Editor’s Note
WOMEN'SLIFESTYLE
MAGAZINE
Happy women’s month to you our beautiful andstaunchsupporters,thewomenof worth, women who choose to change lives andourwarriors.Itiswithpridetosaythis magazine wouldn’t have lasted this long had itnotbeenforyou.Forthatreasonweat Women’sLifestylesaluteyou. We started off featuring and covering women’s stories and then we included our youth, both young ladies and young gentlemen. We havenowtakenitastepfurtherby including our wonderful support structure, our pillarsofsociety,ourawesomemale business owners in our upcoming Women’s LifestyleNetworkBusinessAwards.Do nominate your favourite business to show yoursupportandappreciationtothem
Ladies,andourgentlemenreadersofcourse, thisissueisbyfarourmostbeautifuland insightfulone.Ourfeatureandcoverstoryis thatofanexceptionalwoman,awoman whoseambitionsmakeseventhelaziest persontostoptheirlazytendenciesandstart afresh.ThismultitaskingbeautyQueenisnon otherthanMsLucindaPietersen,a formerMrsAfricaandMrsAfricaGlobe2018. ShehasalsowontheWLNawards overallwinnerfortheGautengProvince There’salsomorewinnersfeaturedinthis issue.Doreadupabouttheirstrengthand courage Welovelookinggoodalways,checkoutour beautycolumnandfinishyourreadingoff withourmouth-wateringrecipesthatwill leavingyouaskingformore.Aswomenwe alwayslookforwaystomakeourliveseasier, there’slotsofbusinessesinthisissueto helpmakeyourdaysmuchshorter Enjoy your read and remember to strive
Given Mmane ChefEditor
I AM LIVING PROOF: YOUR PARENTS WANTS THE
BEST FOR YOU
I am Rorisang Hlakola, aka Rory, and I have a twin brother, Katlego Hlakola We were born on the 12th of September 2009
I am the only girl among my three siblings. I started my primary education at Laer Skool Boyseens, where I became the Head School Leader/Prefect Currently, I’m at HTS "Hoër Tegniese Skool"
I have always been a positive, solution-oriented, and dedicated individual. Honestly, I have always been a shy girl an introvert at heart and my mom persuaded me to join pageantry just to boost my self-confidence, take responsibility, and be committed to community development It was a scary experience, but Mom pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I ended up enjoying my new experience
I use Miss Township SA to amplify my voice and to advocate for "Bridging the Communication Gap Between Parents and Teens.
This year, 2024, I was crowned "Miss Township Pre Teen 2024." Honestly, I still cannot believe it… From a shy girl to a Pre Teen Queen in heels.
My journey as Miss Township Pre Teen SA 2024 has been awesome and has allowed me to reach the following milestones:
I have been featured in:
The Daily Sun Newspaper
Mams FM Radio
Pheli FM
Mother & Daughter Campaign Event as a Guest Speaker
Doek & Jeans Woman Events as a Guest Speaker VIP Guest at Ekurhuleni
KNOWING YOUR WORTH: A JOURNEY TO EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN
BY CHARLENE ELLIOT
In today’s world, the concept of self-worth for women is often influenced by societal standards, media portrayals, and cultural norms These external pressures can overshadow the intrinsic value that each woman possesses Understanding and embracing your worth is a fundamental step towards personal empowerment and fulfillment. This article explores the significance of knowing your worth as a woman and offers practical steps to help you embrace and celebrate your unique value.
TheDefinitionofWorth
Worth is a subjective measure of value, often tied to external achievements, appearances, and the opinions of others For many women, societal expectations create a narrative that their value is contingent upon meeting certain standards, whether in beauty, success, or behavior However, true worth is not derived from these external factors; it comes from within and is rooted in self-respect, self-love, and an acknowledgment of one’s unique attributes and contributions
The Dangers of External Validation
Relying on external validation can lead to a never-ending cycle of seeking approval and feeling inadequate This quest for validation often results in a loss of authentic selfexpression, as women may alter their behaviors and aspirations to fit into prescribed roles or ideals. This dissonance between one’s true self and the persona projected to the world can cause significant emotional and psychological distress.
To break free from this cycle, it is essential to develop an understanding that your worth is inherent and not dependent on external factors. This shift in mindset is crucial for fostering a healthy sense of self and for making choices that align with your genuine desires and values
Practical Steps to Embrace Your Worth
Self-Reflection:
Spend time reflecting on your values, passions, and strengths Understanding what you genuinely care about and excel in can help you appreciate your intrinsic value This self-awareness is the foundation of self-worth.
Challenge Societal Norms:
Critically examine societal norms and expectations that you may have internalized. Ask yourself whether these beliefs serve your well-being or limit your potential Rejecting unrealistic or harmful standards can be liberating and affirming
Set Healthy Boundaries:
Establishing boundaries is a crucial aspect of maintaining self-respect and protecting your well-being Learn to say no to demands or expectations that do not align with your values or priorities
Cultivate Positive Relationships:
Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you Positive relationships reinforce your sense of worth and provide a supportive environment for growth and self-expression
Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health is an important aspect of valuing yourself Regular self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies, can enhance your well-being and reinforce your self-worth
Embrace Authenticity:
Being true to yourself is a powerful expression of self-worth Authenticity means expressing your true feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, and not conforming to others' expectations. It involves embracing your imperfections and strengths alike
Celebrate Your Achievements:
Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small Recognizing your successes fosters a positive self-image and reinforces your sense of worth.
Think back to your childhood
When you were younger, staying active was probably second nature and just part of having fun! Cast your mind back to when you were a child or teenager, and think about the activities you did for fun - the ones where you completely lost track of time Perhaps it was dance classes, playing in a sports team, rollerblading, kicking a ball, swimming, or riding your bike
You can either try those activities again, or try to channel that child-like sense of play into your current routine If you have young kids, try the monkey bars next time you’re at the playground!
Try something totally new
To really kick your boredom to the curb, try something you’ve never done before. Are you a seasoned weight-lifter? Give boxing a go. Used to doing HIIT every week? Try Pilates, barre or yoga.
It’s natural for your brain to crave new, more interesting stimuli, and trying a different training style can be incredibly refreshing or push you out of your comfort zone Don’t be afraid to experiment and be a beginner again
Set a new goal
Sometimes the reason for workout boredom is a lack of challenge or clear direction. It’s hard to feel excited and engaged when you can’t even remember why you’re doing it! Perhaps you’ve been doing the same program for a while, your workouts are starting to feel easy, you’ve achieved the goals you set or you’ve reached a fitness plateau First off, that’s great! You should feel proud of your progress and commitment To continue to push yourself, it’s time to set a new goal that feels challenging and exciting
This could be completing a brand new program, mastering a new move like an unassisted pull-up, a longer plank hold, a new number of burpees in 60 seconds, improved flexibility, or hitting a new personal best on your weighted back squat Having something to aim towards can give you a new burst of motivation.
If you thrive on deadlines and want to be held accountable to your goals, you could even sign up for a cycling or running race, or complete a fitness challenge!
Make it social
We are social creatures by nature, and having a workout buddy can help to take the fun of working out from zero to 100 in a flash. Start by asking your friends, family or colleagues if they would be keen to join you
If your workout buddy doesn’t live nearby, you can still Sweat together via a video call, or if your schedules don’t align, offering support, encouragement and accountability can work wonders!
Photographer: Michael Haasbroek
•Outfit: Lee Cooper SA
•Makeup: Heck Yes Makeup Artistry
•Nails: Nails of Note Fourways
•Skin: Asteria Aesthetics BioDermal Skin Tech
RésaK Skin Science Resa Kahn For The love of Beauty Asteria Pharmaceuticals
BECOMING THENEW YOU!
Physical Fitness and Its Importance
Physical fitness refers to the ability of your body systems to work together efficiently, allowing you to be healthy and perform daily activities. Being efficient means doing daily activities with the least effort possible A fit learner, student, or young person can perform schoolwork, meet home responsibilities, and still have enough energy to enjoy sports and other leisure activities
The Moral Story of Physical Activity
Everyday activities include climbing stairs, taking walks, cleaning the house, jogging, aerobics, etc. Being unable to do these everyday activities is referred to as functional limitations Being active does not necessarily require one to have a gym membership, especially if you are still a student or a learner There are plenty of home workouts you can do in the comfort of your home. Young athletes accustomed to attending practices, games, and other physical activity outlets have been forced to take their training into their own hands despite having few resources to guide them. Obviously, being a teenager warrants not only special considerations for working out but also special considerations regarding the equipment and facilities you'll have access to.
Chances are that most things are out of your control; so, you’ll have to work with what you have. It’s advised that teens up to the age of 17 get a minimum of 60 minutes of cardio each day, and this can take the form of anything organized sports, biking, walking, jogging; you can ignore the treadmill if you want to Strength training is also an important component of staying healthy. Fitting in a good session three times a week is ideal, especially if you’re a teen. You really don’t need to train more than three times a week unless it’s something that you truly enjoy and are passionate about. Right now, it’s time to build a solid foundational base of strength while also getting used to the proper movements. While these guidelines apply to almost all teens, that’s pretty much where the similarities end. Whether you’re skinny and trying to bulk up or chubby and trying to slim down, the routine you follow will hinge on your goals. While it will mostly come down to having the proper diet, you might want to include more cardio if you’re trying to slim down. If you’re trying to bulk up, then heavier, compound movements are the way to go
Not only does being active boost your overall physical health, but it can also improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of diseases, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to perform everyday activities.
Physical Activity and Academic Achievement
Students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance (e g , memory), and classroom behaviors (e g , on-task behavior) Higher physical activity and fitness levels are associated with improved cognitive performance (e g , concentration, memory) among students
Consequences of Physical Inactivity
Physical inactivity can lead to: Energy imbalance (e.g., expending less energy through physical activity than consumed through diet), increasing the risk of becoming overweight or obese.
Increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including hyperlipidemia (e.g., high cholesterol and triglyceride levels), high blood pressure, obesity, and insulin resistance and glucose intolerance.
Increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Increased risk for developing breast, colon, endometrial, and lung cancers.
Low bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis.
mmediate Benefits of Physical Activity
Some benefits of physical activity on the brain, especially for young people, occur right after a session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Benefits include improved thinking or cognition for children aged 6 to 13 years and reduced short-term feelings of anxiety for young adults and adults. Regular physical activity can help keep your thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp as you age It can also reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and help you sleep better
Mental Health
We all know that today, mental health is very important to each one of us; we must take care of our mental health and ensure it is always up to par Research shows that people who exercise regularly have better mental health, emotional well-being, and lower rates of mental illness. Regular exercise can boost your mood, concentration, and alertness; it can even help give you a positive outlook on life I have taken the initiative of joining a gym and brought my family along, including my husband, my little sister, and our 3-year-old son. With the small kids, it is more of a fun thing, as we do small exercises, stretches, and fun activities to boost their energy levels and teach them about the importance of fitness and physical activity. It has really helped us a lot, as we all live in a busy world. Our energy levels have increased, our physical abilities have improved, our sleep habits have enhanced, and the list goes on
Remember that the link between exercise and mental health is complicated, but the good news is that exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or take a long time. Any exercise is better than none It can be intimidating to start if you have never done it before, but having a plan can help you begin and stick with it.
Set Goals and Have Fun
When you’re working toward anything whether that’s fitness or some other goal it’s always helpful to set goals. You want to measure a baseline of where you started and where you’re heading. Having a finish line is one of the best ways to motivate yourself to stick with your training plan. Without a finish line, you’re not sure where you’re going, so you can’t create a good plan for how to get there. Train hard, but also train smarter by progressing in terms of both fitness knowledge and knowledge about your own body
Lastly, remember to have fun If you enjoy the process, not only will it help you maintain the necessary stick-toitiveness to accomplish your goals, but it might also take the “work” out of “workout” at least a little bit others
Ingredients
2 cucumbers.
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped or minced.
4cm knob fresh, grated ginger.
1 green chilli, finely chopped.
1 tsp (5ml) fine salt.
1 tsp (5ml) chilli flakes (Korean gochugaru).
3 Tbsp (45ml) of soy sauce.
3 Tbsp (45ml) of sesame oil.
3 Tbsp (45ml) palm or coconut sugar.
1 Tbsp (15ml) of toasted sesame seeds.
Juice of 2 limes (60ml).
To serve:
200g noodles (soba or egg noodles work well).
6 sliced red salad onions. Fresh coriander.
SMASHED CUCUMBER NOODLE BOWL
Cut cucumbers into chunks, place in a zip- seal bag and lightly bash with a rolling pin (or use your palms). Add flavourings, oil, sugar, sesame seeds and lime juice. Close bag and shake well to coat cucumber.
Set aside to marinate for 15–30 minutes.
Cook noodles as per packet instructions, then plunge into cold water to stop cooking.
Next, drain the noodles of excess water.
Place noodles into bowls, divide cucumbers and sauce between bowls and toss well.
Serve topped with red onion and coriander.
THE BENEFITS OF EATING
POTATOES: A NUTRITIONAL POWERHOUSE
Potatoes, often dismissed as a mere comfort food, are actually a remarkable source of nutrition with a variety of health benefits. Far from being just a starchy side dish, these versatile tubers can play a vital role in a balanced diet. Here’s a look at why incorporating potatoes into your meals can be a smart choice for your health.
Nutrient-Rich Profile
Potatoes are packed with essential nutrients, including:
Vitamins: Potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also contain Vitamin B6, crucial for brain health and the creation of neurotransmitters.
Minerals: Rich in potassium, potatoes help regulate blood pressure and support proper muscle and nerve function. They also contain magnesium, which is important for bone health.
Fiber: The skin of a potato is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Satiety and Weight Management
One of the often-overlooked benefits of potatoes is their ability to keep you feeling full. The fiber content, especially when you eat the skin, contributes to a sense of satiety. This can help prevent overeating and support weight management. Additionally, the resistant starch found in potatoes—especially when they are cooked and then cooled—can function similarly to fiber, further enhancing feelings of fullness.
Versatility and Culinary Benefits
Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be prepared in numerous healthy ways. Baking, boiling, or steaming potatoes retains their nutrient content and avoids the added calories and fat that come from frying. From mashed potatoes to salads, and even soups, potatoes can be a delicious and nutritious component of various meals.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Despite their starchy natur, potatoes can be part of a balanced diet for those managing blood sugar levels. The key is to choose methods of preparation that retain their nutritional benefits. For example, consuming boiled or baked potatoes with their skins can help manage blood sugar spikes better than fried or heavily processed potato products.
Antioxidant Properties
Potatoes contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. The colorful varieties of potatoes, such as purple or red, tend to have higher antioxidant levels, offering even greater health benefits.
Practical and Cost-Effective
Beyond their health benefits, potatoes are also practical and economical. They are widely available and affordable, making them an accessible source of nutrition for many people. Their long shelf life and ease of storage make them a convenient staple in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating potatoes into your diet can offer numerous health benefits, from boosting your intake of essential vitamins and minerals to helping manage weight and blood sugar levels. Embrace the versatility of potatoes in your cooking, and enjoy the myriad ways they can contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.
Remember, the key is moderation and preparation method. Opt for healthier cooking techniques and be mindful of portion sizes to fully enjoy the benefits of this humble yet powerful vegetable.
HOMEMADEHOTSAUCERECIPE: BRINGONTHESPICE
A magazine is a periodical publication, which can either be printed or published electronically. It is issued regularly, usually every week or every month, and it contains a variety of content.
Ingredients
What ingredients do you need to make this tasty hot sauce? Read on to learn more.
Use the below ingredients to makes 2 cups of hot sauce:
4 onions, chopped
Glug of olive oil
20–25 Thai or serrano chillies, charred
4 cloves garlic, sliced
4 tsp (20ml) chilli powder
1/4 cup (60ml) sugar of your choice
2 cups (500ml) veg or chicken stock
1 cup (250ml) apple cider vinegar
1/4 – 1/2 cup (60–125ml) water
Method
Next, how do you make this yummy hot sauce?
Sauté onions in olive oil for about 5 minutes.
Add chillies and garlic and cook for 5 minutes.
Stir in chilli powder and sugar and top with stock, apple cider vinegar and water.
Simmer with lid on for 15–20 minutes until pulpy.
Blitz using a stick blender until smooth.
Top Tip: Char chillies over an open flame until blackened all over to ensure a smoky taste For a more fiery sauce, add habanero chillies
Return to heat and simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes (or until it’s reached your desired consistency).
Strain sauce if you like.
"Unveiling Secrets
My name is Tennille Haig For most of my life, we have moved around and had a taste of change I enjoy change and believe it helps one’s mind feel refreshed I’ve always strived for success Many times, I have doubted myself because of the fear of not succeeding or being rejected by the public, but I had to put that aside and think about myself. I am a Christian and thank God for changing my life for the better; without Him, I wouldn’t be where I am today. He has given me encouragement to move forward despite all the negativity that has come my way.
God gave me a beautiful family I have a loving husband and two daughters, whom I adore I thank God for all my talents and am happy to know that I get to use them as He intended. I enjoy anything creative. On occasion, I bake cakes, and I paint/sketch portraits for clients. I enjoy singing but still haven’t joined the church group yet. I occasionally take professional photos with my camera for my family and friends. I enjoy any DIY crafts or home décor designs. I have always had a big imagination and have always wanted to write a novel.
THE INSPIRING STORY BEHIND A FIRST-TIME AUTHOR "
From the age of thirteen, I was always writing stories, picturing scenes in my head as if they were right in front of me
In 2023, that dream came true when I published my first novel of the trilogy, Unveiling Secrets Did I have doubts? Yes, of course! I want readers to know that nothing comes easy without hard work and perseverance
I did give up on the novel because I had writer’s block, and I had been writing this exact story since I was thirteen.
I started the book again in 2021 and finished it two years later in 2023 It was truly a dream come true, especially when I could actually hold my book in my hands I must thank my husband and mother for encouraging me to never give up It is such a pleasure to know that people delight in reading between the pages of your very own novel I want to say dreams do come true Never give up It took us a whole year before we could actually print the books, but it happened in the end despite the wait Good things come to those who wait God’s timing I am grateful for the talent and the imagination I am busy with the second book, called Torn Between It is the sequel to Unveiling Secrets You can find it on Kindle
As another hobby, I do aerial silk, and my husband and I do jiu-jitsu together Both art forms are so different, yet so enjoyable and pleasing
I enjoy adventures and believe they help broaden your mind to experiences and changes They help you understand many things through a different lens I love making memories and spending time with my family I believe 100% that no amount of money in the world is more important than family time and making memories together I would rather sit and cherish a moment than watch television
If my dreams can come true, it is a sign to show you that yours can also! We need to learn to believe in ourselves more and to have more confidence. Yes, there will always be someone who is better than us at something, but you should strive to do your best in what you know! God will do the rest. Never give up, because if I had, I wouldn’t be where I am today. That very moment when you feel like giving up is the exact moment you should continue.
So my message to the young and old alike is: get up and go live your dreams It’s never too late to pray, and it’s never too late to start
If you would like to know what my book is about, below is the information:
Amelia Benson wants a quiet gap year to figure out her future, but it turns into anything but that She finds herself caught in a love triangle between her witty best friend, Alexander, and the mysterious cop, Sebastian She has watched them mess around with other girls, so she tries her best to keep her distance, but that proves too hard.
Her life takes a turn when mysterious letters appear on her doorstep, revealing that she has a secret admirer. At first, the letters seem innocent, but soon grow darker as the stalker threatens her and her loved ones.
At the same time, she finds out that she has a half-brother who claims to have the same father as her.
As a result of everything that has arisen in her life, she finds it hard to trust the people closest to her
Will she find out who the stalker is before he harms anyone? Is the stalker as dangerous as he seems? Can she trust her new half-brother? Will Amelia find out who her heart desires most? Find out how, one by one, the secrets are unveiled
Written by Lebogang Moatshe
Celebrating Women of Excellence: The 7th Annual Women's Lifestyle Awards
On April 27, 2024, the Women's Lifestyle Network hosted its 7th Annual Women's Lifestyle Awards at the prestigious Fire Room in Monte Casino The event was a resounding success, bringing together women from all walks of life to celebrate their achievements and contributions to society
The evening was filled with glamour and excitement as women from various regions gathered to honor their peers who have made a significant impact in their respective fields The awards ceremony recognized women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to their communities
This year's winners were truly deserving of their accolades, and we are thrilled to announce the regional winners of the Woman of the Year award
GautengRegion:LucindaPietersen
NorthWestRegion:MarthaMekgoe
The Women's Lifestyle Awards would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to all the category winners and regional winners Your achievements are a testament to the power and resilience of women, and we are honored to have had the opportunity to celebrate your successes
SpecialThanks
The Women's Lifestyle Network would like to extend its gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and attendees for making this event possible Your support is invaluable, and we are grateful for your commitment to empowering women
We would also like to thank our judges, who worked tirelessly to select the winners from a pool of exceptional nominees Your dedication to recognizing excellence is truly appreciated
Here's to another year of celebrating women of excellence! Congratulationsto
