Level Up with Phumi Mashigo: What to expect in 2025

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After a decade run as South Africa’s first and longest-running online current affairs show, The Burning Platform is levelling up – Level Up with Phumi Mashigo - under Podcast Party’s Democracy Unplugged umbrella.…as well as live events where you can be part of the audience. Email podcastparty.co.za to reserve your place and add your voice.

In the premiere episode of Level Up, this powerhouse panel unpacks the trends, shifts, and surprises 2025 has in store. Phumi is joined by trends guru Dion Chang, brain and brand expert Timothy Maurice, and political observer Xavier Bapoo to explore how politics, business, and human behavior will shape the year ahead. From global disruptions to South Africa’s evolving political landscape, this episode is your guide to the future.
6 Feb 2025 English South Africa Politics · News

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