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THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

E. Eaundre Skeete

CONTRIBUTORS

Marlon Bolasingh

Nikki Caesar

Sheena-Marie Joseph

BRAND MANAGEMENT

DESIGN & LAYOUT

Empyreal (Barbados)

WANDILE MABASO

—Executive Chef, Lés Creatifs

—Culinary Arts Director, WM Group

—Founder, Wandile Mabaso Foundation

—Ambassador of French Gastronomy to South Africa, Ministère de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères

—Escoffier Chef, The Disciples Escoffier International

Chef Wandile Mabaso, a qualified culinary artist, has almost 2 decades of experience in culinary arts. From his internship on a luxury boat in Italy to working at renowned 2 and 3-star restaurants in New York and France, Chef Wandile’s world-class palate is a result of his world travels and mentorships under Michelin star chefs. His culinary talents led to him being part of the winning duo of two Michelin stars at Le Meurice Alain Ducasse in Paris in 2016.

In 2022 Chef Wandile was named one of the top 10 chefs in South Africa. His style of cooking is often described as a “flavorful fusion” of traditional African flavors and classical French techniques. Chef Wandile believes his legacy is to create food that is rooted in centuries of culinary traditions while paying homage to his culture and country, South Africa.

Les Créatifs is an experience that celebrates creativity, African culture and art. The restaurant is a gathering of creative minds, intentional paring of beverages and a full African gastronomy immersion.

Chef Wandile Mabaso and his team of creative chefs, bring you an exclusive menu that celebrates the flavors of South Africa. Les Créatifs lives up to its meaning and ensures its patrons experience creative culinary moments. A uniquely perfect blend of gastronomy and African flavor. The establishment aims to redefine the height of South African cuisine.

The Open kitchen concept offers guests the opportunity to view live cooking and the best in food ingenuity. Guests have the ability to directly talk to the Chef, see the ingredients and learn as they engage. Les Créatifs is an establishment that showcases Art in all forms! The walls in the restaurant adorn art from local artists. The gallery-like feeling allows guests an opportunity to experience and purchase visual art from young and upcoming artists.

Top Three

Luxury Spa Retreats for Black Women to Recharge

I like to tell people that sometimes, the best way to take care of yourself is to simply disconnect, unwind, and find a place that feels like it was made just for you. As Black women, we often carry the world on our shoulders, balancing work, family, and life’s countless demands. So, what better way to recharge than with a luxury spa retreat designed with us in mind—where relaxation isn’t just a priority, it’s the whole experience?

www.woodhousespas.com

@woodhouse_spa_

Take The Woodhouse Day Spa in Washington, D.C. I remember stepping inside for the first time, feeling the city’s hustle and bustle fade away the moment the door closed behind me. The treatments here are made for us—literally. From facials that target hyperpigmentation to full-body massages that feel like they’re massaging away months of tension, Woodhouse is Black-owned and built on the idea that every Black woman deserves tailored, luxurious care. And trust me, you feel that care in every second of your time there.

Salamander Resort & Spa, Middleburg, VA. The keyword at the Salamander Spa? Luxury. Whether you want to indulge with a deeply rejuvenating signature massage or find your inner peace, achieving balance has never been easier than at the 23,000-square-foot Salamander spa where a unique health and wellness journey tailored to your specific well-being needs awaits.

www.salamanderresort.com @salamanderresort

www.blisssanctuaryforwomen.com

@blisssanctuaryforwomen

And if you’re ready to escape to the other side of the world, Bliss Sanctuary for Women in Bali is a must. It’s not Black-owned, but they’ve taken care to create a safe, nurturing space where women can be their best selves—body, mind, and spirit. What I love most about Bliss is how customizable everything is. Want to sleep in and then go straight to a massage? No problem. Need a facial specifically for melanated skin? Done. It’s a retreat designed to let you take things at your own pace, with no schedule except the one you make for yourself.

Celebrate LaJoie de Vivre

From exotic locations across the globe to immersive cultural or relaxing weekender, we are delighted to announce our list of 2025 destination experiences. These members only escapes have been designed to be more intimate curated experiences with a personal touch offering unique elements to meet the needs of the most discerning member. Say goodbye to the large Global Escapes and surrender yourself to a bespoke luxury experience with unparalleled attention to detail.

Reserve your space today and join us for a truly memorable experience!

JAPAN & KOREA

SEOUL / TOKYO / KYOTO

MAY 25-JUNE 2, 2025

Two diverse countries full of surprises, South Korea & Japan are the perfect destinations for discerning travelers. From a journey through traditional and modern Korea to the bustling streets of Tokyo to the timelessness of Kyoto, the tranquility of cherry blossomlined gardens and serene mountain retreats, the multifaceted charm of these two Asian gems never ceases to captivate.

AUGUST 21-24, 2025

Classic, bold, and always-evolving, Quebec’s largest city is a slice of European flair in the heart of Canada. This signature weekender escape to Montreal, complete with luxurious accommodation is the ultimate curation of indelible moments and eternal memories, a weekend of splendor!

DEPOSIT: $249 00. ALL PRICES ARE

SOUTH AFRICA

NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 7, 2025

The Culinary Reserve is an exclusive and immersive experience that beautifully blends food, spirits, and cultures. This limited-capacity experience will be hosted by award-winning chefs and winemakers from South Africa, who will expertly pair exquisite wines and spirits with a remarkable array of cuisine. Dine alongside notable South Africans who have profoundly shaped the Rainbow Nation’s history, sharing insights into the rich tapestry of the black experience. Indulge your senses in a celebration of flavors and stories that honor heritage and foster connection. This is a rare opportunity to savor not just a meal, but a journey through culture and history.

DEPOSIT: $500 00. ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON IN USD

SINGLE RATES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Membership Truly Has Its Benefits…

Your JDV membership unlocks significant benefits and immerses you into a global community that distinguishes itself through the genuine connections and relationships that are established and transcends borders.

This month we feature two exclusive JDV Member benefits.

Hertz & Sixt Car Rentals:

Drive away in style on your next vacation, business trip or just because! As a JDV member, we’ve made it easier for you to access and redeem the rewards of membership with our valued partners Hertz and Sixtz!

Hertz:

Take advantage of your membership and receive a 20% discount off retail rates and become a member of HERTZ GOLD PLUS REWARDS at no additional cost. This affords you the opportunity to bypass the regular counter and proceed directly to your pre-assigned vehicle, saving you valuable time and money.

Sixt:

JDV Members will receive a 15% discount off rental rates and up to 50% off long-term rental rates.

Personal Concierge Service:

Our concierge team understands that time is your most valuable resource and offers exclusive services that take the hassle out of your next personal vacation experience. With a commitment to superior service, ethereal experiences and customized curated itineraries, rest assured that every experience is customized to ensure that your personal dreams are realized. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or that special someone, the possibilities are endless. From private jets and exclusive experiences to luxury villa rentals or superyachts, our concierge services are unrivaled and guaranteed to exceed your expectations.

To book using a JDV membership code, contact one of our Lifestyle Architects by emailing concierge@jdvlifestyle.com

When It Matters The Most

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

DR. QHAMISA MBALO has always prided herself in empowering people during their most challenging times of need. Her passion in pursuing ongoing research in her specialized field while ensuring her patients have access to the most cutting-edge treatments is clearly evident in her work. Continually supporting others when it matters the most, the never-ending download of current information, and the emotional connection she has with her patients is what has made Dr. Mbalo one of the most esteemed Oncologist based in South Africa.

JDV: It is quite a privilege for JDV to have you in our community. Learning about how you empower your patients falls hand in hand on how we try to empower our members. How did you learn about JDV and what attracted you to the organization?

QM: I discovered the organization through a friend who had a JDV Private Curated birthday experience. I fell in love with how premium the experience was, it was fun, elegant and well executed.

JDV: The world of medicine is so broad based with so many areas one can specialize in. What attracted you to the field of Oncology and how are you impacting others with the work your work in this field?

QM: Interestingly, oncology receives limited attention during undergraduate medical training, often leaving doctors uncertain about our role and expertise. Personally, I was compelled to pursue oncology to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives following a cancer diagnosis. I’m drawn to the significant impact oncologists have on patients’ journeys, from treatment to palliative care. Oncology’s rapid evolution, fueled by groundbreaking research, keeps my work engaging. I find joy in continually learning and improving patient care, particularly in a region with a scarcity of oncologists. As an oncologist, I’m proud to provide essential care where it’s needed most.

JDV: Can you speak specifically to medicine in South Africa and how you feel it stacks up against the world?

QM: South Africa, as a developing country, presents unique healthcare challenges. Fortunately, our medical training is among the world’s best, equipping us to tackle a diverse range of illnesses – from lifestylerelated conditions to third-world diseases. This diversity fosters exceptional clinical acumen. Our healthcare system is divided into public and private sectors. While our public healthcare faces resource constraints, mirroring global trends, we strive to maintain standard-of-care treatments. In contrast, our private healthcare offers patients access

to cutting-edge facilities and specialized care, comparable to global standards. Despite resource limitations, we take pride in delivering quality care, leveraging our expertise to bridge the gap between public and private healthcare.

JDV: What are you most looking forward to from the JDV community as we look towards the future?

QM: Premium experiences and global connections; with people from diverse cultures, countries and lifestyles.

JDV: For anyone traveling to South Africa, are there any “must do’s” that you would recommend for them?

QM: I think South Africa is one of the most beautiful countries! No bias :). We have so much to offer. You definitely have to go on a “Safari tour” for a few days, you have to visit the Garden Route- absolutely breathing (Driving from George to Cape Town - East Coast). Our wine farms are a must visit. We have a diversity of cultural experiences- in all our provinces we have a predominant culture. You have to experience the different culinary experiences and traditional ways of life. South African is rich with history so the museums are a must as well. There is so much to do and experience in SA really. I don’t think you can truly experience what we have to offer in one visit.

JDV: Is there any way we as a community can stand behind the amazing work you are doing for the people of South Africa?

QM: Cancer awareness, a lot of work still needs to be done in this area so I’d encourage our community to heighten the level of awareness around cancer and how it affects our community.

JDV: Just a glimpse into the amazing Dr. Qhamisa Mbalo’s world. I am truly speechless as to all she has accomplished and what is still yet to come from her. Thank you again for your time. To learn more about this outstanding member and her impact visit www.southcoastoncology.co.za

IN 2020, we invited you to join us on a quest to discover, to seize, and to embody the quintessence of this, La Joie De Vivre. Over these incredible years, we have united in our shared passion for exploration, connection, and empowerment—We have embraced the present, dared to be fully alive, filled with awe at the richness of this one incredible life and its infinite possibilities. Our journey has been a spectacular constellation of experiences, each moment building upon the last, a crescendo of joy and discovery!

IN 2025, we invite you to come together in New York City for our 5th Anniversary Celebration; a tour de force of the panache, the flair, the connection, and impact that JDV embodies. Over six glorious days, this experience will unite our members from around the world, as we celebrate our journey thus far and look to the future. Building and expanding on our rich history of unparalleled travel experiences, deep commitment to empowering our members, fostering a global commune of like-minded individuals desirous of savoring each moment, and making a meaningful impact in the world.

INDULGENCE

A celebration of culinary artistry that transcends borders, Indulgence is a Grand Tasting Experience Bringing together world-renowned chefs, each crafting exquisite masterpieces, mouth-watering story telling; a harmonious blend of food, wine, and Spirits. As you savor gastronomic decadence, Indulgence promises to captivate with entertainment that elevates and enlivens the senses…….Dare to Indulge.

LA VIE EST BELLE

Accoutered in your finest elegant attire and reminiscent of an invitation only gala evening at the Met, this signature event is an ethereal celebration that is unsurpassed. Distinguished as the most coveted invitation on any JDV event calendar, it’s the ultimate curated experience that encapsulates the panache, artistry and indulgent gastronomy that will wow and inspire. From unlimited cocktails and a night of dancing to the creation of indelible moments and eternal memories - La Vie est Belle is nothing short of a quintessential night of splendor.

THE SUMMIT

The Summit promises to inspire and empower, a catalyst for worldshaping activation. With a special Founders Lunch with a keynote address by a global powerhouse, and distinguished panels of industry leaders and paradigm-shifters this empowerment event promises to be a catalyst for change, connection and empowerment.

LA JOIE DE VIVRE POLO EXPERIENCE AT THE ILLUSTRIOUS GREENWICH POLO CLUB

As the sun dances upon the emerald fields, gather with luminaries, trendsetters, and connoisseurs of culture for a spectacle unlike any other. Here, at the Polo Experience, a tapestry of sensations unfolds to captivate the senses and indulge the soul. Step into a realm where luxury reigns supreme and every detail whispers. As glasses clink and laughter fills the air, the stage is set for a pulse-pounding polo match, where the thundering hooves of noble steeds echo across the grounds. Culinary delights, orchestrated by both local virtuosos and esteemed international chefs, await discovery, each morsel a symphony of flavor. And what soirée would be complete without libations to tantalize the taste buds? Specially crafted cocktails, concocted with finesse, promise to delight even the most discerning of palates.

5 Days/4 Nights Luxury Accommodation

Full Breakfast Daily

Welcome Reception

Summit Registration with Founders Lunch

One (1) Ticket to Indulgence

One (1) Ticket to La Vie Est Belle

One (1) Ticket to La Joie de Vivre Polo

Experience

Transfers to all included events

1.5oz

1oz

DIRECTIONS

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Strain

A 2024 TO REMEMBER

It’s hard to believe that the year is almost coming to an end, but there is no doubt that despite some challenges and disappointments along the way, we have so much to be thankful for both individually and collectively as an organization.

Whether you’ve focused on relaxation and rejuvenation, spent time with family and friends, celebrated a special occasion, traveled to your favorite destination or visited somewhere new, we hope that you will pause right now and just savor the moments you’ve created thus far and treasure each memory that brought you joy.

Each moment spent with our JDV family brought us joy and it would be remiss of us not to share some of these special moments this year with you. From Enchanting Egypt, Passions of Portugal, Rendezvous events in New York and Toronto to our signature event La Joie de vivre Polo experience and Authentic Asia Global Escapes, there is no doubt that you made our year special!

For those of you who shared in any of our experiences this summer and for those who wished you did, we are delighted to share with you our key highlights for 2024!

PASSIONS OF PORTUGAL LA

PASSIONS OF PORTUGAL

This exclusive 7-night experience to Lisbon, Sintra and Porto was undeniably the most perfect escape for connoisseurs of wine, gastronomic experiences and cultural immersion.

From the winding cobblestoned streets, picturesque seaside views from Lisbon’s soaring hilltops to the magic and mystery of Sintra known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and the summer home for Portuguese royalty, we were mesmerized by the wonders of this charming town that felt like we had stepped into a romantic fairytale.

Portugal’s delectable cuisine, immersive tours and wine tasting experiences was only rivaled by the JDV family who packed their appetites and their passions, and discovered Portugal’s best kept secrets while creating bonds and memories of our own that will last a lifetime.

A 2024 to Remember Passions of Portugal

LA JOIE DE VIVRE POLO

La Joie de Vivre Polo Experience was a sight to behold as members and friends of the JDV family descended on one of the most exclusive zip codes in the countryGreenwich Polo Club! The picturesque views on a perfect summer day, complimented by a riveting high goal polo match was only rivaled by the exceptional cuisine from acclaimed local and international Chefs, curated cocktails, pulsating rhythms, runway-worthy fashion and over 300 beautiful people whose presence truly brought new meaning to La Joie de Vivre!

A 2024 to Remember—La Joie de Vivre POLO

La Joie de Vivre POLO