Alyssia Birjalal

Multimedia Journalist, IOL Lifestyle

Durban theatre stages to come alive with stories of heritage, history and heart

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Whether you’re looking for a spiritual reflection or a deep dive into South African legacy, here are two standout productions to add to your calendar.

Experience the magic: KZNPO 2026 summer season in full swing

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra returns to the stage this month for a spectacular two-concert Summer Season.

Roti, chai and a whole lot of hustle: how Sandesh Rampersad built a street food dynasty

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

From a Durban food trailer to Rosebank, Sandesh Rampersad’s Roti & Chai serves soulful Indian street food born from family resilience.

Durban's theatre scene has something for everyone this week

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Grab your tickets, find your seat and get ready to experience the unique spark that only live performance can provide.

Navigating rising food prices amidst the foot and mouth disease crisis in South Africa

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

This article explores the implications for consumers, including rising food prices and alternative protein sources.

Tammy Kavirayan's 'Shattered': a raw account of survival and resilience in the face of GBV

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Tammy Kavirayan's debut memoir, 'Shattered', reveals her harrowing journey as a survivor of gender-based violence. With a powerful narrative, she aims to shed light ...

Love, laughter and legends: this week in Durban theatre

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Experience the best of Durban’s stage this week with a vibrant mix of musical comedy, romantic ballet and social advocacy.

Rachel Kolisi claps back at trolls: 'There’s an unfollow button especially for you'

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Rachel Kolisi isn't letting the internet rush her healing, delivering a classy clap back to trolls while proving she’s too busy building an empire to worry about ...

Prev Reddy transforms laughter into life lessons in new memoir

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

From the viral TikToks to the heights of Netflix and a book deal, Prev Reddy is finally telling his story, unfiltered.

Get a front row seat to Durban's buzzing theatre scene

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Whether you're a theatre regular or looking for a unique night out, Durban’s stage scene is buzzing this season.

Durban’s theatre scene is kicking it up a notch this month

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

From laugh-out-loud comedy to the graceful power of rock-and-roll ballet, here are the top productions to book right now.

Unveiling Durban's most inspiring social media influencers of 2025 - prepare to be amazed

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Explore how Durban's vibrant social media influencers are reshaping narratives and inspiring positivity in 2025.

'He died a superman': ordinary South Africans rally around widow and children of slain whistleblower Marius 'Vlam' van der ...

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Following the tragic death of Marius 'Vlam' van der Merwe, his widow Leanne shares her deep anguish on social media, as South Africans rally together to support ...

Jerusha's 'Love is Blind': a powerful return in her 'Love Trilogy' EP

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

South African singer Jerusha captivates with her new single 'Love is Blind', the second offering from her upcoming EP 'The Love Trilogy', delving deeper into the ...

Join the fun with exciting festive theatre offerings in Durban this weekend

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Experience the magic of festive theatre this weekend in Durban with two captivating productions.

Watch VideoWATCH: Wiseman Mncube responds to pregnancy rumours and reveals shocking stalker story

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

In a revealing episode of 'Podcast and Chill with MacG', Wiseman Mncube confronted pregnancy rumours and shared shocking evidence to defend his name.

Spellbinding shows you can't miss in Durban this weekend

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Immerse yourself in the magic of dance or get into the Christmas spirit this weekend in Durban.

Get ready for a weekend of laughter and music in Durban

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Join comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout for a festive evening of laughter at 'Krisms Bonanza', along with Amanda Black's soulful concert and Tonya Koenderman's tribute ...

Captivating performances set to brighten Durban's cultural scene

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural offerings of Durban this weekend.

Inside the lavish lifestyle of DJ Black Coffee: stunning home tour and family moments

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

In an age where glimpses into the elite lifestyle are seldom unveiled, DJ Black Coffee's home videos challenge the perception of what a dream home should embody. ...

Laugh out loud with 'Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari': a colourful romantic comedy

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Join Sunny and Tulsi on their hilarious mission to win back their exes in this captivating romantic comedy that promises to steal your heart.

Watch VideoMeet Nathan Soan Mngomezulu: a rising star in his own right, not just Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu's brother

Alyssia Birjalal|Updated

Nathan Soan Mngomezulu is proof that you can shine in your own right, even when coming from a famous family.

Don't miss these must-see theatre shows in Durban this week

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Explore the powerful stories of female dancers in 'Getting Tested,' a production that blends music, dance, and acting to raise awareness about social issues.

Transform your wardrobe and your Life: Ruwaida Sheik’s empowering fashion journey

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Discover how Durban designer Ruwaida Sheik transforms dreams into reality with her stunning gown collection, ensuring every girl experiences her own fairy tale moment ...

Comedy extravaganza in Durban: Vafa Naraghi and Riaad Moosa take the stage

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Join multi-award-winning comedian Vafa Naraghi as he brings his national stand-up comedy tour, 'Becoming South African', back to Durban, alongside Dr Riaad Moosa's ...