Ashley Lechman

Multimedia Journalist

SA Police Ministers double salary: Taxpayer burden amid special leave

Ashley Lechman|Published

Despite a 3.8% salary increase for Cabinet Ministers effective from April 2026, South African taxpayers are burdened with the dual salaries of Police Minister Senzo ...

Fuel price surge: How loyalty rewards can help South Africans cope

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa faces soaring fuel prices, many households are searching for ways to cope. Discover how Standard Bank’s UCount Rewards programme could help ease ...

UCT-led study unlocks secrets of the world's largest diamonds

Ashley Lechman|Published

Unearthing the secrets of the Earth’s depths, researchers reveal the hidden origins of the world’s most extraordinary diamonds, creating potential pathways to discover ...

Geopolitical tension rises as Iran's counter-proposal rejected by Trump

Ashley Lechman|Published

As tensions rise between Iran and the US over a rejected peace plan, Asian markets focus on AI advances, while commodities react to geopolitical shifts. Read on ...

The journey of Andrew Soqinase: transforming retail in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

With Andrew Soqinase at the helm of Usave, South Africans can rest assured that their pursuit of affordability is matched by a leadership dedicated to uplifting ...

The economic fallout of increased fuel prices in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

Recent fuel price hikes have left South Africans grappling with financial strain, as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced significant increases ...

The devil wears Prada: the enduring value of its iconic wardrobe

Ashley Lechman|Published

Unlocking the hidden value in the iconic wardrobe of The Devil Wears Prada might just be your ticket into the elite world of luxury fashion. With current prices ...

Rooibos gains tariff-free access to burgeoning Chinese market

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa's beloved Rooibos tea secures tariff-free status in China, industry leaders anticipate a wave of opportunities that could transform the local economy ...

Tourism sector recovery gives South Africa's GDP a much-needed boost

Ashley Lechman|Published

With the tourism sector recovering swiftly post-pandemic, South Africa's economy finds a rare source of optimism. Explore how this vibrant industry is defying challenges ...

US-Iran deal talks fuel record highs on Wall Street and reassure global markets

Ashley Lechman|Published

Catch the latest on how global market optimism is surging with potential US-Iran deal talks. Dive deep into the soaring stocks and commodities reshaping financial ...

From corporate to crops: KZN mother and daughter empower small-scale farmers in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

This inspiring story of a mother and daughter duo not only highlights their achievements but also illustrates the power of resilience and community empowerment in ...

Unlocking the potential of spaza shops: driving growth in South Africa's township economy

Ashley Lechman|Published

Discover how transparency and intentional support can unlock the immense potential of spaza shops and boost South Africa's thriving township economy in this insightful ...

Africa's renewable energy growth stifled by engineering skills crisis

Ashley Lechman|Published

As Africa stands on the brink of a renewable energy revolution, unresolved engineering challenges pose a significant threat to its growth ambitions. Without urgent ...

US naval escorts suspended as Trump signals potential Iran deal

Ashley Lechman|Published

As the world watches, will the anticipated agreement alter the landscape for global markets, or is it merely a fleeting moment of optimism? Discover how geopolitical ...

The foot-and-mouth disease crisis is devastating communal farmer livelihoods

Ashley Lechman|Published

As foot-and-mouth disease wreaks havoc in South Africa's rural heartlands, communal farmers face the harsh reality of disrupted livelihoods and compounded challenges. ...

Fuel price adjustment confirmed: Minister clarifies miscalculation for May

Ashley Lechman|Published

A miscalculation in fuel levy adjustments has prompted necessary clarifications from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. With significant increases ...

Soaring fuel prices: Urgent relief needed for South African consumers

Ashley Lechman|Published

With fuel prices soaring, South African workers face a financial crisis. Trade unions are calling for urgent government intervention to alleviate the burden on consumers ...

Petshop Science and Montego Pet Nutrition achieve GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ for largest pet food donation

Ashley Lechman|Published

Petshop Science and Montego Pet Nutrition have made history by setting a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the largest donation of pet food in 24 hours, showcasing ...

Iran’s retaliation sparks market volatility as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz

Ashley Lechman|Published

As Iran flexes its military muscles in the Strait of Hormuz, global markets brace for volatility in response to rising tensions that could threaten economic stability. ...

Tropika launches limited-edition ginger beer flavour with Dr Esther Mahlangu

Ashley Lechman|Published

Experience a taste of heritage with Tropika's latest limited-edition ginger beer, a collaboration that celebrates South African culture and the vibrant artistry ...

Brace for financial storm as fuel prices surge

Ashley Lechman|Published

South African consumers brace for a financial storm in May as fuel prices surge, with petrol rising by R3.27 and diesel by R6.19. Discover the factors behind these ...

US-Iran engagement calms markets as Asian indices soar

Ashley Lechman|Published

US-Iran talks bring positivity to global markets and investors are hopeful as Asian stocks surge. What does this mean for local currencies and commodities? Dive ...

Young retailer Mignon Pretorius takes aim and wins top SPAR accolade

Ashley Lechman|Published

Young, ambitious, and innovative, Mignon Pretorius is making waves in the retail industry in South Africa. Discover how her journey and dedication to her family's ...

South African consumers brace for fuel price hikes amid cost-of-living crisis

Ashley Lechman|Published

South African consumers are facing a financial storm as fuel prices are set to rise in May, exacerbating the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and food inflation, with ...

From staff to co owners: Thuli and Precious lead WAXIT micro franchise launch

Ashley Lechman|Published

Long serving WAXIT employees Thuli Ngwenya and Precious Matabane are now co owners of the brand’s first micro franchise store in Johannesburg.