BREATHE! BECAUSE WE
ALL NEED A MINUTE TO SLOW DOWN.
Editor’s Note
WOMEN'SLIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Whatabittersweetmomentthiseditorialisforme.ThisisourlastissueoftheWomen’sLifestyleNetwork MagazinewithmeatthehelmasEditor-in-Chief Ithasbeenaprivilegetoserveaseditorofthismagazine overthepastfewyears Whataneye-openerandprivilegethishasbeenforme Ithasbeenanimportant partofmyportfolioandhasgivenmetheopportunitytomaintainmyprofessionalnetworkbothinSouth Africaandabroad I’mverygratefultoallourfeaturedladiesandtheSocietyforthat
I want to use this last Editor’s Note to offer thanks to particular individuals who have helped make this happen First,producingthemagazineisateameffort,andalthoughtheultimateresponsibilityfallstothe Editor-in-Chief,therearemanyothersworkingbehindthescenestomakethemagazinewhatitis.Onthe frontend,aspecialthankyoutothefounderandownerofWomen’sLifestyleNetwork,Mrs TessaRobbertze, now the longest-serving member of the magazine staff in its history, for recruiting articles and getting themintoshapeforfinalediting.It’sanunderstatementtosaythatIcouldnothavedonemyjobwithout herartistry,flair,humor,andcan-doattitude Second,thankyoutoMadeleineSnyman(Beauty),ChloeKgotleng(Wellness),HarrietNaidoo(Youth),and Melissa Fourier (Fitness) Your tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed; they have improved our readers' wayoflife.I’vealsonoticedyourgrowthfromyourfirstarticlestoyourlast.MayGodkeepyouandincrease youmoreandmore
To every woman ever featured in our splendid magazine, thank you for sharing your experiences, heartaches,achievements,laughter,tears,andmorewiththeworld.Yourstorieshavechangedlivesand inspiredotherstotaketheirfirststepstowardtheirownvictories Mayyoubeblessedbeyondyourwildest dreams.
Given Mmane ChefEditor
Fromourwonderfulteam,wewishyoua prosperousandblessedlife.Keepworking onyourdreamsandNEVERGIVEUP
MAGAZINE COVERS 2021 -2024
From2021to2024,ourmagazinecovershaveshowcasedadiverserangeofinspiring individuals,stories,andthemesthatreflecttheever-evolvinglandscapeofour world.Eachcoverwascarefullycuratedtohighlighttheuniquecontributionsof leaders,innovators,andchangemakerswhocontinuetoshapeourfuture.These captivatingcoversrepresenttheheartofourmagazine'smission:toinspire,inform, andempowerourreaders.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Editorial Team
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to our incredible editorial team for their dedication and hard work in contributing to our magazine. Your commitment to writing thoughtful and engaging articles, despite your busy schedules, has made a significant impact. We truly appreciate the time and effort you have put into each issue. Your articles not only inform and entertain but also inspire and connect with our readers on a deep level. We know that the stories, insights, and perspectives you share touch the lives of many, sparking change, motivation, and new ideas. The influence you have on our audience is immeasurable, and we are honored to have you as part of our team.
Thank you for your creativity, passion, and professionalism. Your contributions are the heart of this magazine, and we are grateful to have such talented individuals on board. We look forward to continuing this journey together and seeing the positive impact your work will continue to have on our readers.
Once again, thank you for being a vital part o Your work does not go unnoticed, and we ar for everything you do.
Tessa Robbertze Founder
Melissa Fourie
Rene Walker
Dr Kgotleng
Madelaine Snyman
Harriet Naidoo
Charlene Elliott
Rele Kobane Lebo M
Given Mmane
NEW BEGINNINGS: EMBRACING CHANGE AND REBIRTH
Life is full of transitions, and one of the most profound and exciting experiences we can encounter is the opportunity for a new beginning. Whether it’s a new job, a fresh chapter in a relationship, or simply a new perspective on life, the concept of a new beginning carries with it the potential for growth, renewal, and transformation. Though new beginnings can sometimes come with feelings of uncertainty or fear, they are essential for progress and self-discovery. In this article, we’ll explore how to embrace new beginnings, the power of starting anew, and why it’s important to embrace change.
The Power of New Beginnings
New beginnings hold incredible power because they represent a fresh start, free from the weight of past mistakes, regrets, or limitations. A new beginning allows us to leave behind what no longer serves us, and step into a space where possibilities are limitless. The beauty of a new start lies in its ability to reset our mindset and open up new opportunities for personal and professional growth The key to embracing a new beginning is to approach it with a sense of hope, optimism, and a willingness to leave our comfort zones Change can be daunting, especially if it means stepping into the unknown, but it is also in those moments of discomfort where we often find our greatest strength Every new beginning is a chance to redefine ourselves and chart a new course toward our dreams
Overcoming the Fear of Change
One of the biggest hurdles to embracing new beginnings is the fear of change. The uncertainty that comes with taking a new path can make us hesitant to leave the familiar Whether it’s fear of failure, fear of the unknown, or fear of making the wrong choice, the fear of change can be paralyzing. However, it’s important to recognize that fear is a natural part of the process It is simply a sign that we are pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones and growing The key to overcoming this fear is to reframe it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. Every successful person has faced moments of uncertainty and discomfort, but it is through these experiences that they have been able to achieve great things. It’s crucial to trust the process and remember that each step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goals
The Importance of Letting Go
A new beginning often requires us to let go of the past. This can mean letting go of old habits, limiting beliefs, or relationships that no longer serve us Letting go isn’t always easy, but it is necessary in order to make room for new opportunities. Sometimes, we hold onto the past out of comfort or fear of the unknown, but holding on to what’s familiar can prevent us from reaching our full potential.
Letting go can be a liberating experience, one that allows us to shed the weight of past experiences and step into the future with a renewed sense of purpose When we let go of what no longer serves us, we create space for new ideas, new experiences, and new people to enter our lives. The act of releasing what’s no longer needed is a powerful act of self-love and empowerment
A new beginning often brings with it a chance for self-discovery It’s a time when we can reevaluate our values, desires, and goals Whether it’s through a career change, a move to a new city, or a personal transformation, starting anew offers us the opportunity to explore who we are and what truly matters to us. Self-discovery is an ongoing process that evolves as we grow and change, and new beginnings are often the catalyst for this personal growth.
The process of self-discovery involves taking the time to reflect on what makes us happy, what we value, and what we want to achieve. It’s about finding our true selves, outside of societal expectations and external pressures A new beginning is a chance to reconnect with our passions and to realign ourselves with our purpose When we take the time to understand ourselves on a deeper level, we can approach new beginnings with clarity and confidence.
Embracing a new beginning requires courage, patience, and a positive mindset Here are a few tips on how to embrace a fresh start with open arms: Be Open to Change: The first step is to embrace change rather than resist it Acknowledge that change is inevitable, and choose to see it as an opportunity for growth.
1 Trust the Process: Understand that success and personal growth often take time Trust that each step you take toward your new beginning is leading you closer to the life you want
3
2 Let Go of the Past: In order to make space for new opportunities, it’s important to release any lingering attachments to past experiences, relationships, or regrets Letting go is an essential part of starting fresh.
4. Take Small Steps: Starting anew can feel overwhelming, but remember that progress doesn’t happen overnight. Break your goals down into small, manageable steps and celebrate your achievements along the way
6.
Set Clear Intentions: Define what you want to achieve with your new beginning Setting clear intentions helps you stay focused and motivated as you work toward your goals.
5 Surround Yourself with Positivity: The people you surround yourself with play a significant role in your ability to embrace change Seek out supportive, like-minded individuals who encourage and inspire you.
7
Practice Patience: New beginnings can be challenging, and it may take time for things to fall into place. Be patient with yourself and trust that the journey is as important as the destination
Conclusion: A Journey of Growth
New beginnings are an essential part of life They offer us the chance to start over, to evolve, and to grow into the best versions of ourselves. While change can be uncomfortable, it is also a powerful catalyst for transformation. By letting go of the past, embracing the unknown, and trusting the process, we can navigate new beginnings with confidence and optimism
Ultimately, every new beginning is an opportunity to create a life that aligns with our true values and desires Whether it’s a career change, a personal reinvention, or a fresh perspective, the possibilities are endless. Embrace your new beginning, trust in your ability to navigate change, and take each step with the knowledge that growth and success are on the horizon
VEGETARIAN HOWTOBECOMEA
Becoming a vegetarian is a thoughtful and rewarding lifestyle choice that can have a positive impact on your health, the environment, and animal welfare. Whether you’re making the switch for health reasons, ethical concerns, or environmental awareness, here is a guide on how to transition into a vegetarian lifestyle.
1.UNDERSTAND THE REASONS FOR GOING VEGETARIAN
The first step in becoming a vegetarian is understanding why you want to make the change. Common reasons include:
Health Benefits: Vegetarian diets are often rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, which can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers
Ethical Concerns: Many people choose vegetarianism to avoid contributing to the suffering of animals in the meat industry. Environmental Impact: Reducing meat consumption helps lower your carbon footprint, conserve water, and reduce deforestation linked to livestock farming
2. START GRADUALLY
If you're used to eating meat regularly, it can be difficult to switch overnight Begin by gradually reducing the amount of meat in your diet. You might start by having one meatless day a week, like "Meatless Monday," and slowly add more plant-based meals as you become comfortable Over time, you’ll find that your cravings for meat decrease as you explore new flavors and ingredients.
3. EDUCATE YOURSELF ON NUTRITION
One of the key challenges of transitioning to a vegetarian diet is ensuring you're still getting all the essential nutrients Research vegetarian sources of protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, as these are vital to your health. For instance:
Protein: Legumes, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, and nuts are great sources of protein
Iron: Beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals provide iron, which is best absorbed when paired with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits.
Vitamin B12: Since B12 is found primarily in animal products, vegetarians may need to consider fortified foods or supplements
CONSULTING
WITH A NUTRITIONIST OR A DIETITIAN
CAN
ALSO HELP ENSURE YOU’RE MEETING YOUR DIETARY NEEDS.
4. EXPLORE NEW RECIPES
One of the most exciting aspects of becoming a vegetarian is discovering new foods and flavors. Vegetables, grains, legumes, and plant-based proteins offer endless possibilities for creative meals Experiment with cooking dishes from different cuisines that naturally emphasize plant-based ingredients, such as Indian, Mediterranean, or Asian cooking. There are plenty of vegetarian cookbooks and online resources that provide recipes for all tastes
5. FIND SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
Joining a community of like-minded people can provide motivation and encouragement There are many online groups, forums, and social media communities dedicated to vegetarianism Additionally, plant-based restaurants and food bloggers can help inspire your meal planning. You may also find it helpful to talk to friends or family who have made the switch, as they can offer advice based on their own experiences.
6. PLAN BALANCED MEALS
As a new vegetarian, it's essential to plan balanced meals to avoid nutritional gaps. Aim to include a variety of food groups in each meal, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins Make sure your meals are rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats A wellbalanced vegetarian diet should provide energy, promote good digestion, and support long-term health.
7. BE PREPARED WHEN DINING OUT
When eating out, make sure to check restaurant menus in advance to ensure there are vegetarian-friendly options Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but some might require you to make modifications to existing meals. Carry snacks like nuts, seeds, or fruit with you in case options are limited.
8. STAY COMMITTED AND PATIENT
Transitioning to a vegetarian lifestyle can take time. Don’t be discouraged by slip-ups or moments when it feels challenging Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small Over time, you will develop new habits, and living as a vegetarian will become second nature.
Becoming a vegetarian is a personal journey that requires time, experimentation, and patience. By focusing on your reasons for making the change and staying committed to your health and ethical values, you can enjoy the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle and contribute positively to your well-being and the world around you.
EATING IS A MORAL ACT, AND THE CHOICES WE MAKE ON WHAT WE EAT
PERSEVERANCE PERSONIFIED
Martha Mekgoe
Biography of Martha Mekgoe
Martha Mekgoe is an accomplished businesswoman, community leader, and pastor whose journey reflects resilience, hard work, and a deep commitment to empowering others As a wife, mother, and sister to many, Martha’s life is marked by dedication to both her family and her professional aspirations She is the Managing Director and co-owner of Platinum Steel Trading (Pty) Ltd, a company that focuses on steel fabrication and conveyor belt installation in the mining sector Throughout her career, Martha has navigated significant challenges, using each experience to fuel her determination to succeed Her story is one of growth, both professionally and personally, as she continues to inspire and lead others through her work and faith
Martha Mekgoe
Early Career and Challenges in Business
Martha’s career in the mining industry began after she worked as an employee at Impala Platinum Mine for seven years During this time, she gained invaluable experience, particularly in the operations and management of the mining sector. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to a bold decision to leave her secure job and start her own business
In 2013, Martha took her first step into entrepreneurship by registering a company focusing on civil construction and general maintenance Like many budding business owners, Martha faced numerous challenges in her initial venture. The company, despite her best efforts, suffered from a lack of experience and mismanagement of funds, leading to its eventual collapse Reflecting on this experience, Martha notes that she made many mistakes but learned from them, realizing the importance of separating her identity from the business and acquiring the necessary skills to run it effectively
This experience, while difficult, became the foundation for her future success. Martha acknowledges that these failures played a significant role in shaping who she is today Realizing that many emerging companies in her community were focused on civil construction, Martha sought a new direction. After conducting research, she discovered a gap in the steel fabrication sector, prompting her to register a new company However, securing work in the mining sector proved to be a challenge due to her lack of specialized skills. Determined to succeed, she partnered with an established company that had the resources to support her ambitions
In 2018, Martha and her business partner founded Platinum Steel Services, a company that provides steel fabrication and conveyor belt installation to the mining sector One of their early successes was securing contracts with Royal Bafokeng Platinum Mine, now known as Impala Bafokeng Mine. Today, Platinum Steel Trading employs 90 people, with 70% of the workforce drawn from the local mining community, which has allowed the company to positively impact the area by providing employment opportunities.
“she realized that her purpose was already written in God’s plan”
Commitment to Community and Charity Work
Through her company, Martha has not only achieved personal success but also made a significant contribution to her community. Platinum Steel Trading has enabled Martha to engage in charity work, providing food parcels to the less fortunate and supporting back-to-school programs
Her commitment to giving back to her community reflects her belief in the importance of using one’s success to uplift others. Martha’s ability to balance business growth with social responsibility demonstrates her deep sense of empathy and desire to make a lasting impact.
Martha is also a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, especially in the mining sector Her accomplishments as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions. She was named Brand of the Year and Woman of the Year at the 2024 Women’s Lifestyle Network Awards and was a finalist for Woman in Mining at the 2023 Woman of Stature Awards. Additionally, she was the overall winner of the South African Heroines Awards in 2020 and received a nomination for the International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge Foundation Award in 2021.
Answering the Call of God
Martha’s journey is not just defined by her business achievements but also by her deep spiritual faith. Growing up in a Christian household, church attendance was a nonnegotiable part of her upbringing Although she went through a rebellious phase during her teenage years, her love for God and the church grew stronger over time. She was born and raised in a Methodist church and later married into the Apostolic Church, which is part of the African Church community
In 2020, Martha’s spiritual journey took a profound turn when she was ordained as a pastor at Faith Ministries Centre, also known as Salvation Church Despite her deep love for God, she never imagined herself in the role of a preacher, as she had always preferred serving behind the scenes. Answering the call to become a pastor was a difficult and humbling decision for Martha, as she questioned her qualifications and abilities. However, through prayer and reflection, she realized that her purpose was already written in God’s plan, as stated in Psalms 139:16, which says that every aspect of our lives was recorded before a single day had passed.
Today, Martha is not only a pastor but also engages in radio ministry through a community station She views this as an extension of her service to God and her community Reflecting on her journey, Martha often marvels at how God has transformed her life, stating, “God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we can ask or think ”
Personal Philosophy and Future Vision
Martha is guided by a personal philosophy of humility, service, and the belief that happiness comes from the little things in life. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and finds joy in making a positive impact on others through small gestures such as a smile, a hug, or giving Her dream is to build businesses that will continue to thrive even after she is no longer around, creating generational wealth that will benefit future generations.
Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the willingness to learn from mistakes. Martha’s life is an inspiring example of how one can combine business success with a deep commitment to community, family, and faith
Achievements and Recognition
Martha’s success has not gone unnoticed She has received numerous awards and recognitions, including:
Brand of the Year and Woman of the Year at the 2024 Women’s Lifestyle Network Awards Finalist for Woman in Mining at the 2023 Woman of Stature Awards
Overall Winner at the South African Heroines Awards 2020
Nominee for the International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge Foundation Award 2021
These accolades reflect Martha’s commitment to excellence, her leadership in the mining and business sectors, and her unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others
Martha Mekgoe’s life is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity, embracing change, and making a lasting impact Her success in business and her dedication to faith and community serve as an inspiration to all who encounter her story.
“Martha is guided by a personal philosophy of humility, service, and the belief that happiness comes from the little things in life ”
S t a r t i n g N e w
H a b i t s : A P a t h t o
P o s i t i v e C h a n g e
Starting a new habit can feel like a daunting task, but it is one of the most powerful ways to transform your life Whether it’s adopting a healthier lifestyle, learning a new skill, or breaking free from old, unproductive routines, the journey to establishing new habits requires patience, consistency, and determination But with the right mindset and approach anyone can build habits that lead to positive long-lasting change
The first step in starting a new habit is to set a clear and specific goal Instead of saying, "I want to get fit," focus on a more actionable objective like "I will exercise for 30 minutes every day " By setting concrete goals, you give yourself something tangible to work toward, which helps maintain motivation It’s important to break big goals into smaller, manageable steps so that you don’t feel overwhelmed This allows you to build confidence as you gradually progress
Another key to successful habit-building is consistency New habits don’t take root overnight It takes time for new behaviors to become automatic, so it’s essential to stay committed, even when progress feels slow Many experts suggest the 21day rule, which states that it takes approximately three weeks for a new behavior to become a habit However, this can vary from person to person The important thing is to keep going, even on days when it feels hard or inconvenient
Tracking your progress is also a helpful way to stay on course Whether through a habit-tracking app or a simple journal, monitoring your daily achievements helps reinforce positive behaviors and gives you a sense of accomplishment It can also highlight any patterns or obstacles you might encounter, allowing you to adjust your approach if necessary
Creating a supportive environment plays a crucial role in developing new habits Surround yourself with people who encourage and motivate you or join communities that share similar goals Having accountability partners can help you stay focused and make the process more enjoyable Additionally, set up your environment to support your new habit whether it’s setting out your workout clothes the night before or placing a book on your nightstand as a reminder to read before bed
Lastly, be kind to yourself during the process Habits take time to develop, and setbacks are part of the journey If you miss a day or slip up, don’t be discouraged Instead, view it as an opportunity to learn and adjust your approach The key is to keep trying, adapting, and moving forward, no matter the obstacles
Starting new habits is not always easy, but it is one of the most rewarding ways to improve your life By setting clear goals, being consistent, tracking progress, and creating a supportive environment, you can build lasting habits that will bring positive change to every aspect of your life So, take that first step today your future self will thank you for it
