲ The Plant Peace Campaign. She emphasized that women’s peace education is a critical tool for transforming local communities and fostering sustainable peace.
The event brought together approximately 38 women from various organizations across Henties Bay. During the discussion session, participants openly addressed pressing local issues, including alcohol and drug abuse, as well as a perceived decline in moral values among women. Many voiced that peace is urgently needed to restore the moral and social fabric of the community.
The attendees actively engaged in the conversation, relating the theme of the workshop to their personal lives and daily struggles. Many expressed strong interest in IWPG’s mission and conveyed their willingness to collaborate in future initiatives.
As the first official IWPG event in Henties Bay, the gathering laid a meaningful foundation for ongoing peace efforts in the region and sparked a strong sense of solidarity and purpose among participants.
Easter has passed us by together with it’s much savoured public holidays. Check out these events to kick start May on a high.
1. Sacred Heart Church Family Market – Saturday, 03 May
Said to be over 80 stalls, this family market is open to the public, and has something for the whole family, and a great opportunity to find that perfect gift for Mother’s Day.
There will be jumping castles, ice cream, slush puppies, face painting and ceramic painting for the kids. An entertainment tent with music, wine & beer, and all your favorite food trucks!
Entrance fee: Adults R10 per person, kids under 12yrs are FREE. The entrance fee includes an entry to win amazing lucky draw prizes.
2. The Blues Brothers show – Friday (09 May) & Saturday (10 May)
The South African and London production kicked off exactly 30 years ago and this revival , set to tour South Africa, will be performed by an exclusive Gqbertha cast opening 9th May for six performances only prior to touring thereafter.
This smash hit Rock and Roll, Rhythm and Blues Musical The Blues Brothers celebrates the music made famous by the pork pie and wayfarers duo, Jake and Elwood Blues in the cult eighties movie called The Blues Brothers’.
These iconic kings of cool were created by the late John Belushi and Dan Ackroyd for NBC’s Saturday Night Live show and the subsequent film was made on the strength of the cult success of these characters. The first Blues Brothers stage show was a 1980 cult movie and starred Belushi and Aykroyd as “Joliet” Jake and Elwood Blues. Musical numbers featured in this two-hour production include songs by singers Elvis Presley, Tammy Wynette, Carol King, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles, amongst others.
3. IBhayi Fiesta Launch – Sunday, 11 May
Enjoy a vibrant day of live music, delicious food, braai vibes, local business stalls, and content creation zones—perfect for the whole family and a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day. The launch will take place at 41 Victoria Park Drive; R100 gets you in the gate (cooler box fee: R50).
Excuse the pun, but truth be told Easter does not necessarily need to be all bunnies and chocolate treats. Port Culture has got you covered for this upcoming weekend’s events for the whole family.
1. Splash Festival – Friday until Sunday (18th – 20th April)
The much-anticipated Splash Festival 2025 is making a dazzling return to Kings Beach from April 18th to 21st, promising a spectacular Easter weekend filled with live music, food, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Powered by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and proudly supported by SPAR Eastern Cape, this year’s event is poised to transform the beachfront into a vibrant celebration of local culture, community, and creativity.
2. African Sky’s Easter Night Market – Friday, 18 April
For a family night out filled with fun and good food, support local vendors and enjoy live music at African Sky’s Easter Night Market to be held at 120 Nassau Avenue this Friday. The market will open from 17:00 until 21:00.
3. A Night of Worship with Heinz Winckler – Friday, 18 April
This Good Friday, come and experience a powerful evening of praise and worship as renowned artist Heinz Winckler leads us in song at the Word of Faith Christian Center from 18:30. Let your heart be stirred and your spirit uplifted as we gather in unity to reflect, celebrate, and worship together. Don’t miss this inspiring night filled with faith, music, and connection.
Hop into the Easter spirit at The Beach Hotel Easter Lunch! Treat yourself to a mouthwatering lunch for only R395 per person. No need to worry about cooking and bottomless washing up of dishes—just unwind, enjoy the feast, and make beautiful memories with the people who matter most.
Hacklewood Hill Country House in Walmer is hosting a High Tea at R325 per person. Spend an afternoon indulging in decadent bites and taking Instagram-worthy shots in their picturesque gardens.
On April 9, the Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus in France released an official statement criticizing the April 7 article published by the French daily Le Parisien, stating that the church and its members were “seriously defamed” due to distorted and biased reporting. The church pointed out that the article excessively highlighted one-sided claims made by a former member, while barely reflecting the actual practices and beliefs of the faith community.
The controversial article, titled “They Treated Us Like Animals”, described New Heaven New Earth Church as one of the “problematic evangelical groups” in France, based on the personal testimony of an anonymous former member. The article mentioned training camps, severed personal relationships, and monetary demands. However, the church emphasized that their position was reflected in only two sentences of the article.
A church representative stated, “We submitted a detailed written response consisting of thousands of words to 12 questions sent by the reporter in advance, but only two sentences were used in the article. That’s less than 1% of our full statement and severely limits readers’ ability to see a balanced perspective.” The representative also noted, “Since the article was published only four hours after we submitted our responses, it seems the report had already been pre-written with a biased intention.”
They added, “If the written statement was insufficient, the reporter could have visited the church in person to observe our faith practices and hear directly from active members. Our church is always open to communication with the media.”
Congregants actively engage in a dynamic Bible education session, reflecting the church’s emphasis on scriptural understanding and community involvement.
To provide a more accurate picture, the church shared testimonies from current members. Teresa (29), who has attended the church in Paris for six years, said, “Faith is something one chooses voluntarily. Through this church, I learned who God is and how to live as a light in the world.” Another member, Axel (30), said, “Before joining New Heaven New Earth Church, I was searching for meaning in life. Through my faith here, I’ve come to understand what God desires from us, and I find great joy in doing God’s work. I’ve even been able to travel and met my wife at church. I’m living a truly fulfilling life.”
Regarding the article’s sensational title, “They Treated Us Like Animals”, the church stated, “Our members were shocked and confused by this phrase. No one in our community has ever been treated that way, nor do they feel that way. This was clearly a provocative headline used to attract attention.” The church emphasized that it does not tolerate threats or stigmatization of former members and respects individuals’ decisions even after leaving the church.
In response to the claim that “the church forced a breakup between a woman and her boyfriend,” the church strongly denied this, saying, “The man was also a member of the church at the time and even expressed interest in marriage. However, the woman stated she wasn’t ready for marriage. Their breakup was a personal decision based on mutual discussion and faith considerations, and the church never pressured or influenced their relationship.” They added, “Dating and marriage are personal matters based on autonomy and responsibility; it’s inaccurate to attribute them to church control.”
The church also raised concerns about misleading content in the interview. One example cited was a photo showing someone with their foot on a radiator, which the article described as “punishment.” The church explained, “This photo has nothing to do with punishment. It was taken before the individual even joined the church. The person in the photo, who is still a member today, was simply demonstrating a pose for fun, and the image was taken lightheartedly. The member was shocked by the article’s misuse of the photo without consent and intends to file an official complaint with the media outlet.”
The church stated, “Reporting such claims without proper fact-checking fosters a skewed perception that the entire New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus is irrational, which is extremely regrettable.”
Concerning the so-called “training camps,” the church clarified, “These were short-term, completely voluntary programs for individuals who desired deeper spiritual growth. They included morning prayers and Bible meditation. Participants could leave at any time, and there was no physical punishment or coercion involved. However, understanding that it might be misunderstood from an outside perspective, the church has since discontinued the program.”
Members of the New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus deliver a vibrant dance performance in France.
The church also refuted claims about collecting personal information, restricting internet access, or encouraging members to cut family ties, stating, “None of this is true. We only collect minimal information needed for faith counseling. There are no restrictions on internet usage or external relationships. On the contrary, we encourage our members to live exemplary lives within their families and communities.”
Regarding the use of the name “ECA Academy,” the church explained, “It was a Bible education program name temporarily used in 2019. Participants were clearly informed that it was affiliated with New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus, and joining the church afterward was entirely up to the individual.”
In response to the article, the New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus in France called on the media to uphold the following principles:
Include a variety of perspectives and experiences in reporting
Accurately reflect the church’s official responses and statements
Provide fair opportunities to share the experiences and voices of active members
Respect religious freedom and the dignity of believers
Avoid sensational titles and expressions that foster prejudice
A church representative concluded, “Biased reports targeting specific religious communities impose stigma and prejudice on sincere believers, violating religious freedom and human rights. The media must avoid inflammatory approaches that incite hatred and instead aim for balanced, respectful coverage that represents diverse voices.”
They added, “We hope Le Parisien and all media outlets adhere to higher ethical standards in religious reporting. New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus remains committed to open communication and honest dialogue to foster better understanding.”
