Sowetan 'S Mag' March 2017

VUYO DABULA VUYO

From the streets

to our screens!

DABULA

MARCH 2017 | www.sowetanlive.co.za

Magazine

From the streets to our screens

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March

what we love about...

Join the Sowetan S Mag club today to enjoy more from our team throughout the year!

To join, email us (smag@ sowetan.co.za) your full name and contact number, and you’ll receive our newsletter filled with the latest in beauty, fashion, and entertainment. You will also stand a chance to win in our competitions, as well as be first in line for the exclusive events we will be holding throughout the year.

Natural hair is not a “movement”. It is the way our hair grows, and, as much as we care about it, we are not defined by it. The politicisation of black women’s hair is not a new thing. It has existed since hairstyles were used to indicate ethnic identity, marital status, and rank. With the dawn of movements such as #BlackGirlMagic that celebrate black women, our crowns are just one of the ways we can celebrate our magic — with our beautiful, complex and adaptable hair. And that is exactly what we did with our fashion spread (page 18) when we rounded up five inspirational women who rocked their trendy manes while showing off the latest fashion on the nostalgic red stoeps of Orlando West. We also caught up with our favourite TV “gangster”, Vuyo Dabula, who spoke to us about his fitness, future and family on page 14. For tips on how to better balance your spending, check out page 28, and if you are looking to kit out your home on a budget, see our suggestions on page 34. As always, we love to hear from you, so please send us your thoughts or drop us a tweet on @Sowetan_SMag. You can also follow me on @ T_Lethu, or check out our picture album on Instagram (@Sowetan.S.Magazine).

FROM THE EDITOR

Send your full name and daytime contact details to smag@sowetan.co.za or our postal address: PO Box 1746, Saxonwold, 2132. Don’t forget to address your letter to the editor of Sowetan S Mag. CONGRATULATIONS to Nell Fikile, the lucky winner of the Mimco jewellery set from our December issue!

ED’S CHOICE With the change of season approaching, we can’t wait to try out these Levi’s high-top sneakers, R699.95, available from its winter collection!

CONTENT

14

18

26

30

34

36

Interview

Fashion

Leadership Health

Decor

Food

Actor Vuyo Dabula continues to impress, with a new film out soon

It’s all about defining our own narratives around hair and beauty

Noluthando Molao on making it in a maledominated field

How to give your living room a luxe and light makeover

TV chef Lentswe Bhengu is cooking up a storm

Top tips to take care of your body and general wellbeing

EDITOR THEMBALETHU ZULU (SMAG@ SOWETAN.CO.ZA) CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANNA LINEVELDT SENIOR DESIGNER THEMBEKILE VOKWANA MANAGING EDITOR MATTHEW MCCLURE 011 280 5605 (MCCLUREM@ TIMESMEDIA.CO.ZA) FASHION DIRECTOR SHARON BECKER FASHION EDITOR KHOMOTSO MOLOTO BEAUTY EDITOR NOKUBONGA THUSI JUNIOR DESIGNER LYDIA WESSELS SENIOR SUBEDITOR THERESA MALLINSON FINAL EYE KARIN MOSSELSON FASHION INTERN SAHIL HARILAL SOWETAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PHILANI MGWABA SOWETAN DEPUTY EDITOR MAPULA NKOSI PUBLISHER ASPASIA KARRAS DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER PRINT AND DIGITAL REARDON SANDERSON MANAGING DIRECTOR ANDREW GILL BUSINESS MANAGER YVONNE SHAFF 082 903 5641 (SHAFFY@ TIMESMEDIA.CO.ZA) SALES EXECUTIVE JOHANNESBURG FAITH THOMAS 082 852 8997 (FAITH@FASHIONEDIT. CO.ZA) SALES EXECUTIVE CAPE TOWN CHARLOTTE NUTMAN 078 358 6154 (NUTMANC@TIMESMEDIA.CO.ZA) ACCOUNT MANAGER DURBAN GINA VAN DE WALL 083 500 5325 (VDWALLG@ TIMESMEDIA.ZO.ZA) S MAG IS AVAILABLE WITH ALL COPIES OF SOWETAN NEWSPAPER, ON A QUARTERLY BASIS. PRINTED BY PAARL MEDIA FOR TIMES MEDIA PTY LTD, 4 BIERMANN AVENUE, ROSEBANK, JOHANNESBURG

EDITOR’S IMAGE: KAFTAN, R750, KISUA 011 879 1954 COVER: SUIT, R9 500, EPHYMOL; SHIRT, R1 300, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND

JOIN THE CLUB

YOUR FREE GIFT Receive an Aramis Weekender Bag with the purchase of a 60ml or Larger Aramis EDT Fragrance Available from 12 March – 2 April 2017 One per customer. While stocks last.

fashion

DIANA ROSS

Jersey, R1 999, Pringle of Scotland; necklace, R50, Mr Price; heels, R620, Sissy Boy; sunglasses, R99, Superbalist; gloves, R349, H&M; skirt, R699, Witchery

FASHION ARCHITECT

FELIPE MAZIBUKO’S

jersey, R629, H&M; trousers, R799, H&M Studio Collection; scarf, R599, Trenery; flats, R999, Witchery; gloves, R849, Pringle of Scotland; sunglasses, R500, Aluta

Retro style

Ruffled dress, R2 299, H&M Studio Collection; Footwork X LootLove thighhigh boots, R900, The Showroom; Lola sunglasses, R99, Superbalist; scarf, R799, Pringle of Scotland; gloves, R149, H&M

Do it like Diana Ross with strong winter accessories text Khomotso Moloto

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PHOTOGRAPHY GALLO IMAGES / GETTY IMAGES / LARRY ELLIS ALUTA ALUTASUNGLASSES.CO.ZA H&M HM.COM MR PRICE MRP.COM/EN_ZA PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND 011 444 2270 SISSY BOY 011 447 6213 SUPERBALIST SUPERBALIST.CO.ZA THE SHOWROOM 011 656 0060 TRENERY WOOLWORTHS.CO.ZA WITCHERY WOOLWORTHS.CO.ZA

TOP TIP

It's easy to jazz up your look with a scarf.

Add flair by tying it together with a simple knot, or looping the scarf with a ring or even a vintage brooch.

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CHANGE IT UP — ONE BAG, THREE WAYS

MIMCO’s latest stylish addition to its collection, the Westminster Tote, allows today’s modern woman to be as versatile as she needs to be. Wear it in multiple ways by making simple adjustments and voilà — if there is ever a piece to invest in, this is it The classic look. Carry the tote by its top handles as you pop out for a business lunch.

Design This indulgent piece — rendered in Italian, snake-embossed hide and luxurious cow suede — is the perfect accompaniment to any occasion.

The urban look. Wear the mini bag cross-body for a day of high-street shopping.

The contemporary look. Remove the snake leather panel and fasten it together with press studs to create a clutch.

S. MAGAZINE 2017

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FASHION DESIGNER

PALEDI SEGAPO'S TOP TIP

Pair a delicate pussy-bow shirt with a utility jacket, casually thrown over the shoulders, for a fashion rebel look.

Bomber jacket, R4 599, Diesel; trousers, R399, H&M; watch, R2 880, Swatch; Bronx sneakers, R399, Zando; spectacles, R500, Aluta

Mid-seasonal utility

PHOTOGRAPHY GALLO IMAGES / GETTY IMAGES / GILES PETARD ADIDAS SHOP.ADIDAS.CO.ZA ALUTA ALUTASUNGLASSES.CO.ZA BEN SHERMAN 011 444 2270 COTTON ON COTTONON.CO.ZA COUNTRY ROAD WOOLWORTHS.CO.ZA H&M WWW.HM.COM/ZA MR PRICE MRP.COM/EN_ZA LUXOTTICA LUXOTTICA.COM/EN SUPERBALIST SUPERBALIST.COM SWATCH SWATCH.COM/EN_ZA WITCHERY WOOLWORTHS.CO.ZA ZANDO ZANDO.CO.ZA

Jacket, R699, Cotton On; chinos, R1 949, Ben Sherman; shirt, R450, pocket square, R80, both Woolworths; sneakers, R199, Zando; Ray-Ban sunglasses, R2 390, Luxottica; backpack, R2 899, Superbalist

HUGH MASEKELA

fashion

Jacket, R250, Mr Price; joggers, R599, Cotton On; socks, R99, Country Road; ring set, R50, Mr Price; mountaineering sneakers, R1 999, Adidas

Take a cue from Hugh Masekela’s military style this winter text Khomotso Moloto

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beauty benefits

BARBARA CASASOLA

PHOTOGRAPHY MAC COSMETICS AND SUPPLIED

A little cushioning Korean cushion technology is taking over our beauty cupboard this season. Achieve lightweight foundation coverage like a pro with Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Cushion in 05 Beige Ambre and 04 Beige Miel, R499.

The mesh-cushion combo delivers an aerated amount of foundation ready for flawless blending with no caking.

Fresh start

Begin the new season with a pared-down, effortless look — think neutral tones and a skin that won’t stop glowing text Nokubonga Thusi Barely there Praline, Baby Pink, and Nougat from the Yardley Stayfast Pro-UV Gel Nails (10ml, R110) are our favourite neutral shades to match any skin tone. These gel nail polishes have a saturated glossy colour after the first application, and are perfect for a fuss-free manicure.

GIVEAWAY

Glow Master The Environ Intensive Revival Masque, 50ml, R1 200, is best applied as an overnight leave-on mask to intensely hydrate the skin and give it a lit-from-within glow in the morning. The treatment uses a combination of alpha-hydroxy acids and vitamin A to increase the skin's collagen production and smooth out texture.

You may even be tempted to step out makeup-free that morning.

All eyes on lip exfoliators You can put your DIY brown-sugar scrubs and toothbrushes on ice, as this month sees the rise of exfoliators for your pout. Whether sloughing off a cracked-lip situation or prepping for a barely-there lip shade, these almost edible lip scrubs are high on our wish list. Try GloMinerals Exfoliating Lip Wand, R310; GlamGlow Poutmud Fizzy Lip Exfoliating Treatment, R390; and MAC Lip Scrubtious in Sweet Vanilla, R270.

MODERN MUSK MEETS ORIGINAL NIVEA CARE

Beat the heat this summer with the floral fragrance of NIVEA’s Fresh Musk deodorant. A refreshing spray of NIVEA Fresh Musk deodorant or an application of the roll-on, gives you all-day-long confidence and an irresistible fragrance that lasts.

The spray provides 48-hour protection from body odour or, if protection from sweating is what you need, the Fresh Musk roll-on is for you. NIVEA Fresh Musk, enriched with advanced care complex and precious oils, will leave your skin smooth and irritation-free.

Enter and stand a chance of winning one of 33 NIVEA Fresh Musk Deodorant hampers, valued at R150 each. Send your full name and daytime contact details to smag@sowetan.co.za or our postal address: PO Box 1746, Saxonwold, 2132. Don't forget to address your entry to the editor of Sowetan S Mag

The competition starts at 8am on Friday March 24 and ends at 8am on Monday April 10. The winner’s name will be published in the fifth issue of Sowetan S Mag. The prize must be taken up (or rejected) as awarded and cannot be transferred to any other person, sold, or converted to cash. The competition is open to all residents of South Africa over 18 years of age, except employees of Times Media (Pty) Ltd or Nivea. Your contact details will be kept private and not used for any marketing purposes.

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S. MAGAZINE 2017

1 X NIVEA Fresh Musk Roll-on, R20, 50ml; 1 X NIVEA Fresh Musk Spray, R30, 150ml; 1 X Infinity Summer Scarf, R100

ADVERTORIAL

“My spots have cleared up well, and my skin tone definitely looks more even” CRYSTAL KASPER PUT ENVIRON SKIN CARE TO THE TEST (@newhipsterstyle style blogger, (20’s) Johannesburg) I’ve been using Environ Skin Care products for 4 months and throughout this period, I’ve seen a dramatic improvement in my skin. My skin has become smoother, more hydrated and positively glowing. I suffer from occasional breakouts which tend to leave dark marks. Environ recommended the Original Range for me, and since I’ve been using it, my spots have cleared up well, and my skin tone definitely looks more even. I can honestly say that pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and breakouts were huge skin concerns at the start, but they’re almost non-existent now. The first thing people say when they meet me or see me it that I have beautiful skin, so I'm now very diligent when it comes to my skin care regime.

I know the journey isn’t over - the pursuit of beautiful, healthy skin is a life long journey. Discover her full story on www.newhipster.co.za.

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The scientifically researched combination of vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants in Environ’s Original Range gives skin exactly what it needs in adequate doses to keep it looking healthy and beautifully radiant for life.

Visit authorised Environ Professional Skin Centres to learn how Environ Skin Care products can help you to experience your skin #RebornBeautiful www.environskincare.com

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Environ’s Original Daily Essentials Discovery Set includes your full skin care routine to try for 30 days.

Available from 5 - 30 April 2017 at participating Authorised Environ Stockists.

While stocks last. T’s & C’s apply

ONLY R695* * Rec. RSP

PHOTOGRAPHY IAN GAVAN/GETTY IMAGES AND SUPPLIED

Old-school charm Put an old-school spin on your grooming with the traditional shaving medium used in barber shops.

The rich lather of shaving soap is ideal for speedy shaving, lasts longer than cream, and creates a protective barrier between facial hairs and skin. Choose a soap that has high oil content. Crabtree and Evelyn West Indian Lime Shave Soap in a Bowl, R650

FENG CHEN WANG

grooming

The grooming express

Cut your grooming time in half with these essential, time-conscious products text Nokubonga Thusi

Shaving Sidekick Now your shaving experience can be speedy, rewarding, and painless with Nuxe Men Multi-Purpose After-shave Balm, 50ml, R350. This hydrating moisturiser with a woody scent soothes skin irritations with its creamy, non-oily formula.

The balm contains oak and hornbeam extracts, and helps to repair the skin’s barrier and reduce the signs of fatigue.

Grooming Tip Create a rich shaving lather every time by first running your brush under warm water before swirling it in the soap tin.

Crabtree and Evelyn Shaving Brush, R1 250

Routine Business If the concept of a moisturiser that you can use on your face, body and hands seems like the one thing missing from your routine, look no further than the Nivea Men Even Tone Cream for Face, Body & Hands, 75ml, R45.

Grooming wishlist These products are the ultimate kit for the man on the go. The new Bleu de Chanel travel size is super-convenient, or try the deodorant version of your favourite scent. The all-rounder, minty-fresh shampoo from NAK is perfect for cleansing body, face, hair, and even your beard. Try NAK Daily Detox Shampoo, 250ml, R250; Mr Burberry Deodorant Spray, 150ml, R555; Bleu de Chanel EDP Refillable Travel Spray, 20ml and two refills, R1 530.

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advertorial

The Harrington jacket First Instinct is a fragrance that goes hand in hand with the effortless clean lines of the Abercrombie & Fitch brand, while still having a rugged masculine appeal.

Its gin and tonic and melon top note, followed by the Szechuan pepper middle note, make it attention grabbing without trying.

Abercrombie & Fitch First Instinct EDT, 100ml, R1 195

The leather backpack Dunhill Desire is practical but still refined: it’s your everyday scent that is carefully crafted with a slight rebellious streak. The leather and amber at its base give it a sense of luxury and majesty. The classic scent also has a burst of energy with red orange, bergamot, and saffron to keep you going.

Dunhill Desire Extreme EDT, 100ml, R1 195

YOUR FRAGRANCE WARDROBE

These timeless scents are inspired by iconic investment pieces — from leather bags to classic apparel designs

The statement heel Jimmy Choo is synonymous with one-of-a-kind iconic footwear: statementworthy, but not a trend piece. The original Jimmy Choo EDP, with its signature dimpled glass bottle and sensual scent, carries that same “look at me” confidence, without being too loud.

Jimmy Choo EDP, 100ml, R1 295

The classic timepiece Lady Emblem Elixir is a staple in any wardrobe, and provides an elegant finishing touch. The soft top note of damask rose is complemented by spicy black peppercorn, patchouli, and vanilla. Enjoy the way this scent becomes one with your skin.

Mont Blanc Lady Emblem Elixir EDP, 75ml, R1 295

For more information or your nearest stockist, call Bacher & Co, 011 372 6000

hair

I

deally, preparing your hair for winter should start at the beginning of autumn, when the temperatures start changing, to gently ease the hair into a more intensive routine. African hair is more fragile than Caucasian hair and natural hair is particularly difficult to manage, as it’s very curly, coarse, and breaks easily with any excessive traction — even combing. Therefore, hair requires some extra care when the temperatures drop to fight elevated brittleness, dehydration, and a lacklustre appearance.

According to Linda Gieskes, Founder of Suki Suki Naturals: “To get your hair — whether natural or relaxed — winterready, I would suggest getting a trim first, if you have split ends.

Trimming your hair will reinforce and strengthen it, so that it does not break unnecessarily due to the dryness of the winter months.”

The winter chill doesn’t have to signal the beginning of a seasonal struggle with your hair.

Whether you wear it in braids, a weave, or let your natural locks loose, your winter haircare game is about to become next level text Nokubonga Thusi

Moisture The two most important things to remember when it

PRODUCTS 1 2 3

4

5

comes with caring for your hair are moisture and protein. Moisture keeps hair supple, improves the elasticity of the hair curl, and decreases the chances of coarse, unmanageable hair. “Stock up on rich, butter- and oil-based products that will allow you to seal in moisture and shield off dryness,” Gieskes says. Although natural hair can absorb quite a bit of moisture, it’s also crucial to not over moisturise the hair, as it ends up looking limp, being weighed down, and breaking as a result of being too elastic.

Conditioning Another important step in the care of natural hair is conditioning. Not only is hair left softer, intensely nourished, and frizz-free, but applying a conditioner after every shampoo helps to seal the hair cuticle and retain moisture. Hair should be washed and conditioned every week or alternated with a co-wash every other week if hair is extremely dry. “In choosing a good conditioner look out for the following ingredients: plant oils such as olive oil and argan oil; amino acids (adds strength); panthanol (a vitamin that promotes hair growth); and polymers (moisturising agents),” says Betito Ebengo, former head stylist at ORS South Africa.

Protective Styling Although the movement towards natural hair has been strong in recent years, protective styles such as braids and weaves should not be seen as “anti-natural”. These styles greatly aid in the care of hair, especially in winter. “Putting your hair in a protective style, like twists, braids, or cornrows, will ensure that you retain low hair manipulation and prevent tangles, which lead to breakage,” Gieskes says. But don’t fall into the trap of staying with a protective style for too long: keep them in for maximum of two-and-a-half months.

1. Dr Miracle’s Daily Moisturising Lotion, 177ml, R100 2. Garnier Ultimate Blends The Strength Restorer Serum Honey, 50ml, R70 3. Suki Suki Naturals The HydroProtective Hair Mist, 150ml, R180 4. ORS Coconut Oil Hair and Scalp Wellness Oil, 90ml, R60 5. Thervine Hair Protein Cream Mask, 125ml, R330

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IMAGES GETTY IMAGES AND SUPPLIED

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

Get your natural hair winter-ready

advertorial

EMBRACE YOUR CURLS WITH CLICKS S

oaring temperatures, high humidity, and an outdoor lifestyle means there is no time to spend hours styling your hair. Rather take a nod from runway shows and fashion magazines to unleash your curls and embrace your natural texture.

Clicks, South Africa’s leading beauty retailer, has launched a new haircare category that is devoted to natural hair. It includes specially formulated products to unleash the beautiful possibilities of natural, curly hair.

Whether your hair is kinky, curly, coily, or wavy, shopping for natural-hair products is now as simple as one, two, three with Clicks. Cantu, Aunt Jackie’s, Design Essentials, Hask, Palmer’s, Twisted Sista, ORS Curls Unleashed, Noughty, AfroBotanics, Au Naturale, Donna, Garnier Ultimate Blends, My Naturals, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, and Black Pearl Hair are a few of the trusted brands

available. Whether you’re looking for a new leave-in or simply want more bounce in your natural curl, there is an abundance of offerings, leaving your hair spoilt for choice.

Each product is formulated with essential oils that nourish and maintain the health of your hair. Avocado oil is good for moisturising dry, brittle, and damaged hair. Olive oil moisturises the new, exfoliated layer of skin.

Coconut oil stimulates hair growth, getting deep into its follicles, and adds lustre, shine, and softness to the hair.

These are only a few of the essential oils you can find in the vast product ranges.

The products are available at selected Clicks stores.

Embrace your natural hair. Join the conversation: @clicks_sa #Clickscurls #Clickshairconvo

The KISS

OF LIFE

14

Vuyo Dabula’s career has taken off, but whichever roles he plays, his wife and child are always his focus text Emmanuel Tjiya photography Steve Tanchel / Red Hot Ops

T

here was a time when I wouldn’t kiss on camera as an actor,” reveals Vuyo Dabula, casually. The actor oozes effortless cool with his movie-star looks and off-duty style — a pair of simple ripped jeans, fitted grey T-shirt, and fedora. “It was both a spiritual and religious thing for me. When I took that stance I truly believed that I was doing the right thing.”

As he walks into our offices, he tries hard to go unnoticed with his head buried in his cellphone. But soon he is spotted and so it begins — the whispers, pointing of fingers, and whipping out of mobile devices. One onlooker mutters, “It’s Gadaffi.”

The 40-year-old has amassed quite a following since his acting breakthrough on Generations: The Legacy, where he plays the cunning, yet sensitive and emotionally troubled, gangster Kumkani “Gadaffi” Phakade. Every night, Dabula’s character is beamed to the millions of South Africans who religiously gather around their TV sets to watch the popular soapie.

Dabula hails from Mahikeng, the capital of the North West, and has learnt how to survive on the “streets”. Reflecting on his tough rise to stardom, Dabula says he had to hold a couple of odd jobs, including working on a construction site. “I remember driving for a food company, waiting on tables, and driving little kids to crèche. I did a lot of things to survive, but I didn’t strip,” he jokingly says.

With his ripped abs, chiselled chest, and big guns, it comes as no surprise that in 2015 throngs of fans voted him SowetanLIVE Mzansi’s Sexiest man. To get his

“I GET INSPIRATION FROM THE MOVIE STARS AND THE STREET. A LOT OF THE TIME I’M JUST A COPYCAT. I’D LOOK AT A ROCK STAR AND JUST RECREATE THE LOOK FOR MYSELF”

S. MAGAZINE 2017

interview

Boiler suit, R9 000, House of Olè; sneakers, R2 300, Puma; watch, R2 290, Swatch; bracelet, model’s own

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Jacket, R3 800, Ephymol; knit top, R2 400, Naked Ape; jeans, R799, H&M; sneakers, R2 300, Puma; watch, R2 290, Swatch; bracelet, model’s own

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FASHION EDITOR KHOMOTSO MOLOTO PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT THEMBA MOSAKA MAKEUP KHUMOETSILE HLATSHWAYO HAIR SAADIQUE RYKLIEF FASHION INTERN SAHIL HARILAL

interview washboard abs, Dabula puts in five gym sessions a week at two-and-a-half hours each.

“I think I was a gladiator in my past life. Gym is like a temple for me.

I think God resides there. When I’m running on the treadmill, I think Jesus is by my side cheering me on. I really work hard,” Dabula says.

Although he has always been athletic, the actor says that he follows a strict diet. “A high percentage of your success belongs to the diet. You can’t outrun a bad diet.” The actor is so dedicated that he plans all his meals.

“I will cook for the day a day before, but with my hectic schedule I have come up with quick meals.”

Dabula first tasted fame in 2003 when he starred alongside the late singer Lebo Mathosa in the film Soldiers of the Rock. “It is amazing how I had been in this industry for a very long time before people took notice,” Dabula says.

He admits that his no-kissing stance affected his career somewhat.

“I remember Angus Gibson looking at me perplexed when he gave me my big break to star in Yizo Yizo III. Here I was being given my first TV role in the biggest show on TV at that time, and he couldn’t understand it.”

The same production company did, however, go on to cast him in another role in TV series, Zone 14, alongside actress Terry Pheto. But the same luck didn’t follow him to the set of SABC3 soapie Isidingo. In 2011 he portrayed the villainous Cherel de Villiers’ (Michelle Botes) defence lawyer Titus Lesenya, but the show eventually had to let him go because it proved impossible to not write a love interest into his storyline.

The actor says he has come a long way since the “no-kissing” clause in his contracts. “My whole stance on kissing changed after a long period of being validated by producers, directors, and just how people kept wanting to work with me, even though I kept pushing them away.” After dropping the clause, he landed the role on Generations two years ago — a “huge turn” in his career. “One day I just called my agent and I said, ‘Listen, let’s drop that thing — it’s time’. That final straw was when my son was born. I knew what the street had done to me and I did not want him to go through that.”

It took three months for his agent to find him the role of Gadaffi. “The Generations people showed some faith and confirmed me. The feeling was something else, just amazing. The money that was being discussed was unbelievable,” he says.

With growing popularity, the actor’s personal life has also fallen under the spotlight, but when it comes to the limelight, his family is off limits.

Dabula immediately lights up when talking about his wife and two-year-old son. “They are the reasons that I do this. I’m doing all of this so my son and

his mommy live a good life,” he says. Dabula is firm, however, that their privacy is protected. “They did not choose this life. I’m the one that wanted it, not them. I want them to have the privacy they deserve. Let them be in peace: crucify me, hit me — I’m the one that is in the public eye,” he says.

Another family member who was integral in Dabula’s life was his father, whom he recently lost. “My father passed away about four months ago,” he says. Dabula, a boxing fanatic, says it was his father who introduced him to the sport. “He would wake me up really early in the morning local time to catch them live from the US,” Dabula says.

As a special tribute to his father, in January he took to the ring during an exhibition match at the South African Boxing Awards in Durban, where he faced off against Muvhango actor Gabriel Temudzani. In preparing for the face-off, Dabula trained with one of his boxing heroes and former World Boxing Union Welterweight Champion Jan Bergman. “I grew up with boxing. We would watch the Fabulous Four — Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Thomas Hearns and Marvelous Marvin Hagler — the guys that dominated the heavyweights. For me to be part of something that is meant to revive boxing, something that (my father) loved just gave me goose bumps.”

Dabula is now gearing up for the next chapter in his career: being a leading man on the big screen.

He is starring in local Western, Five Fingers for Marseilles, which will hit cinemas across the country later in 2017. Dabula shot the film on location last winter in the rural village of Lady Grey in the Eastern Cape. The film features an all-star cast, including Kenneth Nkosi, Mduduzi Mabaso, Jerry Mofokeng, and Warren Masemola.

“Recently we just did postproduction on the movie. I don’t think I’ve seen anything like that in South Africa. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing — I think it’s going to be something else.

“Shooting this film was quite intense because I fought against the elements and a lot of things, both emotionally and physically. It was shot in sub-zero degrees: it was so cold and snowing. But it all worked out beautifully.”

Dabula teases that we can expect more film work from him. He is linked to a future film project helmed by director Akin Omotoso, although he says it’s in development stage.

In 2016 he scored big when GQ South Africa named him best-dressed man, although he still believes he is clueless when it comes to fashion. “I get inspiration from the movie stars and the street. A lot of the time I’m just a copycat. I’d look at a rock star and just recreate the look for myself,” Dabula says. “Lenny Kravitz is one of my style influences, except that I’m not bold enough to wear leather pants. I like to keep it nice and simple. I love a good tailored suit.”

“I REMEMBER DRIVING FOR A FOOD COMPANY, WAITING ON TABLES, AND DRIVING LITTLE KIDS TO CRÈCHE. I DID A LOT OF THINGS TO SURVIVE, BUT I DIDN’T STRIP”

STOCKISTS Diesel 011 783 0882 Ephymol Ephymol@yahoo.com House of Olé ole@houseofole.co.za Naked Ape 011 447 8888 Pringle of Scotland 011 783 4355 Puma 087 232 7913 Swatch swatch.co.za

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mane attrac tion The latest retro throwback to the ’70s isn’t only about fashion: it’s all about defining our own narratives around beauty and hair

( top row, left to right) Wrap top, R349, Cotton On; jeans, R3 399, Diesel; earrings, R26, Mr Price; dress, R899, H&M; shoes, R120, Mr Price (bottom row, left to right) Sweater, price on request, Rich Mnisi; skirt, R429, H&M; shoes, R1 799, Mimco; socks, stylist’s own; dress, R3 650, Arwen; tights, R30, H&M; boots, R2 499, Country Road; scarf (worn in hair), R59, Mr Price; jewellery, model’s own; dress, R349, Cotton On; blouse, R249, H&M; shoes, R1 399, Steve Madden; ring, model’s own text Komotso Moloto

photography Kgomotso Tleane

production Khomotso Moloto photography Kgomotso Tleane

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Dress, R1 199, H&M; scarf (worn in hair), R59, Mr Price; shoes, R1 399, Steve Madden; nose ring, model’s own

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fashion

Dress, R699, H&M; necklace; sandals, both model’s own

Dress, R799, H&M; ring, model’s own

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Left: Dress, R999, Topshop; scarf (worn in hair), R59, Mr Price; jewellery, model’s own

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Right: Shirt, R799, Topshop; dress, R499, Woolworths

PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT SIMZ MKHWANAZI MAKEUP LIZ VAN DER MERWE/ LAMPOST HAIR SAADIQUE RYKLIEF MODELS REABETSWE RENAMANE/ BOBO RADU/ NKENGE ARSCOTT/ SUNSHINE SHIBAMBO/ KWENA BALOYI FASHION INTERN SAHIL HARILAL LOCATION KHUMALO STREET, ORLANDO WEST AND THE SHACK 082 933 5193

fashion

“HOW I CHOOSE TO WEAR MY HAIR IS NOT UP FOR NEGOTIATION” — BOBO

“EMBRACE YOUR BLACKNESS AND WEAR YOUR CROWN WITH PRIDE. YOUR HAIR IS DELICATE AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS SUCH” — KWENA Jersey, price on request, Rich Mnisi; dress, R1 400, D.O.P.E

“DEFINE YOUR OWN NARRATIVE OF BEAUTY AND HAIR. HEALTHY HAIR IS GOOD HAIR”— NKENGE

STOCKISTS Arwen 011 447 0247 Country Road woolworths.co.za Cotton On cottonon.co.za Diesel 011 783 0882 D.O.P.E iamsodope.store@gmail.com H&M hm.com/za Mimco woolworths.co.za Mr Price mrp.com Rich Mnisi richmnisi.com Steve Madden 011 784 0406 Topshop 011 685 7070 Woolworths woolworths.co.za

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The mother in the city

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olunwabo Mdingi*, from Protea Glen, left her now 10-year-old son back in Port Elizabeth with her mother when circumstances forced her to move to Johannesburg to look for a job. The 30-year-old says she attributes her decision to leave her son to be raised by her mother to the “hustle”. Mdingi fell pregnant shortly after finishing high school, and says her mother was angry at first, and refused to be involved in any of the child care.

But two years after being home and adjusting to motherhood, Mdingi says she had an emotional conversation with her mother. “She told me that I cannot afford to let life pass me by like that, and that she would give me money to enrol for a call-centre course, and that I could come to Joburg and stay with my aunt. I was beyond shocked,” she says.

Mdingi enrolled at the call-centre training institution, and then got a job at one of the major bank’s call centres. Eight years later, her son still lives with her mother.

“My son is fine where he is. I would like for him to be grounded, and not be polluted

by Johannesburg,” she says.

Another reason Mdingi does not yet want to stay with her son is financial. “I work in a call centre, and although I support myself and my family, I stay in text Karabo Disetlhe-Mtshayelo a rented room… There are illustrations Rendani Nemakhavhani times when I have to borrow money,” she says, adding that one day she would “sort myself out, and he and I can be together, finally”.

When asked about the effects of the distance between them, Mdingi says her relationship with her son is fine. “I speak to him on the phone at least two to three times a week. I took leave over the festive season and spent all my time with him. He still calls me mom, and my mother grandmother,” she says. “I send money back home, and he knows that mommy is away because she is making a better life for him. One day, all will be all right.”

CHILDREN RAISED

BY THEIR GRANDPARENTS What are the effects of distant parenting on parent-child dynamics?

We investigate the implications

The parenting grandmother

Zingisa Mdingi*, 54, lives with her 10-year-old grandson, whom she is raising while her daughter works in Johannesburg, sending money back home to Port Elizabeth each month. “I really do not mind raising my grandson. I have a special bond with him, and he is growing up so well,” Mdingi says, adding that her daughter works hard and provides for him. “I really have no complaints.”

Mdingi says her daughter will stay with her grandson when “the time is right”.

“He does miss her from time to time, and that is when we would pick the phone up and call her,” she says. “He tends to enjoy every moment he spends with her when she does visit. I also enjoy the time I spend with my grandson, so there is no harm in that.”

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conversations The professional psychologist

We spoke to child psychologist Refiloe Sebiloane, to find out more about the dynamics of distant parenting. She says it is naive for parents and grandparents to believe a child is not affected by this separation. “Any child who has to be separated from their parents is psychologically impacted,” she says. “They tend to be confused as to why their mother is not around.”

Sebiloane says, in her experience, some children blame themselves for their parents not staying with them. “This is the reason you find kids who would then refer to their grandparents as their parents, because it is a form of a security blanket. They need someone to be a mother or father figure, and who best to play that role than the people the child actually gets to see, play with, and live with every day?” she asks.

Sebiloane adds that some children grow up with resentment. She has worked with children who, after being reunited with their parent, have found it difficult. “What is worse is that some parents want to carry on as normal, as if nothing ever happened,” she says. “They want to be the primary disciplinarian, and most of the time this is met with a lot of rebellion.”

Children who grew up with grandparents

Thirty-four-year-old Zandi Sibiya*, a beautician who also spoke to us on condition of anonymity, was raised by her grandparents. Sibiya says her mother was away, and she vividly remembers her grandparents complaining.

“I would constantly hear how she was busy with men, or how she was having a nice time and not caring what happened to her child,” she says.

Although the comments were not directed at her, Sibiya says that she would often overhear her grandparents arguing when they thought she wasn’t within earshot. “They would complain about having to buy school uniforms, or how we did not have food in the house, but my mother was living nicely wherever she was,” she says. “Those bitter words really hurt me deeply, and have stayed with me since.”

Sibiya says she and her mother have never had a relationship. “She eventually got married and had my half siblings, but I always felt like the outsider, the one who got left behind,” she says. She now speaks to her mother only once in a while over the phone. She says she does not hate her mother, but: “I wish she had not brought me into this world if she knew she could not take care of me fully.” As a mother herself, Sibiya say she cannot imagine leaving her children. “They go with me where I go,” she says.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, 29-year-old Katlego Rammusa, who is in the information technology field, says being brought up by his grandparents was a blessing in disguise.

“Growing up with my grandparents, I became a very disciplined child,” he says. “Sometimes it would be difficult because of things like homework, where my grandparents had no clue what trigonometry was, but they really did their best.” Rammusa says he is thankful for all the morals and values his grandparents instilled in him, which he says he carries with him to this day.

Rammusa, who lives in Soshanguve in Pretoria, says he bears no resentment towards his mother, as he understands where she was coming from when she left him to find work. “She is my mother and I love her deeply,” he says. “In fact, seeing how she struggled when I was young gave me the motivation to succeed, and I want to do everything for her so that she never needs anything ever again in this life.” *Not their real names We would love to hear your feedback and opinions on this topic, so do inbox us (Smag@sowetan.co.za) or write to us (Sowetan SMag, PO Box 1746, Saxonwold, 2132) and let us know what you think.

“I WISH SHE HAD NOT BROUGHT ME INTO THIS WORLD IF SHE KNEW SHE COULD NOT TAKE CARE OF ME FULLY”

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leadership

BUILDING YOUR CAREER

Noluthando Molao bagged a Women in Construction award in 2016, but says her journey in a male-dominated industry has only just begun text Mduduzi Nonyane photography Aubrey Jonsson / One League

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W

here were you born and raised? I was born in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape. Have you always known you were destined for a construction-related career? Yes, my passion has always been to contribute to the development of my community, so I studied towards a BSc quantity surveying (honours). Did you study further after your degree? I have a postgraduate diploma in property development and management from Wits University. I am finalising my MBA at Wits Business School. How were your studies funded? The BSc (honours) was funded by a student loan, the postgraduate diploma was funded by the Construction Education and Training Authority, and the MBA is self-funded. How did winning the Women in Construction award make you feel? I realised that hard work pays off, and the recognition from the industry itself means a lot. What is it like being a black woman in construction? Nothing worthwhile comes easy in life. Technical ability, hard work, resilience, and a good network are vital for success. How would you advise young aspirant businesswomen, especially those looking to get into construction? The construction industry requires technical skills and ability. These can be acquired through formal education and/or on-the-job training. You must be prepared to get into a mentorship relationship to widen your contacts and network. Would you encourage other women to take a similar path? Yes, because women’s involvement in the industry is on the rise. Growing up in South Africa, my association of the construction industry was limited to labourers, men, dirt, and so on. However, through career-guidance awareness, I realised that the built environment is vast. How do you balance your career with the rest of your life? Work-life balance is incredibly difficult to achieve, especially in the construction industry. Our industry comes with constraints: projects have to be delivered on time, within cost; and quality, as well as health and safety, have to be taken into account. This puts a lot of pressure on the team, but I am blessed to have a good social and spiritual support base from family, friends, and church.

Does business run in the family? Yes, my grandmother was an entrepreneur selling fresh produce. My siblings and I used to accompany her to the market to procure vegetables, package them, and help her sell. I learnt from a very young age the importance of working hard and earning your own money. Did you always know you would succeed? My mother told me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. I was able to achieve my goals through an education and continuous hard work.

advertorial

Marketing professional turned art adviser Makgati Molebatsi is the embodiment of the Trenery woman’s style and grace

PPHOTOGRAPHY STEVE TANCHEL / RED HOT OPS PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT THEMBA MOSAKA FASHION EDITOR KHOMOTSO MOLOTO MAKEUP KHUMOETSILE HLATSHWAYO HAIR SAADIQUE RYKLIEF

MY WORLD The bravest thing I’ve ever done was to leave a 30-year career in marketing to do a course in art and business; then set up an art advisory business,” says Makgati. The Sharpevilleborn businesswoman is now a regular on the local art scene, where she stands out with her minimal, monochromatic, and conceptual style. Like art, how you put an outfit together is just as important as the individual pieces, and Makgati’s three must-have fashion items are “a pair of loose-fitting jeans, a soft cashmere shawl, and ballet flats — understated and chic,” she says. To help her stay on top of her game, Makgati ensures her wardrobe is refined and sophisticated, yet comfortable and versatile. “I can move from a meeting in the daytime to an exhibition opening in the evening and still look chic with a bit of accessorising,” she says.

For some of her staples, she turns to Trenery — a brand that is modern and timeless in style, with the understated luxury of quality fabrics and considered details. “The clothes are classic, easy to wear and become staples in my wardrobe.” she says.

EARRINGS R349 BANGLE R699

OUTFIT Coat, R2 799; shirt, R899; pants, R1 299; nougat shoes, R999

Shirt, R899; poncho, R2 299; pants, R1 299; bag, from R999

SCENT “I love Byredo’s Oud Immortel for its minimalist packaging and smoky, masculine scent.”

ARTIST “My favourite local artist is Liza Grobler, a mixed-media artist.” (Jorts! For Ever After, 2011, mixed media drawing, 40x26cm, pictured) CRAFTS “I also like the craft of ceramics.”

(Imisoceramics, pictured)

must-haves

By Khomotso Moloto, Fashion editor — This season my hit list from Trenery shows what we love most about this elegant yet versatile brand. OUTFIT As we transition into autumn these light tones are sure to be the perfect addition to one’s capsule wardrobe, with comfortable fits, luxurious fabrics, and flattering cuts. SHOES From nude flats to block heels, Trenery’s perfectly crafted shoes speak volumes. BAGS We are crushing on the Helga reversible tote — the bigger the better in this case. For a more casual look, pair your outfit with this Trenery sling and you are good to go. JEWELS Add a touch of elegance with a ravishing pair of earrings or bracelet — the perfect finishing touches to carry you through this season.

All clothes available from Trenery, woolworths.co.za

finance

BUILDING HEALTHY to live within your FINANCIAL Learning means involves changing HABITS your attitude towards money text Dineo Tsamela

and curbing unnecessary spending

T

Know exactly how much you earn and the full extent of your responsibilities. This means you have to learn how to draw up a budget and stick to it. This will also make it easier for you to find money to put aside.

Budgeting won’t work if you draw up a beautiful budget and forget about it the moment money hits your account.

Pay yourself first

Developing healthy financial habits means paying yourself first for what you need to get through the month. It should take priority — right up there with your rent and car payments. You can start small and work your way to a higher amount as you shave off more debt.

Be aware of the extent of your debt

If possible, avoid getting into trouble with your creditors. Avoid using one form of credit to pay for another, do not max out your credit cards, and if you want to buy something — but it’s not a matter of life or death — save up for it, and buy it when you have enough money set aside.

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BE PREPARED FOR RAINY DAYS

4

The point of an emergency account is to have enough money set aside to cover an emergency so you can pay for any “accidents” without having to turn to credit. It’s up to you to decide how much money should be in that account, as long as you are at least saving something.

You might have a list of things you want to achieve but have to put off because you don’t have the funds.

Writing your goals down and working within your budget to attain those goals is important and will help you keep focused.

Have financial goals that you review regularly

LEARN TO BUDGET PROPERLY

he journey to financial wellness is not an easy one.

The most difficult thing about handling your money is making sustainable money habits a part of your everyday life. You’re always going to be tempted by that sale, or that dress you feel you absolutely must have — and that’s before we even start on all the financial responsibilities you shoulder. However, the key to achieving financial wellness lies in planning and really looking at needs versus wants.

You can read all the articles in the world about wealth creation, but it won’t happen until you start working towards it diligently. Here are a few habits you can adopt on your path to becoming money savvy.

care of your 2 Take estate planning

5

6

Get life and disability cover and draw up a will. These don’t require much time, but go a long way in helping you secure you and your family’s financial future should anything happen.

Don’t be afraid to seek help from a financial adviser.

3

DON’T FORGET TO SEE THE LONG-TERM PICTURE

Know and understand that building wealth and developing healthy money habits will take a while. It won’t happen overnight, so be easy on yourself. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that get-rich-quick schemes will solve all your problems. Read and invest in knowing more about money, as this will help you understand the time and patience it takes to define what financial wellness means to you.

7

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AVAILABLE AT LEVI’S FLAGSHIP AND SELECTED EDGARS STORES +27 11 630 4000

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2017/03/08 3:36 PM

health

S

ummer bodies are made in winter and there is no better time than now to get your #BodyGoals in check. With social media dictating the narrative on so many trends, it is no surprise that a crop of online fitness personalities has emerged as the leaders when it comes to getting our bodies fit and healthy. Adidas brand ambassador and Women’s Health Next Fitness Star winner, Mapule Ndhlovu, is better known as @Queenfitnass to her many Instagram followers.

The fitness beauty, who grew up in Alexandra, claims “fitness chose her”. As a young girl, she attended the

Don’t be salty

GET YOUR BODY RIGHT text Palesa Buyeye

local gym to “blow off some steam”, eventually becoming an aerobics instructor. She was then discovered by the Institute of Fitness Professionals and studied exercise sciences, qualifying as a personal trainer. Ndhlovu now trains celebrities and says she wants to carry on promoting and teaching the country about fitness and diet.

We caught up with her for some quick-fire tips: • The only way to gain fitness is through love and passion • Use techniques that work for you • Move every day. If you can only do 30 minutes at the gym that’s okay, as long as you are moving • Make sure you are putting in what you are taking out; and • Use natural substances, such as wheat and ginger for energy, and protein to repair muscles.

With the new year, aka #20Slayenteen, well on the way, we look at some of the ways you can take care of your body and wellbeing

Mushrooms each day could keep cancer away Research shows certain diets are powerful allies in the fight against breast cancer. International research has found that the consumption of a portion of mushrooms a day (average of 10g) appears to halve the risk of breast cancer. Locally, the South African Mushroom Farmers Association (Samfa) is joining in the fight against breast cancer by providing support to Reach for Recovery’s Ditto project.

In conjunction with Pick n Pay and Thermopac, it has created a charity to provide silicone prostheses for breast-cancer survivors from underprivileged communities. mushroominfo.co.za; Reach for Recovery, 079 462 3972

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South Africa has high rates of hypertension, with one in three adults suffering from raised blood pressure.

It is estimated that South Africans take in up to eight teaspoons of salt a day. Dietician Thando Mabaso says the average person should consume a maximum of two teaspoons of salt a day. This includes salt already found in foods, such as bread. Mabaso says while we often think that salt is what adds flavour to food, we must not ignore the natural flavours of spices, herbs, and onions.

She says “diet” is often seen as a “Western concept”, which may account for the lack of black dieticians.

She emphasises that many South African are suffering from preventable lifestyle diseases. One needs to have a balanced diet, consisting of a fist of starch, a palm of protein, and two hands of vegetables per meal.

For more healthy diet information, visit Mabaso’s blog, mabasodietitian.co.za

THB/40914/SM/E

THE BOLD NEW RANGE Selected product will be available from 10 October 2016. All product will be available from mid November 2016 in Jockey stores and selected retailers. © 2016 Jockey International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Jockey is a registered trademark of Jockey International Inc. Made in South Africa.

0800-562539, www.jockey.co.za,

40914_david_smag_a.indd 1

JockeySA,

@Jockey_SA,

JockeySA

27/09/2016 12:51

motoring

I

mage-conscious South Africans seem to be averse to smaller-engined, slower cars — we like our cars loud and fast, with the right level of “vvvvrrrrpphhaa!” But with the economy the way it is, this trend might change as people become more educated about the perks of driving more fuel-efficient cars.

What are fuel-efficient cars, you may ask. In simple terms, fuel efficiency or economy in a car is how much fuel is consumed in a specific distance covered. In the South African context, we calculate how many litres of petrol are used over 100km. The lower the number of litres, the more economical the car.

Usually the figures claimed by manufacturers differ from real-life driving, due to a variety of factors, such as how the driver drives the car, traffic, weight on the car, the condition of the tyres, and so on.

Materials used in car manufacturing also weigh (no pun intended) on the efficiency of the car. Heavier metals, such as steel, are typically used for car body shapes, while lighter and more durable — but also more expensive — aluminium is generally used for body panels, such as doors and hoods. This is done to save weight and, therefore, help the car to be more fuel efficient. text Thembekile Vokwana Luckily for drivers looking to save on fuel, the European manufacturers, such as BMW, Citroën, Fiat, and Volkswagen, are really upping their game in producing cars that are more fuel efficient, while still meeting the stringent regulations from the European Union.

Locally, the proposal of carbon tax for new cars is also aimed at counterbalancing carbon emissions and encouraging car owners to buy smaller cars that are more fuel efficient. A charge of R75 for each gram of carbon dioxide emitted per 100km might not seem like much, but the higher the fuel consumption of your car, the more money you’ll fork out on the carbon tax.

The aim to slash the amount of carbon emissions produced by cars is popular in Europe, as are smaller cars, and there is a growing trend for certain urban areas to be car-free zones. That trend has yet to take hold on our shores, with the closest we got being a car-free month for some roads in Sandton, during the month-long EcoMobility Festival in October 2015.

There is a correlation between fuel efficiency and emissions that cause air pollution, so the more fuel efficient the car, the less carbon dioxide it emits, and the better it is for the environment.

1

2

HOW MUCH JUICE IS YOUR CAR GUZZLING?

With the cost of living constantly climbing and petrol prices stubbornly high, more car buyers are looking at fuel-efficient cars

3

4

TOP 10 MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT CARS IN SOUTH AFRICA*

1 BMW i3 Rex Hybrid Petrol 5-dr 94Ah AT: 0.6l/100km 2 Fiat 500 0.9 Twin Air Pop Base 63kW 3-door: 3.8l/100km 3 Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Trend 5-dr Dsl MY13: 3.6l/100km 4 Toyota Yaris 1.5 Xs Hybrid 5-dr CVT MY15.5: 3.6l/100km 5 Citroën C1 1.0 VTi 51kW 5-dr: 4.1l/100km 6 Mercedes-Benz A220d Style 5-dr MY15 Diesel Automatic: 4l/100km 7 Polo 1.4 TDI Highline 77kW Dsl 5-dr MY16: 4.1l/100km 8 Audi A1 1.0T FSI S 3-dr PI MY15: 4.2l/100km 9 Smart forfour 1.0 Proxy 5-dr: 4.2l/100km 10 Hyundai i10 1.1 Motion MY11 5-dr: 4.8l/100km

*This 2016 list was compiled by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa. It includes hybrid cars that have both an electric and petrol engine. Please note, the above figures are claimed by the manufacturers and you are highly unlikely to match these in real life.

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WW32251/S/E

SHOP THE WINTER COLLECTION I N S TO R E | O N L I N E W O O LW O R T H S .C O. Z A

LUXE& LIGHT The living room is the heart of the home, the space where we spend quality time with family, as well as entertain visitors. Go for a neutral foundation and, with a bit of imagination, the design possibilities are endless — even on a budget text Ntombenhle Shezi

R2 699, @home

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Coffee table,

White couch,

R5 000, Mr Price

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TOP TIP

Gold pot, R90, H&M

Grey couch, R6 000, Mr Price

Mirrors are a good way to open up small places and, if placed in a good position, can help enhance a room’s light.

Ceramic vase, R99, Mr Price

STYLING SVEN ALBERDING/ BUREAUX PHOTOGRAPH GREG COX/ BUREAUX

Woolworths

Photo frame, R190,

Bookcase, R999, Makro

Leather cushion,

R1 399, Woolworths

Studio W lamp, R1 899, Woolworths

decor

STOCKISTS @home home.co.za H&M hm.com/za Makro makro.com Mr Price mrphome.com Woolworths woolworths.co.za Zana zanaproducts.co.za

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If Lentswe Bhengu were a dish, he would be a potjie — a man of many ingredients.

Chef, traveller, entrepreneur, entertainer, MC, and TV presenter are just some of his many talents text Lizeka Fitshane photography Aubrey Jonsson / One League

Cooking up a storm

H

ow do you tell your traditionalist father that you have quit your steady finance job to become a chef? That was the dilemma facing Lentswe Bhengu when he secretly enrolled at The Culinary Academy in the Cape Winelands a few years ago. Bhengu doesn’t regret giving up his job in the investment-finance sector; however, it did take him two years to come clean to his father about his career change. When he finally did so, despite his father’s shock, he was also cheerful and thrilled, the chef says. Bhengu’s late father was his mainstay, and told his son he admired him for taking the leap of faith and pursuing his dream and passion.

Bhengu’s love of cooking was sparked at the family home, where he found joy in helping his mother in the kitchen. From those humble beginnings, the 31-year-old has since worked at fine-dining restaurants, such as Cape Town eateries Savoy Cabbage and The Roundhouse, as well as various catering companies across the country.

What sets this Durbanite apart is how he infuses his love for Africa into the food he prepares, drawing inspiration from the countries he has visited. The young chef travels across the continent to learn more about the different cultures through food.

“African cuisine is love — it is a match made in heaven,” he says.

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Bhengu says he wants to be the voice of African cuisine.

“I wanted to be a pioneer of something that has never been done in South Africa — to make noise about African food,” he says.

Bhengu took drama at school, and he now uses those skills on the TV shows he hosts, including Africa on Plate, which was recently screened on BET; and The Great South African Bake Off, on BBC Lifestyle channel; as well as Soweto TV’s, Kasi Kitchen — a far cry from when he started with YouTube videos and blogs.

Bhengu is also a regular on the food-expo scene and his travels have taken him from the streets of Gugulethu in Cape Town to the buzzing Stone Town in Zanzibar. Bhengu’s rising star recently took him to Switzerland to the second annual Chefs Symposium, where he shared the story of his culinary journey with participants.

Bhengu is busy working on a recipe book, but for now, here are a few of his recipes you can try your hand at for the ultimate cross-continental experience.

PEPPER

PEPPER

SEA SALT

HERBS

SEARED PEPPERED BEEF FILLET

food

CLOVES

HERBS

with plantain purée and red-wine mushroom sauce, from Zanzibar/Tanzania

SERVES 2

Ingredients

For the plantain purée

2 large plantains, peeled and finely diced 500ml (2 cups) full-cream milk 250ml (1 cup) fresh cream white pepper, to taste sea salt, to taste 1 clove 2 cardamom seeds 15ml (1 tbsp) butter

For the peppered steak

2x150g fillet steak medallions 50ml olive oil 45ml (3 tbsp) crushed black pepper 10ml (2 tsp) sea salt

For the red wine and mushroom sauce

10ml (2 tsp) butter ½ medium onion, finely diced 1 small garlic clove, minced 70g mushrooms, finely sliced 60ml (¼ cup) red wine 125ml (½ cup) beef stock (not too strong) 30ml (2 tbsp) micro herbs for garnish

Method

To make the plantain mash: put the milk, cream, cardamom seeds, and clove in a saucepan and bring to the boil, then add the chopped plantain and lower the temperature to a simmer.

Cook the plantains until soft — about 35 minutes. Drain the plantains in a colander, retaining the liquid in a bowl. Transfer the plantains into a liquidiser and add a little of the liquid to blend. Add the butter and blend, and add enough of the liquid to form a purée, but ensure it is not too liquid. Season with salt and white pepper. In the meantime, make the mushroom and red-wine sauce by heating the butter in a saucepan, sautéing the onions until slightly golden, then adding in the garlic and sautéing for another minute or two. Add in the mushrooms and cook until all the water has evaporated; then add the wine, bring to the boil, and reduce by half. Add in the stock and boil again to reduce by about half. Season to taste. To prepare the steak: heat a frying pan without oil, until very hot. Rub the steaks well with oil, salt, and pepper, then add a little oil to the pans and sear the steaks until brown on one side. Do the same on the other side. Transfer the steaks to a baking tray. Preheat the oven to 200˚C. Place the steaks in the oven to cook for 8 to 9 minutes, depending on size and level of “doneness” required. Divide the creamed plantain between two plates and serve with the steak and red-wine mushroom sauce. Find more of Bhengu’s recipes at sowetanlive.co.za/goodlife/s-mag

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wedding

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And the theme song for their life knew from the get-go together? Namhla says John Legend’s that she was the girl You & I fits them best. “Whenever he I was going to marry,” surprises me with romantic gestures says Sipe Mgqibi of I’m always worried about how I look his wife Namhla. On — my make-up, my hair, nails, and meeting her, Sipe tried so on — but he sees me as beautiful to get a mutual friend to set him up outside of those things,” she says. on a date with Namhla Gobana, but The couple say they promised when the friend declined, he was each other that all disagreements forced to make contact himself. “He would be respectful. “We try to decided to inbox… We were friends see ourselves as a team and make on social media for some time before text Londiwe Dlomo collective decisions on almost we exchanged numbers and started photography Qamani Siwundla / Royal Heirs everything. Christ is at the centre talking every day,” Namhla recalls. of our marriage and we love to pray The couple eventually started together,” Namhla says. Sipe adds: dating, with their first “romantic” “We’re the baddest team — I can’t date of dinner and dancing ending wait to start a family with her!” with a 3am pizza. Sipe proposed during a surprise weekend away Do you want to share your wedding with Sowetan SMag? Please send and the couple was married at Enyazi Homestead, Dangwana us five of your favourite wedding photos and a brief description of your during a traditional Xhosa ceremony, witnessed by 200 guests. union. Your wedding must take place between March and May 2017 to Sipe says Namhla’s supportive, caring, and nurturing nature be considered for the next issue. Send your photos and a write-up of your were what attracted him to his wife. “She is loving, kind-hearted, celebration to smag@sowetan.co.za understanding, and supports me unconditionally,” he says.

YOU & I

A Facebook inbox led to a regal Xhosa wedding in the hills of Port St John’s

“WE’RE THE BADDEST TEAM — I CAN’T WAIT TO START A FAMILY WITH HER!”

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kasi memories

The radio and TV host has fond memories of growing up in Kwa-Langa with her grandparents FROM:

Ku l i R o ber ts K w a -Langa Ca pe Tow n 7455

‘ I MISS THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF KWA-LANGA; THE ESSENCE OF BLACKNESS’ text Nomfundo Xulu-Lentsoane illustrations Rendani Nemakhavhani

I

t’s not often that a person exists in our homes on several platforms at once. Yet, Nomakula Roberts does just that. Best-known as Kuli Roberts, she is on radio as co-presenter on the Kaya FM 180 with Bob and also a co-host on TV show Trending SA. “I’m very fortunate that all of my passions are overlapping. I think I have accomplished in doing the things that I love and studied for,” says the University of Cape Town graduate.

The university is a stone’s throw away from Kwa-Langa township, where she grew up. “My parents were in the US, so I lived with my grandparents most of the time. It was wonderful.

I remember having plastic cups tied to my school belt for soup when I was at Thembani Primary School,” Roberts says.

Her grandparents owned a number of supermarkets and as a teenager Roberts worked at some of them doing “whatever was required” — be it working behind the counter or stocktaking. “I didn’t really care. I just enjoyed it and my passion for people comes from that.

My skin has developed because of those experiences,” she says.

Kwa-Ntsingi is one of the popular hangout spots in Kwa-Langa, and even though Roberts has not enjoyed a meal there since her 20s, she remembers that the place was well-known for good food and entertainment, even then. “Kwa-Ntsingi still has people raving about their spit-braai,” she says.

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As for her favourite delicacies? “Jesta was one of my favourites. You know that crème brûlée kind of cake, hard on the top and bottom?

Leftover cake?” she says, adding that amagwinya with polony is also one of her favourites.

Another must-visit is the local bead shop. “I would recommend anyone to go to Washington Street and look for the bead shop,” she says. “It’s been there for as long as I can remember.”

Unfortunately, her busy schedule means she does not have enough time to regularly visit her kasi, but Roberts says she is still just a girl from Kwa-Langa who enjoys hanging out with family and friends.

“It’s incredible how the wooden hut next to the police station is still there, as it was when I was growing up. There are places that are still there and being taken good care of. I mean, as a kid, I used to go to different churches — Anglican, Methodist, and Evangelist — and all of those churches are still looking the same,” she says.

“I miss the hustle and bustle of Kwa-Langa; the essence of blackness. I miss hearing my language being spoken 24/7. This is why I enjoy going to Olieven in Centurion. That is a place where I get to just see black people and enjoy them speaking our languages,” says the mother of two and new grandmother. “I’m just celebrating life with my family and grandchild. I generally have love for people, and I think it’s because of my upbringing.”

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