New year, new hopes: Locals share their 2026 dreams



Title: Nkosinathi Mthombeni
Caption: Nkosinathi ‘Dankie Sdala’ Mthombeni says in the new year, his focus is to create music that speaks to the heart. “I want to craft songs that tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect with listeners on a deeper level. I’m excited to explore new sounds, collaborate with talented artists, and share my passion with the world. Music has always been my outlet, my way of expressing what’s inside, and I’m eager to see where this journey takes me.”
Photo: Nkosinathi M

As the calendar flips to a fresh year, hope feels lighter, dreams feel louder and possibilities feel endless. We took to the streets to ask locals one simple question: What are you hoping for in the new year?
The answers were as diverse as the people who shared them, ranging from chasing new careers and financial stability to prioritising health, healing, love and inner peace.
Some spoke of big wins and bold plans, while others wished for the quiet joys of consistency, growth and happiness.
Together, their voices paint a picture of a community ready to embrace a new season with courage, optimism and renewed purpose.
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Title: Nhlanhla Songo
Caption: Nhlanhla Songo says 2026 looks like a productive year. “It is still a good year to build a stronger relationship with God. I hope this year bears nothing but good things, growth, friendships, vacations, and opportunities. I also want to focus on self-improvement and making memories with loved ones. 2026 feels full of promise, and I’m ready to embrace every moment.”
Photo: Nhlanhla Songo
Description: Female selfie in a brown top and black cap.

Title: Tshepo Ramaisa
Caption: Tshepo ‘TshepVibez’ Ramaisa says he looks forward to achieving good things this year. “I’m grateful for the journey and excited for what’s ahead. In my music career, I aim to release new songs that resonate with my fans and I wish to explore collaborations that push my creative boundaries. And I would also love to perform live again, connect with all my fans and share my passion. On a personal note, I wish to revisit my roots as a poet, reigniting my love for wo

Title: Mpho Ncholo
Caption: Mpho Ncholo beams with excitement as he talks about the year ahead. This year, he says, is already shaping to be one for the books. “I’ve got a lot in the pipeline. There’s a collab project coming up with Kit Kat Magandi, which has me very excited. I’ll also be dropping my own project at the end of the year, packed with fire features. I’ve got some merch on the way too. IFlag is set to drop January 22. I can’t wait for people to hear it. The song is all ab

Title: Noluthando Kondile
Caption: Noluthando Kondile says she wants to have a year that is much better than 2025. “I’ve started the year surrounded by my family and close friends, and it already feels full of promise. Every opportunity that comes my way, I will grab it with both hands. If no opportunities come my way, I will create them myself. This year, I want to focus on learning new things, growing as a person, and making every day count. I am ready to face challenges head-on and turn the

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