Sanlam Reality - Winter 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za • Winter 2019

Why you probably have a favourite child

wealth

Get positive about SA’s future!

travel

Top foodie destinations

wellness

How clutter can make you sick

debate

Should data be a human right?

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Winter 2019 On the cover

SHOULD DATA BE A HUMAN RIGHT? 13 WHY YOU PROBABLY HAVE A FAVOURITE CHILD 16 HOW CLUTTER CAN MAKE YOU SICK 30 TOP FOODIE DESTINATIONS 54 10 REASONS TO BE POSITIVE ABOUT SA 6

Also inside

9 WELLNESS 20 YOU'VE BEEN TOLD A BIG FAT LIE

The sinister ingredient making you pack on the kilos 22 8 WAYS TO NURTURE YOUR CHILD OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM

Tips and advice to help your child thrive 27 TRAVEL 34 FLYING SOLO

Top spots for travelling alone 36 HEALTHY HOLIDAYS

Local wellness retreats to try 41 WEALTH 44 COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS AT WORK

Step out of your comfort zone 48 LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

Learn to be frugal yet fun!

50 COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE

An interesting new way to tackle a split 57 ENTERTAINMENT 60 FEED THE FAMILY

A week of healthy meals for under R800 64 5 MINUTES WITH...

Belinda Davids 67 REAL WORLD

ALL FOR YOU Savings, benefits and more

2 REALITY WINTER 2019

Win Your share of 100 Uber vouchers worth R10 000 PAGE 47

www.sanlamreality.co.za

contents

Photography: Shutterstock, supplied, Niquita Bento; ON THE COVER Photography: Colleen Coppenhall/DIS; Creative direction: Brendan Hoffman, Marisa Steyn; Production: Nicky Scheepers

We l c om e I grew up in a meritocratic family.

Good grades and glowing reports were rewarded with financial incentives or negotiated rewards. Expectations were set with my parents quarterly in anticipation of the next school term. To the alarm of many to whom I tell the story, my first KPI meeting happened not in my first job, but with my dad, aged 13. I negotiated a second ear piercing in exchange for moving up a grade in maths.

There are plenty who disagree with this approach to parenting, but one thing I will always defend about it was that it felt honest and fair. I was never held to the same standards as my siblings – I was held to my own, based on my strengths, weaknesses and ambitions. And – my word! – did it teach me to negotiate and always ask for what I wanted in life.

How we are raised is pivotal to how we tackle our adult lives – it's why this issue's cover story, 'Why you probably have a favourite child', is both relevant and extremely personal. Read about

Sanlam Reality is the loyalty programme of the Sanlam Group and its strategic partners. The programme helps members to make the most of their money in a way that’s honest, meaningful and real. Sanlam Reality empowers its members to make responsible financial choices and enables them to live their best financial lives possible. All because Sanlam Reality believes that taking care of your money should be rewarding.

SANLAM REALITY PROGRAMME Head of marketing and communication Francois Uys Communications manager Lucille Moore Communications coordinator Hasina Khan SANLAM REALITY CALL CENTRE Telephone 0860 732 548/9 Email info@sanlamreality.co.za Website www.sanlamreality.co.za

the fascinating (and unsettling) science behind it all on p.13.

The skills our parents or guardians impart to us also shape how we tackle our work lives.

Many of us struggle to ask for what we want when it comes to our careers – something quite baffling when you consider you'll likely spend a third of your life at work. Learn to have courageous conversations on p.44 – especially since professional success will likely determine your financial wellbeing. Good luck – and know this: with courage comes reward (even if it doesn't come in quite the form you were expecting).

SARAH BROWNING-DE VILLIERS, EDITOR

Our contributors

REAL FUTURES (PTY) LTD Real Futures is a wholly-owned Sanlam Ltd company managing the Sanlam Reality Programme for the Sanlam Group.

Chairman Jan Steenkamp Directors Gary Allen, André Larisma, Theesan Moodley, Company secretary Ulishia Baijnath

PUBLISHED BY NARRATIVE FOR SANLAM REALITY EDITORIAL Editor Sarah Browning-de Villiers Email mag@sanlamreality.co.za Proofreader Katherine Farrell Contributors Christine van Deemter, Dee Seturumane, Edwain Steenkamp, Katelyn Allegra, Keneiloe Nasilele Nkomo, Kojo Baffoe, Lynette Botha, Madalet Sessions, Nicci Botha, Pam Sykes, Rachel Nyaradzo Adams, Samantha Luiz, Tracy Lynn Chemaly PRODUCTION Head of production Nicky Scheepers Traffic manager Ashleigh Tremearne CREATIVE Group creative director Brendan Hoffman Creative director Christelle Grobler Art director Marisa Steyn Designer Mikaela Keeves NARRATIVE Managing director Gareth McPherson Business unit director Lauren Brabant Chief content officer Sarah Browning-de Villiers Senior account manager Soni Siwela CAPE TOWN HEAD OFFICE Tel: 021 487 9100 Email: mag@sanlamreality.co.za 50 Harrington Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town, 7925 PO Box 16258, Vlaeberg, Cape Town, 8001 All content and pricing correct at time of print.

KOJO BAFFOE Baffoe is a writer, speaker, content strategist, radio talk show host at Kaya FM, former magazine editor and an entrepreneur. He shares why we should remain positive about South Africa in this issue. [+] See more in the feature on PAGE 54.

RACHEL NYARADZO ADAMS As an expert in executive leadership, Adams' knowledge stood her in good stead to give advice and expert tips on how to have courageous conversations in the workplace. [+] See more in the feature on PAGE 44.

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A division of Novus Holdings

Published by Narrative. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, photocopying or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners, Narrative Media Group, Harrington Street, Cape Town, 7925.

Printed by Novus Print. While reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information given to readers, the editor, proprietors (Real Futures (Pty) Ltd) and publishers cannot accept responsibility for any damages or inconvenience that may arise from incorrect information.

Printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.

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WINTER 2019 REALITY

3

You focus on training.

We’ll focus on rewarding you

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Claim your free entry before 26 August 2019 1. Email Luthando.Zenzile@sanlam.co.za to request your free entry voucher.

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meet the members

MEET THE MEMBERS a rd i n g YOU TELL US WHY SANLAM REALITY IS

re w

USE YOUR BENEFITS

NOKUZULO TSHIKILA FROM PRETORIA

Use your free Personal Assistant to tick off your to-do list. Chat to your PA in the free Sanlam Reality App, or call 0860 732 548/9.

REALITY Core MEMBER

“Receiving my magazine is a highlight” “I get so excited when I receive my magazine, as I know it will give me ideas for the best holiday adventures and must-visit places to add to my growing list.”

Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

“Travel planning made easier” “Whenever I know I’ll be travelling soon, I use my Personal Assistant benefit to compare flights and accommodation. Then, when I’m ready to book, I use my Mango flight benefit which often has the best deals. I just love how travelling is made so much easier, and more affordable.”

“Sharing is caring” “I also enjoy reading the Wealth Sense articles online. I browse the website every month and read available articles on mortgages, new saving plans and estate planning. They’re a great way to learn to work towards financial freedom, and I forward the articles to my extended family and friends, and encourage them to read them as well.” www.sanlamreality.co.za

VANESSA SWART FROM CAPE TOWN REALITY Core MEMBER

Welcome to your financial content portal packed with articles, tips and tools to help you become a financially fit Wealthsmith!

Explore it at www.sanlamreality. co.za/wealth-sense.

Enjoy movie tickets for just R30! Book in the free Sanlam Reality App or visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/numetro-movies.

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“It’s been amazing from day one” “I’ve been a member for many years!

My highlight was winning one of the competitions way back. Since then I’ve used my Personal Assistant benefit to help with sourcing discounts for car tyres or to find tutors for my children.”

“I’m an avid fan of the articles” “I’m an avid reader of this mag. I enjoy articles around financial health such as budgeting, saving and investing funds.

The mags share great tips and tools on how to manage finances better.”

“Tax made simple” “The tax assistance benefit, TaxTim, is brilliant. I think it’s amazing that anyone can get expert tax help for nothing. It’s a great way to empower people to be responsible with money.”

“Now you know my secret!”

“The Nu Metro benefit is the best of all!

I gift tickets to friends and family. I’m letting my secret out: they’re a fantastic way to make someone’s day!”

WINTER 2019 REALITY

5

the other side of reality

Is data a human right?

Approximately 46.3% of South Africa’s population are not online – with no access to the everyday platforms many take for granted. Two experts debate whether data – the internet’s fuel – should be considered a human right, like education and water.

MADALET SESSIONS Portfolio manager at Denker Capital.

Denker is a result of a merger between two Sanlam Investments businesses: SIM Unconstrained Capital Partners and SIM Global.

“THERE IS A LOT WE NEED TO GET RIGHT BEFORE WE CONSIDER DATA A HUMAN RIGHT” Economics is often described as the dismal science.

Although this is not the original cause for the description, it is now often attributed to the sad reality that not all desires, wants or needs of a society can be met with the resources that same society has at its disposal.

And so, economics is the study of how to optimally satisfy the unlimited desires of society constrained by the limited resources available to them.

The question of whether or not data access should be

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REALITY WINTER 2019

a human right falls squarely into this definition of the economic problem a society faces. The question,

The answer to that question is undoubtedly and unambiguously yes. Rather, the question is: does society get the most value for money by dedicating resources to data access rather than to something else?

To illustrate this point (purely hypothetically), say society has the choice between spending R100 000 on education or data access.

Assume now also that expenditure on education would enable lifetime gainful

“To meaningfully create opportunities for members of our society to prosper, we must start with what matters most.” economically speaking, is not whether or not society will benefit from widespread access to fast internet or data.

employment at similar income levels for twice as many individuals as data access would. Would it be

appropriate for society to prioritise data access over access to education?

Suddenly the discussion has shifted from idealistic thinking to practical application – a perspective often omitted from conversations around what should and shouldn’t be considered a human right.

Declaring data access a human right does not change any of this calculus, but it does make it more difficult to prioritise.

In order to meaningfully create opportunities for members of our society to prosper – beyond the idealistic theory – we must start with the things that matter most.

That is, the things that will drive change for the greatest number, as meaningfully as possible.

In short: there is a lot else we need to focus on getting right in our society before data becomes a human right. www.sanlamreality.co.za

PAM SYKES Writer, podcaster, multimedia producer and lover of all things digital. Sykes is currently writing her PhD on digital storytelling as a fellow of the Centre for Humanities Research at UCT.

Fuelling a fast-growing appetite for the internet.

4.1-Billion

“DATA IS THE PRICE OF PARTICIPATION IN THE MODERN WORLD” South Africa’s Bill of Rights says everyone has the right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to receive or impart information and ideas.

We also have the right to equality, which means “the full and equal enjoyment of all rights and freedoms”.

email address? Perhaps more to the point, can you imagine hiring someone, even for manual labour, if you can’t reliably communicate with them?

The Global Alliance for Affordable Internet estimates that 1GB per month is a minimum entry

Photography: Supplied, Shutterstock

“Inequality is bad for our economy, bad for social cohesion, and bad for our wellbeing.”

In the 21st century, none of that is possible without internet access. For most South Africans, that means access via their mobile phones – and that, in turn, means access to data. Data is access to education, to job opportunities, to social capital, to full and equal participation as a productive citizen.

Without data, people are effectively excluded from the modern world. Can you imagine paying the bills or managing your savings without online banking?

Can you imagine looking for a job without the internet, or applying for a job without an

USE YOUR BENEFIT

www.sanlamreality.co.za

level for meaningful use of the internet. Any less than that, and you’re not getting the time and practice you need to become confident and proficient. Yet millions of the poorest South Africans can’t afford that minimum – and so digital exclusion joins unemployment, poor education and geographical isolation to force the gap between the haves and the have-nots even wider.

Inequality is bad for our economy, bad for social cohesion, and bad for our wellbeing; it makes the rich mean and paranoid, and the poor despairing and resentful. The digital world

internet users globally

40%

Of the world’s population had an internet connection in 2018

11% Of the world’s users are in Africa

7-Billion search queries processed

by Google a day

51.8%

Of internet traffic comes from bots; only 48.2% comes from humans

35.9%

Internet penetration on the African continent

60.2%

In the rest of the world

53 7% Of South Africa’s population are internet users

Sources: Statista, Internet World Stats, Census.gov, Snap App, CNBC, Website Hosting Rating, Tibus, PWC

that many of us are moving into has the potential to reduce the terrifying levels of inequality South Africa lives with: but only if we

open its doors to everyone.

It’s time that equal access to data joins equal access to education as a basic right for all.

Reality Health and Reality Plus members get 1GB of free AlwaysOn Wi-Fi monthly. Find out more at www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/wi-fi.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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Make taxes less taxing

Get free access to the clever TaxTim online platform, saving you as much as R599.

For more information, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/taxtim. T&Cs apply.

wellness

IV League

Would you fast-track your nutrients intake via a drip? Intravenous vitamin drips, once reserved for Hollywood A-listers, are available in SA, promising to make skin glow, aid in recovery from jet lag or illness, restore nutrient levels and replenish hydration. But only if you aren’t afraid of needles, of course.

Explore more at www.thedripclinic.co.za, www.revivme.com or www.theivbar.co.za.

YOUR w e ll n e ss BENEFITS

As much as 60% monthly discount at Virgin Active (Reality Health only)

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Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/health to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage. www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

9

wellness

Sweat smart , not

hard

Good news! Turns out that more may not be better when it comes to your exercise routine. Here’s how to exercise smart.

High-impact repetitions could actually be backfiring. Why? They activate your body’s fight-or-flight response, meaning an increase in cortisol, which could lead to losing muscle or gaining weight. The solution: practising cortisol-consciousness.

Here’s what we mean by that...

STRENGTH TRAINING Reclaim muscle mass by reducing the number of weights sets you do and increasing rest periods. Do two to three sets of 10-12 reps, with one- to two-minute breaks between each set. Whether using gym equipment or weights and resistance bands at home, try not to exceed an hour of training at a time.

WORK OUT YOUR WAY

CONDITIONING Ditch the intense hour-long cardio workout and replace it with a 20-minute cycle or row. Or take daily 30-minute walks during your lunch hour. Attend gym classes that focus on high-intensity, low-impact interval training and that are not more than 40 minutes long.

MIND-BODY SESSIONS Yoga, qi gong, Tai Chi and judo can all positively impact cortisol counts. While providing body movement, they also balance the mind-body connection. If you’re a firsttimer and group classes seem overwhelming, search for entry-level YouTube sessions to gain confidence at home.

Save up to 60% on monthly fees at independent gyms and studios, enjoying classes like yoga, Pilates, boxing and CrossFit. Plus, get 25% off classes via 10-packs. Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/ independent-gymsand-studios.

CORTISOL 101 Cortisol is the fight-or-flight hormone released when you’re in big-time adrenalin mode, i.e. stressed or in danger. It’s meant to boost your energy tank after you’ve exerted yourself in an unexpected situation. However, with today’s daily stressors, cortisol is released way more often than what is needed. These augmented levels could lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, lowered immunity, slower metabolism, sleep issues and anxiety. Too much cortisol also breaks down muscle weight and reduces the body’s ability to burn fat.

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REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

y a s o t n r a e L

Creative ways to help kick cancer Follow these tips by Cancer Dojo founder Conn Bertish, modelled on his own creative tactics to overcoming a brain tumour while he was also undergoing medical treatment.

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR HEALING

DO YOU FIND IT HARD TO SET BOUNDARIES AT WORK AND IN YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLES?

Text: Tracy Lynn Chemaly; Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

Lize van den Bergh, a counselling psychologist at the University of the Free State, says: “People who find it hard to say no and be assertive often feel that their opinion is not important, or that they should put others first.” But, she says, you have every right to stand up for yourself.

Here’s what she advises:

Your body communicates 1 /more than your words

So it’s important to learn how to stand your ground physically.

Square your shoulders and try to keep your voice calm and firm during conflict situations.

2

/ Recognise and be willing to exercise your basic rights

Remind yourself that you have the right to say no, change your mind, ask questions, express feelings, change and grow, and be respected.

Become aware of your own 3 /unique feelings, needs and wants

You have to know what you are feeling and why you are feeling this in order to fully and effectively communicate it to others.

4 / Practise assertive responses

Do this by writing them down, role-playing them on your own and then with a friend, and applying this to real life. Don’t be discouraged if things don’t go as you had planned. Rather, focus on what you did well and build on that.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

When we feel helpless, our immune systems are compromised, making it harder for our bodies to fight disease. Use your imagination to see yourself overcoming illness. Imagine your illness is a snowman and you are the blazing sun. Write and scribble your own ways to overcome your illness every day.

FRIENDS WHO MAKE YOU LAUGH ARE A SUPERB FORM OF MEDICINE Use them. Feed yourself with the good, fun, crazy positive stuff that makes you bellylaugh and feel a little silly.

Feeling good is beneficial for your wellbeing and shown to build resiliency and positively affect your immune function.

FEED YOUR MIND AND BODY WITH THE RIGHT STUFF TO PERFORM AT THEIR PEAK Follow healing dietary advice and get rid of any negative psychological baggage you’re carrying. See a therapist, fix

a broken bridge, eat better and drink more water.

KEEP MOVING Even small movements are great. Move your fingers, stretch your legs or raise your arms to get your blood flowing and your mind augmenting your movements with your thinking. Imagine your cancer or illness being left behind when you go for a walk or a run, or cracking off with every bend of your body as you stretch. Learn more at www.cancerdojo.com.

EARN TIER POINTS Earn up to

10 000 tier points for taking a Basic Medical Test – also, you’ll get a clearer picture of your health. Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/earn-points for more.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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Kick back before you take off

Enjoy free Bidvest Premier Lounge access with Wi-Fi, snacks and drinks.

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

To find out more, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/bidvest.

T&Cs apply. Exclusive to Reality Plus and Health members.

wellness

SCIENCE SAYS YOU HAVE A

f a v ou r i t e c h i l d

It’s an uncomfortable idea but – say a host of studies – favouritism, even within your own family, is inevitable. Understand why it happens, and how to combat it, here. By Lynette Botha

Siblings polled in the study felt that the YOUNGEST IS ALWAYS THE FAVOURED CHILD…

hen it comes to the topic of a favourite child (or grandchild), it’s no wonder that if there’s a survey or study to partake in, participants want to remain anonymous. Because nobody wants to openly admit to having a favourite child, right?

But according to the numbers, almost everyone does…

Of 384 families

… however, results from the research suggested that it is the firstborn who is generally more favoured.

FIRSTBORNS... ... usually feel more ‘hard done by’ than their siblings, as they are the first to ever complete and achieve things, according to Professor Katherine Conger, who worked on the study.

who took part in a 2016 California University study published in the ‘Journal of Family Psychology’

74%

of mothers and

70%

of fathers confessed to having a favourite child.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

‘HAVING AN OLDER SIBLING... ... could help to boost intelligence’, according to a similar 2015 study by the University of Toronto.

A 2018 survey found that...

42%

of grandparents admitted to having a favourite with...

39%

confirming that they liked their first grandchild the most.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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wellness

“From lower self-esteem and increased aggressiveness to reduced performance at school, children who experience being disfavoured by their parents inevitably carry its consequences.”

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE A 2018 UK survey found that there is some truth in ‘middle children syndrome’ – the idea that middle children receive the least attention, but in many cases this is driven by the children themselves and not necessarily by their parents’ actions.

ON YOUNGER CHILDREN Survey manager Aoife Davey commented: “Moms will worry about everything with their firstborn child, but by the time the other children come along, it’s likely they

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REALITY WINTER 2019

have experienced the good, the bad and the ugly of motherhood and will be able to relax a lot more. Also, younger siblings will learn from the mistakes their older brothers or sisters will make, and so are likely to be less of a worry to moms.”

SO, WHAT’S TRUE? Psychology Today expert, Tracy Asamoah, writes: “Years of research support what many have suspected – most parents have a favourite child. Studies have explored factors from birth order to gender and shared interests. Yet even with years of research that

supports this idea, parents are still plagued by guilt and live in denial of having a favourite child.

“Even if there is no discernible parental favourite amongst siblings, studies have shown that kids often perceive preferential treatment of their sibling by their parents.”

WHAT MAKES PARENTS PICK A FAVOURITE? “Birth order is one of many factors contributing to the selection of a favourite.

Parental narcissism expresses itself in other ways. For some parents, the

child who is most like them physically, athletically, or academically is prized; for other parents, the child who is least like them, who doesn’t reflect those traits that parents least like about themselves, is coveted,” says clinical psychologist and author of The Favorite Child, Dr Ellen Weber Libby.

“Ultimately, favourite children are those who make parents feel most competent and most successful, who best reflect on the parents.”

Some researchers put it down to our basic evolutionary survival instinct – the desire to replicate ourselves through www.sanlamreality.co.za

the strongest, healthiest offspring possible. There’s also something to be said about the firstborn receiving more initial start-up efforts from their parents than later children.

As business consultant and organisational psychologist Ben Dattner told TIME magazine: “There’s a kind of resource capital parents pour into firstborns. They build up a sort of equity in them.”

THE DANGERS From lower self-esteem and increased aggressiveness to reduced performance at school, children who experience being disfavoured by their parents inevitably carry its consequences.

So while having a favourite

REAL PEOPLE, REAL IMPACT “My parents never treated me and my two sisters any differently – not that I can remember, anyway.

But I clearly recall my oldest sister being favoured by both my grandparents and my aunts and uncles. She was like the golden child. Luckily my middle sister and I felt we were in it together – but if it had just been me, I think I may have been more affected by the imbalanced treatment.”

– Ben*, 27, Knysna “It was only in my teenage years that I really felt like I was the favourite child.

I excelled in school work and sporting activities – I was always winning awards, and

“While having a favourite is natural, it’s important to limit its impact on your parenting.” child is, in many ways, natural, it’s important to actively limit its impact on your parenting and family life. Take a look at the section to the right for tips on how to ensure favouritism is managed.

Photography: Shutterstock

EVEN THE FAVOURED CHILD CAN SUFFER “As soon as children become aware of the favouritism, sibling rivalry is intensified,” explains child psychologist Gaynor Sbuttoni. Siblings and other family members can grow to resent the favourite child. www.sanlamreality.co.za

my parents were so proud of me. My younger sister was the complete opposite. My parents weren’t hard on her or anything, but I always felt favoured, especially by my mom.” – Katie*, 38, Cape Town “I was always the apple of my dad’s eye as the youngest.

I could sense the way he doted on me, compared to how he was with my sister, who was older. I could get away with anything, where she was always called out on stuff. It did make me feel bad – I could tell that I was treated differently.”

– Mpumi*, 32, Jo’burg *Names have been changed

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A

favourite

ADMIT IT TO YOURSELF, BUT DON’T FEEL GUILTY By acknowledging a favourite child internally, you become aware of the predilection and can ensure that it doesn’t impact on the way you treat your other children.

ALWAYS BE FAIR It doesn’t matter if you prefer Matty over Molly, when it comes to matters of parenting always be fair – give your children equal attention and alone time with you, the same pocket money and opportunities.

YOUR CHILDREN ARE INDIVIDUALS, SO THEY’RE DIFFERENT. TREAT THEM THAT WAY You may enjoy baking with your daughter and shopping with your son – and that’s totally fine. The activities you do with them don’t need to be identical, but your time spent with each should be similar.

LOVE THEM Children just want to be loved.

Show them equal affection and tell them daily how much you love them.

wellness

IS YOUR MAKING YOU Our modern-day obsession with possessions is making us anxious and the planet more clogged. After a thorough, joy-sparking decluttering, could you open your drawers‌ and find peace? Christine van Deemter is here to help clear the way for you.

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REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

I

have been known to open someone’s drawers or cupboards – sometimes not even a close friend, a mere dinner party host – and proclaim, “Surely you don’t need all this… stuff?”

Long before Japanese organising consultant Marie Kondo burst onto the scene with her 2014 book The LifeChanging Magic of Tidying Up and her hit Netflix show Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, I was exalting the spiritual and physical benefits of throwing out all of the things you don’t need.

Watching Hoarders gives me heart palpitations. And I think birthday cards are the biggest scam in the world. (More pseudo-sentimental stuff to file away? No thanks.) Here’s why decluttering can change your life – and your wellbeing.

CLEAR YOUR SPACE, CLEAR YOUR MIND Decluttering my space has always had the added benefit of decluttering my mind. Where other people go for a run or a burger when they feel anxious or overwhelmed, I unpack my cupboards. If my rolls of giftwrap and miscellaneous ribbons are sorted, surely my life cannot be falling apart?

This need to clean and create order is about more than simply feeling smug as you look around your immaculate kingdom. Clutter and chaos can have a severe impact on your mental and physical health. “Disorganisation caused by clutter

“Clutter and chaos can impact mental and physical health.” causes stress hormones to spike and can leave you feeling frazzled on a daily basis,” says Heidi Meyer, a professional organiser and trainer with Cloud 9 Organised in Gauteng.

“This can compound feelings of sadness, anger and depression, and can make it harder to maintain positive emotions and to tackle the problem.”

Clutter affects your mental wellbeing, she continues.

“The stress of disorganisation hinders your ability to concentrate, process information and get things done. Negative emotions and mental stress also affect your physical health – a cluttered space can make you feel drained and chronically tired, while frustration can raise your blood pressure.”

THE

space METHOD

Professional organiser Heidi Meyer recommends using SPACE to clear clutter.

S ort – touch each item and decide if you love it or need it.

Create categories for items.

Purge – remove clutter and unwanted items.

Assign a home – designate spots for all items.

Containerise – find a home for everything in a neat, functional way.

Equalise – maintain your newly organised space every day by putting things back where they belong.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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wellness

THERE’S SCIENCE TO YOUR STUFF There is a neurological basis for decluttering, too. While having an ordered closet won’t instantaneously change your life, it will make it easier and quicker to find what you’re looking for. When you know where to find things, your cortex – the part of your brain that’s always thinking one step ahead – can relax a bit, leading to decreased cortisol levels.

TAKE BACK CONTROL This feeling of being in control when life can be chaotic is one of the reasons Cape Town digital strategist Jen Morin regularly spring cleans her home. That, and becoming a mom three years ago. “It really catapulted my decluttering into overdrive. I had to make space to welcome a new person into our home,” she says. “I cleaned out cupboards to make room for her clothes, nappies and linen. But as time wore on, I became completely overwhelmed by how our house was becoming overrun with everything baby-related. I needed to get it in order again. Step one was finding storage solutions to pack everything away and step two was ensuring there was space to put things.”

For Lize May Gade, a designer and mother of two teenagers, a recent home renovation kicked off a decluttering journey.

“I decided it would be the perfect time to embrace the freedom that having older children provided and to start living a more minimalist life – not just in my home, but in general,” she shares. She knew she would struggle to let go of sentimental items, so she started with clothing – the least emotionally laden. “It got me off to a productive start. From there, I could move through the rest of the house, leaving photographs until last.”

Clearing out left her feeling lighter: “I felt like I had achieved a major feat by clearing bag after bag. It’s almost like I rediscovered myself – my likes, my style and my passions.

On a practical note, cleaning up and doing laundry have also become a lot easier and don’t leave me as stressed as before.”

6 STEPS TO

Meyer echoes this transformation, as it’s one she regularly sees in her clients. “It’s interesting how many clients already feel motivated to get started after my first visit. They realise if they do a little at a time, the task is not insurmountable.

It’s unbelievable how many express feeling lighter as we clear the clutter and how palpably their mood lifts.”

“Clearing out left me feeling lighter. I felt like I rediscovered myself, and I was less stressed.”

TEACH YOUR KIDS THE VALUE OF

dec lu ttering

Professional organiser Heidi Meyer shares her tips.

Let kids play with one kind of toy at a time.

Finish an action before starting another – pack away the Lego before beginning to paint.

Let your kids experience the value of finding what they need in a dedicated space, instead of always searching for it when they want to play or get dressed.

If your kids have fewer toys and clothes, and these are well organised, it will be easier for them to access them.

Declutter before holidays and birthdays to make space for new toys. It’s a great way to set up a decluttering habit – and to ask your kids what they really need vs. what they want.

Let go of stuff they have outgrown or no longer play with by donating it.

KonMari YOUR HOME

Commit yourself to tidying up.

Imagine your ideal lifestyle.

Finish discarding first. Only once everything you want to get rid of is out of the way can you reorganise what’s left.

Organise by category, not by room. Start with clothing, then books, papers, miscellaneous items (kitchen and bathroom) and finally, sentimental items.

Follow the right order.

Don’t get distracted by other things while busy with one category.

Ask yourself if the item sparks joy.

Literally hold it and ask yourself this question. If the answer is no, you know what to do…

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Photography: Shutterstock

If you don’t need it or love it, it’s time to chuck it – the Marie Kondo way.

CREATING EMOTIONAL SPACE Morin capitalises on this feeling by taking it a step further. She now thinks twice about shopping and seeks out quality and local design to invest in her wardrobe with well thought-out pieces. Twice a year, she hosts a clothing sale with her sister, selling their unwanted wares and donating the money to a women’s shelter.

“Decluttering started out being quite difficult but I’ve become ruthless – if I haven’t used something in the past year, it needs to go. I struggle with sentimental items so I need to be kept in check with things like my daughter’s art – do I really need every squiggle she’s ever drawn? I go through my sentimental boxes regularly to ensure I stay on top of it.”

While perfectly aligned socks won’t denuclearise North Korea and Tupperware with all their lids intact won’t make your boss appreciate you, clawing back control through decluttering is an excellent first step. What have you got to lose? Except, of course, years of mismatched crockery and that wonky needlepoint your sister-in-law so kindly gifted you.

So set aside a weekend, line up your see-through containers, and get cracking. The ultimate solution to chaos, though, is simple: buy less stuff.

WHAT IS

minimalism?

The movement, as espoused in Netflix’s Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things, is about more than simply sorting out your kitchen drawers. Instead of focusing on what you have and how to get more of the same, a minimalist mindset focuses on the meaning behind what you desire. Why do you want a flashier car? What will that fifth pair of black heels really bring to your life?

A WAY OF LIVING

Minimalism is a way of living more consciously and deliberately, and focusing on what’s important: your health, relationships, the planet, living a life with purpose. Minimalists find happiness not by adding things, but by concentrating on what adds value to their lives.

SAYING NO TO CONSUMERISM AND WASTE

Decluttering your space is the first step towards a minimalist life, but minimalism is a philosophy, not a paint-by-numbers shortcut to happiness.

It’s about changing your mindset and paying attention to how you’re contributing to rampant consumerism and waste. Are you too invested in what your possessions say about you?

Are you confused about what makes you happy?

Are you paying attention to the true labour and ecological costs of all you consume? (For every cheap fast-fashion item you buy, remember that someone along the production line got shafted.)

Are you filling the space around you, instead of finding a space that fits your life? Figure this out, and you’ll have more time, more space, more money, more freedom and more peace.

Possessions – however well organised – will never give your life meaning. Only you can do that.

NEED HELP ORGANISING?

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Find a pro organiser or charity to donate to by asking your Personal Assistant. Chat to them in the free Sanlam Reality App (get it on your App Store or Google Play Store), or call 0860 732 548/9.

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wellness

You’ve been told a big fat

For decades we’ve been sold the mantra that eating fat makes you fat. But buried inside most of what we eat is a more sinister ingredient that’s wreaking havoc on our health: sugar.

Jo’burg-based nutrition coach Litsoanelo ‘Dee’ Seturumane is here to help you reframe your thinking.

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W

hat’s the first thing you think of when wanting to lose weight? “I should probably cut out most fats.”

Thing is, there’s another pantry staple that’s sneaking in more calories than you’d imagine: sugar. Other than

the teaspoons of white granules you put into your morning cuppa, do you know what sugar is? Sugar is a sweet-tasting carbohydrate.

When carbohydrates are broken down in our body, they become glucose and trigger the release of insulin.

It’s insulin that can escalate weight gain, not to mention a host of other dangerous health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Now add in the fact that sugar is hyper-palatable; it’s moreish. It’s hard to stop

Diabetes: one of SA’s top killers

Alongside TB, diabetes is one of the top two killers in South Africa, according to a 2016 Stats SA Report. The International Diabetes Federation puts the prevalence of diabetes in adults in SA at 5.4%.

(For comparison, our overall HIV prevalence rate is estimated at 12.6%.)

WHAT CAUSES DIABETES? Type 1 diabetes is caused by the immune system. Type 2 diabetes is predominantly caused by genetics and lifestyle (exercise, smoking, alcohol intake and eating habits, for example).

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Photography: Shutterstock

lie

1 thumb-sized serving of fats

Start small

Moderation and balance are the heroes of healthy eating.

Are you eating the correct portion sizes?

A simple way to roughly gauge this is against the size of your own hand. For each meal, try to stick to:

1 cupped handful of carbohydrates (like maize, rice, pasta or potatoes)

1 fist-sized serving of veggies

1 palm-sized serving of protein

at just one biscuit. That’s also why so many brands pack the food we eat every day with ‘hidden’ sugars – hard to spot, but prompting us to keep on chomping.

Sugar comes in many forms, including fructose – often added to food as corn syrup – to sweeten products. But consume too

food labels: • Dextrose • Glucose • Maltose • Sucrose • Fructose Food items that are marketed as healthy, such as protein bars, granola, fruit juice and dried fruits may contain as

“It can be hard to spot sugar in food or drinks because it has many forms and many names.” much fructose and you trigger your liver to produce lipids that contribute to heart issues. Even rice and pasta – ‘complex carbs’ – will ultimately break down into forms of sugar. Yet typically in many cultures, these food types are central to our servings.

SPOT SNEAKY SUGAR One of the reasons it can be hard to see the sugar in the foods and drinks you buy is because sugar has many forms, and many names.

Here are some of its other names to watch for on www.sanlamreality.co.za

much as 25g sugar per serving, which is the total recommended daily allowance for an adult.

Combine that with other sources of sugar you may consume throughout your

day such as sodas, chocolate or even that pasta for dinner, and you’re more than likely to exceed your healthy daily quota.

SWAP IT FOR THESE Small changes add up to big differences. You can start by swapping your cane (white or brown) sugar for an alternative such as: • Honey – it has antiinflammatory properties; • Coconut sugar – contains anti-oxidants and fibre; • Apple sauce – you can make this yourself by cooking a few apples and blending them.

KNOW YOUR DIABETES STATUS Complete a Basic Medical Test annually at Dis-Chem or Clicks to check things like your blood sugar levels. Plus, you’ll earn up to

10 000

tier points.

Learn more at www.sanlamreality. co.za/earn-points.

Snack smart

Avoid store-bought, pre-baked snacks – it’s hard to control the levels of sugar in these, and it’s likely that they’re packed with far too much sugar, anyway. Instead, chop up your own fruits and nuts to graze on, or bake your own sweet treats using low-sugar recipes.

Avoid the top culprits – store-bought granola is a big no-no. Find healthy recipes online to bake your own granola; bake a tray for the week and know exactly how much sugar you’re putting into your body each morning for breakfast.

Opt for freshly-squeezed juices with no added sugar or preservatives over long-life or nectar-based variants.

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wellness

8

Ways to nurture your child outside of the classroom

From supporting them emotionally to encouraging teamwork, these actions will help kids advance and develop healthily. By Lynette Botha

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REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

SUPPORT THEIR EMOTIONAL WELLBEING “One critical aspect of a child’s wellbeing is knowing that they are loved,” says Sonia Mainstone-Cotton, author of Promoting Young Children’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing. This can be shown through the words you use and the way you hug and hold your child. Ensure you tell them at least once a day how much you love them.

Another aspect of developing wellbeing is by using emotional language. “We need to help children understand their feelings and emotions; by using emotional language and giving them an emotional vocabulary, we are enabling them to understand their feelings and also other people’s.”

The wider the emotional language you use, the broader the language you teach your children to use when expressing their own feelings. For example, instead of “That makes me sad” or “That makes me angry”, be more specific like, “That makes me frustrated” or “That makes me feel left out”.

LET THEM PLAY

the answer themselves. For example, if your daughter asks why you can’t see stars during the day, ask her why she thinks you can’t.

Allow them to process and come up with their own answers, then discuss the correct answer together.

DEVELOP TEAMWORK SKILLS Being able to work well with others is a skill everyone should foster. The earlier children are taught to work in a team, the better. Get a few friends over for a play date to create a bake sale or lemonade stand.

Or get them to put on a show. By working together and sorting out who does what,

“Kids who learn to practise mindfulness are generally happier and more resilient.”

Research on the significance of allowing kids to ‘just play’ keeps mounting. “We need to consider that young children learn in quite different ways [to adults],” says Professor Doris Fromberg, a director of Early Childhood Teacher Education. “They learn by comparing physical experiences, by interactions with other people and their own feelings.

And they learn an enormous amount through their imagination.... Play is what pulls together the logical and creative parts of the brain.

“Researchers and educators across the world have found that play can enrich learning and develop key skills such as inquiry, expression, experimentation, and teamwork.”

Encourage your kids to play and use their imaginations, whether it be making ‘mud pies’ outdoors, stringing together beads or playing ‘shop’.

kids learn to take turns, cooperate, negotiate and use their imagination.

TEACH THEM MINDFULNESS Studies on meditation and yoga for children have shown some incredible results. “Kids who practise yoga, meditation and mindfulness build skills of attention, self-awareness, and self-management, leading to more responsible decision-making

PROMOTE AN ENQUIRING MIND The constant stream of questions and ‘whys’ from your little ones can become annoying, but an enquiring mind is a great thing. In an article for The Guardian, Harvard Professor Paul Harris explains that asking questions is a helpful exercise for a child’s development because it means they realise that “there are things they don’t know... that there are invisible worlds of knowledge they have never visited.”

According to high-school teacher Jeff Charbonneau: “Kids learn more from discovering answers on their own than having you explain things.” So, while you should encourage them to question things, allow them to try and work out WINTER 2019 REALITY

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wellness

Rossman, who found that one of the best predictors of a kid’s future success is whether or not they contributed to household chores as a young child.

Get them to make their beds, walk and feed the pets (with the assistance of an adult if needed), pack away the dishes and other simple tasks. Evolve the complexity and level of responsibility of these tasks as they get older.

LET THEM GET DIRTY

and pro-social behaviour,” says Yoga 4 Classrooms founder Lisa Flynn. “It’s no surprise that studies show that these kids are, in general, happier, more resilient children. They have a solid sense of self and are more connected to and respectful of others and the world around them. The result? Kinder, more compassionate kids.”

Yoga has been shown to help reduce anxiety, depression and fatigue in children. But if you’re not ready to enrol your children in kiddies’ yoga classes just yet, it can be as simple as putting aside half an hour a day for quiet time, where you can sit in a tranquil space with them, close your eyes and focus on breathing. There are many free online resources and tutorials that demonstrate how to practise kiddies’ meditation and yoga at home.

TURN SCREEN TIME INTO LEARNING TIME

Studies by Professor Mel Greaves of the Institute of Cancer Research in London have found that the most common of all childhood cancers, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), which affects one in 2 000 children, could be prevented.

“The research study strongly suggests that ALL has a clear biological cause and is activated by a variety of infections in predisposed kids whose immune systems have not been properly primed,” says Greaves.

Children who are genetically predisposed to ALL and brought up in environments with high levels of cleanliness and a lack of germ exposure in early childhood can be at higher risk of acquiring the illness later on. This offers one explanation as to why ALL is common in affluent, developed countries, but barely heard of in developing ones. Cleanliness should be taught to children from a young age, but getting dirty, playing in the mud and visiting a grubby playpark every now and then should also be encouraged.

It’s hard to escape screens – whether the TV, the computer or the phone. So instead of banning screen time completely, turn this time into something educational. Allow kids to watch TV, but put on something that will enrich their mind, like The Discovery Channel (of course, age appropriate).

Allow them 30 minutes to play on the phone or iPad, but choose games that encourage problem-solving or maths.

Children shouldn’t be spending more than two hours in front of a screen per day, and while this should be supervised, there’s nothing wrong with them watching a full hour of Dora the Explorer now and then either. They are kids, after all.

“Through participating in household tasks, parents are teaching children responsibility, how to contribute to family life, a sense of empathy and how to take care of themselves,” says University of Minnesota researcher Marty

TEACHING KIDS ABOUT MONEY

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REALITY WINTER 2019

There’s a host of useful articles, calculators and tools in Wealth Sense – your free financial content platform. This includes tips on teaching kids about cash, saving and more. Explore at www.sanlamreality.co.za/wealth-sense.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Shutterstock

GIVE THEM CHORES

Of course dancing counts as exercise!

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travel WILL PASSPORTS BE A THING OF THE PAST?

British Airways is busy trialling biometric check-in, while US security firm Clear already offers the technology to its three million members boarding Delta flights, no passport or paper ID required.

With the hopes that iris and fingerprint scanning will improve airport security, reduce queues and put an end to the dreaded question, “Honey, you brought the passports, right?”, it seems passportless airports are on the horizon.

YOUR

As much as 30% discount with Mango

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trave l

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Free Bidvest Premier Lounge access (Reality Health and Plus)

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/travel to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage. www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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travel

Most Instagrammable places in SA We’ve ranked number five out of 192 countries in Big 7’s World’s Most Instagrammable Countries 2019. What does it mean? We’ve got some of the most picture-perfect spots in the world! Start with the top five local places for creating an incredible photo.

BLOUBERGSTRAND, CAPE TOWN The seaside suburb offers sweeping ocean views backed by majestic Table Mountain.

SABI SANDS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, MPUMALANGA Bordering Kruger National Park, the game reserve mixes bush sunsets, a host of luxury accommodation options and rich game spotting to nab the second spot.

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REALITY WINTER 2019

JACARANDA TREES, PRETORIA Visit the Jacaranda City during the months of October and November when Pretoria is transformed into a purple wonderland. What’s not to love?

NELSON MANDELA CAPTURE SITE, KWAZULU-NATAL The site includes a sculpture situated where Nelson Mandela was apprehended in August 1952. The installation creates captivating shadows during golden hour.

ORLANDO TOWERS, SOWETO Originally the site of a coal-fired power station and now an iconic landmark in Soweto, the Orlando Towers are also the site of the world’s first bungee jump between two cooling towers.

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3

Insider travel hacks

From the experts who make travel their business.

THESE 1 AVOID BUSIEST TIMES

Your guide to

flying with pets

Bringing your furry friend along for the ride? Make sure you know the rules, regulations and requirements first. Start with these pointers.

DO YOUR RESEARCH “Do your research in advance to be aware of the destination’s requirements,” says Nadine Synman, manager at pet travel company Global Paws.

ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME Different airlines and airports have their own regulations and requirements.

“Generally, pets have to be checked in a minimum of five hours (for international) and two hours (for local) prior to a flight.

In a case where an onward flight is required, the layover period is also five hours,” adds Synman.

Research: Samantha Luiz; Photography: Shutterstock

CHECK DESTINATION REQUIREMENTS “Make sure that your pet is not on a banned breed list for your destination,” explains Synman.

TRAIN YOUR PET “Most airlines will not allow live animals in the cabin of the aircraft,” explains

GET UP TO 30% OFF FLIGHTS

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Synman. “Pets must travel in an approved travel crate.” In order for pets to feel comfortable in a travel crate, they should be crate trained beforehand.

UPDATE MEDICAL RECORDS Along with normal annual vaccinations, most international destinations will require that: • Pets be microchipped.

• Pets have a rabies vaccination (given after the microchip was implanted), and it may not be older than 12 months.

• Pets have a health certificate for the specific destination, completed by a veterinarian within the specified time for your destination.

• The completed health certificate must be endorsed by a South African Government veterinarian employed by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

For more, visit www.globalpaws.co.za/ country-requirements.

“Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3pm are generally our busiest times,” says Lauren Woods from Bidvest Premier Lounge. Enjoy your free access to Bidvest Premier Lounges (Reality Health and Plus members) and skip the crowds by avoiding these times.

THE 2 SKIP QUEUES

“Check in online so that when you get to the airport, you join the ‘bag drop’ queue that tends to be shorter and quicker,” shares Maria Watkins, general manager at Tourvest Travel Services.

MORE 3 GET LEGROOM

“Checking in online as early as possible also allows you the opportunity to secure the emergency exit seats, which give you extra legroom,” says Watkins.

Book with Mango and, as a Sanlam Reality member, enjoy up to 30% off.

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/mango-flights to learn more.

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travel

, e t i t e p Have ap will travel!

If you fancy yourself a bit of a foodie, put these six off-the-beaten-track destinations on your ‘must-visit’ list ASAP. By Lynette Botha

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REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

WHERE?

WHERE?

PATERNOSTER, SOUTH AFRICA

BANGKOK, THAILAND

Wolfgat

Chef Kobus’ motto is ‘By keeping it small, we keep it sustainable’, which is why Wolfgat only serves 20 guests per sitting.

USE YOUR BENEFITS

FOR? The Strandveld menu.

WHY? Recently voted ‘Restaurant of the Year’ at the inaugural World Restaurant Awards in Paris, this humble little restaurant up the West Coast is an absolute delight.

Offering a seasonal tasting menu that incorporates a selection of indigenous ingredients specific to its coastal location, chef Kobus van der Merwe forages for the wild herbs and seaweeds from the surrounds himself.

Food is fresh and attention to detail is everything, with each dish intricately put together and perfectly balanced. With only 20 diners per sitting and its new accolade, you may need to get on the waiting list for this one…

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… The sunny seaside town of Paternoster is famed for its white beach houses, laidback living and incredible seafood. This is a place you come for an off-the-radar weekend, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

NEED TO KNOW A leisurely drive from Cape Town will get you to this location in just over two hours. Bring books, sun cream and a carefree attitude.

The West Coast wind can be unrelenting, so when booking a place to stay look for one with a sheltered patio or deck. www.wolfgat.co.za

Gaggan

FOR? Progressive Indian-fusion cuisine.

WHY? You may not think to visit Thailand for Indian food, but Gaggan is the best restaurant in Asia and the 5th best in the world (as awarded

by The World’s 50 Best). Acclaimed chef Gaggan Anand serves up a bite-size 25-course menu that is eaten by hand and simply delicious. Over the years the menu has moved away from only Indian to include influences from around the world, including Mexico and Japan.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… As the bustling capital city of Thailand, Bangkok is a tonic for the senses.

The energetic street culture is invigorating, the nightlife is exciting and the many temples and shrines are spiritually grounding.

NEED TO KNOW Gaggan Anand plans to close his celebrated restaurant in 2020, so secure your reservation soon. The best time to visit Thailand is between November and February. That said, between April and October (though out of season), you’ll find better rates on flights and accommodation, as well as less crowds. South African passport holders do not need a visa to visit for up to 30 days. www.eatatgaggan.com

Each of the 25 bite-sized dishes at Gaggan come as a surprise to guests, and are enjoyed over two to three hours.

Dishes include ‘magic’ mushrooms, Indian sushi and sea urchin ice cream.

Enjoy up to 30% off your Mango flights, plus get Tempest Car Hire from just R230/day – everything you need to make a trip to Wolfgat as affordable as possible! Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/travel for more.

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travel

WHERE?

Osteria Francescana MODENA, ITALY

WHERE?

JAN

NICE, FRANCE FOR? A celebration of South African flavours and fine dining in the south of France.

WHY? The brainchild of Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, JAN is a 24-seater finedining restaurant in the boho Nice Port area. Jan is the first South African chef to obtain a Michelin star and all the dishes he serves are inspired by his home country and honour his heritage growing up on a farm. Dining at JAN is an experience – his impeccable taste and style permeate every tiny detail.

The menu is seasonal, so ever-changing, but not

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REALITY WINTER 2019

to worry: you won’t be disappointed.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… Enjoy the pebbled beaches and azure waters of the French Riviera. Soak up the sun and then explore the city, which is well known for its many artists, like Henri Matisse (visit Musée Matisse whether you’re a fan or not!).

NEED TO KNOW South Africans need a Schengen visa to visit France. Nice is at its most wonderful in September and October, but if you prefer the quiet season, mid-March to April is your best bet. www.restaurantjan.com

in all the cathedrals and bell towers – and if you’re a super-car fanatic, add the Enzo Ferrari museum to your list.

NEED TO KNOW In order to get a booking at Osteria Francescana you need to be ready and waiting on the first day of every month, when reservations become available online in what can only be described as a lottery of sorts. Reservations are for three months in advance (if you’re booking in May, your reservation will be for the month of August). July is the hottest month in Modena, and March the busiest, with the best time to visit said to be winter. South Africans need a Schengen visa to enter Italy. www.osteriafrancescana.it

Photography: Shutterstock, supplied.

Prices and info correct at time of print.

If you can’t make it to JAN just yet, you can still get a taste of Jan Hendrik’s culinary and creative genius in his bi-annual magazine, JAN the JOURNAL, which is full of inspiring recipes. Available at selected outlets.

FOR? The 10-course tasting menu, which includes ‘The crunchy part of the lasagna’ and crispy suckling pig.

WHY? One of the most famous restaurants in Italy, with renowned Italian chef Massimo Bottura at the helm, Osteria Francescana serves up some of the tastiest and most authentic local cuisine. While you can order off the à la carte menu (if you manage to get a booking), you may as well settle in for the full 10 courses, which will blow you away. Everything at the eatery is considered, from the tablecloths to the art and, with a 3-star Michelin rating, you know you’re in for a treat.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… Known for its balsamic vinegar and medieval history, the quaint city of Modena is a dream for those who appreciate culture and architecture.

Walk the streets and take

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The extensive tasting menu explores the region’s unique ingredients and celebrates its traditions using multiple culinary techniques.

WHERE?

Yes Yes Yes HELSINKI, FINLAND WHERE?

Astrid y Gastón LIMA, PERU FOR? Modern Peruvian cuisine.

WHY? Chef-owner Gastón Acurio has consistently won awards since the restaurant opened 25 years ago, including winning the Diners Club Lifetime Achievement Award last year. The restaurant is currently ranked 39 in the World’s 50 Best.

Serving truly modern Peruvian food, guests can expect dishes as diverse as Peking-style guinea pig bao, whole-heart sweetbreads with creamy rice, corn and peas, and pasta with sea urchin and rocoto.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… Discover the history of Peru’s ancient civilisations in this lively South American city. Visit the ruins of the pre-Incan pyramids, surf and swim in the cool-blue South Pacific waters and explore its many museums and monuments.

NEED TO KNOW South Africans do not need a visa to visit Peru for up to 90 days, just a valid passport. Winters (May to September) in Peru are dry, but to enjoy the warmer weather and long summer nights, December to March is idyllic.

Be warned though: summer coincides with the rainy season and there are often spontaneous downpours that can last a few hours. en.astridygaston.com

USE YOUR BENEFIT

www.sanlamreality.co.za

“The quirky-cool restaurant (with even quirkier and cooler staff) is the place of veggie dreams.”

FOR? Heavenly vegan and vegetarian tapas.

WHY? What was previously the location of a McDonald’s is now a vegetarian diner that’s almost always fully booked. Serving small plates that are perfect for sharing, the quirky-cool restaurant (with even quirkier and cooler staff) is the place of veggie dreams.

Portions are large and ingredients are fresh, with must-tries including blood orange, fennel flower and champagne risotto, halloumi fries with pomegranate and coriander, and Jerusalem artichokes with cashew hollandaise. Most meals on the menu can be veganised for the strict herbivores.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE… Finland was voted as the happiest country in the world by the UN earlier this year, and Helsinki is its eclectic capital. The Design District, located in the heart of Helsinki, is the perfect area to base yourself, with museums, galleries, restaurants, parks and nightlife all within walking distance.

NEED TO KNOW As one of the safest cities in the world, it’s a pleasure to explore, which is best done in the European summer.

South Africans need to apply for a visa or can enter using a multi-entry Schengen visa that is valid for at least 90 days. Helsinki is not a cheap city, so be prepared. www.yesyesyes.fi

Reality Plus and Reality Health members enjoy up to 25% off Emirates flights! Find out more at www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/emirates.

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travel

Join the crowd!

For Edwain Steenkamp, travelling alone is a liberating experience. He’s here to help make it enjoyable for you, too – starting with these top spots to travel to alone.

by 40% 61% Solo travelling has increased

from 2015 to 2017

Of solo travellers

cite relaxation as the reason to travel alone

WOMEN

account for more solo travelling than men

58% Of Millennials are willing to travel on

their own

THE DESTINATION: PORTO, PORTUGAL

FOR: A FRIENDLY VIBE IN A HISTORICAL SPOT There are many reasons to visit Porto, a coastal city in northwest Portugal – from architecture that spans centuries to bustling ports and golden beaches. But travel in the cooler months (September to April), and it’ll be the food that tops the list. After a day wandering through the city, stop at Café Majestic for a cup of Europe’s finest brew. The defining culinary experience, however, is the sardines. Look out for Taberna d’Avo, known for seafood delicacies.

SOLO TRAVELLER TIP Stay in the city, allowing you to walk around and explore quite safely.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP Porto has become a popular destination over the last few years

but has remained affordable for visiting South Africans, who will need to apply for a Schengen visa. Flights are reasonable, with a return trip with Emirates starting from around R9 700. Hotels are competitively priced too, and there are an abundance of beautiful homes available to rent on Airbnb.

MUST-KNOW While the city is safe and inviting in its bustling entirety, the language barrier can prove to be challenging. Have a map on hand (download Google Maps for the area to use it offline) so you don’t get lost.

THE DESTINATION: SINGAPORE, SOUTHEAST ASIA Singapore, the city-state off the coast of southern Malaysia, needs to be visited again and again: its size makes it impossible to see and experience everything on one trip. While the city has a lot to offer – modern architecture, world-class restaurants, casinos – it’s the shopping that’s renowned.

Marina Bay in particular draws the masses for what is considered one of the best shopping destinations in the world. This also makes July one of the best months to visit, when many high-end stores have

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REALITY WINTER 2019

incredible sales. Take only empty suitcases!

SOLO TRAVELLER TIP You can get fined for chucking away gum on the ground, making Singapore a popular destination with solo female travellers who cite safety as a top reason to pick this destination.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP A return flight with Emirates will cost from R9 000; South Africans are given a visa on arrival.

At around R2 000/night for a four-star hotel, it’s possible to stay in style, too.

MUST-KNOW Tipping isn’t customary in Singapore – instead, you’ll typically find a 10% service charge already added to your bill.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Prices approximate and correct at time of print.

Photography: Supplied

FOR: A FAMOUSLY SAFE CITY ESCAPE… WITH RETAIL THERAPY GUARANTEED

Best apps

for solo travellers THE DESTINATION: BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

FOR: VIBRANT CULTURE, DAY AND NIGHT Dubbed ‘the Paris of South America’, Buenos Aires is undeniably beautiful: endless columns, striking façades and sweeping domes dominate the city’s spectacular architecture. Get lost in grand libraries, cathedrals and of course, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which houses Argentina’s largest collection of art.

Delve a little deeper, though, and you’ll also experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and warm hospitality, from charming cafés to bars all bursting with live music and – yes – the tango.

SOLO TRAVELLER TIP Join one of the many social nights or group tours to mingle with others also exploring the city.

Try The Argentine Experience (www.theargentineexperience.com) or Mundo Lingo (mundolingo.org), whose express purpose is to connect you with others who speak your language in the city.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP While the city is charming in almost every season, there’s something special about Buenos Aires in November, when the Jacaranda trees bloom in glorious purple all over the city.

South Africans do not need a visa to visit Argentina, and flight tickets start at around R16 800 with Emirates. There are hotels scattered around the city, with four-star options starting from as little as R900/night.

MUST-KNOW Argentinians start late and end late – work often only begins at 10am, while a normal dinner time is around 9pm.

THE DESTINATION: MAHÉ, SEYCHELLES

Google Maps: Most of us already have it on our phones, but a little-known fact is that you can download detailed maps, allowing you to navigate areas even when you're out of Wi-Fi zones.

Safety often starts with having a better idea of where you are.

RedZone Map: This app is essential for when you’re walking alone. It maps out the safest routes to walk based on crime stats and social media info.

TripWhistle: Search for emergency helplines wherever you’re visiting.

EatWith: Get in touch with locals in over 100 cities across the world to experience local hospitality.

SoloTraveller: Connect with other, like-minded adventurers as you travel.

Search by destination, interests, age and gender.

FOR: UNADULTERATED ALONE TIME

This small island in the Seychelles archipelago is the definition of paradise on earth: long stretches of beach, clear aquamarine waters, and coconut trees dotted along the coast. Mahé is known for luxuriating in silence and nature.

The hotter months stretch from November to March, after which the rainy season takes hold. Beau Vallon beach is frequented by locals and visitors alike for its unparalleled beauty. Many of the buses stop close to or at the beach, and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants all around.

SOLO TRAVELLER TIP Find homestay accommodation with locals using the Seychelles Tourist Board (www.seychelles. travel/en) to score affordable places to stay.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP South Africans receive a visa upon arrival. Book tickets far in advance to avoid the most expensive

USE YOUR BENEFIT

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Things to remember Share your itinerary with friends and family, and check in regularly.

1

options, with flights typically costing from R15 000 during summer. Accommodation, too, requires forward planning to get the best deals – a three-star hotel will easily set you back around R3 000/night.

MUST-KNOW Risk some rain – but get more affordable prices – by travelling during low season (October to April).

The temperature is unlikely to drop below 24°C during the day.

2

Learn key phrases in local languages.

3

Memorise different public transport routes.

4

Pre-plan walking routes to see more of an area.

5

Keep some small cash on you, just in case.

Make reservations in advance. Queuing is never fun, but queuing alone is even less so.

6

Reality Plus and Reality Health members enjoy up to 25% off Emirates flights. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/emirates to find out more.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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travel

THESE

HOLIDAYS HEALTH ARE GOOD FOR YOUR

In 2017, world travellers made over 830-million trips in the name of ‘wellness’, accounting for 17% of all tourism revenue globally. Last year, these numbers only rose – and by 2022, wellness tourism is expected to be worth $919-billion, according to the Global Wellness Institute.

Here’s why this matters to you and your next holiday plans.

I

t’s no surprise, these stats, since wellness travel is defined as ‘trips that improve or maintain your wellbeing’ – and who doesn’t want that? The good news is that there are plenty of world-renowned wellness spots on your doorstep.

Keneiloe Nasilele Nkomo explores local spots that’ll turn your next holiday into a holistic health experience.

HOOGLAND HEALTH HYDRO LOCATION: ERASMIA, GAUTENG

Less than an hour’s drive from Pretoria or Jo’burg, and located in the stunning Schurveberg Hills, Hoogland Health Hydro takes a holistic approach to wellness.

With a qualified health and medical team on-site, it offers everything from beauty treatments and massages to supervised water fasting programmes, stress management packages, pamper packages and holistic detox packages.

NEED TO KNOW Avoid using a GPS to get there – there is a section of road missing on most GPS databases, so rather visit the website for detailed directions. A daily shuttle to and from the Centurion Gautrain station is available at no extra cost, provided arrangements are made prior to arrival.

RATES From R3 800/person for a two-night stay.

CONTACT 084 830 4000; info@hoogland.co.za; hoogland.co.za

LEFT: Off the beaten track and cocooned by nature, the location of Hoogland Health Hydro allows you to check out of everyday life and stressors.

KARKLOOF SAFARI SPA LOCATION: PIETERMARITZBURG, KWAZULU-NATAL It’s hard to beat the bush when it comes to a digital detox, making Karkloof Safari Spa a great option for a wellness weekend. Even better, Karkloof offers an impressive array of spa facilities including 17 treatment rooms, a wood-sprung yoga studio and hydrotherapy options like an indoor Roman bath and hot and cold Kneipp pools (great therapy for cardiovascular diseases). Our favourite part? You look out over trees and lush greenery wherever you are, giving you a real sense of serenity. Add an evening game drive or a morning bush walk and your experience is complete.

NEED TO KNOW Day packages are available if you’d prefer not to stay over, starting from R1 100/person.

RATES Enjoy a luxury boutique villa from R3 300/night for one person. Add in a spa package from R1 050.

CONTACT 033 569 1324; karkloofsafarivillas.com

www.sanlamreality.co.za

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travel

PEACE OF EDEN VEGAN ECO RETREAT LOCATION: KNYSNA, WESTERN CAPE Located in the heart of the Garden Route, Peace of Eden promotes the simple life, with a focus on nature. Bring your tent, stay in one of the pre-pitched Forest Tents, or book a cottage. You can opt to join one of their organised retreat events, or get involved in the guided forest walks, vegetarian cooking classes, art therapy, movement medicine, healing stress release, yoga and meditation sessions happening during your stay. Most of the accommodation offerings have self-catering facilities, but the on-site Forest Café serves up delicious vegan fare, too.

NEED TO KNOW Catering is 100% vegan/ vegetarian, and Peace of Eden asks that any self-caterers adhere to this policy, too.

RATES Per night, from R225/person camping; from R795/Forest Tent; and from R895/cottage.

CONTACT 044 388 4671; info@peaceofeden.co.za; www.peaceofeden.co.za

RIGHT: Vegan or not, this beautifully located retreat will rejuvenate mind, body and soul. The simple yet comfortable cabins have all you need for a self-catering stay.

PRANA LODGE LOCATION: EAST LONDON, EASTERN CAPE Perfect for a solo getaway or a romantic break, Prana Lodge is set in an indigenous forest, a stone’s throw from Chintsa Bay and its pristine beach. It’s hard to imagine feeling so isolated after a short 50-minute drive from East London Airport.

Dedicated to restoring balance, Prana has a range of soul-centred offerings, from yoga and meditation to canoeing, snorkelling, fishing and horse riding. There’s also an on-site spa with specialised treatments for couples, moms-to-be, golfers and even arthritis, scoliosis and back-pain sufferers.

NEED TO KNOW Bring your binoculars – the bird life is impressive.

RATES From R1 860/person per night sharing, including breakfast.

CONTACT 043 704 5100; info@pranalodge.co.za; www.pranalodge.co.za

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REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Supplied. Prices correct at time of print.

MELODY HILL RETREAT LOCATION: MAGALIESBURG, GAUTENG Unplug and enjoy a peaceful escape in the quiet mountains of this little region. Melody Hill Retreat has a main villa and a cottage that can be booked separately or together, making this a great place for family or group weekends away. Expect yoga and meditation classes as well as Hawaiian Kahuna massages, which will leave you feeling totally rejuvenated. This beautiful, rustic venue also has a labyrinth, a river, an orchard, an organic garden and a swimming pool. If you’re travelling from Jo’burg or Pretoria, the trip through the picturesque Cradle of Humankind already makes this spot worth booking, stat!

NEED TO KNOW Say goodbye to network reception, although a prepaid dongle is available.

RATES From R920/person per night for full board in the main villa.

CONTACT 082 806 7822; bookings@melodyhillretreat. co.za; www.melodyhillretreat.co.za ABOVE RIGHT: Melody Hill is a two-hectare estate set in a secluded and peaceful pecan-nut orchard.

The property is situated in a valley that’s teeming with birds and indigenous plant life.

RIGHT: Kamala offers an abundance of outdoor space, where you can exhale, recharge and renew easily.

KAMALA RETREAT HOUSE LOCATION: LITTLE KAROO, WESTERN CAPE Centred around yoga workshops, retreats and labyrinth installations and ceremonies, Kamala Retreat House is run by transformational facilitator Terry de Vries. She hosts a variety of retreats and workshops, but most popular are her Be Here Now retreats. Offered regularly, typically over weekends, the retreats include daily yoga classes, a guided nature walk, a facilitated labyrinth walk and vegetarian brunches and dinners. Longer retreats, Mandala art, sound healing, pranayama and water ceremonies are among other practices and experiences available.

NEED TO KNOW It’s best to book a weekend retreat (we love the Be Here Now retreats – great for newbies!). Alternatively, de Vries welcomes private bookings and is happy to create a tailormade retreat with you.

RATES From R3 500/weekend including accommodation, brunch and dinner.

CONTACT 082 442 5623; terrydevries22@gmail. com; www.kamalaretreathouse.com www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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Earn a cash-back reward of up to 20% with a Sanlam Personal Loan!

With a Sanlam Personal Loan, Sanlam Reality members qualify for the following: • A cash-back reward of up to R20 000 on your loan repayments when you pay off your loan consecutively over 12 months.

• The knowledge that Sanlam Personal Loans is a responsible lender and will never lend you more than you can comfortably afford to pay.

• A fixed rate on your loan, so you can plan for the repayments.

• Tailor-made repayment terms (from 24 months to six years) to suit your budget.

To apply for a Sanlam Personal Loan, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/sanlam-personal-loans and follow the prompts or call Sanlam Personal Loans on 0861 40 20 10. T&Cs apply.

Sanlam Personal Loans is a registered credit provider (NCRCP 272).

A personal loan is a sensible way to finance assets that appreciate in value, such as improvements to your home or investing in your kids’ education.

wealth 1/500 000 asteroid impact

1/83 930

lightning strike

How will you die?

We’ve all heard the idiom, ‘Two things in life are certain: death and taxes’.

Yet while most of us can’t skip eFiling, many of us are avoiding planning for the inevitable. According to a 2016 ASISA (Association for Savings & Investment SA) study, South Africans are sitting with an approx. R13-trillion death insurance gap (the difference between insurance need and actual insurance cover). We can’t predict how, or when, we’ll pass on, but putting a plan in place for when it happens is well within our control.

(Turn over to assess your risks.)

YOUR

Up to 30% off Sanlam Premier risk products

Up to 100% off asset management charges on Sanlam Investment funds

1/36

slipping on a banana peel

(well, accidental injury… you know what we mean)

wealth BENEFITS

Up to 20% cashback reward with Sanlam Personal Loans

Sanlam Gap Cover: double the cover from day one

Draft and store a Sanlam Online Will

Easy tax returns with your TaxTim package

Be financially fit with Wealth Sense

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/wealth to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage. www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

41

wealth

KEEP THINGS

covered

There’s no fits-all approach to cover, says Sanlam Personal Finance product actuary Petrie Marx, but you can apply a ‘framework’ depending on your life stage. Start with this quiz and then seek out personalised advice. “Do a needs-based analysis with a financial planner or through a ‘robo-advice’ tool like Sanlam Now (www.sanlamnow.co.za) to determine your cover requirements.”

What’s your current life stage?

Consider

the risk of your family ‘inheriting’ your student loan debt.

SOLUTION: death cover.

Consider

the risk of a serious injury.

SOLUTION: accident cover.

YOUNG, SINGLE, JUST STARTED WORKING Consider

the risk of losing your ability to earn an income.

You have 45+ earning years ahead of you, so what happens if you suddenly become disabled?

SOLUTION: income protection and disability cover.

Consider

additional life insurance, as it’s at its most affordable now as you’re young and healthy.

SOLUTION: life insurance.

SAVE ON YOUR COVER

42

REALITY WINTER 2019

SETTLING DOWN Consider

protecting yourself and your partner (if you have one) from co-signed debt or shortterm debt like credit cards or personal loans.

SOLUTION: life insurance and additional death cover.

Consider

the risk of losing your ability to earn an income. You have 45+ earning years ahead of you – what happens if you become disabled?

SOLUTION: income protection and disability cover.

HAVE A YOUNG FAMILY

PROFESSIONAL YEARS

RETIRED

Consider

Consider

– although difficult – that the cost of winding up an estate can be substantial.

If you have a partner, they may lose part of your pension.

SOLUTION: death cover, funeral cover.

the risk of losing an income should your partner pass away or become sick, if you are dependent on two incomes.

SOLUTION: death cover, income protection, disability cover.

Consider

your children’s future finances, and any debt you may owe, in the event of your death.

SOLUTION: death cover.

health risks, like cancer.

SOLUTION: severe illness cover.

Consider

loved ones having to settle costs if you die.

SOLUTION: death cover.

Consider

your insurance needs may change as your children become independent.

SOLUTION: check your life insurance with a financial planner.

Consider

Consider

the possibility of getting diagnosed with dementia, which could require long-term care.

SOLUTION: severe illness cover.

Enjoy up to 30% off risk products including life insurance, disability cover, income protection and more as a Sanlam Reality member. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/sanlam-life-cover to learn more.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Text: Amanda Visser; Opening page sources: National Center for Health Statistics, National Safety Council, World Health Organization. Photography: Shutterstock

STUDENT

Entrepreneurs

Employees who’s saving be tter?

URS NE E PR

EMP LO Y

save

save

8%

13%

of annual income for retirement

S EE

ENT RE

Recent Sanlam Reality and TaxTim research on individual savings for retirement between 2016 and 2018 offers an interesting glimpse into the savings habits of entrepreneurs and salaried employees.

of annual income for retirement

R50 000/YEAR

R50 000/YEAR

provision for medical expenses

provision for medical expenses

Lower retirement provision does not mean entrepreneurs are less well off. The same research found that they make similar provision for medical expenses.

SAVING TIPS

Understand the numbers – use the Sanlam Reality Retirement Calculator on our website to assess what you need to save to retire. This will take into account what savings you already have and the age you wish to retire at.

Using the calculator also earns you tier points.

Get professional advice – be aware of the fees and the cost of products recommended by your financial planner.

Diversify your plan and use tax incentives such as deductions for contributions to retirement funds, tax-free savings accounts and tax-free interest income.

Keep it simple – the key is to only have a few investments with low cost structures, but with good growth prospects.

GET FREE TAX ADVICE

www.sanlamreality.co.za

IF YOU’RE AN ENTREPRENEUR – REMEMBER THESE THINGS, TOO SAYS MARC SEVITZ, TAXTIM’S DIRECTOR AND CFO: Contribute to a Retirement Annuity and get a tax deduction of up to 27.5% of your taxable income (to a maximum of R350 000 per year).

Know what’s going on in your company’s tax affairs to avoid unnecessary penalties and interest.

Maintain accurate records of your business income and expenses and keep all supporting invoices and receipts.

Set realistic expense budgets and compare them to actual expenditure on a regular basis.

Be prudent with your business’s expenses – use free software if possible; always shop around for the best price.

You enjoy free access to TaxTim, worth R599, an expert, online tool for filing your tax returns. Register today and enjoy downloadable expense trackers and more. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/taxtim.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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wealth

s u o e g a r u o cconversations How to have at work

Speaking up and speaking out is not always easy to do, especially in the workplace. But growth happens outside of your comfort zone, says Rachel Nyaradzo Adams.

I

spent the morning with an executive team some weeks ago, grappling with the idea of courageous conversations. They understood and liked the concept but were really struggling with outcomes. “What happens if the conversation doesn’t go well?” they asked. “Then you storm,” I said.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt from the field of biomimicry is just how normal conflict and difficult conversations are. Nature creates beautiful things out of conflict: pearls, mountains, canyons. Beautiful outcomes can come out of courageous conversations if they are managed well. Storming is an inevitable part of building resilient teams and companies. And so courageous conversations, as a critical component of storming, matter.

Courageous conversations are hard

CRITICAL THINGS TO REMEMBER

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REALITY WINTER 2019

We call them courageous conversations because they are not easy. They will never be easy. I don’t know anyone who goes skipping gleefully into a courageous conversation. Your palms will sweat; your heart will beat faster.

This is normal and should signal that you are really putting skin in the game. Breathe. Speak

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: RACHEL NYARADZO ADAMS is an expert in leadership development, and counts the University of Cape Town and the University of Oxford as her alma maters. She’s been the recipient of both the Desmond Tutu Fellowship and Mandela Rhodes Scholarship. She is the founder of Narachi Leadership, a company that focuses on coaching high-impact leaders on the continent.

slowly and clearly. Use precise language.

Stay true to the intention and message.

You can’t guarantee the outcome Courageous conversations don’t always produce the exact outcomes you desire, at the exact time that you desire them. What they do, however, is make sure that other www.sanlamreality.co.za

COMMON SCENARIOS AND HOW TO APPROACH THEM COURAGEOUSLY Clarity is key and there is no shame in practising a courageous conversation with a trusted colleague or friend before having the actual conversation. This helps you to sift through limiting emotions like resentment or nervousness. It also helps you to sharpen your language.

HOW TO ASK FOR A RAISE OR A PROMOTION Come with proof Carla Harris, author of Expect to Win: 10 Proven Strategies for Thriving in the Workplace, says that when it comes to a promotion there are two kinds of currency: relationship currency and performance currency. A conversation around a raise or a promotion must start first with proof that your performance deserves a promotion or a raise. There is nothing worse than an entitled and undeserving person asking for a raise or for a role they have no capacity to perform. When that is clear, you have earned the audacity to ask for what you deserve.

Have a game plan You want to be able to state the three or four key deliverables you have excelled at over the last few quarters, how this has added value to the company and how you believe you deserve to be compensated. It helps to refer to current market rates, which shows that you’ve done your homework.

Harness the power of body language people are clear about your values, needs and intentions. It’s then up to the listener to decide what part of your courageous conversation they can honour. It may be all, a part, or none. Don’t be attached to a specific outcome. What is critical is that you no longer sit with the burden of unsaid truths, concerns or preferences. This will clear your mind and maybe clear you out of an environment that doesn’t see your value.

Consider your audience Always keep the listener’s personality type in mind. Are they the type of person who needs facts or are they the type who’s inspired by the subjective story? Learn your audience. This means that relationships matter. In normal circumstances you’re not having a courageous conversation with someone you don’t have some depth of relationship with. Those networking events and office retreats matter, to set you up for the courageous conversations you will need to have in the future.

Another thing: mirror the body language of the person you are talking to. Daniel Pink, in his book To Sell is Human, talks about how mirroring increases the probability of a positive outcome in your negotiation by about 30%.

HOW TO ASK FOR A SABBATICAL Understand the rules First, look at company or country policy. This helps you to formulate an intelligent and credible argument that is conversant with the general practice of the company or geography. You will be surprised how many people miss this step.

Research by Alexander Forbes highlights that sabbaticals in South Africa should be generally thought of as a privilege and not a right.

Demonstrate how it’ll add value Emphasise the Return on Investment (ROI) for the company for your paid time away. Use a mix of WINTER 2019 REALITY

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wealth

Have a ‘project plan’ You also want to make sure you have a clear timeline of what you would like to achieve during the sabbatical. Will you study, do cultural travel, write a book or recover from burnout? Whatever you plan on doing, the organisation must be able to see how this will ultimately benefit them.

“Courageous conversations give us a chance for continued growth in our personal and collective experience.

We must embrace them as a normal and critical part of self-leadership and relationship building.”

HOW TO GIVE YOUR BOSS CRITICAL FEEDBACK Reframe how you see feedback Managing upwards can be a stressful thing.

Not only because our culture is quite hierarchical (senior people can be scary), but also because biologically our minds respond negatively to feedback we don’t like. In research done by West and Thorson, “participants’ heart rates jumped as much as 50% during feedback conversations”.

Most of us, junior or senior, attach negative connotations to feedback.

When I was in middle management some years ago, I had to give feedback to a very senior person in my organisation. My breakthrough was in changing my mindset not about the what, but about the why.

I was going to remain miserable if I didn’t gather the courage to have the conversation. I could not remain in victim mode and continue to thrive in the organisation.

See your senior as a growing, learning person I also had to start to truly believe that senior people are still growing, and their growth can only come from honest feedback. I started to

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see it as a moral duty to give this feedback.

Consider it necessary for your future growth.

Leadership isn’t about the seat that you are in, but the attitude that you espouse. Learning to give feedback to people who are more experienced than you are is a sign of your own ability to lead. So, start practising now.

HOW TO ASK A COLLEAGUE TO PULL THEIR WEIGHT Found your conversation in fact Start with the observations. This means outlining the facts and not your judgements.

Avoid accusations like “You always deliver late”.

Sweeping statements set you up for debates that go something like, “How can you say I am always late when I handed in two projects on time last week?” Rather focus on stating your case in a way that cannot be disputed: “We agreed on a certain timeline and three times now you have not delivered.”

Define your expectations Use a mix of directness and empathy. You want to understand what may be getting in the way of them pulling their weight while also being clear on what you would like them to do about it. Most courageous conversations fail because we do not state clearly what we would like to happen. For example, is your condition of satisfaction that the colleague always delivers on time or that they let you know in advance when they cannot? Be clear on what you are trying to get out of the conversation.

HOW TO QUESTION IF AN ASK IS IN YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION WITHOUT APPEARING TO SHIRK YOUR RESPONSIBILITY Go from good to inspired Good employees do what they are told. Inspired employees assess why they are being told to do certain things and the impact it has not only on them, but on the overall ecosystem. This is initiative! The reason why this conversation is critical is that doing things that are not in your job description is likely causing conflict somewhere in your team or in your organisation. Be sure you are clear on the disconnects this ask may cause. This shows that your concern is not because you are too lazy to take on extra tasks, but because you care for the health of your team. www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Supplied, Shutterstock

the personal and collective. You will come back refreshed, energised and hopefully even with new skills if you go on a study sabbatical. The team could benefit from your absence as other team members get a chance to rotate into your role and test out their skills.

competition

win!

Your share of 100 Uber vouchers worth

R10 000

to celebrate your new, extended Uber benefit

Entering is easy!

Here’s how

Ensure you have the Uber app, and that you’ve registered with the same cell phone number that Sanlam Reality has on record for you.

Download the free Sanlam Reality App from the Apple iStore or Google Play Store and log in.

Go to ‘Benefits’ in the App, and activate your new Uber benefit (once-off).

You’re now entered into our competition. Good luck!

So, how have we improved your Uber benefit?

You get up to 30% off Uber trips – but we’ve made your savings even bigger!

You already enjoy savings on airport transfer trips.

We’ve extended your discount to include after-hours trips (between 10pm and 4am).

You now use the free Sanlam Reality App to activate your Uber discount.

Once activated in our App (once-off), your Sanlam Reality discounts are automatically applied when you order an Uber directly in the Uber app. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/uber for more.

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

Comp closes 31 October 2019. T&Cs apply; visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/terms-and-conditions for full T&Cs. Prize values based on Uber vouchers worth R100 each.

wealth

good times roll Let the

(even when the cash isn’t)

Fuel price increases, VAT hikes… it seems everyone everywhere is feeling the pinch. But here’s the good news: a frugal lifestyle doesn’t mean parting with all of life’s pleasures. Take these five steps to cutting back without killing all of your fun. By Tracy Lynn Chemaly

C

utting back on spending can be daunting. We expect it to mean ditching the things that make our lives exciting, but, says Sam Beckbessinger, author of Manage Your Money Like a F*cking Grownup, “Being in control of your money isn’t about being a fun-miser.”

CHANGE YOUR MINDSET Kyle O’Hagan, founder of thesavingscientist.com, says that, despite his saving-savviness, he still leads an active social life. Beckbessinger and O’Hagan’s secret to holding onto personal pleasures? Clever thinking.

“When going out for dinner, you’re probably going to have the same amount of fun whether you have the most expensive item on the menu or the cheapest,” says Beckbessinger. “And you could have just as much of a good time hosting a potluck at your house.”

O’Hagan ensures he’s part of the decision-making team when planning group activities. “It’s easier than you think to get friends to agree to a wallet-friendly alternative,” he says.

SET REWARDABLE GOALS Enrique Grobbelaar, founder of countingcoins. co.za, explains that undertaking frugal habits is like starting a fitness regime or changing your diet. “You dread it in the beginning but, when you see the rewards, you challenge yourself even more.”

He recommends setting goals, just as you would for a diet, which make it easier to say no. “Reward yourself with something substantial once you’ve reached a goal,” he advises. “Cut out small treats like buying coffee every morning, take your own lunch to work, and stop eating out. Rather treat

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yourself to a meal at a restaurant you’ve always wanted to go to once you’ve reached your savings goal or paid off your debt.”

André Wentzel, solutions manager at Sanlam Personal Finance: Savings, also recommends linking savings to an end goal.

“When people don’t have a reason, savings can seem boring, but if those savings were earmarked for something specific it becomes a little more interesting.

It’s exciting to know how much closer you are to being able to afford that holiday or new toy,” he says.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

RE-APPROPRIATE YOUR SAVINGS

SEARCH OUT ALTERNATIVES Are holidays really something you can consider when you’re counting the cents?

Grobbelaar says it’s easier than you think, and suggests joining Facebook groups where peers are able to advise on special deals and affordable accommodation options.

“When doing road trips,” he says, “we tend to drive straight to the large, expensive cities, but how about spending some nights in smaller, more affordable towns on the way?”

That’s to say nothing of maximising your Sanlam Reality travel benefits to make sure you’re squeezing your saving opportunities hard.

It may take more planning initially, but you’ll reap the rewards.

For occasions such as holidays, O’Hagan recommends starting a fund into which you place a small amount of money every month, allowing leeway to take a spontaneous trip without landing in debt. Wentzel agrees, explaining how debt-funded vacations end up costing more in the long run, meaning fewer holidays enjoyed.

“If you can afford about R1 050 per month, it will take you three years to pay off a R30 000 holiday funded on your credit card,” he says. “But, if you save and invest that monthly amount, you will be able to afford the holiday in just over two years.”

Beckbessinger uses an alternative approach to funding her free time. “I like to preapportion my fun money into a separate bank account every Friday,” she says. “What’s great about this system is that you can spend that money guilt-free, knowing that your budget for the important grownup stuff is sitting safely in another account.”

ENJOY ‘FREE’ TIME Not everything needs money in order to be enjoyed, and new hobbies can be equally fulfilling. “Start volunteering,” says Grobbelaar. “Instead of spending the weekend using up your money, spend it doing some good by cleaning up your neighbourhood or volunteering at a local animal shelter. Trust me, it can be just as much fun!”

We also live in a country filled with natural beauty and free outdoor entertainment options. Something as simple as a walk with friends or family can be as enjoyable as an expensive meal – but at no cost.

Feeling the pinch?

Don’t let short-term panic flummox your long-term plans.

Illustrations: Shutterstock

Nicolé Cupido, Sanlam Investments’ brand manager, says it’s never too late to start a long-term savings investment.

“Even if you start saving R50 per month, if that is what is realistic to your budget, every bit counts. It’s always beneficial to invest, no matter what the fluctuations in the economy are. You have to save for emergencies, for retirement and for your lifestyle. The sooner you instil

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this discipline, the better.”

When it comes to fluctuations in the financial market and the temptation to withdraw your savings when things look volatile, Cupido implores you to have a calm approach. “Stay the course,” she says. “Although markets change, investing is for the

long term – for a minimum of five years – and will benefit you and your family in the future.”

Consider what else can be cut before you scale back on policy premiums and monthly savings and investment amounts. Remember: it’s near impossible to claw back

SET YOUR SAVINGS GOAL

Use the free savings calculator at www.sanlamreality. co.za/wealthsense/savingscalculator to work out how much you should be saving monthly – or depositing upfront – in order to reach a specific goal.

what you will lose in compound interest (interest earned on interest, over time). Plus, some policies like life cover are likely to be more expensive to take out later in life. Maintaining the premium sold to you when you were younger, healthier and less of a risk is ideal.

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wealth

Of SA marriages end in within 10 years ISN’T IT TIME WE START THINKING ABOUT HOW TO DO DIVORCE DIFFERENTLY?

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www.sanlamreality.co.za

There were 25 390 divorces granted across the country in 2018. Many were messy, ugly and expensive. But this doesn’t have to be the case. A new divorce practice known as collaborative law is emerging, promising a healthier, happier outcome for the whole family.

By Nicci Botha

WHAT IS A COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE? Traditional divorces tend to be litigious and aggressive.

The aim is often to win at all costs. More often than not, it’s only the lawyers who end up smiling.

“The amazing thing about collaborative divorce is that parties are encouraged to focus on what we call their ‘highest selves’,” says Beverley Clark of Clarks Attorneys in Gauteng. “They are encouraged to look inwards and think deeply about what kind of people they really are and want to be, and to conduct the process accordingly. I believe that there are very few bad people in the world; most people are innately good and just find themselves in bad, scary or overwhelming situations, which sometimes make them behave badly.”

She says that if the parties are actively assisted to be their best selves during the divorce process, they can and will try to achieve that. The result? Giving their children the best gift they can in divorce circumstances: parents who communicate and problemsolve, and who have dealt with each other respectfully and civilly, even though they are splitting up.

“It is often quicker, cheaper, and vastly more amicable (even in very acrimonious

situations). It is also confidential – unlike a court case where all the details are made public,” she says.

DIVORCE IS 80% EMOTIONS, 20% LAW “Divorce is 80% emotions and 20% law,” says Manndi Schuld of Schuld Inc. Attorneys, who was one of the first collaborative law practitioners in the country. She came across the concept while on sabbatical in the US in 2007, and was struck by the idea that a marriage could end with mutual respect and understanding.

It also gives her a great deal of joy when the collaborative process works, and the erstwhile couple can walk away on good terms.

Manndi’s team includes family consultants (counsellors) who work extensively with the couple to get them to the point where they have processed their own feelings, as well as recognised what their estranged spouse may be feeling.

“It’s not about reconciliation, but self-development. We don’t start the process until the couple completes a goal-setting document of how each of them sees life after the divorce,” Manndi says. “When things start coming unstuck, we refer them back to the document to realign their focus.”

“It’s not about reconciliation, but self-development.”

Would you consider

In most cases, children of divorce have to shuttle between Mom’s house and Dad’s house every week or so. Birdnesting is an approach where, instead of the kids moving between two homes, they stay in a central location and the parents take turns moving in and out.

While this approach may be useful in the early days of a divorce to provide stability to

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birdnesting? children, it is likely not a longterm solution. (Most especially not when things settle and each parent moves on with their lives, perhaps finding other partners.)

Sinta Ebersohn is a divorce mentor whose programme, ‘5 Steps to a Fair Divorce’, is based on collaborative principles. She says birdnesting requires a very mature and secure set of parents without partners.

Although children’s daily lives are less unsettled by birdnesting, it is disruptive for the parents.

If birdnesting throws the parents into disarray, this will have a knock-on effect on the kids.

But the concept is certainly something to consider.

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She also facilitates workshops and retreats to prepare people for divorce. “These provide practical tools to deal with feelings such as anger and guilt. It’s very much repair work of self, others and context.”

If the counselling or training process is successful, the couple may only need one attorney to formalise the settlements and custody arrangements, which also makes collaborative law more cost effective.

“We use the law as the boundaries of drawing up a settlement agreement. It’s not all black and white, and we do push the boundaries to work out a fair deal,” she says.

On average, Manndi’s clients spend about six to 12 weeks working through the emotional stuff. Thereafter, the legal process only takes two or three months to wind up because any conflicts should already have been dealt with.

I warned him that if he relapsed with drugs, I would support him through rehab, but if he cheated again, I would divorce him. And he did… in grand style,” says Emma.

Despite choosing a reputable attorney, Emma says that the divorce cost them close to R3-million. “Both of our attorneys were bulldog aggressive.

The process was neverending, costing a fortune and getting us nowhere. We hadn’t even had a round-table discussion about a settlement. The lawyers wanted us to fight it out in court. I was in a bad space and my lawyer suggested I see a psychiatrist.”

It was Emma’s therapist who suggested she look into collaborative law. “Manndi said I needed to see if my exhusband would be willing to talk, and he eventually agreed.

That was in November 2017; by 26 March 2018 we had signed our settlement papers.”

Emma says the support from the team helped with the toxic dynamic between her and her ex-husband. “Now we were at least talking, whereas our lawyers tried to keep us apart.

We both agreed to the settlement and we walked out without anyone feeling ecstatic and without anyone feeling cheated.

“The total cost, including all the sessions with counsellors, the financial adviser and other professionals, was R250 000, which we split between the two of us,” she says.

“After three years and R3m, we tried collaborative divorce. It took R250k and a few months.”

BUT WHAT IF MY PARTNER IS REALLY, TRULY AWFUL? By the time Emma*, 44, and her husband wound up in Manndi’s office, they had spent three years and close to R3-million between them on trying to get divorced the traditional way.

“My ex-husband is a recovering cocaine and sex addict.

IS YOUR MARRIAGE SET UP SMARTLY? David Thomson, senior legal adviser at Sanlam Trust, says whether you get married by civil law (the Marriage Act or the Civil Unions Act) or by customary law, an antenuptial contract (ANC) is the best way to protect monies and assets you already own. Remember, this isn’t just about ring-fencing what’s ‘yours’ – a pre-agreed understanding means there’s less to disagree about should you ever part ways. It protects you both from conflict.

IN OR OUT OF COMMUNITY? If you marry in community of property, essentially everything you both own (including debt) goes into a shared pot.

If you marry out of community of property, you can avoid this. Within marriage out of

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community of property, there are two options you can take: you can use the accrual, which enables you to exclude certain assets but share in the growth of your wealth during your marriage. Or you can elect not to have the accrual system and simply each own and retain what is ‘yours’. That way, upon death or divorce, the assets and investments you had before marriage are protected.

“If you marry in any way recognised by our law and fail to execute an antenuptial contract, you are automatically married in community of profit and loss (in community of property) and all assets and investments, whether acquired before or after your

marriage, are shared equally,” Thomson adds.

WE’RE NOT MARRIED – BUT WE LIVE TOGETHER “People who live together cannot sign the usual antenuptial agreement. They should approach an attorney and have a domestic partnership agreement drawn up which deals with the property and financial consequences of their relationship.

It will also be a binding agreement and can protect you in the event of the relationship ending,” explains Thomson. Be mindful that without a legally binding agreement like this, you may be vulnerable.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Shutterstock

WHAT’S AN ANC? An ANC is a binding contract drawn up and signed before you get married.

“In this contract you can specifically exclude certain assets from the financial and property consequences of the marriage. You’ll both need to agree to marry out of community of property,” Thomson explains.

RE-THINK HOW YOU CARE FOR YOUR KIDS Almost all experts agree that children should not be drawn into the details of their parents’ divorce, except to explain the impact it will have on their lives in an age-appropriate manner.

Emma says her 10-year-old son was never involved directly in the collaborative process, but the programme has made her and her ex-husband better co-parents.

When she first instituted divorce proceedings, Emma wanted sole custody of her son because of her ex-husband’s history. But they agreed on joint custody during the collaborative process. She did, however, have to go to court to explain to the judge why she had changed her mind. “The judge wanted to know what checks and balances were in place to protect my son if my ex-husband ever relapsed.”

Her son has since progressed from supervised visits with his dad to sleepovers. “It’s been a slow process, but I only ever wanted my son to have a relationship with his dad,” she says.

If you feel that you or someone you know would benefit from counselling, consider visiting www.famsa.org.za (Families South Africa) for support and resources. Alternatively, you can call LifeLine on 0861 322 322.

GETTING DIVORCED?

Use this life admin checklist

POLICIES AND BENEFICIARIES Make changes to your short-term, life and medical insurance policies. “You might want to take out a new personal life insurance policy, and name new beneficiaries for your life insurance benefits, should you no longer wish your ex-spouse to be a beneficiary,” says Danelle van Heerde, head: advice processes and tools, Sanlam Personal Finance.

MEDICAL AID COVER “Ensure that children are covered as dependants in either you or your ex’s medical aid scheme.

If maintenance payments extend to medical aid, make sure they increase according to typical medical aid rate hikes, often around 5% higher than the consumer price index (CPI),” says van Heerde.

LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT Your will also needs to be changed, especially if your ex-spouse was a beneficiary. There is a legal three-month grace period after the divorce, meaning that if you pass away within three months of an official divorce proceeding, it will be assumed that you did not want your ex-spouse to be your beneficiary. Your ex-spouse will be treated as if they were deceased, thus allowing your estate to go to your children or next of kin. However, if you did not legally change your will after three months, it is assumed you did want your ex-spouse to remain your beneficiary, and they will receive the stipulated inheritance.

CHILDREN’S INHERITANCE If you are not comfortable with the surviving parent managing the money left to minor children in the event of your death, you can use a guardian trust (for beneficiary payments on life policies), guardian fund (for beneficiary payments on retirement funds) or testamentary trust, and the trustees will manage it on their behalf and to their sole benefit.

RETIREMENT FUND Often, a divorce results in a lump-sum settlement from an ex-spouse’s retirement fund. “Preserve the monies in a retirement fund – not least of all because of the tax advantages of doing so,” adds van Heerde.

*Names have been changed

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wealth

1 / OUR FINANCIAL AND BANKING SECTORS ARE WELL REGULATED

Reasons to be positive about

South Africa

While we shouldn’t bury our heads in the sand when it comes to the serious challenges that face our country, Kojo Baffoe discovers there are many things to be positive about, too.

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Chartered accountant Andile Khumalo, founder of I Am An Entrepreneur, says that “there is little room for failure as a result of the checks and balances in place when it comes to the financial sector. Plus, our stock exchange is one of the best in the world in terms of security and accountability.”

It’s something Ryno Oosthuizen, business development manager at Glacier by Sanlam, couldn’t agree with more.

“The JSE is consistently rated as one of the most robust in terms of regulation of the exchange.”

2 / WE’RE GOOD AT TOURISM “Travel is about experiences. People are looking for immersion and life-changing experiences,” says CEO of SA Tourism Sisa Ntshona.

“We are blessed with nine different provinces that each have very different characteristics, from the beaches of the Western Cape and tropical KwaZuluNatal to Mpumalanga’s wildlife and the Karoo semidesert. And I haven’t even touched on the people!

South Africa is never just one thing. We are so diverse and that is what is driving our tourism.”

Over the last decade, tourism has grown steadily both in terms of visitors, contribution to the GDP and employment opportunities. According to Stats SA, in 2017 the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP was larger than agriculture, forestry and fishing, accounting for 2.8% (or R130-billion). Tourism spend amounted to R277-billion for both international and domestic tourists.

3 / OUR CREATIVITY KNOWS NO BOUNDS According to the WARC Creative 100 report, South Africa is the ninth most creative country in the world.

The criteria are tied to the performance of advertising agencies at prestigious awards that take place globally.

There has been a distinct uptick in terms of South African creatives making their mark on the global stage too; from the success of Trevor Noah and Black Coffee to Nelson Makamo making TIME’s cover, father and son John and Atandwa Kani’s work on Black Panther and fashion designer Thebe Magugu winning top prize at 2019 London Fashion Week.

In the global art industry, contemporary African art is also in high demand with auction houses (including Bonhams and Sotheby’s) launching dedicated sales of contemporary and modern African art overseas.

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4 / WE’VE GOT A TRULY ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

5 / DOING BUSINESS IN OUR COUNTRY IS EASY COMPARED TO MUCH OF THE WORLD

Early-stage entrepreneurial activity has increased by 4.1% compared to 2016, according to the 2017/2018 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report.

It’s one of the reasons why the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, sponsored by Sanlam, remains highly relevant as it enters its 31st year. “It’s encouraging to see that entrepreneurial intentions in the country have increased, currently sitting at 11.7%, up from 10.1% in 2016/17,” said Kobus Engelbrecht, spokesperson for the competition.

According to Oosthuizen, referencing the World Bank’s annual Ease of Doing Business Report, “South Africa is currently ranked 82 out of 190 economies.

There is a focus to get us into the top 50, which is very positive for foreign investment. It should make it easier for South Africans to do business here, but also with partners offshore.”

The CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission) has done a lot to streamline the process of registering a company as well as registering for VAT and with SARS, taking most of these tasks online. The challenge now? Political stability and rooting out corruption to nurture greater assurance among possible foreign investors.

6 / OUR CITIES ARE AMONG THE MORE AFFORDABLE PLACES TO LIVE Out of 375 cities across the world, Cape Town and Jo’burg came in at 170 and 177 respectively in Mercer’s 2018 Cost of Living survey.

Comparing everything from the price of a movie ticket and a pair of jeans to a cup of coffee, Cape Town promises restaurant prices over 53% cheaper than London, while Jo’burg offers residential rental costs that are a whopping 75% cheaper than London.

8 / OUR SCIENTISTS AND DOCTORS ARE WORLD-CLASS The 64-antennae MeerKAT telescope is the first step in the development of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), a radio telescope network split between South Africa and Australia. Encouragingly, 75% of the MeerKAT’s value was sourced locally. SKA is considered one of the largest scientific endeavours in history.

This year also saw local doctors at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Tshwane working on the world’s first middle-ear transplant using 3D-printed tech.

9 / WE’RE AHEAD OF AMERICA AND AUSTRALIA ON GENDER PARITY We’ve definitely got a way to go – especially when it comes to gender-based violence – but the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2018 placed us 19th globally for gender parity. That’s ahead of America (ranked 51st), Australia (39th) and a swathe of European countries such as Belgium (32nd), the Netherlands (27th) and Switzerland (20th). Ranking is based on a number of performance areas such as political empowerment, economic participation and opportunity and educational attainment of women.

10 / WE’RE RESILIENT… AND POSITIVE A 2017 report conducted by Ipsos MORI found South Africans the third most optimistic nation in the world, only just behind China and India.

An impressive 85% of us expected great things to come. With an attitude like that, half the battle is won!

Illustrations: Shutterstock

7 / INVESTMENT IN OUR FUTURE IS HAPPENING Oosthuizen points to a number of financial factors that should have us positive about the future, including the hundreds of billions of rand pledged as new investment at 2018’s South Africa Investment Conference. “From an investor’s perspective, South Africa’s equity market has become more accessible as a considerable re-rating has taken place,” he explains.

“Meanwhile, investors saving in a retirement fund are benefiting from the pull-back in the local and offshore equity markets, as current contributions are buying units/shares at a lower price.”

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PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE

Think positive… and think smart. Get expert help to plan for your future – and that of your family – for true peace of mind. To speak to a financial planner, call 0860 732 548/9 or visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/contact-anadviser.

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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Date night done right

R50 R30 R35

3D movie ticket

2D movie ticket

Medium popcorn + beverage

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/nu-metro-movies.

T&Cs apply.

entertainment Colour

YOU HAPPY

Gone are the days when colouring books were child’s play. Colouring in offers a therapeutic way to switch off in an increasingly busy world.

“When you’re colouring, you’re engaged in a structured activity that’s generally not goal-oriented. It changes your focus to something more manageable and, as a result, you experience less distress,” says clinical psychologist Ben Michaelis. See for yourself by adding colour to this design.

YOUR

e n tertain me n t BENEFITS

Pay R30 for a 2D movie ticket (R50 for 3D) and R35 for a refreshment combo at Nu Metro

Buy one ticket, get one free up to R300 on Computicket

Six months’ free music streaming from simfy africa

1GB free data every month with AlwaysOn

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/entertainment to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage.

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entertainment

So many great movies, so little time…

AS THE WEATHER GETS WORSE, TAKE YOUR ENTERTAINMENT INDOORS THANKS TO A BLOCKBUSTER LINE-UP OF MOVIE RELEASES (& YOUR SANLAM REALITY DISCOUNT!).

USE YOUR BENEFIT

Double the fun, half the price!

WHO SAYS COLD, RAINY DAYS HAVE TO BE BORING? TREAT YOUR FAMILY TO THESE ACTIVITIES. BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE ON TICKETS (UP TO R300) WITH COMPUTICKET. (Reality Plus & Health only.)

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REALITY WINTER 2019

DOWNTON ABBEY Fans of Downtown Abbey will be delighted to see this British period drama become a movie.

Follow the tangled lives of the Crawley family and their dedicated servants, portrayed by an all-star cast including Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern and Maggie Smith.

Release date: 13 September

SPIES IN DISGUISE Watch much-loved actors Will Smith and Tom Holland in this fun-filled, animated adventure. Follow a super spy and a gadget inventor extraordinaire as they team up to save the world from disaster. A must-see movie with laugh-out-loud moments that the whole family is sure to enjoy!

Release date: 20 September

THE GOLDFINCH Theodore Decker was 13 when his mother was killed in a bombing at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. In the midst of the bombing, a priceless artwork goes missing… stolen. Based on the novel by award-winning author Donna Tartt, this drama stars Nicole Kidman and Jeffrey Wright.

Release date: 10 October

Enjoy tickets at Nu Metro for just R30 (2D) or R50 (3D) – 3D: Reality Health & Plus only. Add a medium refreshment combo for R35. Book in the Sanlam Reality App or visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/nu-metro-movies.

JO’BURG: FIRE & FEAST MEAT & FOOD FESTIVAL Meat lovers, unite! Taste, sample and savour a host of flame-grilled favourites at this festival that celebrates butchers, braais, and some of the industry’s best chefs – all while enjoying live music and a festive vibe.

When: 6-8 September Where: Ticketpro Dome

CAPE TOWN, DURBAN AND JO’BURG: PEPPA PIG’S BIG DAY OUT! Spoil the kids: the actionpacked theatre show Peppa Pig Live is returning! Be enthralled as Peppa Pig, her brother George and her host of animal friends embark on a mission to find Polly Parrot and Mr Dinosaur when they vanish – uh oh!

When: 6-29 September Where: Artscape Opera House (Cape Town), Suncoast Globe (Durban), Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace (Jo’burg)

JO’BURG: COMIC CON AFRICA 2019 Expect guest stars including Marvel comic-book artist Will Sliney and cosplayer LeeAnna Vamp at this year’s Comic Con… and that’s to say nothing of the iconic dress-up outfits that’ll be on show.

When: 21-24 September Where: Gallagher Convention Centre www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Shutterstock

DORA AND THE LOST CITY OF GOLD Starring Isabela Moner, Michael Peña and Eva Longoria, the kids will love this enchanting film.

Follow Dora the Explorer and her monkey BFF as she adventures into the South American jungle, uncovering the mysteries and magic of the ancient Incas.

Release date: 16 August

OUTDOOR EVENTS TO PUSH YOURSELF… (… and your tier status)

Whether it’s running or biking, work up a sweat in the great outdoors while also reaping the reward of tier points – your route to increasing your Sanlam Reality benefit savings percentage.

Western Cape TABLE MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE

1 September, Cape Town Table Mountain as you’ve never experienced before! Go solo or find a partner to tackle the full 44km. Guaranteed to leave you with a massive sense of accomplishment! energyevents.co.za/ event/3845/

SANLAM CAPE TOWN MARATHON

14-15 September, Cape Town As a Sanlam Reality member, you get free entry! Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za, turn to p.4 or keep an eye on your email inbox for more.

The festive and supportive vibe is not to be missed! www.capetownmarathon.com

North West SALOMON MAGALIESBERG CHALLENGE 17 August, Hartbeespoort Choose your distance and challenge yourself with a trail-running event off the beaten path. magaliesbergchallenge.co.za

IMPI CHALLENGE

26 October, Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij Gather your friends and conquer the IMPI Challenge’s infamous muddy obstacle course and trail run.

All athletic abilities are welcome, team entries are encouraged and fancy dress is an optional extra! www.impichallenge.co.za

Eastern Cape DIVA WOMEN’S 10KM OR 5KM RUN

9 August, Kings Beach, Port Elizabeth In celebration of National Women’s Day, don your racing shoes and run, jog or walk the 10km or 5km route.

Fun and feel-good – don’t forget your pink tutu!

083 299 1775

WILDCOAST WILDRUN 30 August-3 September, Wild Coast Experience three days of running along this remote, rural and beautifully raw coastline. www.wildrun.com

EARN TIER POINTS Earn up to

15 000 tier points per year doing the outdoor activities you love. Register at Entrytime to log your activities. More tier points = better discounts! Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/earn-points or sanlam. entrytime.com.

entertainment

Feed the family healthily for a week, for under R800 What’s better than delicious meals planned for the week? Delicious meals that satisfy your family’s taste buds and your bank balance!

Styling & recipes: Katelyn Allegra; Photos: Christelle Grobler ROAST LEMON CHICKEN WITH BABY POTATOES

CARAMELISED LEEK AND BROCCOLI FISH PIE ROASTED CAULIFLOWER PASTA

NOTE

After carving, save the chicken carcass (and any leftover chicken) for Thursday’s dinner!

MONDAY

Roasted cauliflower pasta Serves: 4 Prep time: 15-20 min Cook time: 15-20 min Cost for 4 people: R72 Cost per portion: R18

500g whole cauliflower ¼ cup olive oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped Pinch of dried chilli Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste ¼ cup breadcrumbs 500g linguine pasta Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Trim the cauliflower into small florets, about 1cm in size. Spread the cauliflower out onto a baking tray; drizzle with 2 tbsp of the olive oil and season well. Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until golden and caramelised.

In the meantime, heat the remaining olive oil in a frying pan and sauté the garlic over a low heat for 2-3 minutes. Add the parsley, chilli, seasoning and breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown.

Set aside.

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil and add the linguine. Cook according to the package instructions – usually about 8 minutes – or until the pasta is cooked but still a little firm (al dente).

Drain the pasta and add to the roasted cauliflower with the lemon zest and juice. Toss to combine.

Serve the pasta in bowls, sprinkled with the breadcrumbs. www.sanlamreality.co.za

TUESDAY

Caramelised leek and broccoli fish pie Serves: 4 Prep time: 10-15 min Cook time: 15 min Cost for 4 people: R184 Cost per portion: R46

80g butter 80ml cake flour 1 litre milk 2 leeks, finely sliced 10ml olive oil 400g broccoli florets 450g frozen hake, bones removed Salt and pepper, to taste 1 leftover bread (ciabatta or sourdough), torn into big chunks 20g butter, melted Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C if using a fan-forced oven).

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter; whisk in the cake flour. Reduce the heat and slowly pour in the milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil. Stir frequently, until mixture is thick and cooked through.

In a medium pan, sauté the leeks in olive oil and toss the broccoli and hake in, just giving them a slight colour.

Stir the broccoli, fish medallions and leeks into the white sauce and pour into a large casserole dish or individual ramekins.

Season with a little salt and pepper.

Toss the torn bread into the melted butter and use it to top the broccoli and fish mixture. Bake in a preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is a golden brown colour.

Serve immediately.

WEDNESDAY

Roast lemon chicken with baby potatoes Serves: 4 | Prep time: 25 min | Cook time: 1 hour 15 min Cost for 4 people: R140 | Cost per portion: R35 50g mixed fresh herbs, roughly chopped 1 lemon, zested and quartered 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil plus extra for rubbing 10ml salt 1.6kg whole chicken 50g butter, softened 6 leeks, halved lengthways and rinsed 500g baby potatoes, halved Preheat oven to 180°C. Combine the herbs, lemon zest, olive oil and salt. Loosen the chicken skin from the breasts with your fingers; push the herb mixture under the skin, along with the softened butter. Place lemon quarters inside the cavity.

In a large roasting tray,

arrange the leeks to form a base for the chicken and place the baby potatoes around the outside. Drizzle with olive oil and season well.

Rub the chicken with the extra olive oil, sprinkle with salt and place on top of the leeks, breast-side down.

Roast for 1 hour, then turn the chicken over and roast for a further 15 minutes until golden.

Remove from the oven; cover with foil and rest for about 15 minutes before serving.

To serve, remove the lemon from the cavity and squeeze it over the carved chicken pieces and baby potatoes.

Save the chicken carcass for Thursday’s dinner.

CHICKEN, MUSHROOM AND RICE SOUP (NEXT PAGE)

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ROASTED SWEET POTATO TRAY CURRY

THURSDAY

Chicken, mushroom and rice soup

Serves: 4 Prep time: 20 min Cook time: 25-30 min Cost for 4 people: R104 Cost per portion: R26 Olive oil, for sautéing 125g mushrooms, sliced 3 carrots, peeled and finely chopped 3 large sticks of celery, finely chopped 3 small leeks, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 leftover roasted chicken carcass (from Wednesday’s dinner) 3 litres chicken stock 250g long-grain white rice, rinsed well 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, to serve In a large pot, add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté the mushrooms until golden – about 5 minutes. Add the carrots, celery, leeks and garlic and sauté until softened. Season well. Add the roasted chicken carcass along with any leftover chicken meat from Wednesday’s dinner, and add the stock. Reduce the heat to low and slowly bring the soup to a simmer.

Simmer for 20 minutes; remove the carcass (if there’s any meat left, shred that and add it back to the pot).

Then add the rinsed rice and simmer until the rice is cooked.

Serve the soup sprinkled with the rice, parsley and fresh bread on the side.

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CHEAT’S BOEREWORS BURGERS WITH PICKLED SLAW

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 min | Cook time: 5-10 min Cost for 4 people: R92 | Cost per portion: R23

Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 min Cook time: 45-50 min Cost for 4 people: R88 Cost per portion: R22

Cheat’s boerewors burgers with pickled slaw

500g boerewors Oil, for frying 1 baby white cabbage, thinly sliced 1 baby red cabbage, thinly sliced 8-10 gherkins, thinly sliced ¼ cup pickle juice (from the gherkin jar) 2 tbsp mayonnaise 4 burger buns, halved 2 tomatoes, sliced

Remove the boerewors casings and divide the boerewors meat into 4 balls. Shape each ball into a patty.

Heat a griddle pan until smoking hot. Brush each patty with a little oil and place onto the very hot pan. Cook on one side for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook on the other side for 3 minutes. Set aside; cover with foil and allow to rest.

Prepare the slaw by combining the cabbage, gherkins, pickle juice and mayonnaise. Season well.

Toast the burger buns in the griddle pan, top with patty, slaw, sliced tomato and serve.

Roasted sweet potato tray curry

1kg sweet potatoes, thickly sliced 80g Asian Thai red curry paste 400ml (1 tin) reduced-fat coconut milk 1 tbsp sugar ¼ cup (60ml) fresh coriander, roughly chopped, to serve Toasted coconut flakes (optional), to serve Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C if using a fan-forced oven). Toss the sweet potatoes in the curry paste and bake in an oven dish for 30-45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are cooked through. Pour over the coconut milk; add the coriander. and coconut flakes (optional). Serve with rice on the side, if desired. www.sanlamreality.co.za

SUNDAY

Margherita pizza frittata

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 15 min | Cook time: 15-20 min Cost for 4 people: R100 | Cost per portion: R25

6 large eggs ½ cup breadcrumbs 80ml milk 50g butter 1 leek, finely sliced 150g cherry tomatoes, sliced lengthwise Sea salt and black pepper, to taste 100g feta cheese 10g fresh basil, to garnish

MARGHERITA PIZZA FRITTATA

Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, milk and breadcrumbs.

Place an oven-proof frying pan over medium heat, add the butter and allow to foam. Add the leeks and tomatoes, season with salt and pepper and toss for 1 minute. Remove from the heat then crumble over the cheese and scatter the basil over the top. Carefully pour in the egg mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and set. Serve with shards of toast or a fresh salad.

entertainment

The

GREATEST

love

5 Minutes with Belinda Davids

USE YOUR BENEFIT

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REALITY WINTER 2019

“IT’S MY CALLING TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY”

“I was six years old and wearing a white dress with two long ponytails and white ribbons, singing in church.

It was the response from people when I was done.

I think I knew that this was what I had to keep doing. It was my calling to make people so happy.”

Matazz. I never went to school to study music.

I had a mentor who trained my ears. He was a brilliant jazz pianist and when I visited his house he always told me, ‘Listen.

Listen and copy exactly what I’m doing.’ I couldn’t, but I kept practising.

So much practising!”

“I’VE BEEN ON TOUR FOR

“SINGING STARTED AS

SEVEN YEARS NOW!”

A WAY TO HELP PUT

“The Greatest Love of All has been going for seven years, and we’ve been everywhere!

America, the UK, parts of Europe and Scandinavia, New Zealand, Canada… this list goes on! Tel Aviv was one of my favourite performances. Besides how beautiful it was, the reception of the show was amazing.”

FOOD ON THE TABLE”

“I remember my mother working so hard to keep food in our mouths, and when I was old enough she put me to work. I started performing in variety shows, cabaret shows; all this happened when I was just 14.

“Then I got a steady gig at a little bar called Razz

“THOSE FIVE MINUTES BEFORE A SHOW ARE INCREDIBLE”

“I play a bit of music when I get to my dressing room to get my spirit going. I love for things to smell amazing around me, so I’ll light a candle or two – it calms me. Then focus begins for the show: vocal warm-ups, stretching, meditating. But the most important time is those five minutes before I go up to the stage. I still get a bit nervous but it’s mostly good nerves!”

“I MISS SOUTH AFRICA WHEN I’M TRAVELLING”

“We are a friendly nation; I’m a very friendly person.

I miss our sunshine!

When I’m home, I’m based in Cape Town.

I love it there!”

The Greatest Love of All runs in Cape Town from 20 Nov-1 Dec, and in Jo’burg from January 2020. Tickets from R250. Reality Plus and Health members can buy one ticket and get another free (up to R300) on Computicket. Book at www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/computicket or call 0860 732 548/9.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: Supplied

South African singing sensation Belinda Davids is taking the world by storm as the lead in the Whitney Houston tribute show, The Greatest Love of All. As the celebrated performance makes its way back to our shores, we caught up with her.

IN FIVE LINES AGE: 42 – “But I feel 20!”

HOMETOWN: Port Elizabeth NICKNAMES: Lala, Linda, Nomlinda MUSICAL ICON: “Whitney Houston,

of course!”

BEING ON STAGE FEELS:

“Invigorating, overwhelming, a dream come true.”

Start an adventure today

Hire a car from Tempest Car Hire and pay from as little as R230 a day. Plus get unlimited mileage and Super Cover!

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/tempest-car-hire or call 0860 732 548/9 for more information. T&Cs apply.

YOUR

real world

info guide TO WHAT’S HAPPENING INSIDE SANLAM REALITY

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70

SWIPE AND SAVE!

SCORE ON SAVINGS

A new credit card that gives back

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Your membership can save you R18k

72 BENEFITS

All your Sanlam Reality benefits and discount percentages

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real world

Yes, you can have a credit card and save… big!

The Sanlam Money Saver credit card is here. What makes it different and how can it help you save? We asked Francois Uys, head of digital, marketing and communications at Sanlam Reality.

We don’t 1 lure you with false promises We’ve all seen them – the adverts that promise a million-percent cash-back whenever you swipe. But here’s the truth: 70-90% of loyalty credit card customers never reach the top tier levels required to enjoy these advertised rewards.

“Our research shows that most people in this 70-90% majority will only ever enjoy 0.35-1.75% in cash-back, despite what they may have been promised,” says Uys. It’s why the new Sanlam Money Saver credit card guarantees up to 5% cash-back added to your savings, regardless of any kind of points level or membership status. Simple!

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REALITY WINTER 2019

Here’s how it works: How do I save up to 5% with every swipe?

% With the Sanlam Money Saver, you commit to adding an additional 2.5% of everything you spend to a dedicated savings account. To reward you for saving, Sanlam matches your 2.5%, bringing the total savings to 5%.

We pay out your accumulated savings as a Cash-back Bonus, quarterly or annually.

5% When you swipe at any of our Reward Partners, they contribute the 2.5% saving amount on your behalf and Sanlam matches this rand for rand. Which means you get the entire 5% saving for free!

Want the Sanlam Money Saver credit card without the commitment to save?

1% No problem! You can opt for the Sanlam Money Saver without co-savings and earn up to 3% cash-back.

Every time you swipe, Sanlam rewards you with 1% added into your savings account.

3% When you swipe at our Reward Partners, you will get a total of 3% added to your savings account, at no cost to you.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Make the most of your Sanlam Money Saver credit card

“Shop with our Reward Partners like Edgars, Adidas, Toys R Us and more to ensure they contribute the cash-back savings portion on your behalf,” suggests Uys. “Settle your purchases within 55 days to ensure you do not pay any interest,” he adds.

Uys continues: “As a Wealthsmith, stick to responsible shopping.

Ask yourself: do you really need this item?

Do you need to buy it now or can it wait until later?”

What you see is what you get

According to the South African Customer Satisfaction Index for Banking Products (2018), increasing layers of complexity are a source of frustration when it comes to rewards programmes and their offerings. It’s a key reason why the Sanlam Money Saver credit card has no caps, no tiers or levels of discounts depending on your ‘status’, and a simple way for you to get maximum cash-back.

“With the Sanlam Money Saver credit card with Mastercard, what you see is what you get. It’s simple, easy to understand and highly competitive,” explains Uys. “Our reward is 100% linked to the core product and mission of Sanlam: encouraging financially responsible behaviour through saving.”

www.sanlamreality.co.za

USE YOUR BENEFIT

The Sanlam Money Saver credit card is available to Sanlam clients, like you. Visit moneysaver.cards for more. Plus, earn 3 000 tier points for taking out the card.

Scan the QR code using your cell phone to watch a video about the Sanlam Money Saver credit card.

is a fact of life – but we’re here 2 Credit to help you save too

“Gone are the days of using credit only in emergencies,” explains Uys. “We recognise credit is a fact of life for many of us – so how do we promote responsible credit? That was what we wanted to do with the Sanlam Money Saver.

It’s why this is the only credit card to give you up to 5% of your spend into your savings as a Cash-back Bonus, as well as why we’re keeping the fees as low as possible, at only R56/month, and offering up to 55 days’ interest free.”

actually end up with real 3 You’ll cash-back in your account For example, if you used your Sanlam Money Saver credit card to spend

R10 000 a month...

... you will have

R6 000

R6 000 in your savings account by the end of the year.

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USE YOUR BENEFITS

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REALITY WINTER 2019

Make the most of your benefits: visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits, download the free Sanlam Reality App, or speak to a financial planner to ensure your wealth policies complement the savings you get as a member. Request a meeting with a financial planner at www.sanlamreality.co.za/contact-an-adviser.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

How you can save over R18 000 a year As we all feel the pinch, any opportunity to save money matters. Here’s how your Sanlam Reality membership is helping you do just that.

When we’re spending money each month, it can be hard to imagine how what’s going out could be saving us cash over time. But that’s exactly what happens with your Sanlam Reality membership – especially if you’re making the most of the benefits, rewards and savings at your disposal.

To help you see what you could be saving – and to get an idea of how other Reality members are doing this every month – take a look at this illustrative case study.

We’re here to reward you every day – time to unlock your full saving potential!

Meet Busi She saves R18 119 a year as a Sanlam Reality member.

Her x3 Uber trips a month.

Should cost: R600 Discount: 30%

Saves R2 160/YEAR Her Planet Fitness gym monthly contract.

Should cost: R600

Saves R5 760/YEAR 80% OFF

She uses TaxTim once a year.

Saves R599/YEAR

She goes to the cinema with her family of four once a month.

Should cost: R560

Saves R3 600/YEAR Her monthly premiums on Sanlam Life Cover.

Cost: R1 000/MONTH

Saves R3 600/YEAR

She books x2 Mango flights per year, for two people.

Cost: Approx. R8 000

Saves R2 400/YEAR 30% OFF

Photography: Shutterstock

Total saving per year thanks to Sanlam Reality: R18 119 Busi’s membership only costs R195/month That’s a 674% return on her membership fee each year! *Illustrative values only.

Based on Reality Plus membership on gold tier status.

T&Cs apply.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

WINTER 2019 REALITY

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benefits

Sanlam Reality benefits table Reality Health

Reality Plus

Reality Core

Sanlam Life Cover

Up to 30% off

Up to 30% off

n/a

Sanlam savings products

Up to 100% off primary asset management charges

Up to 100% off primary asset management charges

Up to 100% off primary asset management charges

Sanlam Gap Cover

Double the cover from day one

Double the cover from day one

Double the cover from day one

Sanlam online will

Free with secure will storage

Free with secure will storage

Free with secure will storage

Sanlam Personal Loans

Cash-back reward of up to 20% Cash-back reward of up to 20% Cash-back reward of up to 20%

Wealth Sense

Online financial platform

TaxTim

Complimentary tax assistance Complimentary tax assistance Complimentary tax assistance

Funeral cover

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Pet Accident Cover

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Virgin Active

As much as 60% off

n/a

n/a

Planet Fitness Gym

As much as 80% off

As much as 80% off

As much as 60% off

JustGym

As much as 80% off

As much as 80% off

As much as 60% off

Independent Gyms & Studios

As much as 60% off

As much as 60% off

As much as 40% off

Mango flights

As much as 30% off

As much as 30% off

As much as 20% off

Emirates flights

As much as 25% off

As much as 25% off

n/a

Protea Hotels by Marriott®

As much as 30% off

As much as 30% off

As much as 20% off

Tempest Car Hire

Pay as little as R230 per day

Pay as little as R230 per day

Pay as little as R230 per day

Uber trips

As much as 30% off

As much as 30% off

As much as 30% off

Bidvest Premier Lounge

Up to 20 visits/year

Up to 20 visits/year

n/a

International Travel Insurance

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Nu Metro movies & refreshments

R30 for 2D or R50 for 3D; R35 for refreshment combo

R30 for 2D or R50 for 3D; R35 for refreshment combo

R30 for 2D; R35 for refreshment combo

Computicket shows and sport

Buy one ticket and get one free up to R300

Buy one ticket and get one free up to R300

n/a

simfy africa music streaming

Six months’ complimentary; save 7.5% thereafter

Six months’ complimentary; save 7.5% thereafter

Six months’ complimentary; save 7.5% thereafter

AlwaysOn Wi-Fi

1GB data/month

1GB data/month

n/a

‘Reality’ magazine

Three times a year

Three times a year

Three times a year

24/7, 365 days a year

24/7, 365 days a year

24/7, 365 days a year

Adds up to 5% of spend to your savings

Adds up to 5% of spend to your savings

Adds up to 5% of spend to your savings

Wealth

Online financial platform

Online financial platform

Health

Travel

Entertainment

Personal Services Personal Assistant Day-to-day Sanlam Money Saver credit card

72

REALITY WINTER 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

You don’t need to fly overseas to go on an adventure

Get a discount of

as much as

30%

on Mango flights

To book, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/mango-flights or call 0860 732 548/9 for more information. T&Cs apply.

Your favourite benefits

in your pocket The free Sanlam Reality App is here!

Simple. Convenient. 24/7.

Download or find out more The Sanlam Reality App makes enjoying your benefits even easier – and more rewarding. Access benefits including discounts on Nu Metro bookings, Uber trips and Independent Gyms & Studios. Plus, chat to your Personal Assistant, access your digital membership card, store credit cards for payment and track your tier points. T&Cs apply.

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za for more.