As 2025 draws to a close, the Rooi Rose editorial team reflect on the year’s highlights that resonated most strongly with their loyal and growing readership this year. Editor Anlie Janse van Rensburg describes 2025 as a year celebrating the power of South African women.
“When I look back over the past twelve months, I feel an overwhelming pride in the quality of the stories we’ve told,” says Anlie. “Our goal has always been to be stylish, meaningful and full to the brim. In 2025 our readers proved that they crave articles that not only entertain but also offer real inspiration and support.”
The Covers That Captured Attention
Two of the year’s biggest successes were the August and October issues.
The August issue featured actress and new Boer Soek ’n Vrou presenter Reandi Grey on the cover. The article highlighted how Reandi balances her roles as a mother, businesswoman and actress – our readers’ responses were phenomenal.
The October issue, featuring actors Je-Ani Swiegelaar and Zandellé Meyer, sparked huge positive social media engagement. The film My fk Marelize, in which the two stars appeared, resonated with many South Africans – proof that people face similar challenges.
Articles That Resonated
Among the more in-depth content, Rooi Rose’s focus on mental health and wellbeing was a key theme this year.
“The strongest response we received was for our thorough exploration of ‘Be Your Own Therapist’ and the article ‘ADHD: Women Experience It Differently’,” the Editor explains. “Readers need practical resources and the normalisation of mental-health challenges was clear.”
The most inspiring story, which the Editor cites as her personal favourite, was the September feature on singer Lira and her miraculous recovery after suffering from a stroke. Her journey of relearning how to speak and her gratitude in having a second chance were a powerful testament to resilience.
Other key articles that reached a large audience included the social commentary on “Gray Divorces” (divorces among people over 50) and the insightful piece “When Choices Become Brain-Twisters,” which explored decision-fatigue among women.
A Lifestyle That Celebrates Women
The Editor also highlighted the warm reception of new voices and elements in the magazine. The appointment of Marlo Kitshoff-Carstens as the new food editor was welcomed with open arms, especially her fresh take on South African favourites and her focus on local ingredients. The celebration of Heritage Food in the September issue was another highlight that tantalised readers into exploring their own kitchens.
“Our lifestyle and fashion content in 2025 reflected the essence of Rooi Rose: elegant but affordable. We look back on a year in which we enriched our readers’ lives by offering authentic, positive and relevant content. We’re excited to build on this strong foundation in 2026.”
