Weekly Pulse: Celebrating Community Spirit and Progress Across Our Region - 15 Augustus
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 15
- 7 min read
This week’s Weekly Pulse takes you across the vibrant tapestry of our communities, from national adventures and cultural milestones to sports triumphs and essential municipal updates. Each story reflects the dedication, resilience, and creativity that shape our shared spaces. Whether it’s young people cleaning their neighbourhoods, leaders tackling service delivery, or artists brightening our streets, these stories remind us of the collective effort that drives progress.
National
Young South Africans explore work, culture, and travel through the Au Pair in the Netherlands program.
Embark on a Life-Changing Au Pair Adventure in the Netherlands
The WorldVoyage Au Pair in the Netherlands program invites young adventurers to experience life abroad by joining host families as childcare providers. Participants receive free accommodation, meals, a stipend, and language support while immersing themselves in Dutch culture, from cycling through historic streets to tasting local delicacies. This program not only offers cultural exchange but also fosters professional development and lifelong connections with the host community.
Read these stories and more here: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/the-gazette
PotchGazette
Potchefstroom shines with heritage, festivals, service delivery updates, and sporting milestones.
News & Council
Service Delivery Progress Reports (10, 12, 13, and 14 August)
JB Marks Municipality has provided daily updates detailing work on roads, sewage systems, electricity, and water supply. While delays in some infrastructure projects persist due to material shortages, there has been notable progress in pothole repairs, street grading, and waste collection. The active involvement of leaders, particularly in the #ValaZonke Pothole Patching Programme, shows a hands-on approach to improving service delivery.
Why Prepaid Electricity Units Vary
Residents puzzled by fluctuating prepaid electricity units now have clarity: the Inclining Block Tariff adjusts costs based on usage, meaning fewer units when higher consumption tiers are reached. This is a standard system-wide policy and not the result of meter faults or sudden price hikes. Understanding this structure can help households manage their electricity budgets more effectively.
Community & Heritage
Die Eikelaan: Potchefstroom’s Living Heritage
The century-old oak avenue remains one of Potchefstroom’s most cherished landmarks, planted in 1910 and declared a national monument in 1977. It stands as a living reminder of the city’s heritage, offering both aesthetic beauty and a deep sense of historical continuity.
Love Potch Murals Initiative
Local artists, together with community organisations like Eduvos and Cornerstone Construction, have turned walls along Oak Avenue into colourful murals. This project follows a successful green space clean-up, adding vibrancy and fostering a shared sense of pride.
Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Volunteer Call
The children’s home is appealing for community volunteers to contribute time and skills to support its residents. From educational assistance to recreational activities, the help of volunteers can create lasting positive change in the lives of vulnerable children.
Events & Culture
Potch Geesfees 2025
This year’s festival will feature headline acts like Ivan Roux, Juanita du Plessis, and Leah, alongside stalls and lodge stays for visitors. The event promises not only music and entertainment but also economic opportunities for local vendors.
Potchefstroom Tourism Association AGM
Scheduled for 20 August, this gathering aims to unite tourism stakeholders in developing strategies to grow the regional tourism economy. The AGM will also explore ways to enhance community development through tourism-related projects.
NWU Science Day in Kuruman
Now in its third year, the event engaged learners in interactive demonstrations and discussions, making science accessible and exciting. It formed part of National Science Week and highlighted the university’s outreach into rural communities.
What’s On in Potchefstroom
The coming week features diverse events, from the Biltong Festival’s food stalls to charity cycling challenges. Gospel concerts and rugby fixtures round out a programme that reflects the town’s lively social calendar.
Sports
Varsity Netball 2025
Kicking off on 24 August, the tournament will showcase eight university teams competing over five weeks. All matches will be broadcast live, giving fans nationwide access to this exciting university-level competition.
School Cricket Development
A partnership between North West Cricket and the Department of Education will strengthen school cricket from grassroots to high-performance pathways. The initiative will ensure young players have the resources and coaching to reach their potential.
Heritage Cricket Tournament
Potchefstroom High School for Boys hosted teams from across the region in a spirited display of cricket talent. The event highlighted sportsmanship and provided a platform for young players to test their skills against strong competition.
Potch Dorp Rugby Second Team
The team is preparing for a decisive semi-final match against Northam Wolves, set to be played at a neutral venue. Their recent performances have built confidence for this important fixture.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/potch-gazette
Ikageng Gazette
Ikageng youth lead clean-ups, host vibrant sports tournaments, and celebrate community spirit.
Community
Youth Cleaning Campaign
Over 550 young people from the NYS–CMF–AIN Phase 4 programme will take part in a large-scale clean-up effort in Ikageng. The campaign aims to create employment opportunities and instil pride in the community’s appearance.
Extension 7 Outreach
Residents will benefit from essential services delivered directly to their neighbourhood through a multi-department outreach at OR Tambo Hall. The initiative will help reduce barriers to accessing critical government services.
Ward 19 Learners License Program
The second intake of young people will take part in learners license training, equipping them with essential skills for future independence. This is part of the municipality’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment.
Sports
Potch Boys High Soccer Stars
Two talented players, Melo and Lethabo Sithole, are fundraising to compete in an international tournament in Barcelona. Their participation will give them valuable exposure and experience against top-level competition.
DLALADISKI.MSHAYA U-15 Tournament
Scheduled for 16 August at Sarafina Stadium, this tournament will bring together promising young footballers from across the region. A day of competitive matches will be followed by knockout rounds, ensuring high-energy action.
Dust to Dust Tournament
Taking place on 6–7 September at Extension 6 Aerial Ground, the event will be both a football competition and a community festival. It will showcase local talent while bringing residents together for a weekend of fun.
Culture & Nightlife
Jazz Double Dose
Funani Sports Bar will host a jazz night featuring Babalas King and Aganang on 31 August. The evening will combine smooth sounds, stylish performances, and a warm community atmosphere.
Friday Student Nights
Club CSA will feature Masterpiece YVK at its Friday Student Nights on 15 August, promising music, dancing, and a vibrant student crowd. The event aims to bring young people together in a safe, energetic environment.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/ikageng-gazette
Klerksdorp Gazette
Klerksdorp drives service delivery, cultural showcases, and celebrates local sports talent.
News & Council
Matlosana CBD Cleanup Operation
A joint municipal initiative focused on improving compliance with by-laws and regulations among businesses. The operation also aimed to enhance public safety and economic sustainability in the city centre.
Title Deeds Distributed in Jouberton Extension 23
This door-to-door initiative formalised property ownership for residents. It’s part of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to provide legal housing security.
Expanded Public Works Programme
Sixty new recruits have joined the city’s technical and infrastructure directorate. They will assist with maintenance projects, helping to keep the city’s infrastructure in good condition.
Thuntsha Lerole Phase 5
The service delivery drive brought municipal departments directly to residents in Manzilpark. It included exhibitions, community feedback sessions, and on-the-spot service provision.
Planned Water Supply Interruption
Stilfontein residents experienced two days of scheduled water cuts while urgent pipeline repairs were made. These works aim to prevent future disruptions and ensure reliable water supply.
Community & Culture
Regional Choir Competition
The North West Regional Choir Elimination Competition celebrated musical talent as part of Women’s Day events. Performers showcased cultural heritage through song.
Baswa le Metsi Competition
Local learners presented innovative water conservation projects during this adjudication event. The competition raises awareness about sustainable water use in communities.
Rotary Club of Klerksdorp
The club’s weekly meetings foster fellowship and coordinate humanitarian service projects. Membership is by invitation, but community engagement remains a core priority.
Sports
Duquan “Awie” Alberts
Former Laerskool Saamtrek learner has joined the Sharks U19 Currie Cup squad. His achievement demonstrates the power of dedication and perseverance in sport.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/klerksdorp-gazette
Carletonville Gazette
Carletonville marks water infrastructure milestones, municipal updates, and youth sports achievements.
News & Council
Station 5A Water Purification Plant Launch
President Ramaphosa and Merafong’s Executive Mayor marked the official opening of the plant, which will boost South Africa’s water security. The facility promises improved supply capacity and economic benefits for communities.
Mayoral State of the City Address
Scheduled for 21 August, the SOCA will reflect on achievements and outline future priorities. It’s an important platform for public accountability and engagement.
Merafong City–Gauteng CoGTA Turnaround Strategy
This strategic agreement addresses service delivery challenges while unlocking economic growth opportunities. Leaders emphasised collaboration between municipal and provincial levels.
Ward Overview
A detailed breakdown of Merafong City’s wards gives residents essential reference points for representation. The guide outlines boundaries, landmarks, and how to find councillor details.
Community & Sports
Rotary Club of Carletonville
The club brings together professionals and volunteers to plan and deliver community projects. Meetings are held weekly, encouraging both fellowship and service.
Achuma Caluza
Laerskool Jongspan learner has been selected for the Gauteng West U/12 cricket team. His achievement is celebrated as a source of inspiration for peers.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/carletonville
StroomStories
Inspiring school and sports journeys from Laerskool ML Fick and Potch Gimnasium take centre stage.
SkoolKompas
Paula Aucamp, Ciska Kruger, and Caitlyn Snyman from Laerskool ML Fick shared stories of school spirit, collaboration, and talent. Their discussion highlighted the importance of teamwork in nurturing both academic and extracurricular success.
SportStroom
De Wet Grobler, Potch Gimnasium’s first-team rugby player and U/17 provincial star, discussed his path from school sports to provincial competition. As a student leader, he also spoke about balancing athletic performance with leadership responsibilities.
Closing Thoughts
From national travel opportunities to grassroots sports, cultural milestones, and municipal achievements, this week’s Weekly Pulse is a testament to the power of community action. Every update reflects a shared investment in progress, one that blends leadership with grassroots energy. Whether on the field, in council chambers, or along the oak-lined streets of Potchefstroom, our communities continue to build a future worth celebrating.
We’ll see you next week for more stories that matter. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, and stay connected.
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📬 The community is warmly invited to share their stories, voices, and experiences with us for future editions of The Weekly Pulse.
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