From cross-border payments made easy to matric achievements worth celebrating

👋 Hello Hermanus - a new week and another round of local stories worth celebrating!

There’s a real sense of momentum in town at the moment, from businesses doing meaningful work to young locals stepping into their next chapter. It’s one of those weeks that reminds us why community stories matter.

In this week’s edition, we’re dishing up:

🌍 Business of the Week: Meet ClickSendNow, a Hermanus-built fintech business helping domestic and migrant workers send money home safely and affordably. Founded by Tyler Slement, the company has grown from a local idea into a platform making a real difference across Africa - all while creating jobs right here in Hermanus.

🎓 Matric Results Are In: A big moment for our 2025 matriculants as results are released and futures begin to take shape. Whether celebrating distinctions or planning next steps, this is a milestone worth acknowledging.

📆 What’s On in Hermanus: Your go-to guide for local events, markets, live music and community happenings around town this week.

🌤️ Your Weather: A quick look at what’s ahead, so you can plan beach walks, coffee dates or outdoor adventures accordingly.

Here’s to local innovation, hard work, and the people shaping Hermanus - near and far.

The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Love local stories? Share The Scoop with a friend at hermanusscoop.co.za - it’s free and it’s lekker.

Property of the Week - Presented by Greeff Properties

Looking for ocean views or a mountainside retreat?

Each week, we spotlight a standout listing that captures the unique charm and lifestyle of the Overberg. From ocean-view escapes to tucked-away treasures, these are the homes that inspire imagination - and maybe even your next move. Brought to you by Greeff Properties, trusted specialists in exceptional real estate across the Overberg.

🏡 Property of the Week: Your Golden Years Await at Fynbos Park

Transitioning to a retirement village does not necessitate downsizing your living space. We are excited to introduce this bright and spacious top-floor unit, accessible via a lift or gentle stairs. Recently refreshed with a new coat of paint, this 93 m² residence features two north-facing, wheelchair-friendly en-suite bedrooms, a generous lounge and dining area, a sunroom and a thoughtfully designed kitchen, ensuring that your retirement years are truly enjoyable. The fully enclosed sunroom offers a warm and inviting space for entertaining family and friends without feeling cramped. Additionally, the unit comes with two automated lock-up garages for your convenience

👉 View the full property here

Business of the week: Clicksendnow

Hermanus-built fintech helping migrant workers send money home – safely, easily, and affordably

If you live in the Overstrand, you’ll know Hermanus is full of people building meaningful businesses - not just for locals, but for communities far beyond our coastline.

This week, we’re shining the spotlight on ClickSendNow, a fast-growing fintech business founded right here in Hermanus, created to solve one of the biggest everyday challenges faced by domestic and migrant workers: sending money back home to their families safely, without high fees, and without the stress.

So if you know someone who has family outside South Africa or the need to send money across the border and get full banking support - this is an excellent way for them to do so, effortlessly.

ClickSendNow makes it possible for people living and working in South Africa to send money to 30+ countries across Africa, directly from their phone, using an app that’s designed to be as simple and accessible as possible.  

The story behind the business

ClickSendNow was founded by Tyler Slement, who grew up in Zimbabwe and spent several years working there after university.

It was during this time - and later while living in South Africa - that Tyler became deeply aware of just how difficult it can be for many foreign nationals to send money home. Between the high costs, risks, and complicated processes, it often meant people had to choose between sending support to loved ones… or losing a chunk of their hard-earned income just trying to get it there.

Zimbabwe might be ClickSendNow’s “home ground,” but the need is much bigger than one border. Today, the platform supports transfers across a wide range of African countries (and beyond), giving workers a reliable way to support families wherever they are.  

From money transfer… to full banking support

ClickSendNow started with one core mission: make cross-border money transfers easier.

But over time, the offering has expanded into something far more powerful: a full banking and money transfer service built specifically for foreigners and migrant workers - a market often underserved by traditional banks.

What makes ClickSendNow especially unique is how accessible it is. Users can register and verify themselves using a valid passport, all through the app, without needing a complicated banking setup.  

The company describes the experience as “smart, smooth & simple remittance”, with multiple payout methods available depending on the destination country - including bank accounts, mobile wallets and cash payout options.  

And importantly: ClickSendNow is approved by the South African Reserve Bank as an Authorised Dealer with Limited Authority (Level 3) - adding an extra layer of trust and credibility for users.  

How it works:

The ClickSendNow process is designed for real people with real schedules - often working long hours, and needing something that just works:

• Download the app
• Verify your profile using your SA ID or foreign passport
• Choose how much you want to send
• Select your recipient
• Pay securely via card or through partnered in-store payment options  

It’s also available through both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, making it widely accessible.  

Built in Hermanus, powered by local people

Even though ClickSendNow operates across borders, the business has grown from a strong foundation right here in Hermanus in Aberdeen Street.

What’s especially great to hear is that ClickSendNow has built an office team made up of local Hermanus residents, many of whom have grown alongside the company as it developed from scratch.

It’s one of those stories that reminds us that Hermanus isn’t only a holiday town - it’s also a place where world-class ideas can be built, and where local jobs can be created from work that truly matters.

Find out more

To learn more about ClickSendNow, download the app, or explore the supported countries, visit their website: clicksendnow.co.za 

 🌿 This Week in Hermanus 🌿

Andrew Young presents "Roll Over Beethoven"
📍Benguela Cove | Friday 17 January 2026 | 17:30
🎟 Get tickets here: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/338055-andrew-young-roll-over-beethoven-benguela-cove/#/

For the first time in South Africa, world-renowned saxophonist Andrew Young brings his brand-new show Roll Over Beethoven, which debuted to rave reviews in Europe earlier in 2025!

Limited Editions Exhibition
📍Fynarts Gallery | Friday 17 January 2026 | 11:00
🎟 Free Entry

The FynArts Gallery presents rotating exhibitions of the work of prominent South African artists. Experience solo or group exhibitions.

Gustavo Romero Tales of The Russian Soul
📍Municipal Auditorium | Saturday 18 January 2026 | 15:30
🎟 Tickets R250pp for none members and R170pp for members of the OAK - Booking 082 940 4238 
Join OAK for an unforgettable ALL RUSSIAN recital with internationally acclaimed pianist Gustavo Romero, hailed as “a pianist of genius” by The Washington Post and praised by The New York Times for his “agility, power, and unusually large repertory of colors and dynamic levels.”

The Cookbook & Super Club
📍CanD's Kitchen | Thursday 22 January 2026 | 17:30
🎟 Tickets R380pp - Booking 079 833 8811
Join us for the first Cookbook & Supper Club of the year as we cook from Upwards by Karen Dudley. Expect a lively evening filled with books, conversation, and seriously good food.

🌿 The Usuals

Mikro Coffee 6am Run Friday Run Club

🗓 Every Friday · 06:00
📍 Mikro Coffee, Aberdeen Street

Join us every Friday at 6am for a relaxed 5KM fun run

Hermanus Country Market

🗓 Every Saturday · 09:00 – 14:00
📍 Hermanus Cricket Club

Artisan stalls, live music, great food, fresh produce, local crafts and a warm, family-friendly vibe - a staple Saturday tradition for both locals and visitors.

Saturday | Hermanus ParkRun 🏃
🗓 Every Saturday · 08:00
📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join.

Saturday | Benguela Cove ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday · 08:00
📍 Benguela Cove, R43, Botriver Lagoon, Hermanus Another beautiful 5km trail run (or walk) along the lagoon. Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

🎓 Schools

🎓 Hermanus High School Matric Results 2025 - A Standout Year of Excellence

The Class of 2025 at Hermanus High School has achieved truly exceptional results in this year’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, proudly continuing the school’s tradition of academic excellence.

Outstanding School Performance

• Hermanus High School earned a 100% pass rate for the Matric Class of 2025 - a remarkable achievement that reflects dedication from learners, teachers, and parents alike.

• Of the 193 candidates who wrote their exams, 164 (85%) achieved a Bachelor’s Degree Pass (University Exemption) - significantly higher than both the Western Cape provincial average of 49.2% and the Overberg district average of 49.5%.

• The learners achieved an impressive 254 subject distinctions, with 23 candidates earning A aggregates and 47 earning B aggregates.

  

🏆 Top Achievers at Hermanus High

Congratulations to the top 23 achievers whose hard work and commitment delivered outstanding individual results:

1. Larissa Heunis – 89.7%

2. Mia Momberg – 89.3%

3. Janré Fourie – 88.3%

4. Sheryl-Anne Green – 87.7%

5. Julian du Toit – 87.3%

6. Tobie Fourie – 87.2%

7. Lilarayn Schenck – 86%

8. Miencke Joubert – 85.5%

9. Migael van Wageningen – 84.3%

10. Saskia Bouwers – 84%

11. Chiara Saunderson – 83.7%

12. Johan de Villiers – 83.5%

13. Morgan Maroudas – 83.2%

14. Timo Zipfel – 82.5%

15. Rachel Pinto – 82.3%

16. Nils Ladewig – 82.2%

17. Bea du Toit – 81%

18. Danika Deden – 80.8%

19. Cara Celine – 80.5%

20. Heike Kuchar – 80.3%

21. Jana von Wielligh – 80.3%

22. Elani Halleen – 80%

23. Suzanne van der Linde – 80%

Special mention to top achiever Larissa Heunis, whose subject results were particularly strong across the board - including excellent performances in Visual Arts (93%) and Design (93%).

🏅 Provincial & National Context

The success at Hermanus High School comes against a backdrop of very positive provincial and national results:

✅ Western Cape Class of 2025 delivered a record-breaking 88.2% matric pass rate, the highest since the introduction of the NSC, and also achieved the highest provincial Bachelor’s pass rate on record at 49.2%.
✅ Nationally, South Africa’s Matric Class of 2025 achieved a historic 88% NSC pass rate - the best in the history of the examination system.
✅ The Overberg District, which includes Hermanus High School, recorded an impressive 92.4% pass rate, placing it third highest among all districts nationally.

🎉 A Commitment to Excellence

Hermanus High School extends heartfelt congratulations to the Matric Class of 2025. These strong results reflect:
✅ Years of dedication and perseverance by learners
✅ Supportive teaching staff and leadership
✅ A culture of commitment, resilience and academic ambition

These outcomes once again confirm Hermanus High School’s standing as a Destination for Excellence - inspiring future classes to aim even higher.

🎓 Curro Hermanus: Matrick 2025 Final Results

We are SO proud of our Matric class of 2025.

🍾  100% IEB pass rate 

🍾  100% tertiary exemption 

🍾  10 A aggregates 

🍾  16 B aggregates 

🍾  107 subject A aggregates

🍾  86 subject B aggregates

🍾  87 subject C aggregates 

🍾  2 distinctions per candidate 

🍾  54 matric learners 

💥SPECIAL AWARDS💥

The following learners are part of the Top 1% of IEB candidates in the country in the following subjects:

HOSPITALITY STUDIES: Nicole Schutte

LIFE ORIENTATION: Kira Hiestermann

TOURISM: Divan Stander

Well done to each and every one of our class of 2025 learners! You used your opportunities and paved your road to a bright future.💙 We look forward to following your careers. You may ROAR with pride and confidence! 

🎒 Welcome to Our New Teachers - Hermanus Primary School

Hermanus Primary School is starting the year with some fresh energy in the classrooms, welcoming five new educators and a marketing officer to the school community.

Joining the team in 2025 are:

• Ronel Kruger – Grade 4

• Hanro Smit – Grade 5

• Elmé Olwagen – Grade 6

• Basil Koopman – Grade 7

• Nicolas Barkhuizen – Rekenaars / Computers

• Andreline van Tonder - Marketing

These new appointments strengthen the school’s teaching capacity across both intermediate and senior phases, as well as specialist subjects. Hermanus Primary continues to invest in passionate educators who support strong foundations, innovation in learning, and a nurturing school environment.

We wish each of them a very warm welcome to Hermanus and every success as they settle into their new classrooms and become part of the school family.

🌤️ Weather Forecast for Hermanus

Hermanus settles into a more changeable mid-January rhythm this week - cooler coastal days, passing clouds, and a noticeable warm-up as the week progresses. It’s classic seaside weather: gentle, a little unpredictable, and always inviting you to plan around it rather than fight it. Think layered mornings, sunny breaks, and a midweek heat tease that reminds us summer still has plenty to say.

⸻

Thursday 15 January
Mild and mostly cloudy with a cooler coastal feel. A calm, easy-going day.
🌥️ 19°C / 16°C Winds 12 / 8 m/s

Friday 16 January
Cooler with clouds and light rain possible — fresh air and slower pacing.
🌦️ 19°C / 14°C Winds 7 / 6 m/s

Saturday 17 January
Brighter with sunny spells breaking through, though a brief shower may pass by. A lovely balance.
🌤️ 21°C / 15°C Winds 9 / 2 m/s

Sunday 18 January
Partly cloudy and comfortable — an easy Sunday for walks, markets and brunch.
🌤️ 20°C / 16°C Winds 5 / 4 m/s

Monday 19 January
Clear and pleasant with steady sunshine. A reliable summer day.
☀️ 21°C / 14°C Winds 6 / 2 m/s

Tuesday 20 January
Warmer and bright — beach weather returns in earnest.
☀️ 23°C / 17°C Winds 9 / 3 m/s

Wednesday 21 January
Hot and sunny, with temperatures climbing sharply. A true summer statement day.
☀️ 29°C / 17°C Winds 7 / 6 m/s

⸻

The week ahead brings a gentle start and a confident, sun-soaked finish - a reminder that Hermanus summer always unfolds in chapters. Take it slow early on, then lean fully into the warmth as the days heat up.

Spotted in the Overberg: Photo of the Week

Each week, we feature one special snap submitted by someone who calls this place home. From misty morning walks to playful pups on the beach - we want to see what you see.

And here’s the perk: every featured photographer gets a free flat white on us - in partnership with Molo Coffee. So send in your best shot to [email protected], and you might just sip your way to local fame.

That’s a wrap for this week’s Scoop!

Stay festive and curious and we’ll catch you next week!

- The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Want to be featured in the Scoop? Drop us a mail at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you.

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