Compliments of aha Hotels & Lodges
d e l i g ht f u l e x pe r i e n c e s
+
Nicole Bessick
Plus: our round up of everything hot this summer
vs the world
Vo lu me 13
They speak to us of belonging to Africa... Stone, wood, bark, beads and clay transformed into items of beauty, a celebration of the living spirit of Africa. Facts weave with myths as Out of Africa takes you on a journey of authentic crafts, textiles, masks, sculptures, furniture and jewellery. Discover the whole continent of Africa in one unique shopping experience. Each memento captivates and excites… a handmade reflection of the skill, passion and heritage of Africa. From functionality to urban chic you’ll discover the very best that Africa has to offer. Out of Africa is dedicated to social upliftment and job creation. Many of the products are produced and purchased from community development programmes. Discover an exciting range of products that change lives… with each purchase, leave behind a brighter tomorrow for our local artists and craftspeople. OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL A, DUTY FREE MALL, TEL: 011 390 1683 V&A WATERFRONT SHOP 125/6, LOWER LEVEL, TEL: 021 418 5505 CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SHOP 15, INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURES, TEL: 021 934 8901
New York Runway ZA
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he Red Carpet Creative Production, in collaboration with Runway Prestige New York, drew together the rich fashion cultures of the Big Apple and the Mother City under one roof. “A spectacular display of fashion luminaries” remarked Red Carpet Creative CEO, Jade Allen. “We are honoured to have had the opportunity of presenting this first-ever collaboration on African soil. A cross-continental amalgamation of artistic expression, merging global, fashion-forward visionaries with varying style articulations.” New York trends tended towards an eclectic diversity of styles, colours patterns and fabrics, commencing with a showstopping opening by acclaimed celebrity fashion designer, Michael Lombard. Using the highest grades of leather sourced from around the world, Lombard vaunted Neogothic eccentricity in bold designs with drastic angles, elaborately studded and embellished with space-age accents and accessories. “My collections are geared to make you feel you’re living your best life!” Delicious, citrus, floral notes, with long duster coats over skin-tight lycra with Crepe, linen, silk and feathers! “It’s everything you need to kick off the summer season,” says Malcolm KLûK of KLûK CGDT commenting on the duo’s new fruity fabulous assortment. Wide culottes and the boxy dresses, oversized bows form 1980’s Dallas and Dynasty-style with 2020’s styling. “Bigger, bolder and brighter” adds partner Christiaan Gabriel Du Toit, “think French aristocracy meets eastern European money, trailer park beauty and central park glamping with ghetto cool and suburban swank.”
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Contents
• I s s u e 13
E v e n t s • What’s happening this summer in SA.
10
Elate
Hot picks
5
12 Klipsch T5 True Wireless Earphones: Ultimate
A warm welcome from the aha Hotels & Lodges: Graeme Edmonds
Regulars 10 EVENTS The Design Indaba: 25 years of creativity STELLENBOSCH TRIENNALE: Stellenbosch’s brave new move towards cultural inclusiveness
Check out our interview with one of SA’s favourites, Nicole Bessick, on page 16
comfort and perfect acoustics
14
Hot spots Eat@Pederberg and feel at home!
SCREENTIME 77 A view of the big screen and life by
INVESTEC CAPE TOWN ART FAIR
Uzanenkosi Mahlangu
health & wellness
Exclusive
68 Skincare & Travelling: What you need to do
16 Nicole Bessick: Fame, family and fitness
to keep your skin hydrated .
aha portfolio 74 Choose from our selection of City hotels and Game Lodges throughout Southern Africa
essence 28 Nondumiso Sibiya: Wasting no time by rejuvenating her community of Diepsloot
Cover star: Nicole Bessick Image: © Anna Pepper Photography, #TLRstyling
3 | aha MOMENTS!
Contents continued
f E ATU RE S 26 Explore underwater wonders at the V&A Waterfront’s Two Oceans Aquarium
fas hi on 34 Collect timeless and accentuating fashion
w i ld li fe co n s ervat i o n
Fo o
d
24 Frogs: Celebrate their unique tunes 54 Back to Nature: Wildlife-friendly gardening
a ha fo o d
pieces and accessories
46 Meet the Chef: A few minutes with
art
Durbanville Hills’ Tamzyn Ehlers Drink 48 Summer recipes and insta-worthy beverages for the good times
TAMZ Y N E H L E RS
20 Nandipha Mntambo is back and bold
e ncore
a ha d r i v e
64 La Réunion Island: There’s more to explore
58 The plush Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic P400e
aha trave l 24 38 54 55
aha Shepherd’ s Tree Game Lodge aha David Livingstone Safari & Spa aha Kathu Hotel aha Masa Square Hotel
H ot bo o ks 78 Latest book releases
Beauty! 4 | aha MOMENTS!
32
a ha M ASA SQUARE HOT EL
Art & Design in this issue
55 L e f t • TH E EAMES HOUS E
20
R i g h t • NAN DIPHA MNTAMBO
26 aha MOMENTS! | 5
a m o me n t with Graeme
T
he end of 2019 is upon us, and what a year it has been. South Africa has seen some wild weather, economic ups and downs and, of course, a Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok team, uniting South Africans in national pride. The aha Hotels & Lodges team could not be prouder of our boys in green and gold. We have had a busy year, too. We have made extensive upgrades to our key properties, scooped up honours at the prestigious Lilizela Tourism Awards, and helped launch a Guide Training Academy (page 75), and that is just the tip of the iceberg. In this edition’s cover story, we meet performer and TV star, Nicole Bessick, who talks about her journey to success – all the way from watching 7de Laan with her grandmother, to studying law, figure skating, starring in movies and hit TV shows, and boxing. And she did it all by the age of 25. Read our exclusive interview with Nicole on pages 16-19. Read about the prolific South African artist, Nandipha Mntambo, whose evocative work in sculpture, photographs and mixed media makes powerful statements about human identity, gender equality and the human body, using organic materials. Discover more about this tal-ented artist on pages 20-22. On pages 38-40, we visit Zambia’s finest and one of aha’s prize jewels: aha David Livingstone Safari Lodge and spa. This exquisite five-star luxury lodge is the ultimate incentive travel destination, with spectacular conferencing facilities in the shadow of the mighty Victoria Falls, overlooking the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. A big congratulations to Tourvest for hosting the African Icons Invitational cycling event together with many other sponsors involved which saw them raising an impressive R 600 000 for the widows of the policemen who fell in the line of duty (pages 42-45). This event saw an entirely new species introduced to the roads of the Kruger Park – a herd (or is it pride?) of cyclists, peddling through the bush for a great cause. We meet a chef who thrives on the energy of the kitchen on pages 46-47. Top chef Tamzyn Ehlers is one of the culinary creatives behind Durbanville Hills’s Tangram Restaurant. This multi-award-winning dining experience delivers scrumptious cuisine, the most exceptional wine and beautiful views of Table Mountain and Table Bay. On pages 52-54, find out more about the extensive R 6.9 million state-of-the-art refurbishments that have made the Northern Cape’s aha Kathu Hotel better than ever. Guests can look forward to enhanced technological features, quality facilities and more of the same quaint charm that has made aha Kathu Hotel such a welcoming destination. Business travellers will be wowed by Gaborone’s aha Masa Square Hotel, which is made with business in mind. The hotel is just five kilometres away from central Gaborone and under 20 kilometres away from Sir Seretse Khama International Airport. Read more about this great space within the Gem of Africa on pages 70-72. As we say farewell to a massive year and head into 2020 with a positive outlook, the aha Hotels & Lodges team wishes all of our guests, partners, colleagues and friends a fantastic festive season. We look forward to a New Year filled with possibilities and more excitement to come.
Graeme 6 | aha MOMENTS!
aha Hotels & Lodges Marketing manager Ruzandri Stoltz Email: ruzandri.stoltz@aha.co.za Central Reservations & Head Office Tel: +27 (0) 10 442 5888 Fax: +27 (0) 86 865 3992 Email: cro@aha.co.za 11 Autumn Street Rivonia Johannesburg 2191 Cape Town Sales Office Tel: +27 (0) 21 207 6161 The Estuaries Suite 12 Oxbow Crescent Office 10, First floor Century City, Cape Town 7441 Durban Sales Office Tel:+27 (0) 31 536 6500 8th Floor Strauss Daly Place Ridgeside Office Estate Umhlanga 4230 Web: www.aha.co.za Twitter: ahahotelslodges Instagram: @ahahotelsandlodges Facebook: ahaHotels&Lodges
Readers’ competition tion Competi d! Extende
W
in two nights’ accommodation at aha Makalali Lodge, for two people. To stand a chance, share your memorable travel moments or what you enjoyed most during your stay with aha Hotels & Lodges. We want to hear from you, so write to us and send images to letters@momentsmagazine.co.za or share your moments and tag us via our social media pages: Instagram: ahamoments_mag, Facebook: Aha Moments magazine Twitter: Moments_mags
a h a M a k a l a l i M a i n Lo d g e at a g l a n c e Enjoy a home-away-from-home experience at aha Makalali Main Lodge. This beautifully decorated lodge has hints of outdoor elements incorporated into the common area. Aspects like the rustic sculptors and wooden decking create a perfect atmospheric balance. Spot the Big 5, dine under the stars and relax in this tranquil environment.
Competition rules • No staff member of aha Moments magazine and any of their associated or affiliated companies and/or agencies, and staff members or their immediate family; nor members of the sponsors of any competition listed on this page, and/or any of their affiliated companies and/or agencies, and members of their immediate family, may enter the competition hosted by aha Moments magazine through aha Moments! magazine or blog and social media channels. • The competition runs from 01 September to 28 February 2020. Winners will be announced in upcoming editions with their letter being featured under our guest letters. • Should the winner fail to respond within 48 hours (two days) after the notification has been sent, the prize will be transferred to another winner. • No persons under the age of 18 years may enter. • The winner’s names and letter/messages may be published in the
magazine, the company’s website and social media accounts. • Prizes are not transferable, nor are they refundable, or exchangeable. • aha Hotels & Lodges, as well as aha Moments magazine, shall not be held responsible for: lost, late, delayed, misdirected, unintelligible or incomplete electronic mail, telephonic, electronic, hardware or software program, network, internet or computer malfunctions, failures, or difficulties. • Errors in transmission, and any condition caused by events beyond the company’s control of which may cause the promotion to be disrupted or corrupted. • The judge’s decision shall be final, and no correspondence in this regard will be entered into. • Any violation or attempt to violate any of the above rules shall result in the immediate disqualification of the transgressor.
aha MOMENTS! | 7
ahaGram www.momentsmagazine.co.za June Communications
Summer’s here!
H
ere are some of the spots that meet the triple Bs – best for Business, Beach and Bush travel, and and tops our recommended accommodation choice for your travels!
Follow us on Instagram: @simonstownquayside @bonganilodge @ahagatewayhotel
Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 The Campus, Twickenham building 57 Sloane Street Bryanston www.junecommunications.co.za publisher Pam Komani Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 Cell: +27 (0)79 498 6144 Email: pam@junecommunications.co.za PR & Communications Keitumetse Ngobeni Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 Email: keitumetse@junecommunications.co.za Graphic designer Megan Ross megan@junecommunications.co.za Copy editing: Mohlomi Maubane CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Witepski • Helen Grange • Keitumetse Ngobeni • Bernard Hellberg jr • Uzanenkosi Mahlangu • Jade Novelist • Pam Komani • Megan Ross
Ed’s pick
What we’re coveting as the December vibes hit!
Belvedere Limited-Edition Vodka
Advertising Sales Yellow Pepper Media Apsalom Mavuso Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 Cell: +27 (0)81 387 7812 email: info@yellowpeppermedia.co.za www.yellowpeppermedia.co.za STOCK Images Sourced: © iStockphoto.com Cover Image: © Anna Pepper Photography, #TLRstyling PRINTING: Business Print Centre +27 861 42 42 59 318 Derdepoort Road Silverton 0184 Disclaimer: aha MOMENTS MAGAZINE is published for aha Hotels & Lodges by June Communications. While precautions have been taken to ensure accuracy of information, neither the editor, nor June Communications and its subsidiaries can be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may arise.
The Watch For World Travellers The Oyster Perpetual SkyDweller is an elegant watch for world travellers and is a compelling timepiece of revolutionary design that blends to perfection technological sophistication and ease of use.
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A partnership with GRAMMY-nominated musician, actor, and activist Janelle Monáe follows a series of annual limited-edition offerings. From Bloody Mary brunches to fresh sunset cocktails, this is a must have addition to any liquor cabinet worth its muster this season.
www.momentsmagazine.co.za
JUNE
L at e s t E s c a p e s The aha Hotels & Lodges team has handpicked a selection of prime summer getaway options to freshen you up in the blistering heat. Select from aha’s exclusive choices in South Africa and Botswana, guaranteed to take the edge off summer. Your summer adventure awaits!
The pride of the
A gem in the heart
The spirit of
Pilanesberg
of Knysna
Africa
aha Ivory Tree Game Lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park offers 5-Star accommodation in a malaria-free, Big 5 game reserve, with incredible game drives and guided tours on site. The dining facilities serve mouth-watering cuisine, and exclusive Boma and bush dinners are also available. For business travellers, the venue has a dedicated conference room with seating for up to 100 delegates, as well as a range of diverse teambuilding activities. The lodge’s Amani Spa is a bushveld oasis with its wooden walkways meandering through the lush bush, splitting into three private wooden and thatched treatment rooms with subtle earthy finishes.
aha The Rex Hotel is conveniently located along the famous Western Cape Garden Route. It offers guests 4-Star luxury with a touch of urban style. And the Hotel’s O Bar & Eatery adds superb cuisine and exciting specialities to the mix. There’s no shortage of activities in the surrounding area. You can tour the Knysna Elephant Park, visit the Featherbed Reserve or play at the world-class Pezula Championship Golf Course, among other things. Plettenberg Bay’s unspoiled beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline are also a sight to behold.
aha Bongani Mountain Lodge is an African marvel in the shadows of the Malelane Mountain Range, bordering the Kruger National Park. The lodge offers private deck accommodation with astounding 360-degree views, excellent conferencing facilities and 5-Star cuisine. Enjoy a sundowner on the deck, and you may even catch a glimpse of one of the area’s wild animals as they disappear over the horizon. And the nearby game drives in the Kruger Park are not to be missed.
For more information or to make a booking at any of these venues, or browse many more options, please go to www.aha.co.za
Give a gift Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey® is the perfect holiday season gift: It’s easy wrapping and smooth sippin’. Jack has always done things a bit differently, and his extra step of charcoal mellowing his whiskey is no exception. It’s what gives Jack its distinctive character and its unique smooth sippin’ tastes like no other. This gift pack includes a 750ml bottle of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey®. Available at select liquor merchants nationwide. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY aha MOMENTS! | 9
events guide
Design: The pa s t, p r e s e n t and the future 25 years of cultural invention Celebrating a quarter-century in 2020, Design Indaba is more committed than ever to offering a world-class event that not only equals its past stature but also builds upon it. But this impressive 25-year milestone provides an opportunity too, to look forward, as well as back. And while its founders reflect on this landmark with immense pride, they also consider where to next. With the world in a period of flux - some might argue crisis solutions-driven thinking is more important than ever. And as we usher in a new decade as well as mark this significant achievement, we will look ahead to the next era. Design Indaba has been built on the foundation that creativity drives progress and opens doors. In times of challenge, it can prove the key to unlocking the cures. As a result, the three-day programme will continue to offer a spectrum of events that prompt people to think and act. From the Emerging Creatives showcase to the daily action outside on the piazza, and of course the conference itself, the programme is designed to catalyse creativity, foster networking and inspire progress and innovation across disciplines and divides.
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When: 26-28 February 2020 Where: The Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town Visit: www.webtickets.co.za/www.designindaba.com | Facebook @ designindaba | Twitter @designindaba | Instagram @designindaba 10 | aha MOMENTS!
STELLEN B OS C H TRIENNALE Join the upcoming international showcase of extraordinary, in terms of global reach and extent of art on show, will place creativity in critical dialogue with the society that fosters and exhibits it. Khanyisile Mbongwa, Chief Curator of the exhibition, Tomorrow There Will be More of Us places Stellenbosch at the forefront of curatorial research in the public sphere. Mbongwa brings her experience gained at CAT. Cologne in Germany, and at the Norval Foundation, to the inaugural Triennale.
•
When: 11-30 February 2020 Where: Stellenbosch Visit: www.stellenboschtriennale.com
Khanyisile Mbongwa as Chief Curator of the exhibition Tomorrow There Will be More of Us
INVESTE C C A P E TO W N ART FAIR
The Fair will leverage the creative visions and expansive networks of multiple curators overseeing various special sections. The list of Art Fair Curators includes Nkule Mabaso (Curator, Michaelis Galleries, Cape Town) and Luigi Fassi (Artistic Director, MANContemporary Art Museum, Nuoro, Italy) who will co-curate the Tomorrows/Today section of the Fair dedicated to emerging and under-represented artists. Portia Malatjie (Adjunct Curator, Norval Foundation, Cape Town) will interpret space as a thematic focus in the SOLO section of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair in 2020.
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When: 14-16 February 2020 Where: Cape Town International Conference Centre Visit: www.investeccapetownartfair.co.za
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HOT picks Style
Go Wild This Season Beach all day long, explore quaint towns or go on a safari! Love Milo’s Wild Cat design is inspired by travel experiences through Africa; drawing on the warm terracotta tones of the Namibian sand dunes, the bushveld’s colour palette of greens and of course the beauty of the wildlife. The Veld Green and Terracotta colours come with a cheetah design adding an additional element to the print. Because you can never have too many spots!
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Tech
Klipsch T5 True Wireless Earphones The Klipsch T5 True Wireless earphones are the ultimate combination of comfort, design, efficiency, and legendary acoustic clarity. They provide incredible comfort, clarity and freedom for you to enjoy your music all day, with no hanging wires.
feature delivers a powerful performance by combining the high output and full bass extension. The smaller acoustic modules are designed to stay in your ears securely and comfortably. Price: R 3, 749
The custom Oval Ear Tips are designed to offer the ultimate comfort and noise isolation with Full Bass, and Dynamic Driver
Visit www.homemation.co.za
EVERY GOOD DAY STARTS Say hello to the Phoenix chair. Love Milo’s latest bespoke WITH A GOOD NIGHT piece with hand printed cotton canvas fabric, oak legs and a beautifully upholstered finish.on Used alone as Ifa you signature in your home, or night. Look under the sheets to see if quality you’ll be sleeping a Sealy tonight. are, you’llpiece enjoy all the support, comfortas andaluxury you’ll need to have athe greatdining day. statement around table, the Phoenix chair will add visual @BGSP.CO.ZA | FAX: a +27 classic, yet |trendy edge to any colour scheme. TEL: +27 11 309 4000 /interest 4023 / 4078and 11 309 4074 HOSPITALITY No matter how well appointed your room, if it doesn’t have a great bed you won’t have such a great
19339
Available in the popular Love Milo designs: triangle, dragonfly and branch, the chairs are made-to-order. Price: R3,500. For more visit www.lovemilo.com
HOSPITALITY
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SPOT HOT Spots
T
he restaurant opened its doors mid-April under the ownership of Rob, and Nicky Hahn, this 40 seater à la carte eatery serves up scrumptious, seasonal dishes which are suited for the whole family. Dishes range from breakfasts, light meals, main courses, kids menu and desserts - think Full English breakfast, half-shell mussels in white wine or crumbed pork chops served with parmesan mash. Those are just a few items on their daily menu.
of basmati rice, green beans and sweet pumpkin fritters. The dish is accompanied with a glass of your choice of either Perdeberg’s Vineyard Collection Malbec or Grenache Blanc.
Their famous Cape Malay Chicken Curry, skinless chicken thighs are cooked in a tomato-based, coconut cream sauce and served with a side
V i s i t t h em:
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Eat @ Perdeberg is open Wednesdays to Sundays (09h00 – 17h00), with a special roast every Sunday afternoon along with the a la carte menu.
•
Vryguns Farm, Windmeul, Paarl, 7630 eat@perdeberg.co.za
Menu
Eat@Perdeberg Think Full English breakfast, half-shell mussels in white wine or crumbed pork chops served with parmesan mash.
aha MOMENTS! | 15
Exclusive
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wa r n i n g :
This A c t r e ss Pac ks a Punch! The Feisty Actress Talks Family, Fame and Fitness Text: Lisa Witepski | Images: © Anna Pepper Photography/ #TLRstyling/ ShieldZA
aha MOMENTS! | 17
W
hen Nicole Bessick appears on your TV screen, she’s not only living her childhood dream of becoming a performer. She’s also fulfilling her purpose of making South Africans consider their role in social issues. “I knew from the time I acted as Mary in our school nativity, at the age of three, that I wanted to be a performer,” Nicole laughs. It was an ambition that “apparently” came out of nowhere, given that both parents worked in the IT industry. Nonetheless, she never doubted her calling. To the contrary, with every Sunday she spent watching the 7de Laan omnibus with her grandmother, she became more certain of it. “Seeing coloured actors and actresses on TV, knowing that they were doing it, meant that I could, too,” she recalls. It was this, rather than a craving for celebrity, that convinced Nicole to chase her dreams. “I’m actually a very private person, so it wasn’t even about becoming famous. I just wanted to tell stories and change the industry.” That’s rather a tall order – so how did she go about attaining it? “It started with figure skating,” Nicole says; a discipline she loved because it allowed her to express her natural athleticism while exercising her knack for performance. She was also remarkably good at it – but ironically, it’s her talent that ultimately led to her putting her skates away for good. “You can only win the same championship so many times before it stops being a challenge,” she shrugs. If it was a challenge she was after, her next pursuit – performance art – certainly provided it. Nicole sang, danced and acted three hours a day, three days a week – and longer on Saturdays – without letting her school marks drop. Her hard work paid off: she was still in school when her first movie, Cold Harbour, screened at both the Cannes and Berlin film festivals. Given this success, it would have been understandable if Nicole had decided to pour her passion into acting immediately after matric – but her upbringing, which was rooted in the belief 18 | aha MOMENTS!
“
Seeing coloured actors and actresses on TV, knowing that they were doing it, meant that I could, too.
“
that there’s a particular way of doing things if the world is to make sense, made this an impossible choice. And so she enrolled to study law at UCT, even completing a semester at Harvard – “but always bringing my studies back to my first love, which is why I focused on intellectual property”. In fact, Nicole’s studies have had a major influence on her career – not on her choice of work, because she’s drawn to messy, imperfect characters (as far from the black and white world of law as possible), but in her emphasis on running her life as she would a business. “It’s naïve to believe that acting will keep the lights on, if only because demands change as quickly as trends. Two years ago, no one was interested in the female fighter image I personify. It’s now highly sought after, but that could change. Knowing that, I keep looking for what’s next.” ‘What’s next’ happens to be a particularly gritty role in a series Nicole has long held in high regard. “Landing a part in a show I used to watch as a child makes me feel that I’ve come full circle. I have to pinch myself,” she enthuses. The controversial nature of her character makes it even more appealing to her. “I love the fact that my career enables me to lend my name to causes that matter to me, and that I can play a part in the narrative of our country as it stands right now. It’s an honour to take on a role that may have an impact on someone’s life. As performers, it’s our social responsibility to make people look inward and consider how these issues affect their own lives, and what they can do about it.” She follows this ethos in her personal life, too, as her decision to take part in Africa’s first female celebrity boxing match attests. Nicole donated all monies from her win – and from all subsequent matches – to shelters dedicated to advancing women. “As a former victim of bullying myself, I take my status as the #BullyProof Champion very seriously,” she says. She relishes her time in the ring for other reasons, too. “Boxing came about almost as a coincidence because I did all my own stunts
– I guess my look means that I’ll never be cast as a damsel in distress!” Nicole jokes. “My agent eventually suggested I do all my fights, too.” It was a smart move. “Boxing helped me find my niche and set me apart,” she muses, adding that her advice to any industry hopeful is to strive to find the one particular thing that works for them in this manner. “Otherwise, you’re just following trends – and that puts you at risk for a shortlived career.” In contrast, if you do work that you love and that’s full of meaning, opportunities will come to you. More than that, you’ll find your job to be a blessing. That’s certainly the case for Nicole. “Not every day can be great. But that doesn’t stop me from feeling grateful for being able to do what I do, every single day.” She’s all the more grateful considering the struggle she’s faced to get where she is. “As a coloured and a woman, I’m doubly disenfranchised. I’m a rarity in my industry – but being a rarity isn’t going to stop me from doing what I love. I never back down from a challenge. It’s just not in my nature.” That lesson is one of the gifts of her rigorous training. “My years as an athlete taught me that if you put in the work, you’ll get the results. They kept me disciplined and focused.” And during the times when those qualities need a bit of a bolster? At those moments, Nicole turns to her family. “You could invite me to the fanciest restaurant in town – I’d still want nothing more than to be eating chicken biryani at home on a Sunday.” It’s an insight that illustrates why Nicole’s friends call her a pineapple: despite her tough-girl façade, she’s “the softest, most invested friend, sister and partner”. That hardcore exterior is an attempt to protect herself from the fame that inadvertently found her – and that she considers a wonderful piece of luck, in spite of the pressures that come with it. “Being recognisable is humbling – there’s no ego in it. It makes me realise that people know my work – and affirms that I’m achieving the objective I set for myself when I first embarked on this career: to create change.”
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art
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BUSTING GENDER STEREOTYPES and other biases Nan d i pha i s back with a ve ng eance. Text: Jade Novelist | Images: © Supplied
S
caling down on gender-based biases is not the only issue this Johannesburg-based artist has been perfecting lately. Nandipha Mntambo’s work took a necessary turn allowing her to scale down on her work and returned with more than a fresh set of eyes – she became a mother. Like many women, taking a moment to rejuvenate and set new goals while taking care of life doesn’t mean your career is buried along with the journey – the renowned award-winning sculptor is determined to prove it. Mntambo’s passion not only lies in creating her artworks - she is a mother, lecturer, innovator, and a woman who insists on consistently challenging conformity. Nandipha decided to go against expectations and work on sculptures made from cattle hide instead of going for pottery, wood carving or basic metalwork. Her breakthrough came in her 4th year of art school, caught between photography and sculpture, inspired by her background and history of South Africa.
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Sculpting is not only a physically demanding art form, but it can also be a challenging landscape to navigate. By using her feminine energy and wit, she manipulates not only materials to bend to her will but the art world to listen to her voice. LEFT: Praça de Touros lll, 2008 Archival pigment ink on cotton rag paper 111 x 166cm Edition of 5 + 2AP Nandipha Mntambo© Courtesy Stevenson Cape Town and Johannesburg
BELOW: Minotaurus, 2015 Bronze and sandstone base 253 x 140 x 95cm Edition of 5 + 2AP Nandipha Mntambo© Courtesy Stevenson Cape Town and Johannesburg
Her artwork is refreshingly expressive and as unique and dynamic as the woman who created it. Sculpting is not only a physically demanding art form, but it can also be a challenging landscape to navigate. By using her feminine energy and wit, she manipulates not only materials to bend to her will but the art world to listen to her voice. She is bold, and her work stands out as risky and untamed but mostly thought-provoking. Not only is she a woman to watch, Nandipha is also not a woman to underestimate. After a short hiatus to focus on personal growth and raising her daughter, Nandipha is currently working on new projects and getting back to the world she loves. One such project is building her own art studio. Despite her accolades, she still faces the same challenges faced by women who choose to push themselves in an industry dominated by men. With the gift of motherhood, she has been less active but no less artistic. Still creating art in the comfort of her home and sometimes with her daughter in tow. A juggling act of family and fitting into the narrow spaces of the art world has caused a shift in focus as both worlds fight equally for her attention. In spite of obstacles and naysayers, Nandipha is ready to remind everyone why she deserves a seat at the table. She won’t conform but instead use all her flashing differences to make a statement to ‘challenge the status quo that women who choose to have children, decide to settle and are never heard from again’. For her, this isn’t how she wants her story to be written, so she works hard to ensure that people like her are respected in the industry for their hard work, zeal and passion for the art.
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FOOD
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aha | TRAVEL
Award-Winning Luxury D i scove r aha S h e ph e r d’s Tr e e Gam e Lodg e Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
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ecently honoured at the prestigious Lilizela Tourism Awards, aha Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge came tops as the Best Game Lodge in the Northwest Province. And when you visit this luxury retreat in the heart of the beautiful Pilanesberg Game Reserve, you will realise why it is amongst the purest destinations in Africa and not just the finest but also the ideal getaway in the summer heat. The lodge is less than three hours from Johannesburg, but you will leave all the cares of the city behind as soon as you come through the gates. The welcoming staff will make you feel right at home while you immerse yourself in the ecologically diverse surroundings, taking in the sights, scents and sounds of the African bush from within an ancient volcanic crater.
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From arrival to departure, you will find the staff’s hospitality is consistently world-class. But the sense of privacy and peace you will experience during your visit is unparalleled. The lodge has 31 opulently furnished suites, each of which offers uninterrupted views of the African bush. Guests have the advantage of being able to spot wildlife even from the comfort of the lodge – with a water hole visible from the premises – where a vast mix of animals go daily to quench their thirst. The tranquil pool deck is the perfect setting for one of the lodge’s signature cocktails, or you can settle in for some shade in the newly refurbished bar and lounge patio. A game drive or two is a must, of course. What is a bush getaway experience without one? The region’s experienced guides will take
Guests have the advantage of being able to spot wildlife even from the comfort of the lodge – with a water hole visible from the premises – where a vast mix of animals go daily to quench their thirst.
you on a unique bush journey in an open safari vehicle while they share stories and incredible facts about the surrounding fauna and flora. Avid bird watchers will also be completely in their element here. And the revered Big 5 regularly make appearances. Sometimes it is the smaller pleasures that catch your eye though, like catching a glimpse of the elusive and somewhat grumpy honey badger, watching a kingfisher dive for its dinner or learning about the use of plants in traditional medicinal remedies. The lodge often hosts informative talks by local game rangers on eco-related topics. And you can even get into the rhythm of a drumming circle around a hearty campfire. For something quieter and more relaxing, head to the Amani Spa for a soothing massage or rejuvenating facial, with or without your partner. Finally, round your day off with the best fine dining in the bushveld. The talented team in the world-class kitchen is led by Chef Sipho Mngoma, who brings his creative flair to every dish, creating his own signature form of culinary poetry. Sipho’s innovations find the perfect balance between home-style cooking and classic cuisine, infused with fresh herbs from the lodge’s own organic garden. Any time spent in this exceptional corner of the African bush will stay with you long after you have left. And you will probably find that you have a yearning desire to come back soon. So, come and discover Lilizela’s Best Lodge in the Northwest Province at aha Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge – your own private haven in the bushveld.
The address: R565 Pilanesberg National Park Bojanala Sun City, 0316 Contact: +27 (0) 14 551 3910 Book: www.aha.co.za/shepherdstree
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DESIGN
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t
e h
o n c i ic
Eames House
R
Text & Images: © Supplied
evered
ground-break-
and stylish lounge chair, continue to grace local
to
architec-
homes, and fans can visit the Eames House in the
ture, furniture design, industrial
Pacific Palisades, California, to see where it all began.
ing
for
their
contributions
design as well as the photographic arts
—
both
Charles
and
A mecca for architects and designers from both
Ray Eames are best known to Africa as the duo behind
near and far
the 112-year-old global furniture and decor company
we know today as Herman Miller.
In a 1945 design brief, Charles wrote that the house
The house started life in 1949 as Case Study
“in its free relation to the ground, the trees, the sea
House No. 8 – Charles and Ray Eames designed
– with constant proximity to the whole vast order of
it as part of a programme envisioned by Arts &
nature – acts as reorient or and ‘shock-absorber’ and
Architecture magazine. The idea was to create
should provide the needed relaxations from the daily
a structure that expressed modern living using
complications arising within problems.”
innovative materials and techniques arising from
The geometric steel-framed structure, which blends
the Second World War. It was in the Eames house
functionalism and natural beauty seamlessly and strik-
that some of the designers’ best-loved furniture was
ingly, is one of the world’s most cherished houses. The
created. Classics, like their elegant ottoman chair
Eames Foundation and the Getty Conservation Insti-
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tute have rolled out the Getty Conversation Management Plan for the property – a 250-year project to ensure the sustainability of this design landmark. This year, more than 200 eucalyptus trees were harvested for maintenance purposes, and a limited edition of the class Eames Low Table Rod (LTR) table is being released with solid-wood table tops made from two of these trees. According to the management plan, eucalyptus can be pruned or felled as needed to be replaced with seedlings. According to Herman Miller and Vitra, “[Charles and Ray Eames] would have appreciated this inventive use of the trees the surround their home. They valued them so much that they designed the site of the Eames House with the trees’ protection in mind, and even finished their living room wall in eucalyptus wood.” The public can visit the grounds or house by appointment only. All Office stocks the following classic Eames items: the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman Chairs; Aluminium, Soft Pad, Executive, Plywood, Plastic and Wire Chairs; Eames Walnut Stools; the Eames Plywood Table; and the playful Hang-It-All coat rack. Visit: www.alloffice.co.za
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“[Charles and Ray Eames] would have appreciated this inventive use of the trees the surround their home. They valued them so much that they designed the site of the Eames House with the trees’ protection in mind, and even finished their living room wall in eucalyptus wood.”
More about the Eames house: This famed property, built on a eucalyptus grove on a 1.4acre plot, was finally granted National Landmark status in 2007 This year, more than 200 eucalyptus trees were harvested for maintenance purposes. Charles wrote that the house “in its free relation to the ground, the trees, the sea – with constant proximity to the whole vast order of nature – acts as reorient and ‘shock-absorber.’ It attracts a large number of visitors – house walkthroughs are arranged by the Eames Foundation
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ESSENCE
Wasting None of Her Time
Left: Sbusiso Shongwe Right: Nondumiso Sibiya
A story of rejuvenating oneself and the community at large, writes Keitumetse Ngobeni
Text: Keitumetse Ngobeni | Images: Š Matteo Placucci/ Supplied 30 | aha MOMENTS!
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ot many young individuals are inspired to better their communities. Millennials are best-known for narcissism, being avocado toast fans, and as the generation working to fulfil their gratifications. While this trait identifies with most, a few are concerned about the environment and sustainability issues within their communities. Squarely fitting within the generation after (Generation Z) is Nondumiso Sibiya. The reigning winner of the 2019 Fairlady Santam Rising Star (Social Entrepreneur category) is one of the upcoming game-changers who has opted to use her time for meaningful change. She co-founded Diepsloot based start-up Boombadotmobi, and shares insight into her journey of repurposing waste and responsible disposal. The name Boobmbadotmobi is made up of three words; ‘Boomba’, a seSwati name for the dung beetle, ‘doti’ translates to rubbish in isiZulu, and ‘Mobi’ refers to the mobility of the process of waste disposal. The significance of a dung beetle to the logo is in the notion that a dung beetle collects dung for their offspring to feed. Boombadotmobi collects waste to reuse and correctly dispose of, thus protecting the environment. She and business partner Sbusiso Shongwe, are passionate about responsible waste disposal. They both have remarkable memories of growing up in the heart of Diepsloot with not many facilities. Still, well-kept gravel streets meant that at least they could run around playing without being exposed to some of the risk associated with hazardous waste. Nondumiso recalls playing with fish from a nearby stream which has unfortunately turned into a slump, while some play areas have become dumpsites. Diepsloot, a once clean township has become one of the most polluted townships in Northern Johannesburg, and this is because trucks from the city and surrounding suburbs dispose of waste in the township. Their passion for changing this sad reality, motivated the pair to do something about the waste. The organisation has been open for business from 2017. It has focused their task on collecting garden refuse, building rubble and household waste; all which are used to benefit the community and
“If individuals do not account for their waste, our communities will continue to suffer; consequently, the cities will suffer and degenerate. It is no longer a secret, but a harsh reality that we are facing a global challenge as waste is one of the contributing factors to the marine pollution crisis.” environment. The organisation has disposed of about 150 tons of construction waste which have been used to rehabilitate over 1,5 kilometres of gravel streets within the area in Diepsloot. Some of the construction waste consists of second-hand bricks and metal roofing material, which the community members repurpose for shelter. The garden waste is distributed to farmers and repurposed as composite. And from the household waste different recyclable goods such as plastic, are found and used much innovatively for projects such as eco-braai and eco-trading store. Boomba has been part of recently established projects which are both in collaboration with Roots & Shoots and the Wot-if? Trust – eco-braai and eco-trading store. The eco-braai is an annual event hosted to celebrate Global Recycling Day, and the event brings community members, Wotif Trust donors, and local entrepreneurs to partake in an ecobrick making masterclass as they enjoy refreshments and entertainment. Ecobricks are then traded for points to buy at the eco-trading store. A single brick is made up of a two-litre plastic bottle that is stuffed with plastic bags to produce a mass of 500g, which is then equivalent to 50 points. Members of the community are also allowed to trade their bricks in exchange for second-hand clothing, nonperishable food or artefacts. Boombadotmobi encourages community residents, individuals and corporates to think about their waste disposal. “If individuals do not account for their waste, our communities will continue to suffer; consequently, the cities will suffer and degenerate. It is no longer a secret, but a harsh reality that we are facing a global challenge as waste is one of the contributing factors to the marine pollution crisis,” says Sibiya.
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aha | BEAUTY
a m m r e u s fling E ss e ntials & s po i ls fo r th e year’s h ot te st s eas o n
GRAND CRU A line of Eaux de parfum for men and women, combining the freshness and elegance and refinement. With eleven different compositions, this perfume is a perfect blend of light and intensity; distinguished by the seals on their bottles. 32 | aha MOMENTS!
LANCOME LA VIE EST BELLE EN ROSE
YSL “Y” Eau de Parfum 100ml An intense portrayal of the Y signature, sophisticated notes of bergamot, ginger and sage are sharpened by an apple accord. At its base, the boldness of vetiver embodies the passion of the Y man’s unique strength. Never stop believing.
La vie est belle is a French expression that means “life is beautiful”, which can also be translated to “life seen through pink tinted glasses”. La vie est belle en Rose paints your world in pink hues, inviting you to always see the brighter side of life – the pink side, cultivating bliss. The fragrance is composed of a floral heart of iris infused with peony and roses, and enlightened by a fruity scent.
STOCKING STUFFERS
Teint Idole Camouflage Concealer An ultra-pigmented, full-coverage concealer, camouflages imperfections with a comfortable feel and it doesn’t crease.
Sandalwood & White Thyme Men’s Healing Serum Phyto-Gel wash A dual-action, deep cleansing and exfoliating face wash that can also be used as a shaving gel. Contains 1.4% Triple AHA Complex, Phytoliposome and Ceramide Complex, and Tea Tree Oil to restore the skins barrier after shaving.
Essential Earth Remedies developed our Men’s Serum to put back in what the sun, dry air and everyday living take out. Dab a few drops into your palm and pat gently onto your face before bed to help replenish your skin with all the nutrients and moisture that a gent needs. Enriched with Argon oil, jojoba, grapeseed oil, vitamin E oil (natural), and Essential oils of Sandalwood, Rosemary, Patchouli, White Thyme, Bergamot
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aha | FASHION
Feminine and timeless E x p re s s yo u r s e l f with the l at e s t styles from House of Cinnamon
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The local range of limited edition luxury goods gives women the ability to express themselves, the confidence to experiment, to choose individuality, to love themselves. House of Cinnamon is a curated collection of handmade, limited-edition accessories grounded in Afro-European roots. The collection is curated by Frances Edwards. In these times of “fast fashion”, mass production and built-in redundancy, House Of Cinnamon is committed, instead, to growing Southern African small enterprises by promoting the consistent, high-level ‘conscious’ manufacturing of unique designs.
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aha | FASHION
Style your look with Della’s Beautiful Collection
Della’s stylish jewellery is made up of limitededition pieces that can be worn every day, yet still, make a statement. Playful, feminine, bold, yet elegant, all the pieces have all been designed keeping the latest global trends in mind and offer something for everyone. When you purchase your favourite Della piece, you will also be uplifting the community and empowering young women around the country. Della has joined forces with Project Dignity/ Subzpads and will be donating a percentage of each sale (5%) to this amazing initiative. Visit: www.della.co.za 36 | aha MOMENTS!
Future Socks Brighten your world with the Colours of Africa pair of socks.
Available online: www.zando.co.za aha MOMENTS! | 37
aha | TRAVEL
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The ultimate incentive There is no better place to motivate, recharge and inspire teams than at
aha Davi d Livi ng ston e Safar i Lodg e & S pa. Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
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amed after the Scottish explorer and missionary David Livingstone, the lodge is a classic-style riverside oasis on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. aha David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is a unique 5-Star travel experience that has become the ultimate incentive travel standard for discerning corporate guests from around the globe. All year round, business travellers come to the lodge for the ultimate reward. A stay at this prestigious accommodation brings you face-to-face with the majestic Victoria Falls and opens up a world of unforgettable wildlife experiences. If you are travelling as a team, a scenic cocktail cruise along the Zambezi aboard the 154 passenger Lady Livingstone is a must at sunset. As the sun goes down and the heat begins to fade along the riverside, the animals habitually come out onto the banks along the Lady Livingstone’s route. Guests regularly catch sight of hippos,
crocodiles, elephants and other wildlife roaming free in the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park. Active travellers can embark on some of Africa’s most magnificent hiking trails, rafting experiences, mountain biking trips, safaris, horse trails or bird-watching adventures. If you enjoy more relaxing pursuits though, head to aha David Livingstone Safari Lodge’s world-class SPA for a gentle body massage or treatment. The Kalai Restaurant and the Ujiji Bar will top off your day with fine cuisine and the best South African and International wines. aha David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa offers tailormade incentive travel experiences for groups and individual achievers. The lodge is home to one of the continent’s most elegant conference and event venues featuring state-of-the-art equipment, Wi-Fi, comfort and breath-taking views of the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park. >> aha MOMENTS! | 39
Active travellers can embark on some of Africa’s most magnificent hiking trails, rafting experiences, mountain biking trips, safaris, horse trails or bird-watching adventures. If you enjoy more relaxing pursuits though, head to aha David Livingstone Safari Lodge’s world-class SPA for a gentle body massage or treatment.
The Address: Riverside Dr (Off Sichango Rd), Livingstone, Zambia Contact details: +27 (0) 21 332 4601 Book: www.aha.co.za/david-livingstone
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SIMON’S TOWN QUAYSIDE HOTEL
aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel is perfectly positioned on the water’s edge of the Simon’s Town yacht basin. Enjoy its breath-taking room views over False Bay and the majestic Simon’s Kloof Mountains and discover the town’s rich maritime history.
Book Now: +27 21 786 3838 | reservations@quayside.co.za | www.aha.co.za
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HIGHLIGHTS
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Behold the Kruger Park’s New Species! Here Comes the Charity Riders of Tourvest A f r i c a n Ic o n s I n v i t a t i o n a l
A
Text: Helen Grange | Images: © Hannah Van Coller
n interesting species made its debut in the Kruger National Park recently, arriving in the form of 50 cyclists dressed in zebra-striped gear, pedalling hard through the bush in searing temperatures. They were all on a single-minded mission - to raise funds for the widows and orphans of policemen killed while on duty. The event was the Tourvest African Icons Invitational, a four-stage mountain bike tour that took place from 3 to 8 October 2019 and covered over 40 kilometres of Kruger Park roads as well as an additional 80km along the fence-line of the Park. It included some of South Africa’s best-known sporting and celebrity icons, as well as people from all walks of life with an interest in mountain biking and the African bush. “It was a unique experience, but what stood out for me were the individuals who took part, the determination, physical and mental strength, and team spirit they each brought to the event. It was inspiring,” says Sean Joubert, CEO of Tourvest. Among the riders was former cricketer Mark Boucher, rugby players past and present, Hennie Le Roux and Siyabonga “Scarra” Ntubeni, Mrs South Africa 2018 and Survivor SA S7 castaway Nicole Capper, South African Olympics swimmer Terence Parkin, adventure
enthusiast Letshego Zulu, South Africa MTB’er William Mokgopo and World Masters Champion cyclist Gary Beneke. Each rider paid R20 000 to participate (some were sponsored), and 100% of those funds went to the widows and orphans of the South African police officers who lost their lives. The funds are channelled via African Icons Invitational partners, the Widows and Orphans Fund (WOF) and the SAPS Education Trust (SAPSET). The event raised a little over R600 000 for these donor recipients, while the accommodation, meals, cycling kits and vehicle costs were covered by Tourvest. Mpumalanga Tourism & Parks Agency came on board as a sponsor of the event, donating R200 000, and Tourvest’s airline partner, Airlink, sponsored 30 local flights to the Kruger. Other sponsors included the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Europcar, Drifters Adventure Tours, Powerade, USN, Devil’s Peak Beer Company, SEAM Coffee Roaster, MODO and Painted Wolf Wines. “The African Icons Invitational ticks all our boxes as a social responsibility event,” says Joubert. “Safety and security is a big issue in the tourism industry, so the Widows and Orphans Fund is a wellaligned donor recipient. Mpumalanga is an important region for us, with our community concessions and lodges, so it was important to do the event there. Finally, cycling is great fun and a widely loved sport across South Africa, so this made for a very memorable tourismcum-cycling event,” he says. >> aha MOMENTS! | 43
“
The African Icons Invitational ticks all our boxes as a social responsibility event,” says Joubert. “Safety and security is a big issue in the tourism industry, so the Widows and Orphans Fund is a well-aligned donor recipient. Mpumalanga is an important region for us, with our community concessions and lodges, so it was important to do the event there. Finally, cycling is great fun and a widely loved sport across South Africa, so this made for a very memorable tourism-cum-cycling event.
”
Each morning, the riders set off from Nkambeni Safari Camp, an Echo Africa Safaris & Transfers lodge (Tourvest owned) inside the south-western region of the Kruger National Park, which served as home base. The cycle routes traversed through the Tourvest concessions of the Kruger National Park and the Mthethomusha Game Reserve. In the evenings, after lunch and a round of refreshing showers and rest, the celebrity riders would take their turn to share their stories to the rest of the group, stories full of anecdotes about how they climbed their own personal mountains. These were live-streamed on the African Icons Invitational Facebook page at 7.30pm each night. The event also enjoyed a slot on The Dan Nicholl Show on SuperSport. “One of the best ideas was to show video clips, on big screens at the lodge, of the widows and orphans that benefit from this fundraising event. It was an excellent way to connect what we were doing, to the cause we are supporting,” says Joubert. The SAPS widows and orphans are especially close to the heart of the co-founder of the African Icons Invitational, former police officer and co-owner of NSA Global Security Consultants Rory Steyn, who held the inaugural event in the Cape last year. “Back in the day as a policeman, I remember a small amount
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ABOVE TOP: Rory Steyn, Founder of African Icons; ABOVE: Sean Joubert, CEO of Tourvest came off our salaries for the SAPS widows and orphans. When a policeman died on duty, that money would help to educate his children and look after his surviving family’s needs. That line item is no longer a compulsory deduction from the SAPS members’ salaries, but the fund is still there and privately managed. So I figured this is my way of giving back to a cause that resonates with me, the men and women who stand in the gap to protect us all,” says Steyn. As it happened, Steyn was the only rider who got injured during the event. “I rode into some soft sand at about 40km/h on a downhill with just one hand on the handlebar and flew forward off my bike, breaking my ribs. At least it was me and not one of the other riders,” he laughs, adding that he’s healing quickly and already planning his next ride, on his e-Bike that he takes on mountain tracks every weekend. “We had huge interest in the event, from cyclists all over the country, but had to keep the numbers limited, one of the reasons being personal safety in a wildlife park full of wild animals,” concludes Steyn. Also among the African Icons Invitational riders was a team of development riders from Diepsloot MTB Academy and Martin Dreyer’s Change a Life Foundation, sponsored by the MOD Foundation. “They are super strong riders, so had no difficulty other than the heat, which we all battled with,” says Joubert. Did the riders sight any game? “Plenty,” smiles Joubert. “At one stage we had to divert the route as there was a herd of buffalo crossing the road ahead, and you don’t want to run into that as a cyclist. We also saw an elephant, lions, wild dogs, antelope and giraffes. Some of the riders even saw a leopard,” he says. Joubert and Steyn are thrilled with the success of the event and have begun planning next year’s instalment, either to return to the Kruger Park (in June/July when it’s not so hot) or possibly in a different province. So watch this space.
For updates follow:
www.africanicons.org.za www.facebook.com/africaniconsinvitational www.facebook.com/tourvestdm/
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aha | FOOD
D i n e in Durbanville B e st i n c u i s i n e a n d s p e c ta c u l a r v i e w s Text & Images: Š Supplied Durbanville Hills’s Tangram Restaurant has been awarded no less than three awards at the annual Haute Grandeur Global Restaurant Awards as Best South African Cuisine on a Global Level, Best Restaurant Manager in South Africa and Best Gourmet Cuisine in Africa. The Haute Grandeur Global Restaurant Awards acknowledges hospitality experiences across seven continents and more than 60 countries. Awards are achieved through a rigorous rating process, based on a unique concept exclusive to Haute Grandeur which relies on the feedback from guests rather than by a general public vote or judging.
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M e e t th e Ch e f A moment with Tamzyn Ehlers 1. What has your culinary career journey been like? I studied Pastry at Capsicum Culinary Studio in Cape Town and graduated in 2015. I joined Jason’s Bakery for a six-month internship and worked my way up to Junior Pastry Chef before learning the craft of novelty cakes as Pastry Chef at Aegean Café. Towards the end of 2016, I joined Durbanville Hills as a Pastry Chef and was promoted to Sous Chef then Assistant Head Chef, and now I’m honoured to be promoted to Head Chef. 2. Where did it all start? I have always been a creative person, whether be through my hair or tattoos, but it’s always been food. From a young age, I had an interest in cooking, baking, and experimenting with new flavour combinations. I’ve never needed an excuse to cook or bake! Family gatherings usually involved me planning a three-course menu with baked snacks to set the scene, informal braais with friends would see tapas-style starters and a heavenly dessert. The bigger the guest list, the bigger the feast! 3. Best part of being a chef? I love to see people gather around a meal which I created. It makes them happy and ultimately me too! At Durbanville Hills, I enjoy creating an experience for guests with
flavoursome, wholesome food. 4. What inspires you? Plating and food photography inspire me tremendously. A beautifully plated dish with different colours, textures and shapes, inspire me when creating a new menu. People definitely eat with their eyes first, and I enjoy the creativity of combining colour, style and flavour. 5. Do you have a food muse? Definitely the energy of the kitchen! The buzz, the passion, the team effort and the impromptu sharing of new ideas and inspirations that allows us to learn from each other. 6. At home, what is always on your shopping list and in your fridge? Garlic, onion, coconut cream, rice or egg noodles and salt. 7. Are you a food snob? Not at all! It’s the experience that counts. Whether I’m eating a cheese sandwich in my pyjamas at home, a seven-course meal at a fine dining restaurant or a simple braai with my friends, I relish each bite. 8. Any exciting plans for the restaurant? I want to bring new experiences to the restaurant with unique food evenings, live
music with tapas, a new menu designed around our new Collectors Reserve wine, and sundowners on the balcony with its spectacular views. I’d also like to create a storytelling menu with food photography that’s beautifully styled and truly capture the dishes we prepare with such intent in our kitchen. 9. If you’re not cooking, what do you enjoy doing? I love being creative and enjoy macramé. Going to the movies, spending time with my friends and attending music festivals are some of my favourite things to do.
About the Restaurant The restaurant is famed for its spectacular views of Table Mountain and Table Bay and recently changed its name to Tangram. Chef Tamzyn Ehlers uses only the freshest ingredients and ensures an extraordinary visual and taste experience. Visit: www.durbanvillehills.co.za/ourrestaurant/ aha MOMENTS! | 47
aha | DRINKS
Cocktail Hour
S t i l l h e r e t o i m pr e ss … Set the mood! Entertain your guests with these effortless pre-dinner party cocktail mixes by Hennessey
The Hennessy Sazerec 62.5 ml Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège 1/8 oz Absinthe 12.5ml Simple Syrup 5 Dashes Peychaud’s Bitters Garnish: Lemon Twist Glass: Rocks Directions 1. Add all liquid to a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled 2. Strain into a rocks glass that has been washed with absinthe 3. Garnish with a lemon twist
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The Hennessy Side Car 50ml Hennessy Very Special 18.75ml Grand Marnier 12.5ml Fresh lemon juice Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker tin with ice, shake until chilled 2. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe or martini glass 3. Garnish with a lemon twist, and an optional sugared rim
The Hennessy Orange Sour 45 ml Hennessy V.S. Cognac 15 ml squeezed Orange Juice 20 ml fresh Lemon Juice 20 ml Simple Syrup Egg white (optional) Orange twist, for garnish Glass: Rocks Directions 1. Add all liquid to a shaker tin with ice and shake until chilled 2. Strain into a rocks glass with ice 3. Garnish with an orange twist
Twist and Shake T h i ngs U p W i t h T h e s e R e f r e s h i ng C i d e rs Text & Images: Š Supplied
Brutal lavender spritz: Brutal fruit Fig Lavender Sugar syrup (spoon) Served in a long glass With Lavender as a garnish
Elder Brutal: Brutal fruit Grapefruit juice Elderflower Lemon Juice Served in a coupe glass Edible flower as garnish
Flying fish Apple
Flying fish Lemon
Apple juice Cinnamon syrup Lemon Juice
Blueberry (muddled ) Lemon juice Sugar syrup Flying fish lemon
Shake all ingredients and top up with Flying fish Apple. In a high ball glass Garnish with Cinnamon And Apple.
Add all ingredients to a shaker and double strain into a wine glass with Ice. Then top up with flying fish lemon .
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conservation
“Some of the toxins of these frogs have been found to be beneficial in treating human illnesses.”
Celebrate the sound of frogs this summer Text: Dr Jeanne Tarrant (EWT) | Images: © Supplied/ iStockphoto.com
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S
ummer in South Africa heralds in a busy time for our biodiversity – flowers are blooming, migratory birds are returning, reptiles are on the move, bees are abuzz, and butterflies are enjoying the warmer days, just as we are. Another animal that signifies this time of year, usually coinciding with the rains, is the humble frog. Adapted to just about every conceivable type of habitat on Earth, frogs are indeed one of nature’s most amazing creatures, with over 7,000 different kinds discoverable worldwide, adapted from wetlands to deserts and everything in between. This incredible diversity is represented in a vast range of shapes and sizes and fascinating life histories. The smallest vertebrate on the planet is indeed a frog (a species from Papua New Guinea, fully grown at 7mm) and on the other end of the scale, there is the most abundant frog species, the Goliath Frog from the Congo, which weighs in at 3 kilograms! Yet, frogs are not everyone’s favourite animal. A lot of people think they are bad luck or harmful. At this time of year, as frogs emerge from their winter slumber, the biggest complaint from many people is about the noise that our frogs, especially the toads, make at night, keeping them awake. This can cause people to go to quite drastic lengths, including attempting to relocate these serenading songsters as far as possible from their comfort, and in some cases inflicting pain or kill them, all to bring silence to their gardens. Sadly, amphibians are the most threatened group of vertebrates (animals with a backbone) on Earth right now and instead of fearing and condemning frogs we should be doing all that we can to help them. The extinctions and declines currently that are being observed are an indication of the massive transformations we as humans are bringing about – from habitat destruction to climate change.
Should we be worried that frogs are disappearing? The short answer is yes, we should be very worried as they are extremely instrumental, mostly through the role they play in maintaining equilibrium in the environment. The reason frogs are meant to be abundant is that they provide an important food source to many other animals, and on the other
hand are responsible for consuming vast numbers of invertebrates, including insects. For this purpose, frogs invented the sticky, projectable tongue, which can extend a third of the length of their body to snap up prey quickly. In doing so, frogs and toads (both part of the scientific grouping, the Anura) provide an essential service in controlling disease-carrying vectors, protecting us from those insect-borne diseases and therefore helping us save millions (or maybe even billions) in healthcare costs every year, not to mention saving us from one of the worst things about summer (mosquito bites) and consequently improving one of the best things about summer (lying in your deck chair doing nothing). This is just one example of why we should not underestimate the value of biodiversity. Frogs, unfortunately, are usually perceived as providing very little value, and this has to do with ingrained negative cultural beliefs and folklore, and the fact that frogs are, well, just not as cute as pandas or suchlike. As a result, frogs don’t get the public support and requisite conservation attention afforded to more well-liked animals (in fact, 75% less than the average bird, mammal or reptile). Frogs are also benign and cannot harm us in any way, especially in South Africa where none of our frogs are highly toxic as are some species from other parts of the world. Some of the toxins of these frogs have been found to be beneficial in treating human illnesses. From these skin compounds, scientists are finding all sorts of cures, including the inhibition of HIV transmission, painkillers and peptic ulcer treatments. While it is not suggested you try and eat frogs, keep in mind these useful traits. Awareness is the first step in creating the link between frogs and the valuable environmental services they provide. Economic growth is not possible without rich biodiversity. Amphibians have been providing these services that have protected human health for as long as human society has existed. It is time to return the favour, as amphibians need our help now more than ever, as populations continue to decline all over the world.
How can you help? With habitat loss, the primary threat facing most frogs, gardens provide the lastremaining crucial habitat for some frog
species. By adopting natural gardening practices, frogs will naturally colonise your garden and happily provide you with insecteating services free of charge. The use of indigenous vegetation to attract insects and installation of a simple pond and indigenous vegetation will ensure that your amphibious friends stick around. Other ways to help create a frog-friendly setting in your garden include minimising or eliminating the use of pesticides (if the frogs are there you shouldn’t need these anyway, so frogs help save money); keeping an eye out for frogs and toads when mowing (better yet, switch to a carbon-free motor-less mower) and keeping a mow-free grassy “verge” around ponds or streams to provide important foraging and sheltering habitat for frogs; and placing logs or up-turned flower pots as “toad-abodes” for them to hide under during winter. • Build a frog pond in your garden • Learn more about frogs • Conserve resources – reuse, reduce, recycle • Slow down driving on rainy nights – many toads get squashed on roads • Turn off the tap • Use environmentally friendly products at home and in the garden • Don’t buy bottled water – use a glass bottle • Don’t use plastic shopping bags – use re-usable • Don’t keep frogs as pets • Get involved in Leap Day for Frogs at the end of February – visit www.ewt.org.za/what-we-do/what-wedo-habitats/threatened-amphibianprogramme/ for more information • Have fewer children (two or less) – disappearing amphibians are our sign that the planet is over-burdened.
More information The Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Threatened Amphibian Programme is aiming to conserve these unique animals. This is done by implementing on-the-ground conservation action for threatened species, tackling the threats facing frogs, bridging the gap between academic research and conservation action, as well as, the very important job of raising public awareness.
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aha | TRAVEL
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“ Affectionately known as the “town under the trees”,
Kathu was once part of the Camel Thorn Forest, and there are still many thorny trees lining its streets today. The town is a business hub for mining and sees many business travellers passing through for a stay all year round.
”
Northern Cape Gem Gets a State-of-the-Art New Look Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
T
he charming aha Kathu Hotel has just undergone a luxurious transformation. And guests who stop in will feel the fresh new energy that has been injected into this cosy bed and breakfast option in the very heart of the scenic Northern Cape. The aha Kathu Hotel is a beautiful, welcoming place to stay, and perfectly suited to both business and leisure travellers. The hotel recently reopened after a comprehensive revamp, which has revitalised the premises and added a few high-tech upgrades without compromising on its quaint charm. The extensive makeover project included a complete overhaul to every room, bathroom and public facility at the hotel. All 79 bedrooms were transformed entirely, elevating the grandeur and contemporary feel that has always made the aha Kathu Hotel so unique. The new-look includes touches of detail like modern furniture and light fixtures, USB ports in the rooms for easy charging of devices and new mirrors. The hotel’s luxurious suite now also includes walk-in cupboards and fashionable décor. All the
resident technology has been upgraded too. The renovated interior area of the hotel’s restaurant accommodates 36 guests, and the outside pool area accommodates nine in its luxurious setting. There is also a breakfast area, which serves delicious morning fare, and brand-new bar and pause area furniture have helped create the ideal spaces for a bit of relaxation after a long day. The aha Kathu Hotel is a comfortable and affordable accommodation choice right in the middle of Kathu’s business hub and main shopping destinations. Its central location makes it a convenient option for guests, who can quickly get to their business or leisure destinations nearby. Kathu is the iron ore capital of the Northern Cape and an established mining mainstay in South Africa’s great mining economy. It is a familiar fixture in the legendary and vast Kalahari Desert and conveniently situated along the N14 between Upington and Kuruman. Many travellers stop by the quaint town for a round of golf in one of South Africa’s Top 20 golf courses, or to attend the annual Kalahari Classic Golf Tournament. Affectionately known as the “town under
the trees”, Kathu was once part of the Camel Thorn Forest, and there are still many thorny trees lining its streets today. The town is a business hub for mining and sees many business travellers passing through for a stay all year round. This establishment is the perfect base for travellers who would like to explore the legendary Kalahari Basin’s endless dunes, mythical heat and cloudless blue skies. Nearby reserves like the Witsand Nature Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve are great spots to experience natural fauna and flora. And Kathu’s quirky local bars offer inclusive sociable experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in small-town life. Come through to aha Kathu Hotel for some classic Kalahari comfort and hospitality and discover a hidden treasure in the warm heart of the Northern Cape.
The Address: R380, Kathu, Northern Cape, South Africa, 8446 Contact: +27 (0) 53 050 0076 Book: www.aha.co.za/kathu-hotel
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IN THE GARDEN
F e r f iendl i l d l i y W
Gardening Text: Emily Taylor | Images: Š Supplied/ iStockphoto.com
Living in an environmentally-friendly way and practising Ecological Landscaping, primarily through the use of indigenous plants, will entice all sorts of wildlife to your garden and provide a functional ecosystem that will contribute to the ecology of the broader area in which you live. A string of such properties can go a long way to reducing the effects of habitat fragmentation by creating pathways made up of green stepping stones between green areas in the city. These pathways greatly benefit genetic and species richness in all areas of the city by connecting populations and reducing pressure on isolated sites. >>
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Why plant indigenous? Indigenous animals are far more likely to inhabit a property if the property contains indigenous plants that can provide these animals with the best resources. Indigenous gardening may not create the archetypal western idea of a beautiful garden, but it brings with it a wilder, more alive and vibrant environment that can ultimately sustain itself. Remember, however, that it will require a substantial amount of work, and time, to get an already transformed area of land to a point where it becomes a selfsustaining, functional ecosystem.
The basics While planting indigenous is preferable to planting exotic, it is still important to select plants from your specific region, as they have adapted to the area’s specific rainfall patterns and weather conditions. Also, ensure that the plant is suitable for the amount of sun exposure.
(provided they can get into the property), and other necessary micro-organisms. It is also helpful to ensure that food items are available at different and appropriate heights – particularly if you are hoping to attract a particular species. You may want to use bird feeders in winter periods when food availability is low.
Water Having a permanent source of clean water in your garden will make it absolutely irresistible to wildlife, provided it is safe from predators and undisturbed, of course. It is also advisable that water sources are designed in such a way that animals can get in and out of the water easily, as animals often drown in even small bodies of water if the sides are steep or slippery and they cannot get out.
Cover
Attracting wildlife to your garden
Garden wildlife also needs sufficient shelter from the elements, as well as from each other (and domestic creatures such as dogs, cats, and children). Adding items such as rocks can help create shelter for small species. It is advisable also not to be too tidy and to let your grass grow a little bit, particularly around the edges of beds and water features – this will provide a perfect habitat for smaller organisms. When landscaping does not allow for natural nesting opportunities, it may be useful to install some artificial structures such as bird or bat boxes. Yet, there are no guarantees that the desired species will utilise these. Any artificial houses must be accessible and ensure minimal disturbance by children and predators (including domestic animals).
As with humans, plants and animals have a hierarchy of needs, and at the base of this hierarchy are food, water, cover and space.
Space
Selecting plants Some species, be it herbs, vegetables, trees, shrubs or grasses, grow more successfully when planted next to other particular species - this is known as companion planting. There are, however, plant combinations that have a detrimental effect on each other or outcompete each other for resources. So, if you are not companion planting, you should at least consider designing your garden so that plants near each other are non-competing.
Food To cater to as wide a variety of species as possible, you will want to diversify the types of food items available in your garden. To cover all your bases, you should ensure that there is green vegetation, fruit, seeds, insects, nuts and nectar-rich flowers. This will attract many species of birds and bats, small mammals, insects, reptiles and amphibians
Different wildlife species require different sizes and types of habitat. Use of space in Ecological Landscaping is crucial to ensure that animals have a wide variety of options, including an area that is relatively undisturbed by human activity.
Some other ideas
Erect barriers around young plants and remove them once the plants have become more established and are more resilient to disturbance by children, animals and wildlife; and Make certain areas more inviting for children and pets so that they don’t disturb wildlife habitats
Being water-wise Following the basic principles of Ecological Landscaping will automatically assist you in saving water, but there are many other things you can do to decrease your water usage, which will, in turn, contribute to maintaining our country’s natural water balance. The first step in living a waterwise lifestyle in your house and garden is to conserve municipal water by using it sparingly – not leaving taps to run and fixing any leaks in faucets or pipes. But there are multiple other simple ways in which you can contribute further: •
Reuse greywater from sinks and bathtubs to water non-food plants; Harvest free rainwater in rain tanks (such as JoJo Tanks); Remove declared alien invader plants; Select appropriate grass types; Zone your garden into different hydro zones and group plants according to their water usage requirements; Use compost, manure and waterretentive polymers; Mulch, mulch, mulch! This allows the water to percolate into the soil slowly and not evaporate too quickly; Irrigate efficiently by applying the right amount of water at the right time. Watering during the hottest time of the day is extremely wasteful because the moisture evaporates almost immediately with very little water reaching the plant roots; and Use innovative watering techniques such as drip irrigation, soaker hoses, installed timers or cut-off valves.
• • • •
• •
•
•
Rand Water has lovely tips on how to save water. Check out their website below: www.randwater.co.za
Give your dog or cat a bell to reduce the threat they pose to indigenous wildlife;
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aha | TRAVEL
JOIN US!
ALLEN’S GALLINULE MArK MUller
FIND, IDENTIFY, ATTRACT & CONSERVE THE CONTINENT’S BIRDS Now you can delight in Africa’s birdlife six times a year, without leaving home… Subscribe to African Birdlife and enjoy the wealth of birding on the continent, wherever you are. Brought to you by BirdLife South Africa, African Birdlife is a bi-monthly, 80-page glossy magazine that features an engaging mix of authoritative articles on bird behaviour, the latest news on African bird conservation and research, interesting personalities, top destinations, rare bird sightings, and informed reviews of new equipment and books to help guide your choices. All this, combined with inspiring photography and tips on how to improve your images, make the magazine a must-have, collectible item for all birdlovers. The magazine is available on subscription and in selected retail outlets throughout southern Africa. For more information visit www.birdlife.org.za
AfricAN Birdlife iS AvAilABle iN Both priNt ANd digitAl editioNS
www.birdlife.org.za
DRIVE
-out of the-
Starting Blocks Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic P400e
the
Driven mag recently had exclusive access to the first Range Rover Sport PHEVs to make landfall in South Africa, and we wasted no time in critically evaluating Land Rover’s answer to growing calls for more hybrid and electric vehicles globally. The question is, however, has the brand’s first stab at a PHEV done enough to be a serious contender in this segment? Text: Driven Magazine | Images: © Range Rover South Africa
L
and Rover’s Range Rover line has long been considered the ultimate in luxurious SUV offerings. They’re plush, sophisticated, and elegant, all the while remaining as capable off the road as on it. Range Rovers have also never been the most fuel-efficient SUVs around, as customers have traditionally demanded big, powerful engines. In a changing world, however, even Range Rovers need to adapt. Enter the Range Rover Sport plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. A car that combines an electrified petrol powerplant and battery pack into the Range Rover Sport to improve fuel efficiency and take Range Rover’s very first steps into a brave new electrified world. HOW DO THEY DO IT? Electrified vehicles can be a lot of fun, with loads of torque and silent operation. Take the thrilling Jaguar i-Pace fully electric SUV that will completely blow your socks off. Hybrid cars offer some of the same thrills, but rely on the combination of internal combustion, battery power, and an electric motor – an obviously cumbersome combination – to achieve some of the same goals. In the Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic P400e that **Driven** had on test, the combo is a 221 kW, turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that plays a supporting role
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“Rich leather, real wood veneers, and genuine metal trim combine in an environment as opulent as anything.” to a 116 kW electric motor housed in the eight-speed automatic transmission, all powered by a 13.1-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. All this translates to a massive 640 Nm worth of torque that is sent to all four wheels via Land Rover’s phenomenal permanent four-wheel-drive system, and to a claimed 6.3-second sprint from zero to 100 km/h. To achieve this while maintaining a high degree of comfort and a premium feel, requires that all systems work in supreme harmony with one another, and that the power handover between the electric motor, petrol engine, and battery pack happens seamlessly. It also requires the electric-only mode and regenerative braking functions to behave predictably and repeatedly well. It is a process that manufacturers like Lexus have perfected with their Hybrid, and in the luxury SUV segment, Volvo, with their XC90 T8 Twin-engine PHEV. While looking great on paper, the Range Rover Sport PHEV doesn’t quite live up to the standard set by other manufacturers who already play in the luxury PHEV SUV space. My biggest gripe is the seemingly unpredictable nature of the drivetrain system combinations. See, while I tried everything to get the Range Rover to respond in the same way while taking similar trips during our test period, I could seldom predict when the petrol engine would kick in to support the electric motor, and when it did, it was hardly as smooth as one would expect from a
vehicle that prices just shy of R1.7 million. The experience was the same when attempting to use the PHEV’s available 51 km in electric-only mode. Even with this mode engaged, whether gently accelerating or not, the petrol engine would engage under different circumstances that I have yet to comprehend fully. I am afraid that the news is not much better on the regenerative braking front, where a somewhat artificial feel dominated the experience. I could also never quite get low-speed braking right, as the brakes were prone to suddenly grab just at the last moment, bringing the car to a more abrupt halt that just doesn’t feel the way a Range Rover should. HIGH ON THE FLY The Range Rover Sport PHEV redeems itself in other ways, though. Despite being heavier, at 2,471 kg, than most of its competitors – the Volvo XC90 weighs in at 2,350 kg and the Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid at 2,295 kg – the Range Rover’s air suspension makes light work of highway cruising, suburban crawling, and pavement hopping alike, soaking up an acceptable amount of road imperfections despite the car’s massive low-profile tyres and 21” wheels. Inside, too, the Range Rover Sport PHEV features Jaguar Land Rover’s new touchscreen controls for everything, including climate control, navigation, audio, parking sensors, seat adjustments and more. The Touch Pro Duo system’s controls are distinctive and stylish, with massive 10” panels dominating the contemporary dash layout. Using the touchscreens to make adjustments to the various systems controlled from here, without taking your eyes off the road, does take some getting used to, however. Glare sometimes is a problem too, and Land Rover would do well to look into using anti-glare coatings for these screens.
All things being equal, my mild displeasure with the Touch Pro Duo system faded very quickly, each time I’d push back into the PHEVs plush multi-adjustable leathercovered pews. Land Rover knows luxury, they live its philosophy every day through every product they make and the PHEV is definitely no exception. Rich leather, real wood veneers, and genuine metal trim combine in an environment as opulent as anything. The steering wheel feels perfectly weighted, the digital gauges are bright and attractive, and visibility from the driver’s seat is fantastic. Seated high, as one would expect from a Range Rover, seeing what’s happening around your vehicle is a cinch. This is not only a bonus in urban environments, but is crucial for off-roading, where the Range Rover, PHEV or not, really comes into its own. Compared to our pick of direct rivals, the Range Rover dominates in terms of wading depth, ground clearance, and general offroad capability. Carrying capacity also exceeds that of its competitors, and rear passengers can look forward to more legroom than other vehicles in the same market segment. LAST WORD Given the rapid pace at which electric and hybrid vehicles are making their appearance in manufacturers’ model line-ups, it is understandable that applications will not be as well-executed as others. In short, the hybrid powertrain in the Range Rover Sport PHEV could do with additional development work for it to ascend to the level of effortless luxury of other Range Rover products. It’s not a deal-breaker here, and the PHEV Sport is an excellent first try for Range Rover. Brand fans won’t likely abandon the option in favour of a Scandinavian or German rival. Still, convincing first-time luxury SUV buyers of the same may prove a little trickier for the British carmaker.
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E x p l o r e O c e a n s’ 3 6 5
Visit the aquarium all-year-round Text & Images: © Supplied
South Africa’s iconic Two Oceans Aquarium provides an unforgettable look at the life that thrives beneath the waves of the southern African coastline. The Aquarium is a perennial favourite amongst locals and travellers, famous for introducing visitors to the magnificent animals and plants that call this stunning coastline home. Conveniently located at the V&A Waterfront, the Aquarium is open 365 days a year. It’s a great alternative on bad-weather days, and no pre-booking is required. Young and old are invited to spend their time exploring, experiencing and engaging the natural world found below the ocean surface.
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Ex p l ore
Discover the warm the Indian Ocean, with its bright and colourful fish and coral. In contrast, the cold Atlantic Ocean, with its silver darting fish, swaying kelp and sleek predators, is sure to leave visitors marvelling at a world unseen by most.
Experienc e Divers can experience the I&J Ocean Exhibit from the inside. Those not qualified can do a short course onsite and then enjoy a dive in this exhibit! Already qualified divers can also dive in the Predator and Kelp Forest Exhibits. Or, if feathered folk are more of your “cup of the ocean”, join us for a Penguin Experience.
Marvel at “Nemo” (clownfish), giant spider crabs, iconic African penguins and mythical seahorses. Three large-scale exhibits frame the Aquarium experience. The Predator Exhibit houses ragged-tooth sharks This all-weather venue is an ideal destiin a 2 million-litre display that shows nation for families and individual traveloff the grandeur of these incredible apex lers to enjoy. With education, conservation predators, while the Kelp Forest Exhibit is and entertainment intricately woven together an underwater forest like no other. Visit the I&J to form an attraction that offers something for Ocean Exhibit with its 10m long tunnel for breatheveryone, the Aquarium is a destination for all seasons taking photos, and don’t miss the twice-daily feeding times. and ages. We can’t wait to ‘sea’ you. Visit: www.aquarium.co.za
Eng a g e
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CONSERVATION
S t ay S a f e on the Roads this Summer And watch out for our wildlife! Text: © Wendy Collinson-Jonker, EWT | Images: iStockphoto.com
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As many South Africans prepare to hit the roads for their summer holidays, they may be thinking of the usual safety precautions. Routine checks such as; taking your vehicle in to ensure that everything is in order, making sure you’re wellrested before embarking and also taking breaks during your journey. Still, not many people will consider the possible safety implications of wildlife on our roads. South Africa currently has a severe problem with regards to road-related fatalities, and this epidemic is relevant to wildlife too. Insurance claims suggest that approximately R82.5 million is paid each year against collisions with wild animals, bearing in mind that the costs of these collisions do not include the actual damages from the wildlife perspective.
To ensure your safety over the holiday period as well as the safety of our wildlife, here are some tips to help you stay safe on the roads: • Take special care near animal crossing warning signs or signs warning of the absence of fences. The signs are there for a reason. • Don’t throw food scraps or other rubbish out of your car since this attracts wildlife and increases the risk of roadkill. • Get in the habit of scanning the roadside as you drive and be exceptionally watchful in areas near thick bush and water. • If you see one animal, you should expect that there are other animals nearby. • Nocturnal species are the most vulnerable to being hit on roads. Drive a little slower at night and if you see an animal in the way, dim your lights and hoot. Car headlights blind animals so that they don’t always move away. • If the animal is in your path, brake firmly but do not swerve to avoid it. Sound your horn in a series of short bursts to frighten it away. Provided you can slow down with control, steer around the animal but stay on the road if possible. Watch out for oncoming traffic. • If a collision seems inevitable, don’t swerve to avoid the animal; your risk of injury may be greater if you do. Maintain control of the vehicle. Report the accident to the police and your insurance company.
• If you hit and injure a wild animal, call the nearest wildlife rehabilitation centre or vet, and be careful of handling potentially dangerous animals on your own.
“Nocturnal species are the most vulnerable to being hit on roads. Drive a little slower at night and if you see an animal in the way, dim your lights and hoot. Car headlights blind animals so that they don’t always move away.” The numbers below are also useful to have on hand in case of an emergency while on the road.
Numbers to remember
• Bakwena N1N4 toll helpdesk: 0800 225 9362
• N3TC helpdesk: 0800 63 4357
• TRAC N4 helpdesk: 0800 87 2264 or 082 881 4444
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ENCORE
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R é union I s l and ’ s U ni q ue S ide 5 Adventurous activities to try
R
Text: Pam Komani | Images: © iStockphoto.com/ Supplied
elatively unknown to most international travellers outside of France, Réunion Island is set in the Indian Ocean, some 700 kilometres east of Madagascar and 200 kilometres South-West of Mauritius. Often described as a speck in the Indian Ocean, the island offers an incredible amount of surprises. Officially an overseas territory of France, the tiny island with a population of around 827,000 people has a fascinating history, unique
culture and a fantastic range of attractions to discover, considering its size. While Réunion, along with many of the other Indian Ocean Islands does offer some breath-taking beaches, its true beauty lies in its alternative attractions including lush forests, unique wildlife, lava tunnel touring, adventure sports and stunning waterfalls. Completely uninhabited before the 17th century, today’s Réunionnais are the descendants of a blend of European colonials, African slaves, Indians, and Chinese merchants. These diverse influences can be felt in the modern culture as well as the cuisine of Reunion Island. >>
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Sk i p t h e tanni n g ro ute for t h e s e a dven t uro us exp eri en c e s : Hiking The island’s national park has a numerous hiking trails that pass through some unique and diverse landscapes. Cilaos features some impressive primitive forests and land reforested with Japanese cedars. There are various well-maintained and well-signposted tracks here, leading to points of interest including waterfalls, lakes and picnic areas making it an excellent location for a relatively easy to moderate daily walk. For those looking for something more extreme, there is a route from Saint-Denis in the north of the island ending in Saint-Joseph in the south. A 130-kilometre journey that would take about a week to complete comfortably. Highlights include some unique volcanic landscapes including lava formations around Piton-des-Neiges.
V i s i t t h e C a p i ta l Saint-Denis, Reunion’s capital, is small but busy and unlike the rest of the island is known for its chaotic traffic, culturally it is the heart of the island and certainly worth taking a little time to explore. With a population of 158,000 people, It is notable for being the most significant French city outside of France. There are lush parks, stunning French colonial architecture and some fantastic dining and shopping options.
Ta k e a f l i g h t The diverse and tropical landscape of Reunion looks great from above, and there are a few exciting options to choose from including helicopter, microlight and private jet flights. Most options offer relatively good value in comparison to comparable flights in other parts of the world. Flight conditions are best early in the morning. A birds-eye view of the island is likely to be an unforgettable experience.
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Side note:
Cuisine
Reunion Island is an overseas territory of France, and the Euro is the official currency. While part of the European union the island has its immigration policy. Local airline, Air Austral, offers flights from South Africa (Johannesburg 3 times a week), Comoros, Mauritius, Madagascar, Mayotte and Seychelles, while Air France offers flights from Paris.
The cuisine of Réunion is a melting pot representing the diversity of its people. There is no doubt that the taste of the food is potentially the one unique aspect of the island and an array of culinary options which can be enjoyed during your trip. By virtue of being little France – pastries and cakes become an all-day affair with freshly baked French bread and gluten-free (sans gluten) options on offer in most restaurants. Cari (curry) and rougaille (a tomato-based sauce) are typical dishes which are either meat or fish dishes cooked in a sauce and served with rice. There is an abundance of tropical fruits available, and depending on the season, the foremost being litchi, mango, pineapple, bananas, and papaya. The food on the island can be moderately spicy, but nowhere near as spicy as the cuisine you will find in mainland India. The island’s most famous tipple Rum is widely available throughout the island with Rum tasting tours being a fashionable midday indulgence.
Le Piton Neiges
des
The highest point on the island (and any island in the Indian ocean) has a few routes to its summit with an ascent from Cilaos being the most popular choice. It’s a tough trek, taking a good eight hours to complete. The journey can be broken up with a stop in Gîte de la Caverne-Dufour, around 3 kilometres from the summit where simple accommodation and meals can be provided. This will allow you to see the sunrise from the summit. Many visitors consider this one of the most unforgettable experiences the island has to offer.
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WELLNESS
Skincare & Travelling
What You Need to Do
Travel is exciting, and there’s always a lot to think about when planning the perfect trip! With all the planning, admin and excitement, it’s easy to overlook your skincare needs, especially because sometimes one travels to different parts of the country which comes with various climate conditions; as a result, this can be tough on one’s skin. Your skin can become extremely dehydrated while travelling. We spoke to Mariette and Carla, the owners of SkinPhD Queenswood, and got their top 5 tips to keep your skin looking fresh and vibrant no matter the time, place or destination! Text: Supplied | Images: ©iStockphoto.com/ Sourced 68 | aha MOMENTS!
1. Moisturise Moisturise! No matter whether you’ll be reaching your destination by car, plane, or train travelling tends to dry out your skin. The day and night before you travel, be repetitive and generous with your moisturising routine - apply double to prepare the skin. Then moisturise again with a light moisturiser before, during, and after travel.
2. Make sunscreen your best friend. Skin protection should be your number one priority. It sounds obvious, but it’s so easy to overlook the sunscreen, sunglasses, broadbrimmed hat, and long clothing when you’re heading out to enjoy your destination. The sun will likely affect your skin differently in a different climate, especially if you’re near water or are at a higher altitude, so take precautions every day to avoid burning.
3. Avoid Breakouts. Consider your new environment - the most delicate part of your face, and the most likely to show the stress and strain of
travel is your eye area. Travelling is not the time to rely on B-game skincare products. You’ll need products that will do the most good for you with the best effects! Ask your therapist for their suggested products.
the HydroPlump K2 facial. It uses vitaminK2 biotechnology to instantly increase moisture and anti-oxidant levels. Happy jet setting!
4. Minimise Make-up. Allowing the pores of your skin to breathe while you’re travelling is a top priority, so it’s best to keep makeup to an absolute minimum. Re-apply lip balms and lip gloss throughout the trip to stay hydrated, moisturised and arrive looking fresh.
5. Don’t neglect your hands! Make use of hand cream while travelling as it is not just your face that suffers from a change in environment. SkinPhD Queenswood has the perfect hand cream. The oils in the cream replenish lost moisture and also form a protective layer that prevents further damage. When it comes to travelling, your skin will need as much TLC as possible, so go ahead and leave your exfoliants and chemical peels at home! To prepare your skin, try and treat before heading on your travels, on top of our list is
About SkinPhD Queenswood SkinPhD Queenswood is a tranquil and peaceful setting where you will receive bespoke treatments to enhance your outer and inner beauty. Situated in Pretoria, their salon offers a wide variety of beauty treatments from massages and waxes to advanced facials and aesthetic beauty treatments. aha MOMENTS! | 69
aha | TRAVEL
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aha Masa Square hotel in Gabarone Exce ptional Faci liti e s, Mad e for B us i n e ss Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
A
business-first luxury hotel that has made Gaborone’s central business district more welcoming than ever before. The hotel is equal parts business and leisure for guests, who can go straight from their work engagements at aha Masa Square’s exemplary business and conference facilities, to a comfortable lounger by the hotel pool. The hotel is reckoned to be the discerning business traveller’s worse-kept secret because it has become the preferred accommodation choice for so many who pass through the sunny Gaborone. The hotel is a grand 4-Star treasure with 182 rooms with a 24-hour concierge service. Located just under 5 Kilometres from central Gaborone,
Botswana’s commercial hub resides in this young, unassuming metropolitan city, with a world-class selection of shopping malls, casinos, restaurants and monuments to visit when you have time to spare. The Sky Lounge is a short walk away from aha Masa Square and is the ideal place for a cocktail at the end of the day, as you take in the Gaborone skyline from the top of Botswana’s second-tallest building. And if you would like to make your stay in Botswana (affectionately known as the “Gem of Africa”) about more than just business, there is a selection of natural attractions including game reserves nearby. Another reason business travellers find aha Masa Square Hotel so convenient
is that Gaborone’s Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is under 20 Kilometres away. So, even if your trip is a quick “stop in, sleep over and rush out”, the hotel is perfectly positioned. Every room at aha Masa Square Hotel has its own en-suite bathroom, highspeed internet access and a large work area, ideal for the business traveller on both long and short stays. The hotel’s qualified conferencing and banqueting team members are all old hands at running seamless events. And the business experience at the hotel is enhanced by exceptional food and attentive service. Nearby dining options include Carlitos Café, which makes one of the best cappuccinos in town, and the Don Carlos Restaurant,
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where inspired Mediterranean cuisine with an unmistakable local twist will please your palate. The Absolut & Elyx Lounges on the hotel’s rooftop offers a good selection of wines, creative cocktails and magnificent views of the Gaborone skyline. Gaborone’s thriving business district is designed to make business more accessible, and the hotel completes this experience by welcoming business travellers to a home 72 | aha MOMENTS!
away from home with an office built-in. Pack your briefcase and this luxury businessfirst star in the Gem of Africa will attend to everything else.
Address: Plot 54353, Western Commercial Rd, Gaborone, Botswana Contact: +26 (0) 7 315 9954 Book: www.aha.co.za/masasquare
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HOTELS & LODGES
FREE STATE
aha Bloemfontein Hotel
+27 51 444 3142
GAUTENG
aha Kopanong Hotel & Conference Centre
+27 11 749 0000
KWAZULU-NATAL
aha Alpine Heath Resort aha Gateway Hotel aha Shakaland
+27 36 438 6484 +27 31 536 9200 +27 35 460 0912
LIMPOPO
Makalali Main Lodge Makalali River Lodge
+27 15 793 9300 +27 15 793 9300
MPUMALANGA
Bongani Mountain Lodge aha Casa Do Sol Hotel & Resort Boulders Safari Lodge Buffalo Rock Mdluli Safari Lodge Nkambeni Safari Camp Shalati Kruger Lodge Shalati Safari Camp
+27 +27 +27 +27 +27 +27 +27 +27
NORTHERN CAPE
aha Kathu Hotel
+27 53 050 0076
NORTH WEST
Ivory Tree Game Lodge Lesedi Madikwe River Lodge Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge Thakadu River Camp
+27 +27 +27 +27 +27
WESTERN CAPE
aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel aha The Rex Hotel
+27 21 431 9202 +27 21 786 3838 +27 44 302 5900 / 0800 600 889
BOTSWANA
Chobe Marina Lodge Masa Square Hotel
+267 625 2221 +267 315 9954 / +267 315 9976
ZAMBIA
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa
+260 213 324601
13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13
764 3577 737 8111 750 0552 750 0552 750 0552 750 0552 750 0552 750 0552
14 556 8100 71 507 1447 14 778 9000 14 551 3910 18 365 9912
BOOK YOUR STAY +27 10 442 5888 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za 74 | aha MOMENTS!
aha | NEWS
ABOVE: Gary Elmes, CEO Tourvest Accommodation & Activities with Trainee Field Guides
Tourvest Guide Academy: Up l i f t i n g L o c a l C o m m u n i t i e s Text & Images: © aha Hotels & Lodges
S
outh Africa is a land of infinite possibility, rich in natural resources, ecologically diverse and bursting with untapped human potential. And the South African tourism industry is an immensely valuable contributor to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In 2018, the travel and tourism sector contributed around R426 billion to the economy and created 1.5 million jobs. According to an annual review by the World Travel & Tourism Council, that actually makes South Africa the continent’s largest tourism economy. Despite those impressive figures, though, career development opportunities in the industry remain scarce. Gary Elmes, Tourvest Accommodation and Activities’ CEO, observed that there was a marked shortage of South African trained and properly accredited field guides in South Africa. And his research yielded that it wasn’t a lack of interest in the industry, but a lack of financial support in local communities that was the problem. With that hard-hitting realisation, the Tourvest Field Guide Academy was born. The idea began to take shape when Tourvest partnered with EcoTraining. After months of planning, the Tourvest Field Guide Academy opened in September 2019, when it welcomed the first 16 candidates –
nine female and seven male recruits, each of whom had undergone a rigorous selection process. These incredibly deserving young people all came from communities that are around various Tourvest Lodges throughout South Africa. The candidates who successfully complete the training programme then get NQF Level 2 Accreditation, which will open up several employment opportunities for them. They are then also provided with guaranteed employment for a minimum of two years after they have completed their six-month practical training programme. The training course is conducted at a specially constructed field guide camp in the Makalali Private Game Reserve, where the candidates are provided with board, lodging, uniforms and fully-sponsored tuition, all covered by the Tourvest Group. EcoTraining handles the initial selection process in conjunction with the Study Trust. Their qualified instructors provide full-time training and study support. A fascinating addition has also been made to the traditional FGASA course, which is likely to provide Tourvest Guide Academy candidates with an added advantage. The programme now also includes a six-month foreign language course, which will make the young guides virtually indispensable to international visitors. Candidates are
The idea began to take shape when Tourvest partnered with EcoTraining. After months of planning, the Tourvest Field Guide Academy opened in September 2019, when it welcomed the first 16 candidates – nine female and seven male recruits, each of whom had undergone a rigorous selection process. currently learning German; Italian and Mandarin may be added to the curriculum in the not-too-distant future. Tourvest is committed to enriching the communities, especially in areas where it conducts business activities. The Tourvest Guide Academy has seen R 3 million investment injected into the initiative so far. It aims to sign up 16 new students every six months, for at least the next three years, producing qualified guides, proficient in foreign languages, which can contribute to South Africa’s booming tourism economy.
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ON SHO W
S howi ng o n Sh owmax th i s Seas o n Here’s what’s new or returning and hot this season:
G o d fat h e r of Harlem s1
In the early 1960s, infamous crime boss Bumpy Johnson (Oscar winner Forest Whitaker) returns from 10 years in prison to find the neighbourhood he once ruled, in shambles. With the streets controlled by Vincent ‘Chin’ Gigante (Emmy nominee Vincent D’Onofrio from Daredevil and Jurassic World) and the Italian mob, Bumpy must take on the Genovese crime family to regain control. During the brutal battle, he forms an alliance with radical preacher Malcolm X (Nigel Thatch from Selma). Godfather of Harlem shows how the criminal underworld and the civil rights movement collided during one of the most tumultuous times in American history.
Good Trouble S2
A spinoff from the multi-award-winning The Fosters, Good Trouble explores the trials and tribulations of the tenants of Downtown LA’s hippest residence, The Coterie. This season, Mariana (Cierra Ramirez), Callie (Maia Mitchell) and the rest of The Coterie crew will continue to navigate their early twenties as they deal with breakups, demand equality, find happiness and discover what it means to fight for what you believe in.
the righteous gemstones S1
The Righteous Gemstones tells the story of a world-famous televangelist family with a long tradition of deviance, greed and charitable work. Creator Danny McBride (Vice Principals, Eastbound & Down) stars as Jesse Gemstone, the eldest of three grown Gemstone offspring, who looks to lead in his father’s footsteps, but finds his past sins jeopardising the family ministry. Golden Globe winner John Goodman stars alongside Teen Choice and MTV Movie Awards winner Adam Devine (Pitch Perfect, Modern Family) and Emmy nominee Walton Goggins (Justified).
WAT C HMEN s1
Inspired by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ iconic DC graphic novel, Watchmen is set in an alternate history where masked vigilantes are treated as outlaws. Oscar, Golden Globe and Emmy winner Regina King (If Beale Street Could Talk, Seven Seconds) leads a strong cast as Angela Abar, alongside the likes of Oscar winners Jeremy Irons and Louis Gossett Junior, Golden Globe winner Don Johnson, Tim Blake Nelson (Oh Brother Where Art Thou), Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Aquaman) and Adelaide Clemens (The Great Gatsby). The series is created by Emmy winner Damon Lindelof (Lost, The Leftovers), with Andrij Parekh (Succession), Nicole Kassell (The Following), Emmy nominee Stephen Williams (Westworld) and Oscar nominee Steph Green (The Americans) among the directors.
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screentime
ave vies h rtificial o m h Enoug us about A vero d warne nce for the to e s ig Intell amongst u d Alexa. s n u cautio even Siri a st distru
Ma n kno and w belo that Termin see ngs to the fu ator mom it com those ture ent ing a who to c nd u can han se t ge i he t.
Back to t h e f u t u re Text & Images: © Uzanenkosi (Worker Ant @ ANTS)
Y
ou are either living in the past or the future. Enough books have been written about living in the now, as proof of just how fleeting the present moment is. Looking back at the movies of the past, it becomes pretty clear that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Each generation makes the same mistakes and needs to be projected the same lessons, previous generations failed to learn. You would think after all the millions of people who have seen Back To The Future over the years, their parenting would yield us less and less bullies. Enter 2019’s meditation on bullying - Joker. Enough movies have warned us about Artificial Intelligence for the over-cautious amongst us to distrust even Siri and Alexa. Just when the bullies were ready with their name-calling, Mark Zuckerberg was seen with tape over his computer’s camera and microphone, vindicating the so-called over-
cautious. As if that was not enough, the real Iron Man, South African born Elon Musk, shared his concerns about the dangers of AI. Practically, calling it the folly of smart people who think they know more than they do until it is too late - Eagle Eye. Guinness Book of World Records’ first robot hotel, in Japan, recently fired half of its robot staff, without incident. A snoring guest’s sleep was interrupted a few times when the robot in the room mistook the guests snores for instructions. In the yet to be written movie, the robots won’t take it lying down. They will organise. The overcautious amongst us will read apocalypse and the futurist will glimpse a man-made Garden Of Eden, in which the robots are denied selfknowledge for man to realise his higher self - read - insta life. Man and Terminator know that the future belongs to those who can see it coming and use the moment to change it. In Aladdin
and The Lion King, Disney has shown us all what we can do with the past. It has also given us a future in which the past is revisited to produce something Maleficent. I mean magnificent. Even with the MCU, it has not been all Bad Boys, I mean bad news. Seemingly, a lot of money can be made from the past, it is just the lessons, like our new resolutions, that refuse to stick. Back to the beginning of this article.
Ab o u t U z a n e n k o s i With over 20 years of expertise in the South African Film and Television industry as a Producer, Director and Writer, Uzanenkosi’s name has become synonymous with the success of ground-breaking work across various genres.
aha MOMENTS! | 77
BOOKS
Set during an incredible event in South African history, Fred Khumalo’s new novel is a tale of heady determination, and a tribute to the perseverance and courage of ordinary men and women when faced with extraordinary circumstances.
• The Longest March Fred Khumalo
TRAIN MAN ANDREW MULIGAN
YOU’RE NOT BROKE YOU’RE PRE-RICH
Forbes africa: Africa’s Billionaires
MAPALO MAKHU
Chris Bishop
If you are a millennial who is trying to figure out how money works, this book is for you. With simple, relatable and sometimes amusing stories about how to manage money on a day-to-day basis, you will learn how to change your mindset about money, get out of debt and stay debt-free, invest your money and, ultimately, live your best life.
Chris Bishop gets up close and personal with the biggest names in business on the continent: Aliko Dangote, Patrice Motsepe, Nicky Oppenheimer, Christo Wiese and Stephen Saad, among others. These are the stories of how they not only survived, but thrived, in the fast and furious world of African business: the penniless priest who became a steel baron; the barefoot appleseller who turned into a mining millionaire; the ‘knocksman’ who went from running dice games and dealing drugs to running a city.
You’re Not Broke, You’re Pre-Rich will help you, the young professional, to think differently about money, while covering pertinent topics like black tax, savings, budgeting, emergency funds and financial scams, as well as estate and retirement planning. It is the best class you never attended… in a book!
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This is a rich tapestry of stories about the super-wealthy and the qualities that make them successful, in arguably the most challenging economic arena in the world.
Michael is a broken man. He’s waiting for the 9.46 to Gloucester, so as to reach Crewe for 11.22: the platforms are long at Crewe, and he can walk easily into the path of a high-speed train to London. He’s planned it all: a net of tangerines (for when the refreshments trolley is cancelled), and a juice carton filled with neat whisky (for Dutch courage). He has his last credit card taped to the inside of his shoe – and that should make identification swift and easy. What Michael hasn’t factored in is the twelve minute delay, which risks him missing his connection, and making new ones. He longs to silence the voices in his own head: ex-girlfriends, work colleagues, and the memories from his schooldays, decades old. They all torment him. What he really needs is someone to listen, and help him make sense of his grief. Journeys intersect. People find people when and where they least expect it. A missed connection needn’t be a disaster: it can save your life.
s d i K
the longest march
HAIR LOVE:
Fred khumalo A hundred and twenty years ago, seven thousand Zulu mineworkers walked from the gold mines in Johannesburg to Natal, covering a distance of five hundred kilometres over ten days. This journey was their longest march. It is 1899 and Philippa’s fiancé Nduku has just broken off their engagement. She is heartbroken – after all, she has followed him from Kimberley, where they first met, to the goldfields of Johannesburg. In this bustling new city, tensions are mounting between the South African Republic and the gold-hungry British Empire. When war is declared, the mines are shut down and migrant workers ordered to leave town. But how do you get home and out of harm’s way when there are no running trains and home is hundreds of kilometres away? You walk. Over perilous terrain – sleeping in the open, being attacked by wild animals
and harassed by armed white farmers – Nduku and Philippa and seven thousand others walk. Disguised as a mine-worker’s wife, for Philippa is white, he and Nduku talk about their true histories, about their fears and hopes, with every footfall. On their way to Natal, and on their long journey into their inner selves, the possibility of lasting happiness seems within reach – if only they can survive, and if only they can weather the storm of an unexpected third player in their troubled romance. Set during an incredible event in South African history, Fred Khumalo’s new novel is a tale of heady determination, and a tribute to the perseverance and courage of ordinary men and women when faced with extraordinary circumstances.
A Celebration of Daddies Everywhere MATTHEW A. CHERRY It’s up to Daddy to give his daughter an extra-special hair style in this story of selfconfidence and the love between fathers and daughters. Zuri knows her hair is beautiful, but it has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Mum always does Zuri’s hair just the way she likes it - so when Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he’ll do anything to make her and her hair - happy. Tender and empowering, Hair Love is an ode to loving your natural hair - and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere.
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TREND REPORT
What to expect in
202
0
Creative Director of Decorex Africa, Anita Bloom shares two major interior design trends to look out for in 2020. Referring to it as a year of ‘happy spaces’ - the report revealed two significant influences as being the New Nordic (departs from Scandinavian minimalism) and Contemporary Organic (more nature-focused with a luxurious twist).
Here is a glimpse:
Contemporary Organic - Nature focussed items with a luxurious twist Chubby elephantine furniture is on the rise - awkward shapes that make a statement as opposed to instagramable mid-century modern Minimalism is over - the New Nordic trend embraces a cosier, more nuanced aesthetic with softer tones, tactile surfaces, natural materials and textured rugs and fabrics Odd shaped mirrors and 3D wallpaper Fireplaces are back, as are table lamps, candles and lanterns, along with lots of green plants
Colours that evoke the sea and the sky, along with a splash of warmth (cassis, cantaloupe and mellow yellow). Happy spaces - It’s all about the personal touch and creating happily lived-in space
“We’re moving away from sleek materials and sharp architectural lines as ultra-modern design adopts softer, more texturally rich touches: furniture with sensual forms, timber with an irregular grain,” Bloom explains. “The effect is relaxing and grounding – a counterpoint to the highly charged, technology-driven world we live in”, says Bloom.
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“Living spaces are warmer and more inviting – fireplaces are back, as are table lamps, candles and lanterns, along with lots of green plants,” says Bloom. “The colour palette is easy on the eye: champagne, beige, warm neutral colours, sage green, dark blues and indigo.” The second major trend, Contemporary Organic, is even more nature-focused, with a luxurious twist.
T o a d v e r t i s e yo u r b u s i n e s s i n o u r m a g a z i n e c o n ta c t : info@yellowpeppermedia.co.za or
Tel: 011 575 0420
DIY
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SMS “SAVE” to donate R15 SMS “SAVE” to 31913toto31913 donate R15 SMS“SAVE” “SAVE” 31913 R15 SMS “SAVE” todonate 31913 to donate R15 SMS toto31913 totodonate R15
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