The Afropolitan Edition 21

ALTERNATE MONTHLY Issue 21, 2011 www.afropolitan.co.za

A Tr u e L e a d e r O f T h e S t r u g g l e

UJU & Ternielle

Musical Trailblazers

MZANSI: Africa’s Powerhouse Wiseman Nkuhlu - a pioneering business leader PLUS •• Runway Fashion and a Road Trip To Mozambique

in this issue

C O N T E N T S

8

14 16

editor’s note

AFRICAN LEADERSHIP: WHERE TO?

REGULARS 10 12 14

Mailbox Poetry Dr. Magaugau’s Corner

Main feature

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SOUTH AFRICA A GLOBAL LEADER

columns

20 Mamelang Memela

20

Arts and culture

music profile 22 UJU & Ternielle Nelson

TRIBUTE

25

25 The Unsung Hero

tsotsi in the boardroom 30 An Independent

Black Voice

PHOTO essay

34

34 Pick of the Pics

LEADERSHIP

36 Personal Reflections

On The Value Of An MBA

FINANCE

38 Are Financial Guru's

Worth Their Salt?

43 Financial planning

2011 outlook

reviews

44 Restaurant Review

HQ: Exceptional Dining At A Steakhouse

46 Book Reviews

Word on Words

47

DVD Reviews

44

Couch Potato

48 Movie Reviews Bioscope

49 CD Reviews

Beat Box

50 Culinary Culture

2

Pop Culture

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in this issue

C O N T E N T S

56

Fashion

52 Worldwide Fashion

58

beauty & Grooming 58 Beauty Boss & Suave CEO

Gadgets

60

60 Gadgets 65

decor

65 Afro Decor

motoring

70

70 Bikes & Scooters

When Less is More

property

72 Blythedale Coastal Resort

A True North Coast Gem

travel

75 Mozambique

75

kaburu 80 “Een, twee!�

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C r e d i ts

the team editor Sam Mathe

lifestyle editor Elka Schaimberg

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Copyright © 2010 Contact Media & Communications. The Afropolitan is published by Contact Media & Communications. All material is strictly copyright with all rights reserved. No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the express written permission of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for unsolicited material. The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this publication. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents. The views and opinions expressed in The Afropolitan are not necessarily those of the Publisher, Kaya FM or contributors.

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e d i to r ' s

note

FROM THE CHIEF AFRICAN LEADERSHIP: WHERE TO? Nkrumah in particular dared to dream of a United States of Africa and left a lasting political legacy as the father of African unity.

Nyerere championed the viability of indigenous systems and pioneered ujamaa, a brand of African socialism.

An erudite intellectual, the man known affectionately as Mwalimu (which means teacher) was also one of the first exemplary post-independence leaders to voluntarily step down from office.

On the other hand, Nkrumah was forced out of office after eight years in power by members of the army and police who were “acting in co-operation with neo-colonialists and seized power while I was away on my way to Hanoi with proposals for ending the cruel war being waged in Vietnam”, Nkrumah writes in Challenge Of The Congo – A Case Study Of Foreign Pressures In An Independent State. “Ghana has been laid open once more to the foreign exploitation we had fought so hard to overcome since independence was achieved on 6 March 1957.”

The overthrow of Nkrumah set the tone for military coups in other parts of the continent – a trend that threatened visionary and progressive leadership and ushered in a new kind of leader: a military dictator. With few exceptions ince its countries have this new breed of leader acted in the started becoming independent during the past interests of neo-colonial powers and 50 years or so, the continent United States imperialists during and after the Cold War. has spawned leadership The classic example is that of the styles that have largely contributed to the Congo when military leader Mobutu Afro-pessimism that we are witnessing today. But it is important to state upfront Sese Seko assumed power following the tragic assassination of democratically that 50 years ago there was an air of elected civilian prime minister Patrice optimism following uhuru (freedom).

Lumumba in 1961. This scenario After all, some of the founding fathers replayed itself over two decades later of these new African republics were when people’s president Thomas visionary and innovative leaders of the Sankara of Burkina Faso was murdered heroic mould – Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, Jomo in a military coup spearheaded by a Kenyatta of Kenya, Nnamdi Azikiwe of close friend, current incumbent Blaise Nigeria, Patrice Lumumba of the Congo, Compaoré. to mention a few.

“There are likely to be more coups

“There are likely to be more coups and rebellions in Africa as long as imperialists and neo-colonialists are able to exploit our weaknesses”

S

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and rebellions in Africa as long as imperialists and neo-colonialists are able to exploit our weaknesses,” Nkrumah predicted. “Unless we unite and deal with neo-colonialism on a Pan-African basis, they will continue to try to undermine our independence, and draw us again into spheres of influence comparable to the original carve-up of Africa arranged at the Berlin Conference of 1884.”

Statistics indicate that between 1952 and 2000, 35 African countries (including some in the Arabic north), were involved in 85 coups d’état – with most of them occurring in West Africa, notably in Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Liberia. According to the figures, most of these depositions targeted civilian governments. In five instances, incumbents were murdered. Of course, these staggering and shameful figures have contributed to the stigmatisation of Africa as a dark continent of corrupt, unstable and incompetent governments – and indeed the Afro-pessimism that is consistently promoted by the Western media despite the fact that part of the blame for Africa’s ills lies squarely on the shoulders of the West’s foreign policies in Africa. Alongside military juntas, Africa has been cursed with life presidents – also mainly surrogates of the West – as recent events in Egypt attest.

Other unsavoury types have been rebel leaders – virtual warlords without a noble cause. Brutal, greedy, clannish and narcissistic characters solely interested in power, its abuse and looting the mineral wealth of their countries.

Liberia and the Congo are classic examples in this regard. But it is in the visionary, compassionate, freedomdriven and moral leadership that was pioneered by Nkrumah in the 40s and that found poignant expression in 90s South Africa under Nelson Mandela that Africa will eventually find her economic and political redemption. www.afropolitan.co.za

l ette r s

OX B L I MA

Do you have strong views about Afropolitan's content? Do you think we are a cutting-edge publication with a unique take on magazine journalism? Do you have burning issues generated by current affairs that you would like to share with us? We cherish your feedback – positive or otherwise – and urge you to send your contributions.

Please email them to sam@contactmedia.co.za or afroletters@contactmedia.co.za.

You can also fax your contributions to (011) 789 7097

AN INTELLIGENT AND INFORMATIVE MAGAZINE Dear Editor I was happily surprised when I read Afropolitan magazine for the first time several days ago. The articles were intelligent and informative and reminded me of Untold magazine in the UK, which was big in the 90s. I see that big-ticket automobile adverts seem to be the mainstay of the corporate support.

However, I am sure that perfume, property and financial products will soon get on board. The review sections were excellent, and several of the titles mentioned in the book section were fantastic. I am sure when publishers and film distributors understand your product they will also find ways to support it.

The guys at our office had not seen the magazine before, and I am sure neither have a number of our friends at Panyaza’s buy-and-braai space in Rockville, Soweto, which is mainly

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frequented by black professionals. I’m going to read up and possibly come back to you with regards to how you could plug into some of our communication channels in the future to raise awareness of your product. The latter will include high density communication to professionals around Soweto, using a variety of channels including point of sale, ambient, online, TV and radio...

South Africa needs more media groups propagating intelligent lifestyle publications like yours.

CHAKAN HISLOP By email

A WORLD-CLASS PUBLICATION WITH AN INTERNATIONAL APPEAL Dear Editor Heartfelt congratulations on your wonderful magazine, Afropolitan. It

is highly informative and insightful in a refreshing way. Given the wide scope of issues it covers – such as travel, technology, culture, global politics, etc – I believe it is truly world class with an international appeal. It is a publication that cuts across racial, cultural, geographic and generational barriers. As a keen reader of books and magazines, I found that Afropolitan revived my reading habits in a profound and special way.

I am a reader of township classics, and some of the Afropolitan writings trigger nostalgia for journalists of old, such as the late Stan Motjuwadi, Can Themba and many fine wordsmiths who were torch bearers of black journalism.

My only concern is that Afropolitan is not available in rural communities such as those in Mpumalanga, where I live. So my wish is that in future it will be great if it is distributed throughout the country. But for now, may you keep on shining brightly and informing our communities.

THOMAS MANGI KUBAYI Allemansdrift C, Mpumalanga

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POETRY

LEADER OR BOSS The boss drives his staff The leader inspires them The boss depends on power The leader relies on good will The boss evokes fear The leader radiates love The boss says ‘I’ The leader says ‘we’ The boss shows who is wrong The leader shows what is wrong The boss knows how it is done The leader knows how to do it The boss demands respect The leader commands respect Are you a leader or a boss?

ARE YOU A WINNER OR A LOSER?

BY gIfT j BALOYI

r E g u l a r S

WHAT DO I THINK? When I think about a teacher I think about a lesson When I think about a cop I think about prison When I think about a priest I think about the Words of God When I think about the leader I think of getting advice When I think about the president I think about politics When I think about the Bible I think about verses When I think about the woman I love I think about the beauty in her skin When I think about myself I think about my future When I think about cheating I think about the tears of guilt in my

A winner says let’s find out A loser says nobody knows A winner makes a commitment A loser makes a promise When a winner makes mistakes he says I was wrong A loser says it wasn’t my fault A winner learns from those who are superior to him A loser tries to tear down people who are superior to him A winner says there must be a better way to do it A loser says that’s the way it has always been done gift j Baloyi is a young and budding poet from Mpumalanga. He has written over 100 poems and hopes to publish his anthology one day.

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C O r ne r

FROM TABLE BAY TO SHARPEVILLE THE SPIRIT OF ROBERT SOBUKWE

“

I say it once more Benjie: Nobody is going to be ‘taught a lesson’ by anybody. The days for that type of mentality are over: between nations and between individuals. Our own children demand that we justify our ‘right’ to teach them a lesson.” Robert Sobukwe – in a 1968 letter to Rand Daily Mail journalist and his biographer, Benjamin Pogrund, while he was incarcerated on Robben Island.

Two of South Africa’s watershed historic dates are April 6 1652 and March 21 1960. Of course, the first one relates to the European colonisation of the southern tip of the Mother Continent when the Dutch arrived at Table Bay under the command of Jan van Riebeeck. The fated encounter between the Dutch settlers and the first Africans to inhabit this part of the country – the hunter-gatherer and nomadic societies of the Khoi and the San – was to shape South Africa’s race relations and government policies for the next 359 years.

In the intervening decades and centuries, this colonist-colonised encounter witnessed epochal moments in the country’s history – notably slavery in the Cape; the 100-Year Frontier Wars between the British settlers and the Xhosa kingdoms; the Great Trek and the Anglo-Zulu Wars which saw the first defeat of the British forces on foreign soil at Isandlwana in the hands of the Zulu armies and culminated in the equally heroic but ill-fated Bambatha Rebellion of 1906.

These key historic events as well as other epochal periods such as the discovery of gold on the Reef and the rise of Afrikaner Nationalist rule in 1948, contributed significantly to the systematic, state-sanctioned land dispossession of the indigenous people through brutal and violent forced removals under Apartheid rule. On the other hand, the pass laws controlled the movement of Africans in the cities 24 hours a day.

It is against this background that March 21 1960 saw the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, under the charismatic leadership of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe (1924-1978), organised protest marches in defiance of the Pass Laws. Sobukwe personally led an anti-pass campaign in Orlando East,

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Soweto, where the protestors marched to a local police station and handed their passes and themselves to the authorities.

These events were to capture international headlines and became an enduring symbol of the suffering and defiance of Africans when soldiers in Sharpeville opened fire on scores of defenceless men, women and children – killing 69 and maiming hundreds. These

eastern Transvaal and finally Pretoria Central Prison where he served a three-year term.

On his ‘release’ he was handcuffed and sent to Robben Island in May 1963 (ahead of the famous Rivonia Trialists) where he was kept in solitary confinement for six years under the notorious Sobukwe Clause – a special law tabled in Parliament to keep him in jail indefinitely at the whim of the Minister of Justice; isolated from other prisoners and forbidden even to talk to his jailers because the apartheid authorities regarded him as the country’s most dangerous leader.

According to his wife, Veronica Sobukwe, even the opposition party in Parliament supported his incarceration, with the exception of its leader Helen Suzman. When he was ‘released’ in 1969 he was banished to Kimberley, kept under house arrest as a banned person; which means he could not be quoted in the media.

The cause of Sobukwe’s death in 1978 is said to be lung cancer, but his wife’s submission to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 1997 indicates that while on Robben Island, he had complained that his food was served with broken glasses. She also told epic anti-pass campaigns also witnessed the Commission that in 1964 while he similar massacres in the Cape townships was on the island he was suffering from of Langa and Nyanga. chronic sinus inflammation and though As already indicated above, Sharpeville his condition was deteriorating, the Day [later renamed Human Rights Day authorities were against an independent by the ANC government in a move that specialist treating Sobukwe because they is seen by Pan Africanists and some said they were treating him themselves – independent observers as sanitising with pain killers and massages. of history to undermine Sobukwe and But who was Robert Sobukwe and the PAC’s political legacy] immediately what is his political legacy in Azania? captured international attention and was Ironically, one of the most eloquent commemorated globally in solidarity observations comes from the pen with the anti-apartheid struggle as the of a white liberal journalist, Patrick International Day for the Elimination of Laurence, of The Star. “What impressed Racial Discrimination in the world. me most about him is his personal What most history books have failed to dignity,” he wrote. “There is a gentleness chronicle – deliberately or otherwise – is about him; not the gentleness of the that the organisation responsible for the meek, but that of a man who knows historic Anti-Pass Campaign was formed he does not have to shout. Within and on April 6 1959 – exactly 307 years since beyond it are a passionate conviction and the landing of Jan van Riebeeck on Table an iron will.”

Bay. “Though he is a man of great Following the massacres, Sobukwe was intellectual vigour, the bedrock of his immediately gaoled in a Johannesburg strength is faith – belief in the slow prison – Number Four – where he was but inexorable advance of African awaiting trial. He was then transferred Nationalism – confidence in the future to Stoneyard Prison in Benoni, followed buttressed by a particular view of the

by Stofberg and Witbank in the past. His continued commitment to Pan

“There is a gentleness about him; not the gentleness of the meek, but that of a man who knows he does not have to shout. Within and beyond it are a passionate conviction and an iron will.”

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Africanism, even after all these years of isolation and political quarantine, have been acknowledged by some of his staunchest political enemies.”

Ironically, Sobukwe’s ‘staunchest political enemies’ did not only include racial supremacists like Prime Minister HF Verwoerd and Nat supporters, but fellow struggle compatriots within the ANC camp. As a young firebrand and student at Fort Hare, he was a member of the Africanist wing of the ANC Youth League alongside Ashby Peter Mda, Anton Lembede, Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo.

He had participated in the Defiance Campaign of 1952 and lost his teaching post in Standerton as a result of his involvement in the historic civil disobedience. When the ANC adopted the Kliptown Charter in 1955, which proclaims that the ‘land belongs to all who live in it – black and white’, he felt that he organisation was undermining the tragic problems of land dispossession and four years later he led a breakaway group that became known as the Pan Africanist Party of Azania – a move that left a sour taste in the mouths of some of the Youth Leaguers he left behind.

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Politically and philosophically, Sobukwe was a Pan Africanist and humanist; and therefore didn’t consider anybody or any race as enemies. In this regard, he saw the destiny of the rest of the world as tied to that of the Mother Continent. In an address during a graduation ceremony at Fort Hare when he was only 24, he said, “We have chosen African Nationalism because of its deep human significance; because of its inevitability and necessity to world progress.”

“World civilisation will not be complete until the African has made his full contribution… I wish to make it clear again that we are anti-nobody. We are pro-Africa. We breathe, we dream, we live Africa; because Africa and humanity are inseparable. It is only by doing the same that the minorities in this land – the European, Coloured and Indian, can secure mental and spiritual freedom. On the liberation of the African depends the liberation of the entire world.”

Contrary to propaganda by the enemies of the Africanist cause that Sobukwe was a racist, he was in fact a non-racist humanist who defined Africans as those who pledge loyalty

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image courtesy of google images

Robert sobukwe

to the good of the Mother Continent – irrespective of colour or geographic origin. In fact some of the members of his organisation were of European descent, notably Patrick Duncan and Costa Gazi. “The Africanists take the view that there is only one race to which all belong, and that is the human race,” he told delegates at the inaugural address of the convention of Africanists.

“In our vocabulary, therefore, the word ‘race’ as applied to man has no plural form. We do, however, admit the existence of observable physical differences between various groups of people, but these differences are a result of a number of factors, chief among which has been geographical isolation.” Sobukwe therefore pioneered the concept of non-racialism which was eventually supplanted by the ANC (at the time the champions of multi-racialism).

That, dear readers, is part of his political legacy, but in a more poignant and significant way, his views found resonance in the Black Consciousness philosophy that had directly acknowledged his philosophical and political influence. One of Black Consciousness’s central tenets as articulated by Steven Bantu Biko was self-reliance as a means of the oppressor’s quest for freedom, is evident in Sobukwe’s speeches.

For instance, “We do not wish to use anybody, nor do we intend to be used by anybody. We want to make the African people conscious of the fact that they have to win their own liberation, rely on themselves to carry on a relentless and determined struggle instead of relying on court cases and negotiations on their behalf by ‘sympathetic’ whites.”

After years of complaints from his family and followers that Sobukwe’s legacy was being ignored by the ANC government, his name was recently in the spotlight not only because February marked the 33rd anniversary of his death, but because seemingly the government has realised that you cannot keep a good man down.

He has to take his rightful place in the pantheon of the country and indeed Africa’s liberation heroes. Latest reports indicate that his grave in his birthplace of Graaff-Reinet, Western Cape, is likely to be transformed into a national monument while the Nelson Mandela Foundation recently hosted a Sobukwe Exhibition in collaboration with the Robert Sobukwe Trust.

Whether these gestures will be seen by Africanists as a genuine acknowledgment of Sobukwe’s rich political legacy or as its ‘hijacking’ is a matter of debate.

MAI N

sto r y

SOUTH AFRICA

BY SAM MATHE

A GLOBAL LEADER

HOT TOURIST SPOT Langeberge highlands, Garden Route, Western Cape, South Africa.

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F

or many decades an international pariah, South Africa moved out of the shadows of international isolation in the early 90s, following the release of Nelson Mandela and the ushering in of a democratic dispensation in 1994.

Finally the country assumed its longoverdue but unique and well deserved place in the community of nations.

But the country did not only shake off her polecat status on the global map, she also emerged as a world leader on several fronts.

After all, for many years the country has played a pioneering role in many fields, ranging from mining to medicine. It was here that the world’s first heart transplant was performed in 1967 in Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town. Twenty-three years later Groote Schuur played host to another historic “transplant” when two “surgeons”, Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk signed the Groote Schuur Minute on 4 May 1990 to remove the heart of apartheid rule and chart a progressive path towards a peaceful transition to a non-racial, democratic dispensation.

It is now history that South Africa has since become a credible leader and a model for peaceful negotiated settlement in a racially polarised society that has experienced a protracted, violent and drawn-out conflict. This article seeks to explore South Africa’s role as a global leader in various fields, notably tourism, mining, energy, performing arts, sport, literature and politics.

Tourism South Africa, the cradle of humanity, is internationally renowned for its scenic beauty and natural diversity. From the snow-capped peaks of the Drakensberg range and the pristine, wind-swept beaches of the Maputaland coast in the east to the sophisticated wine-land resorts along the Garden Route and the floral paradise of Namaqualand in the west, the country has it all – including a sunny temperate climate.

The abundant wildlife of the Kruger National Park in the Lowveld and the mine dumps of the Highveld’s concrete jungle are part of the country’s unparalleled heritage. Its cultural diversity is equally remarkable. There is impressive architecture that ranges from the old colonial-style Cape Dutch thatched manors of the Mother City to the striking and colourful geometric patterns of Ndebele homesteads in Mpumalanga villages and historic missionary sites such as Middelburg.

The annual street performances of the

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Cape minstrels in the Malay community of the Bo-Kaap area remain popular as they recount the history of slavery in song and dance while the high-kicking, spine-tingling traditional dances of the Zulu also recall a heroic past. Add all these to the religious pluralism of traditional beliefs, indigenous churches such as Shembe and ZCC, and “imported” faiths such as Islam, Buddhism, Hare Krishna and evangelical Christianity, then the country’s description as a world in one country is truly justified.

Its landscape’s breathtaking beauty, coupled with a rich cultural and historical heritage, has inspired great works of literature and art – from Alan Paton’s Cry, The Beloved Country and Ah, But Your Land is Beautiful to Zakes Mda’s The Madonna Of Excelsior and from Pierneef’s idyllic landscape paintings to Pemba’s quaint rural scenes of the Eastern Cape, a region Nelson Mandela described in Long Walk To Freedom as “a beautiful country of rolling hills, fertile valleys, and a thousand rivers and streams that keep the landscape green even in winter”.

Mandela’s “beautiful country” is also naturally rich in history. It is the site of eight frontier wars that lasted for 100 years as indigenous Xhosa nations fought bitterly and gallantly against the British colonists for their ancestral lands. It is also the birthplace of struggle icons of the country’s three principal antiapartheid movements – Nelson Mandela, Robert Sobukwe and Steve Biko.

The first was of course also a resident of Vilakazi Street in Orlando West, Soweto, a street with the enviable reputation of being the only one in the world to have produced two Nobel Peace laureates – Archbishop Emeritus Tutu and Nelson Mandela himself. Others are FW de Klerk and Chief Albert Luthuli, the first African to receive the accolade in the history of the award. The honour was bestowed on him in 1960. Alongside other historic tourist attractions such as the Soweto Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial in the same neighbourhood, the Mandela House is a must-see destination for visitors.

So foreign and local travellers looking for scenery, wildlife, culture or historic landmarks will find South Africa – “a world in one country” – an indisputable global leader in the travel and tourism industry.

Sport Since the readmission of South Africa to the international arena in 1992, various sports – notably soccer, rugby and

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

Outside the United States, South Africa – the birthplace of humanity and the continent’s economic engine – is arguably the world’s biggest magnet of immigrants and refugees.

But in the same breath, it is the world’s favourite tourist destination, thanks to its scenic beauty and rich cultural and historical heritage.

sto r y

cricket have achieved phenomenally and emerged as international champions.

Just as the country came out of isolation, the national soccer team won their first game against the much-fancied indomitable Lions of Cameroon, who had put on a fine display during the Italia 90 FIFA World Cup against world beaters such as Argentina.

Only four years after readmission into the international football fold, South Africa became the winning hosts of the Africa Cup of Nations when they beat a stubborn Tunisia side 2-0 in 1996.

But it was the national rugby side of captain Francois Pienaar that set the winning tone on the international arena and underlined Mandela’s exceptional leadership qualities when they hosted and won the 1995 Rugby World Cup. The Springboks’ triumph over New Zealand’s All Blacks was a magical moment that transcended sport and served as a catalyst for uniting Mandela’s young democracy. Mandela’s political shrewdness and diplomatic stroke of genius in using the rugby event to promote racial reconciliation has been described by John Carlin in his bestseller Playing The Enemy – Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation as the “most improbable exercise in mass seduction ever see.”

Sports administrators who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities in ensuring the return of South Africa to international participation include the four doctors – Dr Sam Ramsamy, Dr Danny Jordaan, Dr Irvin Khoza and Dr Ali Bacher.

According to the 2010 BP Statistical Energy Survey, South Africa, a significant producer and consumer of coal on the continent, is the world’s third-largest coal-exporting country. The country “exports 25% of its production, uses 53% of the balance of its coal production for electricity generation, 33% for petrochemical industries (Sasol), 12 % for metallurgical industries (Iscor) and 2% for domestic heating and cooking”.

Statistics indicate that Eskom is the 11th largest electricity generator in the world while Sasol is the largest coalto-chemicals producer. The harmful effects of coal usage on the environment have been well documented, but South Africa is one of the countries pioneering alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and water. However, until these alternatives become viable and accessible to the average consumer, coal will remain the country’s primary energy source.

Two of the world’s biggest mining companies – BHP Billiton and Anglo American Plc – have a strong South African connection. BHP Billiton – the world’s largest mining, oil and gas company – came after a merger in 2001 between Australia’s Broken Hill Proprietary Company (BHP) and the Anglo-Dutch Billiton plc. Its current CEO is the South African born Marius Kloppers.

Anglo American PLC, a wellknown mining conglomerate, has its primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and its secondary listing

Mining and Energy South Africa, world famous as a treasure trove of fossil remains, is rich in mineral resources and a leading producer of a significant proportion of the world’s minerals. According to the Department of Minerals and Energy, the country’s platinum and gold production constitutes nearly 90 percent and 41 percent respectively of the world’s total output.

For more than 100 years, the reef made South Africa the world’s largest producer of gold, a keystone to the economy until 2007, when China surpassed her. The country also leads world economies in the mining of manganese (80%), chrome (73%) and vanadium (45%). She is also the world’s fourth-largest producer of diamonds. In the energy sector, South Africa is the world’s fifth-largest producer of coal – a fossil fuel that is currently responsible for 77 percent of the country’s primary energy needs, particularly the generation of electricity.

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on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Anglo American is the owner of several significant mining companies.

Well-known examples include Anglo Platinum, Anglo Coal, Impala Platinum, Kumba Iron Ore and diamond miner De Beers.

Arts and literature It is virtually impossible to truly appreciate South Africa’s contribution to the arts given the space constraints of a magazine article. Suffice to point out that her contribution has been both significant and substantial. In the field of musical theatre, the King Kong jazz opera pioneered the genre when it premiered internationally in London in 1960. Athol Fugard’s plays, notably Master Harold and The Boys and Sizwe Banzi is Dead, showcased the native talents of theatre luminaries such as John Kani, Zakes Mokae and Winston Ntshona on global stages and earned them prestigious awards.

Back home Gibson Kente, father of township theatre, kept the fires of resistance burning among township folks with classic protest plays such as I Believe, Too Late and How Long? In the 70s and 80s these plays and other Kente masterpieces became the benchmark of protest theatre. It was out of this genre that Mbongeni Ngema emerged in the early 80s as a talented actor, playwright and director – and went on to conquer Broadway with his June 16-inspired play, Sarafina!

Musically, it is hard to imagine a Miriam Makeba – Mama Africa – equivalent anywhere in the world, a truly global citizen who spoke and sang in several foreign languages but was able to fully articulate her message as an ambassador of the oppressed. In the literary arena, South Africa has produced no Chekov, Dostoyevsky and definitely no Tolstoy.

But since the publication of colonialera novels such as Olive Schreiner’s The Story Of An African Farm and Sol Plaatje’s Mhudi – not to mention a whole body of great literary works written in indigenous languages including Afrikaans – South Africa has produced two Nobel Prize in Literature winners: Nadine Gordimer, who through her magnificent epic writing has been of very great benefit to humanity, and JM Coetzee, who in innumerable guises portrays the surprising involvement of the outsider.

Writers such as the late Es’kia Mphahlele have also contributed significantly, while contemporary writers of fiction such as Zakes Mda, Chris van Wyk and Fred Khumalo are certainly shaping current and future trends in local and international literature. All said, South Africa is a world-beater in various key spheres.

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

m a i n

BY SANDILE MEMELA

MAM E LA N G

M E M E LA

Arts and culture will the real leaders Please raise their hands? “Leaders are people who use their powerful positions to make things happen�

T

here has not been a time in the history of this country when the number of leadership positions, especially for the previously disadvantaged, was so great, yet the quality of leadership leaves much to be desired. I guess what needs to be made very clear from the start is that leadership is not just about positions.

Simply put, it is not about token management positions, drawing up cutand-dried strategic plans and overseeing the structural process of achieving whatever goals or objectives have been set by other people.

I believe a leader has to be someone who not only points the way forward or gives direction but is an inspiring character whose words or behaviour galvanises or moves people to form groups or teams that will work towards the achievement of a particular goal.

In most instances, we find that too many people who hold top management positions are mistaken for leaders. With the rise of majority rule in the last 17 years, one would expect blacks, if you like, to assert their power and influence in leadership. There is no doubt that the ruling party, the African National Paul Mashatile

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providing leadership in the arts. Of course, showbiz, as the arts and culture sector is called, has always produced “superstars” that have not only gone to become self-appointed cultural spokespeople but were mistaken for leaders.

But these prominent personalities are a good example of bad leadership in the arts and culture sector. Where is the African cultural profile of the most successful democracy in the world?

Instead, the soul of this nation is a weak imitation of Coca-Cola culture.

Thus the dominant cultural forces in

“In most instances, we find that too many people who hold top management positions are mistaken for leaders” music, fashion, dance, theatre, movies, languages and other art forms are either non-African or foreign.

Much as this is to be expected in an over-Americanised or globalised world, indigenous artistic and cultural leadership would have this country make giant strides to assert its leadership quality because of its world class talent. If we had genuine South African leadership, the national profile of this country would be diverse but with an unmistakable African edge.

For us to talk of leadership in the arts there must be a visible leap in social transformation and economic empowerment that will not only reveal the African face of this nation but also give way to qualitative change in the lives of ordinary men, women and children in the sector.

There must be a difference in ownership, content control and

economic empowerment where people in the arts and culture sector own the products of their output and thus enjoy a better quality of life.

Unfortunately, the leaders in the sector – if there are such people – are not only complacent in their management positions but have become easily satisfied to serve as managers who protect and preserve the untransformed status quo.

They are happy with their own middle-class lifestyles. For the most part, the smug middle-class orientation of “superstars” and self-satisfied managers in the arts and culture sector discourages the achievement of the goals and objectives that have been set by government.

A minister is a political figurehead that spells out the strategic direction of the country and leaves it to policy implementers to do what is expected. Yet much of what we see today is conformity with an untransformed artistic and cultural landscape that makes it nigh impossible to empower ordinary folks.

The leadership in the arts and culture

“The leadership in the arts and culture sector has come of age and is mandated with the responsibility to take us to the next level of cultural and artistic boom” sector has come of age and is mandated with the responsibility to take us to the next level of cultural and artistic boom.

It cannot be business as usual.

Will the real leaders please raise their hands?

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Congress, has long unveiled a clear manifesto on the way forward.

That manifesto is to create jobs, fight unemployment and crime and make inroads into a meaningful stake in the economy through BBBEE. That is very clear visionary leadership. Now, how do we explain the absence of leaders outside the ministerial office? These would for instance be people who make their presence felt as they work towards transforming the artistic and cultural landscape in such a way that it will not only project an unmistakably African national profile but provide economically empowering opportunities for the majority.

The developments of the last 17 years reveal that we do not yet have the calibre of leaders in the arts and culture sector who are serious about radical change in the system or in the way things are done.

At the risk of sounding like a praise singer, I’d like to point out that the current minister of arts and culture, Paul Mashatile, has acutely defined the objectives he wants to be pursued and achieved during his tenure. Much as nation-building, social cohesion and the preservation and protection of what is South African culture and heritage are important matters of strategic focus, Mashatile wants economic empowerment, job creation and skills development to be treated as top priorities by the sector.

He defined the way forward, and it is now up to so-called leaders to take up the challenge of implementation.

Leaders are people who use their powerful positions to make things happen. The lack of leaders who implement government’s agenda for social transformation and economic empowerment can be linked to the emergence of middle-class lifestyles amongst people who are in top positions.

Over the last 21 years since the release of Nelson Mandela there has been a transmogrification of the character content, material aspirations and social orientation of people who should be

p r of i l e

BY SAM MATHE

m u s i c

UJU

Mellifluous Honey

I

saw UJU perform in April 2006 during a Unicef dinner in honour of the American artist Quincy Jones. The venue was Corner House in downtown Johannesburg. The youthful band’s out-of-the-box musical expression left a lasting impression on me.

The only other band whose eclectic artistry and unpredictability impressed me as much was Kwani Experience at the launch of their groundbreaking debut album, Muthaland. It was a transcendental musical experience that pushed stylistic frontiers and offered a hint of how richly diverse our music could be if young artists would approach their craft in a free-spirited and uninhibited manner.

And that is exactly what UJU are doing.

The title of their long-awaited 2010 debut album, Free (Sony Music), is testimony to their genre-defying musicality while their name – Zulu for honey – points to the naturally sweet tones of their musical expression — which is primarily dance-oriented while 27-year-old Ntuthu Ndlovu, the band’s lead female vocalist and poet, throws in the lyrics.

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She holds her own as a gifted singer with spiritual panache. Her cutting lyrics are seamlessly complemented

by Wandile Molebatsi (26), rapper and percussionist, who brings into the UJU repertoire a refreshing hip-hop element.

Molebatsi is also a talented actor whose TV credits include the drama series When We Were Black and Rhythm City, in which he plays the part of a young activist during the Soweto Uprisings and a troubled gospel star respectively.

Bassist Mosebetsi Nzimande (26) and former journalist and rhythm guitarist Earl Joseph complete the Joburg-based band. Individually and collectively, they boast incredibly wide and diverse musical muses on both sides of the Atlantic. These include Busi Mhlongo, Brenda Fassie, Fela Kuti, Thandiswa Mazwai, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Beyoncé, Radiohead, The Roots,

Li’l Wayne, Richard Bona, Goldfrapp, The Wedding Present, Patti Smith and many more.

In Free these diverse and seemingly disparate influences – which include maskandi, dub reggae, hip-hop, alternative rock and township pop – are masterfully distilled into a cutting-edge yet accessible urban contemporary sound of dance melodies characterised by urgent, current and consciousnessraising messages of individual freedom, romantic love, xenophobia, HIV/AIDS, spousal abuse and the materialistic blingbling culture.

“Let me tell you what it’s all about, it’s about big houses in the suburbs, BMWs, everybody out there trying to make money, you and me walking in the streets, pretending we don’t see the poor people that we meet...” they sing in Narcisse (track 4).

The plight of refugees and the scourge of xenophobia is poignantly captured in the lyrics and sultry and soulful vocals (including a news-bulletin snippet) of I Am Lost. “I was hoping for a place that I could call my own, but in a place of war, no peace, no love, it is an illusion...”

Somewhat fun, somewhat serious but never dull, as a live band UJU has for six years showcased its mellifluous repertoire at major festivals and in most of Joburg’s famous venues including Corner House, where they impressed legendary producer and songwriter Quincy Jones.

I hope their recent entrance into the commercial recording industry through this outstanding album, which was recently nominated for a Metro FM Award in the Best Produced Album category, will pave the way for countrywide recognition and eventual international stage time and airplay.

“The youthful band’s out-ofThe-box musical expression left a lasting impression on me.”

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&

TERNIELLE NELSON'S TALENTS UNEARTHED

That route includes elements of folk and Afro-jazz as can be expected from an album produced by Selaelo Selota, whom she credits for his musical mentorship.

“He helped shape the songs, and his musical guidance was really important.

Selaelo also really brought to life what I was trying to convey with the feeling of each song, 100 percent.”

Her wide musical vocabulary and sensibility – primarily stimulated by her music studies at the Central Johannesburg College, which introduced her to diverse cultural and artistic influences – and her fierce determination not to take the R&B route as was expected of a young artist who grew up in Newlands East, Durban, partly explains Unearthed’s uniqueness.

“I define myself not as a coloured woman but, as my song says, as an African woman who is able to rise above the difficult cycles of my life.”

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Ternielle acknowledges her ancestral roots in the creation of this fine album.

The catchy ditty, Da N Da De (track five) is a perfect example of a folk song inspired by her “tribal” roots.

“My father’s people were Makua from Zanzibar who landed up living in Chatsworth Extension 2 [Durban]. And even though my dad died when I was five, I remember going to my uncles’ houses and being enchanted by the drumming and almost trance-like music they would make in the yard,” she says.

“This is a part of my heritage that I try to tap into through my music and hopefully will explore even more in the years ahead.”

“Unearthed has a very significant meaning for me, in terms of where I am in my life and my career,” she says. “It’s a sign that I am set free and dug out and not succumbing to the norms in society and also the norms that are expected of me. I define myself not as a coloured woman but, as my song says, as an African woman who is able to rise above the difficult cycles of my life. ‘Unearthed’ is the word I choose to use as a sign of new things and possibilities as I journey through this daily.”

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image courtesy of sony MUSIC

E

very year the recording industry witnesses new musical output from young artists of exceptional talent. The media lavish praise on them; they are heralded as the new Brenda Fassies and Miriam Makebas. Unfortunately, for a number of factors – notably stiff competition and inadequate marketing – this is tough terrain for most newcomers.

Most of them fade into obscurity as soon as they have attained their 15 minutes of fame. But the country is blessed with such an abundance of talent that most eventually find their long-awaited break. After carefully listening to Durban-born Ternielle Nelson’s debut album, Unearthed, I’m convinced that her executive producer, Selaelo Selota, has unearthed a musical gem that won’t fade. After all, the precocious 22-year-old’s crisp, evocative voice and song-writing abilities are truly exceptional.

Melodic and lyrical, every song in this album is an exquisite work of art that tells the story of her journey through appropriate emotions – most significantly the loss of her beloved mother, the birth of her child and her determination to heal. In addition, her sincerity and sensitivity to her craft lend an astonishing freshness of sound that marks her as a special talent. Hers is a singular voice that is not easy to pigeonhole into musical genres.

“Singers who come from my cultural background are traditionally steered into the kind of sexy R&B sound that’s so much around at the moment,” she says, “But I made a conscious decision to take another route.”

A SMART FOCUS ON TRADE AND INVESTMENT IN THE NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Invest North West aims to promote and facilitate trade and investment opportunities that create value for investors and jobs for the people of the North West Province.

I

nvest North West (INW) is the provincial trade and investment agency of the North West Province. INW is at the cutting-edge of international trade and investment promo tion with a mandate to develop the economy of the North West Province, focusing

facilitation, export promotion and development facturing, renewable energy and agriculture. INW is a section 21 company established under the auspices of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the North West Province (DEDT). INW’s strategic intent is to provide vision; leadership and direction to key growth sectors in the provincial economy; to increase the level of FDI

3. Easy access to markets in the SADC region and Africa 4. Fastest growing province in SA between 2002 and 2003 5. Affordable pool of labour (skilled and unskilled) 6. Home to more than 20 trans-national companies (TNC’s) and local companies reinvesting in the province 7. Scoped projects ready for investment, supported 8. Good quality of life 9. Malaria-free region 10. A province that is serious about business

second economy to enhance its capacity to export to various markets.

sustainable relationships with their foreign trade partners.

The services offered by Invest North West to po tential investors include: Destination marketing; domestic); Facilitating linkages to international markets; Expedite business expansions Populat ing the value chain of new and existing businesses & Policy advocacy. The strategic focus is to ensure viable and sustainable projects with high impact (at least 50 jobs) and or high value (R10-million).

The services offered by Invest North West include: • Identifying and packaging viable investment opportunities • Facilitating linkages to business markets • Facilitating joint ventures

“INW’s strategic intent is to provide vision, leadership and • Giving advice on feasibility studies and business plans direction to key growth sectors in incentives the provincial economy, to • Assisting with work permits increase the level of FDI flow, and• Providing assistance in obtaining suitable assist in the development of tradeland or factory space • Providing assistance in populating the value in the second economy...” chain of new investments and existing businesses 10 Reasons why to Invest in the North West Province of South Africa 1. Good infrastructure (road network, airports, hospitals, schools) 2. Low cost of electricity, water, land and factory rentals and adequate industrialisation

and screening processes are used to arrive at target markets for investment promotion. This ensures that Invest North West focuses on the promo tion of sectors in the Province that can compete successfully on an international basis. Trade pro motion and development with the South African economy becoming increasingly integrated into the global economy, there is a growing need for local businesses to diversify and become exporters of goods and services. We aim to ensure growth in the value of exports by providing access to foreign markets for North West products.

The North West Province has enormous potential as many locally made products can compete successfully in the global arena. Invest North West has assisted various businesses throughout the Province in accessing these global markets.

Invest North West also assists investors in import permits and is knowledgeable about the provincial key competitive advantages. INW can -

Trade services offered to existing and potential exporters include: • Compilation of a database of exporters and potential exporters in the Province • Providing advice on export issues • Facilitation of outward trade missions • Invitations to meet with inward trade missions • Exhibiting products at local and international trade fairs • Capacity building seminars and workshops • Linking of foreign buyers to local exporters • Circulating trade leads and enquiries • Networking opportunities • Facilitating export promotion incentives • Advice on export incentives (EMIA) • Researching and identifying suitable markets In its quest to support regional cooperation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Invest North West has compiled country briefs in order to promote intra-regional trade.

These will also assist exporters in taking advantage of their preferential access to a wider market. tp Tel: +27 (0)14 594 2570, Email: inw@inw.org.za or Website: www.inw.org.za

BY SAM MATHE

T RI B U T E

The unsung hero Andrew Mlangeni is a golf enthusiast with an impressive collection of silverware in his cabinet. In his Dube, Soweto home, he is well loved for his philanthropic causes – including donating blankets to the needy during the annual Christmas lunch he hosts. In parliament Mlangeni, 85, is a guiding light to the country’s younger leadership. SAM MATHE gets up close and personal with the sagely octogenarian who did time with Mandela on South Africa’s own Alcatraz.

A brief timeline

6 June 1925 1931 Born in Prospect Township, east of Johannesburg

Father passes away, leaving the family destitute

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1938

The family relocates to Orlando East

1945

Joins the Young Communist League with fellow St Peter’s alumni and meets fellow communist and writer Ruth First

1946

Obtains a Junior Certificate at St Peter’s Secondary School, Rosettenville, south of Johannesburg

1950

The Communist Party of South Africa is banned.

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T RI B U T E

F

ew revolutionaries or freedom fighters were born with silver spoons in their mouths. Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin and Indian nationalist Mohandas Gandhi were notable exceptions. Lenin was born into a family of Russian nobles with a schoolteacher mother and a father who was a senior government functionary in the affairs of school education. Indeed he never made any attempt to hide his aristocratic upbringing and in fact argued in his revolutionary writings that intellectuals with bourgeois backgrounds had a duty to spread revolutionary ideas amongst the working class.

Gandhi was also of aristocratic background, both parents being members of India’s upper caste. His father was a highly ranked official in one of India’s princely states during the British colonial rule.

In 1925, just a year after the death of Lenin, the year when Gandhi took a break from challenging British colonial rule and started focusing on forging unity between India’s warring political parties, a revolutionary was born on South African soil. His name is Andrew Mlangeni, and he would become a member of the Young Communist League and a secretary of the Communist Party of South Africa.

became available in 1938, the Mlangeni family eventually moved to Orlando East. With a large household of a widowed mother and 11 children, life was not easy for the Mlangenis.

Some of the children were taken in by relatives; Andrew went to live in the Orange Free State townships of Bethlehem and Kroonstad for a short time. On his return to Orlando in 1939, he went to live with an elder brother in Pimville where he started his primary schooling at the age of 10 under the tutelage of Catholic missionaries.

While school provided in his intellectual needs, a job as a golf caddy provided some desperately needed pocket money.

“At 12 I was already an experienced caddy at golf courses around Crown Mines and Turffontein,” he says. “I could

to hold while she was putting. You were expected to take a puff from her cigarette. If a ‘boy’ refused, he was regarded as disrespectful of the ‘madam’ and could be expelled from the golf course,” he explains.

It was a habit that he took to Robben Island in 1964.

“For the first few months it was difficult to find tobacco on the island,” he remembers. “We relied on picking up stompies thrown around by warders on our way to the quarry. At the time I really wanted to quit, but Walter Sisulu told us: ‘Chaps, we’re already punished.

Why do you punish yourself more by giving up something you’ve been enjoying for decades?’ If it weren’t for him, I probably would have succeeded!”

Despite the challenges township life threw at the young teenager, he was a bright pupil who was focused on his studies. After obtaining a standard six certificate at Musi High in Pimville, he enrolled at St Peter’s in Rosettenville, Johannesburg, where he met some of the country’s most brilliant students, students who later became prominent South Africans – the likes of Joe Matthews, Alfred Hutchinson and Tamsanqa Wilkinson Nkambule, who later became a great mathematician and legendary headmaster.

His maths and science teacher was Raising a revolutionary the late former ANC president Oliver Mlangeni’s revolutionary politics Reginald Tambo. were forged in the crucible of township “He was a very good maths and poverty, apartheid oppression and science teacher and very popular with disenfranchisement. The family lived in students,” Mlangeni recalls. “We also Prospect Township, a mixed area where had a very good headmaster, Mr DH Indian merchants and Chinese fah-fee Darlings from the UK. His cousin was runners lived cheek by jowl with their a geography teacher and a fellow of the African tenants.

Royal Geographic Society.”

“The houses belonged to Jewish Mlangeni’s involvement in student property developers, and African parents politics started in 1944 – the year the were charged exorbitant amounts in ANC Youth League was formed – when rental for small rooms,” Mlangeni recalls. one Victor Moorosi, a fellow student Housing for Africans in the city was earn some cash that I’d use to buy myself from Pimville, formed the Pimville a big headache for white authorities some khaki shirts and short trousers.”

Students’ and Ex Students’ League. as most rural folks migrated to Some of the money came in handy Andrew Mazibuko was elected Johannesburg in search of jobs and a in the Mlangeni household to augment secretary with Mlangeni as his deputy. better livelihood. the earnings of his mother – a domestic The idea behind the league’s formation By 1932 Orlando East, the nucleus worker who washed suburban folks’ was to mould students into becoming around which Soweto was born, was clothing to keep the wolf from the door. useful members of the community by established by the city of Johannesburg It was on the golf course, at the age of engaging in social activities that would as a solution to the housing problem 12, that he started smoking – a habit he enable them to learn about positive and slum conditions in places such still indulges. values such as discipline. The other as Doornfontein. When more houses “It was customary for white women aim was to introduce them to civil golfers to offer a caddy a cigarette politics. It was around this time that

“It was customary for white women golfers to offer a caddy a cigarette to hold while she was putting. You were expected to take a puff from her cigarette. If a ‘boy’ refused, he was regarded as disrespectful of the ‘madam’ and could be expelled from the golf course.”

A brief timeline

1951

Recruited into the ANC Youth League by a Fort Hare student, Rosette Ndziba

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1954

Graduates from youth politics to become a member of the ANC

1955

Becomes a member of the South African Communist Party (SACP), the old Communist Party of South Africa’s new name

1956

Elected secretary of the ANC’s Soweto branch

1960

Following the Sharpeville massacre and the banning of the ANC and the SACP, Mlangeni goes abroad for military training

July 1963

Five months after returning from military training, Mlangeni and other top ANC members are arrested in a countrywide raid by the police’s special branch

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T RI B U T E By 1959 he was secretary of the Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vaal region, the biggest in the union with 29 branches.

When the movement was banned in 1960 and the leadership resolved to adopt an armed struggle, Mlangeni was one of the six leaders who were chosen for military training. The others were Raymond Mhlaba, Wilton Mkwayi, Joe Gqabi (later assassinated in Zimbabwe), Steve Naidoo and Abel Mthembu, who later turned state witness during the Rivonia Trial. Mlangeni’s military training included sabotage, guerrilla warfare and radio communication – his speciality.

“It takes months to learn the codes of radio communication, but my maths background came in handy,” he explains.

By 1963 the ANC high command had already established sabotage units countrywide – operating from a remote farmhouse on Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, north of Johannesburg. Here the leadership operated underground under assumed names to evade the security police, with Nelson Mandela So they dropped the idea and joined masquerading as a gardener and cook the Young Communist League instead. under the nom de guerre of David Here, Mlangeni operated on the same Motsamai (“Walker”). cell as Ruth First, who was a Wits “As a decision-making body of MK, the student at the time and a crusading high command had decided that during journalist writing about the exploitative these sabotage missions taking of lives and semi-slavery conditions of black was to be avoided. But the units on the farm workers. Another white female ground were faced with a dilemma: how member of the Young Communist to bomb targets without taking lives,” League was Elsa Watts, who acted as a tea Mlangeni says. lady for the others.

The high command was left with “For black guys to be served tea by a no choice but to accept that eventually white woman was like freedom itself,” there will be human casualties he remembers. (soft targets) during these sabotage missions. The high command acquired The ANC journey a farmhouse in Rivonia that became He eventually joined the ANC Youth the MK headquarters. The house League in 1951 and started serving in belonged to Arthur Goldreich, an awardvarious capacities from 1954 onwards, winning painter and a member of the including chairperson, treasurer and Communist Party, with outbuildings of secretary of the Dube branch, a model township in Soweto where he’d acquired thatched bungalows.

“Mandela was the first to occupy one a house after his marriage in 1950. of these outbuildings, and we met every The role of secretary was particularly Monday in the evenings. The plan was significant because, as he puts it, “A that we had to be visible during the day, secretary is the lifeblood of any political to be seen by township folks to allay party. You’re basically an administrator suspicions while in actual fact we were responsible for all party documents and operating semi-underground. At night membership.” we would go into hiding.”

At the same time, Mlangeni travelled Mlangeni and his cousin Eric Ntshatshe started discussing the possibility of forming a student branch of the ANC Youth League.

“We approached Mr Tambo for advice,” Mlangeni says. His response was, “If you still want to remain students at St Peter’s, don’t form it because you’ll be expelled.”

“For the first few months it was difficult to find tobacco on the island. We relied on picking up stompies thrown around by warders on our way to the quarry.”

A brief timeline

1963 to 1964

In the famous Rivonia trial, Mlangeni and his co-accused, including Nelson Mandela, pleaded not guilty but were charged with high treason and sentenced to life imprisonment on Robben Island

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1982

Mlangeni, Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Wilton Mkwayi and Raymond Mhlaba are transferred to Pollsmoor Prison, Cape Town

1985

Mlangeni and Mkwayi are the only Rivonia triallists who agree with Mandela’s decision to negotiate with Pretoria

widely in his Zephyr Zodiac, touring the republic to visit other branches to explain the bombings by the “ANC in action”.

“During these travels I wore a large beard and disguised myself as ‘reverend Mokete Mokoena’. I travelled to Durban, Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town recruiting people for military training,” he says. “But as a hardened communist, I’d long forgotten most Bible verses and had to revisit them – especially the Lord’s Prayer – in order to make a convincing priest.”

The special branch of the police was closing in on the cadres, and on the night of 11 July 1963, a police raid on Liliesleaf and the houses of leaders such Andrew Mlangeni led to the arrests of 19 men who were members of the ANC and the Communist Party.

Mlangeni says he never expected leniency from the authorities.

“So life imprisonment didn’t come as a surprise to me,” he explains. “I’d read books on other people’s struggles in the world, and I expected to be arrested one

“As a decisionmaking body of MK, the high command had decided that during these sabotage missions, taking of lives was to be avoided. But the units on the ground were faced with a dilemma: how to bomb targets without taking lives.” day. But I was already steeled physically and mentally.”

The father of four says the biggest challenge while on the island was not being a father to his children as they were growing up. “It was very painful,” he says.

1989

Mlangeni and fellow Rivonia triallists including Walter Sisulu, Govan Mbeki, Wilton Mkwayi, Ahmed Kathrada, Raymond Mhlaba and Elias Motsoaledi are released

1994

Serves as a member of parliament in Nelson Mandela’s post-apartheid government, a position he still holds today

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BY Ntebo Rajuili

tsots i

i n

t h e

bo a r d r oo m

An Independent

BLACK VOICE

Professor Lumkile Wiseman Nkuhlu tells Ntebo Rajuili that change in South Africa relies on black professionals speaking their mind.

I

n 2007, on a trip back from the African Union Summit in Ghana, I was privileged to share the journey with Professor Wiseman Nkuhlu. At the time, many African economies were enjoying solid growth rates of approximately 5.8 percent against a world average of 4 percent. It was the first time since their independence that most sub-Saharan nations were on a positive trajectory, and excitement was mounting around Africa as the final frontier for investment.

Four years later, African countries are still clawing their way out of the global economic crisis, and South Africa, the darling of the continent, is at a crossroad.

South Africa’s turbulent history is well documented, but the years following 1994 inspired confidence, even euphoria in some instances, and there seemed to be a clear vision of a nation’s desire to rebuild. In the last 12 months, the outlook seems to have become murkier as the country grapples with all manner of social, economic and political ills. There’s a growing voice questioning government’s agenda and disconnect between policy, promise

and implementation.

These challenges have brought into sharp focus just how fragile our democracy is, and I began to question the role of the growing educated black middle class in shaping the future of the country. Like so many African countries, South Africa’s black middle class is growing, yet we seem to have taken a back seat to the public discourse while we go about the business of paying off our townhouses and Porsche Cayennes.

At times, it’s easy to feel quite powerless against the avalanche of government mismanagement, inequality, poverty and crime. Yet the future of our security is based on a prosperous society, a goal that continues to elude us as structural imbalances threaten our vision for a thriving nation. Just across our border, a highly educated black middle class watched as their ideals disintegrated and their economy crumbled.

Challenging black professionals

From 1991 to 1995 Nkuhlu was the leader of the organisational voice of black business. As president of the Black Management Forum (BMF), his task was to spearhead the advancement of black professionals and to ensure that they were active in shaping the country’s future. Although he no longer occupies this position, this agenda still tops his priorities as he challenges black professionals to take a more active role in developing the country.

“The reason why it’s important for a country to have a progressive, nonsectarian, non-partisan professional intellectual class is because you need that kind of layer of people who can look

at things scientifically and objectively in terms of what needs to be done,” he explains when I meet him for a second time, to interview him for this Afropolitan article. “Once professional people are sectarian or partisan, intellectual honesty suffers, because whatever they do, they don’t want to offend whatever affiliations they have.”

Prioritising a skills revolution

During his tenure at the BMF, the organisation embarked on two major projects. The one was to assist companies to transform and to fight prejudice with the law and the other was to massively expand South Africa’s skills base. By his account, they failed in their attempt to fully implement the latter. At the time the BMF recognised that there was a dire shortage of black accountants, engineers and economists, and they embarked on a plan to send thousands of students to international universities so that they could use their skills and knowledge to transform society.

At the time he pointed to the East, where India and China were ploughing billions into educating their graduates abroad to ensure a growing pool of skills to power their fast-industrialising economies.

Sixteen years later, the BMF no longer publicises this agenda, yet for the country to achieve long-term transformation, far more priority needs to be given to a skills revolution.

Valuing knowledge and excellence

Professor Nkuhlu argues that preoccupation with short-term goals (such as black economic empowerment,

image BY gallo images

Prof. Lumkile Wiseman Nkuhlu

“What we need are more coherent black voices talking rationally and independently and really being scientific in their approach, showing respect for formal knowledge and competencies�

T S O T S i

i N

T h E

B O a r d r O O m

THE RISE OF A BLACK BUSINESS LEADER • • Born 5 February 1944 in Cala, in the current Eastern Cape • • 1960s – 1970s: Studied at the University of Fort Hare, the University of Cape Town and New York University and completed a BCom, CTA and MBA

more in those societies and is seen as the determinant of one’s progress,” he explains.

With growing inequality, high levels of unemployment diminishing incomes and rising costs, it’s understandable that the demand for wage increases results in strike action across all sectors.

He argues that South Africa’s unemployment figure of 25 percent is abnormal given that Western countries have embarked on extreme measures to fight unemployment figures of between 5 and 10 percent.

What’s missing from the current debate – whether it be between politicians, union leaders or labourers – is the question of excellence. In fact, the debate around productivity, up-skilling and a better work ethic has become overshadowed by the immediate need to accumulate more and gross inefficiency.

It’s no surprise that South Africa tops the list of protest nations.

With leading economists such as Nouriel Roubini warning of a double-dip recession, South Africa cannot afford to be complacent. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan remarked that South Africa • • 1989 – 2000: Served as a director needs a growth rate of 7 percent over of a number of major companies, including Standard Bank, South the next 20 to 30 years if it aims to create African Breweries, Old Mutual, jobs, reduce poverty and tackle all the Tongaat Hulett and BMW. social ills related to unemployment. It’s • • 1993 – 2000: Played a leading an ambitious target given the fragile role in development as chief state of the global economy and our own executive of the Independent internal inefficiencies.

Development Trust and as A vibrant private sector has been chairperson of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. one of the stellar performers of the country’s economic transformation.

• • 1998 – 2009: Served as Professor Nkuhlu says he welcomes the chairperson of MEEG Bank in the Eastern Cape and management of institutions such as the chairperson of Metropolitan. national treasury, the independence of the Reserve Bank and a vibrant civil • • 2000 – 2005: Served as economic advisor to former president society. For him another positive aspect Thabo Mbeki and as chief of South Africa’s democracy is the executive of the secretariat of vigorous debate that allows citizens to the New Partnership for Africa’s speak their minds and criticise power.

Development.

“What’s going to make a difference in • • Current directorships include South Africa is when black professionals DEALING WITH EMPLOYMENT AngloGold Ashanti and Datatec. speak their minds. Not whites, because He chairs the audit and risk Throughout the various positions he white people will always be dismissed as committee of AngloGold Ashanti has held, Professor Nkuhlu has been and is a member of the audit yearning for the past and apartheid,” he grappling with employment issues, both and risk committee of Datatec. says. “What we need are more coherent local and international.

In 2008, at a time when job losses were black voices talking rationally and independently and really being scientific in their approach, showing respect for formal knowledge and competencies.”

In his ongoing pursuit of skills development, Professor Nkuhlu has made education and training his personal passion. His response to discrimination was education and a drive that saw him nurture a generation of black chartered accountants such as Futhi Mtoba, whose professional career started in Umtata, where Professor Nkuhlu was one of South Africa’s first black chartered accountants. social grants and subsidies) and a the order of the day due to the global South Africa has navigated treacherous poor culture of excellence is severely economic crisis, he became the president waters and proved a resilient nation that jeopardising sustainable development. of the International Organisation of can succeed when working towards a Yet again he draws a comparison with Employers (IOE). When he took over common goal. Rural populations, the Asian countries. the leadership of this organisation, voting majority, do not have the luxury “One of the differences between where the IOE’s most pressing task was to of questioning conventional wisdom. we find ourselves and where Malaysia ensure that politicians focused on We in our luxury sedans, weaving our and Korea and others find themselves issues pertaining to job creation and way through peak-hour traffic, have that is that scientific and technological unemployment in addition to rescuing knowledge and excellence is valued luxury and should use it wisely. financial institutions.

“As president of the BLAck MAnAGeMent foruM, his tAsk wAs to speArheAd the AdvAnceMent of BLAck professionALs And to ensure thAt they were Active in shApinG the country’s future”

Pick of the Pics

PH O T O

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E S S AY

Tomorrow's leaders are today's achievers. Knowing this, we're looking for photographers who are currently achieving in their art, and well on the right path to photographic leadership. In this issue meet Mikail Hansa.

ABOUT MIKAIL “My keen sense of adventure has prompted me to travel and take on photo-shoot assignments on location which have led me up Kilimanjaro, snorkeling through the Great Barrier Reef, scuba diving with sharks at Seal Island in Cape Town; bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge; para-gliding through the Drakensberg Mountain Range; and hot air ballooning in Argentina.� www.hansaphotography.co.za

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PH O T O

www.afropolitan.co.za

E S S AY

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L E AD E R S HIP

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B U S I N E S S

PERSONAL

REFLECTIONS ON THE VALUE OF AN MBA Charlotte Nkuna on how the degree made her a rounded business person with a greater understanding of the business world.

I

studied my MBA in 2003/4, at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). At the time of my studies, I was marketing manager at Novartis Animal Health. Being a veterinarian, I had picked up some business-management skills working at Novartis. It was after enrolling for the MBA programme that I realised how limited my business understanding was.

I realised how diverse the backgrounds of the students were.

The diverse, stimulating discussions were invaluable. I met some very successful individuals. I had always considered myself a high achiever, but in the programme I came to realise that outside my world, people were doing great things and breaking new ground.

In the programme I made new friends, business partners and acquaintances I

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have kept to this day.

The programme made me a more rounded business person with a much greater understanding of the business world and how the pieces of organisations fit together. For me the area that was most beneficial was getting a better understanding of financial principles and applications. I got a good grasp of the finances within my own area of work.

Furthermore, I believe in setting myself apart from my colleagues. This was my motivation for joining the programme in the first place.

I planned to maximise the benefits of the qualification to push myself up the professional ladder. I moved up within Novartis South Africa to be the head of sales and marketing for the animalhealth business unit. I believe that by

“I believe that by doing the MBA I demonstrated my drive, abilit y and desire to move up.� doing the MBA I demonstrated my drive, ability and desire to move up. I could commit and stay the course and see things through.

My next move was an international assignment to the UK to head up farm-animal business marketing for Novartis Animal Health. In the programme I learnt to be a generalist. I switched disciplines to brand strategist at Interbrand Sampson with absolute ease. I realised that I could take up any position and be excellent. For me professionally, the sky is not even the limit.

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“To be in the presence of highly successful and ambitious individuals motivates one to aspire to better and greater things.”

Connie Nkosi – knowledge is power The MBA degree is highly valuable in that it provides knowledge and skills in a number of disciplines. One gets to understand finance, marketing, human resources, economics and other critical facets of running a business. The MBA also teaches business skills and instils that entrepreneurial spirit.

Business is complex. In order to succeed as a business person and make profits, one must have skills.

Today's business landscape has become highly competitive because of globalisation. South African businesses now have to face international competition. For example, Wal-Mart has bought Massmart, a South African retailer. The significance of this buy-out is that companies such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite Checkers, Woolworths and others must now sharpen their skills and start being more alert.

Having an MBA opens doors. But you must still make yourself competitive.

The MBA provides the base, but you need to study and acquire a deeper understanding. Knowledge is power, and the acquisition of an MBA fits that adage very well.

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“The MBA has helped me to stand my ground, and I believe the MBA has helped me to ward off prejudice and discrimination.”

The MBA has helped me to stand my ground. There is so much prejudice against women in all spheres of life, and I believe the MBA has helped me to ward off prejudice and discrimination.

I have been able to offer my opinion and views on any topic, thanks to the MBA. People should respect you for what you know and not for who you are. In most democratic societies you actually become who you are because of

“Having an MBA opens doors, but one still needs to be competitive.” what you know. I have come to like and respect the American democracy.

I am a sceptic by nature, and I was very sceptical of the prospect of Barack Obama being elected to the highest office in America. Yes, it happened because Obama is smart. He is knowledgeable and has been perceived as someone who can lead the Americans out of their problems. Despite going through tough times, he seems to be

doing a relatively good job. Democracy is a competition of ideas, and those people who are knowledgeable must win.

Businesses drive a country’s economy.

A country’s gross domestic product is a function of business output. What this then means is that people running a business must at least have a business degree. An MBA is a wonderful degree to have as it helps you understand what business is all about. Countries such as China and India, whose GDP is growing in double digits, have as political agendas the education of their youth.

In China we are told that when they send students to America, it is imperative that they return and contribute to the economic growth of their home country.

Most entrepreneurs have become aware that they must equip themselves with a recognisable degree. An MBA certainly stands one in good stead.

Entrepreneurs create jobs. President Jacob Zuma is urging the country to create jobs. People that understand what job creation means will be the first to take heed and help with job creation.

Having an MBA also helps graduates to acquire the necessary negotiation skills in a world where deal making and joint ventures require these skills.

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image courtesy of volvo

I would strongly and always recommend to my friends who have the opportunity to enrol for an MBA to go for it, if for nothing else then for setting themselves apart from their peers. It demonstrates the level of commitment one has. To be in the presence of highly successful and ambitious individuals motivates one to aspire to better and greater things.

I benefitted most from the informal discussions held among classmates. The informal learning is even more valuable than the programme itself. I now plan to enrol for my DBA to further my growth.

In spite of the strenuous workload, an MBA is worth the pain – and I loved my time at GIBS. Oh, by the way, the choice of school is very important and was a really big deal for me.

BY STEVEN BACHER

F I N A N C E

al i nc

a n i f e r A rus gu lt? th r o w 38

a s r i the

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DRAFTFCB CAPE TOWN MOME000742/E

there’s no present like time

When it comes to financial planning, the sooner you start, the better your long term rewards.

Whether you need investment and retirement planning, asset protection or healthcare cover, Momentum’s accredited financial planners will expertly equip you with the knowledge and advice you need to achieve what you want most in life.

For more information, email finplan@momentum.co.za or SMS ‘SUCCESS’ and your name to 31522* and one of our financial planners will contact you. *Standard SMS rates apply.

F I N A N C E

T

hey say that the problem with advice is that supply is generally greater than demand.

One industry that’s not short of gurus ready to dispense with advice is the financial industry. South Africa has a highly developed financial sector that is recognised globally as being world class. For most South Africans the interaction with the financial sector is often through their financial advisor.

It’s estimated that there are more than

FAIS Act in particular. Advisors that do not pass this exam will not be allowed to continue working as a financial advisor. The industry qualification – CFP or certified financial planner – has become increasingly difficult to attain, with pass rates below 60%. Advisors with the CFP designation are now in demand worldwide.

The skilled advisor will have mathematical, analytical and interpersonal skills. They will also need

“Personal financial planning has become very complex in the past years and with that has necessitated increased skill levels on the part of financial advisors” 10 000 financial advisors in South Africa, which leads us to ask: what is their role in the financial sector? What value can they add to the person on the street?

What does one look for in an advisor?

What is required of a financial planner?

A good financial planner guides the client in terms of how to manage their personal financial position. This requires an understanding of multi-disciplinary fields. The advisor is expected to have a grasp of legal matters (Wills Act, Matrimonial Property Act, Estate Duty, FICA, Pension Funds Act etc), tax matters (income tax, capital gains tax, corporate tax), investment matters (portfolio construction, investment theory, risk management, offshore investments etc), medical aid, retirement planning matters, fiduciary matters (estate planning, wills, trusts etc).

Personal financial planning has become very complex in the past years and with that has necessitated increased skill levels on the part of financial advisors. The industry has witnessed the professionalisation of the financial planning industry over the past decade, starting with the introduction of the Financial Advisors and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act of 2004. The industry watchdog – the Financial Services Board – has become a lot more stringent in licensing advisors.

All financial advisors are now required to write regulatory exams that test their understanding of the

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to be administratively adept and ensure that they comply with the relevant Acts at all times.

The role of the advisor The advisor plays an intermediary role in the financial sector in South Africa.

advice. In the past, advisors were taught to sell. Today, they need to analyse and strategise.

What value can they add to the man in the street?

The value of advice is a debate that has raged for many years. Clients tend to haggle about the price or cost of advice but often lose sight of the value of advice. The price of advice is the commission earned or consulting fee charged. The value is the extent to which a client is better off as a result of the advice.

Says Craig Gradidge, co-founder of Gradidge-Mahura Investments, “In one hour I immediately saved a client more than R200 000 in tax by restructuring their salary. I restructured the retirement portfolio of the client I saw after that, but he’ll only see the benefits in 20 years’ time, when he retires. I estimate the value of the restructuring to be worth about R6 million. But we’ll only see that when he retires.”

Both clients paid a similar cost for advice, but the value they received differed based on their personal circumstances and requirements.

What does one look for in an advisor?

A good advisor is less focused on sales and generally conducts a significant amount of analysis in order to fully

“The primary value proposition of today’s financial advisor is advice.

In the past, advisors were taught to sell. Today, they need to analyse and strategise” understand the client. The quality of advice is influenced by two important Their job is to understand the different factors: experience and education. products offered by the numerous What qualifications does your advisor companies and to recommend the have? How much relevant experience relevant products to their clients. Before do they have? Can they show evidence any products can be sold, the advisor is of structure and process within required to conduct a full analysis on the their business? Do they have a clear client’s financial position and prioritise investment philosophy? How often are the actions that will see the client’s they in contact with you? Are there position improving. The primary value regular reviews – preferably annually – proposition of today’s financial advisor is of your financial position? www.afropolitan.co.za

SOCIAL FRANCHISING - EVERYONE WINS! Give our youth a sporting chance to help make South Africa successful 600 (Enterprise Development) and Code Sport For All, South Africa’s first registered 700 (Socio-Economic Development) B-BBEE social franchise, utilises sport as a vehicle requirements. In other words, it is verifiable for development and social change. It and measured, so a supporting enterprise provides an entrepreneur (owner/operator) can stimulate business at with a rewarding business; grassroots level whilst doing offers youth employment opportunities and gives Get your company social good with meaning and real results and rewards. children - who are inactive or involved and who have limited access to quality sport coaching - a create social change Sport For All CEO Kelli Givens gives an insight into the quid chance to participate in over that’s good for pro quo benefits of this social 15 different sport codes and franchise: “Everyone wins! life skills training. business too!

Companies utilise their BEE Codes of Good Practice This is NOT a charity project, provision to get up to 20 points on their BEE it is a sustainable business model that scorecard, the franchisee gets the seed uses structured curricula to deliver funding necessary to set up and kids who developmental sports training programmes can’t otherwise afford to participate get the and the latest smartcard technology to track opportunity to be a part of Sport For All. cash flows and monitor the progress and The community benefits by having betterparticipation of the children. As such, Sport rounded youth growing up and becoming For All is the ‘beautiful solution’ for active citizens” companies who would like to fulfill Code

Social Franchising - The Beautiful Solution •

• •

•

•

Uses the structures and management approaches of commercial franchising to achieve social goals Makes profit to plough back into the business to ‘make a difference’ Focuses on sustainability through entrepreneur development, business incubation and youth employment Turnkey Operation includes smartcard technology, storage container, coaching curriculum, kits and sports equipment Hands-on classroom sessions and continuous on-field training for franchisee and coaches

Companies can earn valuable points: 15 (Code 600) Enterprise Development + 5 (Code 700) Socio-Economic Development = 20 POINTS on their BEE scorecard!

Over 500 SA corporations invested BEE funds to enable entrepreneurs to own and operate 8 businesses, employ more than 75 youth and train over 100,000 sports and lifeskills sessions to more than 1500 children daily in 2010.

Contact: Kelli Givens | 087 820 4030 | kellig@sportforall.co.za www.sportforall.co.za

BY Tshepo Matseba

F I N A N C E

Financial planning 2011 outlook Momentum's Kevin Cambell

Although South Africa has weathered the financial crisis during the past two years, most consumers are still feeling the impact of the recession on their finances. Disposable income continues to shrink and the uncertainty regarding the economic environment remains a reality. The need for sound financial advice becomes a greater necessity that people cannot afford to compromise on.

Tshepo Matseba spoke to Kevin Campbell, Senior Executive Financial Planner at Momentum, on the outlook for 2011 in terms of financial planning.

Financial planning is a complex discipline – what should people prioritise in their personal financial plan? Is it retirement, life insurance, investing in your child’s education, etc. or a combination of issues?

It is important to prioritise. If you have to wait a year to start a retirement plan, or to fund for your children’s education, it’s not a train smash. However, if one does not have death, disability and critical illness cover in place and something goes wrong, it is a train smash. Focus on getting risk cover in place first, then short-term investment and then retirement funding.

What would you caution against (about personal finances)?

Complacency. Many people think “It will never happen to me” or “I have many years to fund for my retirement”. Before you know it, it’s too late. Start taking responsibility at an early age. None of us is bulletproof.

In which vehicles should people invest their money (property, cash, bonds, etc)?

A proper retirement plan should comprise property investments, business interests and retirement funding through a life insurance company.

However, in funding through a life insurance company, I always favour a spread of balanced or managed funds.

These fund managers are the experts, let them decide in which asset classes to invest the funds.

How does one strike the right What are the key ingredients of balance between saving money and paying off debt? Which one a credible retirement plan?

A proper retirement plan should be built should come first?

on three foundations • Property investments What are some of the key issues • Business interests • Retirement funding through a life or factors that people should insurance company note for financial planning this It’s amazing how often property year? investments and business interests don’t pan out, and suddenly retirement Our economy has survived its worst funding through a life insurance knock in many years. Unemployment company becomes plan A. In the difficult has increased. Interest rates have times we’ve experienced recently, people bottomed out. Property sales are at an have had to “give away” properties all-time low. Fuel prices are increasing. at bargain-basement prices, in order Despite the above, we are a resilient to remain solvent. In addition, many nation. There is a lot more positivity in the market this year. The All Share Index people have relied on their businesses to fund their retirement and they’ve now is around the 32 000 mark. I think what these last few years have taught us is that lost their businesses. Therefore, don’t neglect retirement funding through a we should focus on reducing debt. Hold life insurance company. on to that vehicle a little longer; explore some of our own country rather than On which aspects of a financial indulging in expensive overseas travel. plan should there be no Cut up that credit card; pay additional compromise? money into your mortgage bond.

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Risk cover and retirement funding. One can generally always “make a plan” regarding education and short-term investment goals. Where one cannot “make a plan” is if there is no risk cover or not enough risk cover in place, and the same goes for retirement funding. I have yet to see a widow/widower with too much cash nor have I ever seen anyone retire with too much money.

That’s a tough one. One can’t retire with debt, but by the same token, one can’t retire without provision of enough retirement funding. I don’t believe either should come first, as they are equally important.

People often don’t read the fine print of policy documents. What are the risks of not reading this?

The financial planner should ensure that there is no non-disclosure at application stage, and that the correct product solution is recommended to the client. Policy documents confuse clients, and are often very lengthy documents.

However, in law, there is a term “Let the buyer beware.” If you are dealing with a reputable life insurance company and a financial planner with integrity, this shouldn’t be a problem.

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BY ANGUS McEWAN

A F R O

F O O D

HQ:

AN Exceptional steak only RESTAURANT

“HQ delivered a dining experience that was simple yet sophisticated, balanced and very satisfying with a total absence of flamboyance.”

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The meat

What’s so special about HQ’s steak, especially when general opinion is likely to be that sirloin is a tougher and therefore less popular cut than fillet? HQ sources its beef from the Namibian Meat Company where the cattle are ranched free-range, which is to say they eat grass, as is the original design, and are not grain fed in any way. The next critical factor is the period taken to age the meat, close to 60 days in most cases.

As an aside, it was interesting for me to learn that at the centre of the farming of these cattle exists a community upliftment programme. Local community members receive ongoing employment and skills development in the farming environment, with portions of the profits being channelled back into the community.

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But back to the meat. With meat of this quality, you’d think the pressure is on in the kitchen to deliver each steak precisely cooked to request.

The dining experience

Let’s leave that thought on the back burner, so to speak, and let me take you through the dining experience.

HQ’s space is split between an area of inside seating, with its bar, and an outside section spread across an open terraced area, which is where we were seated.

It was a lovely mild evening, and straight away I found the setting relaxing. Created through attractive “balloon” lanterns, the ambient lighting, which accentuated features such as the lovely stonework running the length

“Here’s the thing: how many restaurants or other food retail outlets do you know that really only have one main dish on their menu?” of the outside of the restaurant, was comfortable, soothing even. Upon sitting, I couldn’t help but notice that the table cloths are sheets of brown paper, upon which is printed HQ’s simple welcome, part of which was quoted at the beginning of this story. This is oh so practical for diners, who are wont to use it as a notepad.

Lavash was brought to the table.

These are thin strips of flat bread, each delicately flavoured with a choice of cumin, Cajun spice, poppy seed, sesame seed, or oregano and thyme.

As with all the fare, the lavash was simple and, importantly, not heavy, saving your taste buds and digestion for what is yet to come.

The starter was the same for us all – a green salad, consisting of a mixture of iceberg and cos lettuce, sprinkled with toasted pine nuts, slivers of parmesan, all lightly covered in their vinaigrette.

Again simple, with delicate flavour.

By this stage much of the day’s tension had dissipated. Conversation was flowing. I’ll admit I’m not someone who eats steak regularly, but I know what I like, and I usually order my steak medium-rare, in the hope that it provides me with the right balance of succulence and texture for my palate.

Our steaks arrived. Layering each steak is HQ’s “cafe de Paris” butter, its composition a closely guarded secret.

The only other accompaniment is HQ’s pomme frites, which are lightly salted before arriving at the table, so I recommend tasting before adding any more.

The moment of truth had arrived. The first smooth cut revealed a lovely pink interior – a promising start. I took the first mouthful slowly, getting acquainted with the fusion of flavour. For me the texture was ideal and the flavour unusual. Subsequent mouthfuls did not disappoint; each one demonstrated consistency. I found myself taking my time with each mouthful, having to work just the right amount with my chewing.

This may seem an odd observance, but my point is that this meal had me paying attention to my food, thus giving me a richer, more satisfying experience.

Oh, and their chips are great, too.

We were offered some choice come dessert time. I tried the crème brûleé, my dining partner had the chocolate fondant, and we were both delighted.

Next time I might try the cheese cake or perhaps the lemon tart.

HQ delivered a dining experience that was simple yet sophisticated, balanced and very satisfying with a total absence of flamboyance, which I appreciated. I HQ enjoyed every Physical address: mouthful and 24 Central, Corner felt replete as Fredman Drive and I left. Perhaps Gwen Lane the only thing Telephone: lacking at the 011 783 0924 end of the Cuisine: evening was the Bistro, grills opportunity to Ambience: stroll the banks Hip & happening, of a majestic contemporary cool river and Opening times: contemplate 11.30am to the wonder of 10.30pm all things.

(Mon to Sat)

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images by venesia fourie

W

elcome to HQ, where you can have anything you like, as long as it is salad, sirloin and chips.

HQ, yes, short for Head Quarters, is one of Johannesburg’s newest and most refreshing restaurants.

Here’s the thing: how many restaurants or other food retail outlets do you know that really only have one main dish on their menu? We live in a “bigger, better, faster, more” kind of world, and as a result our expectations of all we encounter are geared toward this typically global urban reality.

Too often this reality stretches thin our discernment and maybe, too, our capacity to be content and adequately fulfilled by the things in which we engage.

HQ really does only serve its clientele steak and chips, simplicity of choice no mistake. But they have an unfailing ability to deliver to each diner an exceptional piece of meat, beautifully cooked, each and every time. The concept is loosely based on a Parisian restaurant, Le Relais de L’Entrecôte, renowned for serving high-quality meat.

HQ, situated in the “central” hub of restaurants and bars in Sandton, has sister restaurants in Cape Town.

BY SAM MATHE

B O O k

r E v i E W S

WOrd ON WOrdS LEARN LIKE A LEADER

The Life And Times of Welcome Duru AUTHOR: MARSHALL GOLDSMITH, BEVERLY KAYE & KEN SHELTON (EDITORS) PUBLISHER: NB PUBLISHING (US & UK) This remarkable book on learning and leadership attests to the widely held belief that good leaders are good storytellers.

Think of internationally acclaimed motivational speakers such as Dale Carnegie (author of How To Win Friends And Influence People) and contemporary gurus such as Stephen R Covey (whose works include The 7 Habits Of Highly effective People).

A collection of personal testimonies of the learning journeys of some of the world’s top thought leaders, management authorities, motivational speakers and best-selling authors, the book also promotes the idea that great leaders are great learners who use their personal experiences and wisdom of their mentors for self-motivation and personal upliftment.

The seeds of this book were sown back in the 1990s when a group of writers, motivators and speakers – including all three editors – came together in a series of seminars to talk about the defining moments in their lives and how those moments shaped their leadership styles and philosophies.

This book derives its authenticity from the first-person narratives of the individual contributors who are obviously experts in their chosen fields and the very human testimonies about their personal challenges and how they eventually managed to overcome them and steer their careers to dizzying heights.

MANDELA’S WAY

FELA & His Rebel Art and Politics AUTHOR: RICHARD STENGEL PUBLISHER: VIRGIN BOOKS (UK) “There are times when a leader must move out ahead of the flock, go off in a new direction, confident that he is leading his people the right way,” writes Nelson Mandela in his celebrated autobiography, long Walk To Freedom.

Mandela’s selfless dedication to a just cause, his moral leadership that has elicited comparisons with that of Mahatma Gandhi and his stature as the world’s most celebrated statesman have inspired an impressive bibliography on his life and charismatic leadership.

With few exceptions, however, most of these works – written by Westerners who are for the most part ignorant of the cultural and political nuances of the world that made Mandela – are unfortunately simplistic portrayals of a complex personality.

Stengel’s moving book on Mandela’s leadership style is an exception. The Time-magazine editor collaborated with the former president on his

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autobiography, and for three years he was privileged to obtain an insider’s perspective on Mandela’s day-to-day life.

He interacted with him in both his private and public space – sharing intimate moments such as mealtimes.

The results are 15 profound lessons distilled in an articulate and entertaining work. These lessons include a chapter on why quitting political office is part of leading as well. In the preface, Mandela notes that the author: “has shown remarkable insight into the complex leadership challenges still facing the world today and all the individuals in it. Everyone can learn from it.”

1000 CEO'S AUTHOR: ANDREW DAVIDSON, MARSHALL GOLDSMITH & MARJAN BOLMEIJER (EDITORS) PUBLISHER: PENGUIN (SA) & DK (UK) The thrust of this 500-page tome is that when it comes to being the best in corporate leadership, it is advisable to learn from the visionary leadership of the world’s iconic CEOs who have and continue to inspire top-performing management teams across the globe.

Precise, incisive and exceptionally insightful, the book lists its remarkable subjects under several categories of leadership styles – notably innovators, motivators, organisers, strategists, visionaries and global players.

These business titans range from the early pioneers including legendary and highly influential industrialists such as Henry Ford to the rising stars such as Yolanda Cuba, a young South African who, at 29, was at the top of leading investment firm Mvelaphanda.

In between the reader is introduced to super achievers whose names have become synonymous with their giant enterprises.

These are global personal brands that include Richard Branson of Virgin, Microsoft founder and billionaire Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, the face of Apple, whose key leadership strengths include “an instinctive understanding not only of where technology is going but also what makes people want to buy it”.

Alongside these highly successful but archetypal business mavericks from the West, the reader will also meet the wise ones from the East – drivers of the global economy such as India’s Lakshmi Mittal, of the steel giant Arcelor Mittal, and tigers of the Far East such as Masaaki Furukawa, whose Toyota brand is one of Japan’s leading trading firms with diverse global interests.

Authoritative and encyclopaedic in scope, this is a valuable reference work for both established and emerging business leaders in terms of strategies and lessons to be learnt in the corporate world.

www.afropolitan.co.za

BY ELKA ScHAIMBERg

d v d

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COuCh pOTaTO dinner for schMucks Want to enjoy a hilarious dinner with the most eccentric bunch of misfits ever seen on screen? dinner For Schmucks tells the story of Tim (Paul Rudd), a serious businessman whose promotion rides on an invitation from his boss to attend his annual “dinner for extraordinary people”. This event requires the inner circle of boring execs to each invite an eccentric character as his guest – the weirder the better!

Although Tim feels morally challenged by this “humiliation game”, his need to impress his boss and clinch that corner

DIRECTOR: JAY ROACH STARRING: : STEVE CARELL, PAUL RUDD AND STEPHANIE SZOSTAK

office allows his competitive edge to get the better of him.

Then Tim meets Barry (Steve Carell), who is the most extraordinary schmuck in all of Los Angeles. Barry’s big hair, bad teeth and bizarre hobby of dressing up dead mice as famous historical figures makes him the perfect guest – and Tim’s ticket into the winner’s circle. But despite being a born loser, Barry’s creepy ways are rather endearing, and so begins the start of a very unlikely friendship.

Although not the most brilliant movie ever, it is a fun-filled comedy that is as entertaining as it is awkward. Certainly worth a watch.

127 hours

DIRECTOR: DANNY BOYLE STARRING: JAMES FRANCO, KATE MARA, AMBER TAMBLYN

Based on the true life story of Aron Ralston, whose obsession with the outdoors literally lands him in a trap of life or death. It begins when avid hiker and mountain climber Aron (James Franco) sets off on a solo expedition into the beautiful scenic landscape of Utah.

Confident in his experience, he tells no-one he is going. The biographical adventure takes a turn for the worst when Aron falls deep into the crack of a canyon and gets trapped by a massive boulder. The young man finds himself wedged between two giant rocks for five long days.

Although the majority of the movie is filmed in a cramped, isolated space where panic and claustrophobia are

the tourist

equally tangible, the visually rich dream sequences revealing his life before this moment are a wonderful relief. The movie relies heavily on the solo performance by Franco, and he is simply brilliant! The intensity of his performance does great justice to Aron’s truly unbeatable will to live and makes this movie a must-see. A terrifying, inspiring and gut-wrenching experience – certainly not suitable for sensitive viewers.

DIRECTOR: FLORIAN HENCKEL VON DONNERSMARCK STARRING: JOHNNY DEPP, ANGELINA JOLIE AND PAUL BETTANY

Johnny Depp plays the part of a college maths teacher and widower from Wisconsin who visits Italy in an attempt to mend his broken heart. Little does he know what lies in store. En route from Paris by train, he becomes attracted to the charms of mystery woman Elsie (Angelina Jolie), who is as beautiful as she is cunning. She is only using him in an attempt to divert armed investigators who are after her to get to her husband, a mob banker, who has stolen billions from his boss. www.afropolitan.co.za

Strangers to one another, they are now both entangled in a web of intrigue, romance and danger. There is a twist at the end of the tale, but it isn’t very exciting nor does it make much sense.

The Tourist is a romantic thriller that lacks the thrill. Charming yet forgettable, it captures the beauty of Venice with cinematic grace but fails to explore the characters of Hollywood’s best actors to their fullest potential. But if you like luxury, clothes, jewels, hotels, boats and breathtaking views of Venice, you are bound to enjoy this one.

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BY ELKA ScHAIMBERg

m O v i E

r E v i E W S

BiOSCOpE Love And other iMpossiBLe pursuits Emilia (Natalie Portman) thought she knew what she wanted when she went after sexy, married Senior Partner, Jack Woolf (Scott Cohen). However, the Harvard Law School graduate and aspiring lawyer didn’t count on getting married or pregnant, and she definitely didn’t plan on having to forge a relationship with an 8 year old – her new, know-it-all stepson, William (Charlie Tahan).

Lisa Kudrow plays a terrific supporting role as Carolyn, a seriously overprotective mother and bitter ex wife. This complex family drama boasts a stellar performance

by Natalie Portman, who appears in virtually every scene.

DIRECTOR: DON ROOS STARRING: NATALIE PORTMAN, LISA KUDROW, SCOTT COHEN, CHARLIE TAHAN

Director Don Roos has done a great job in his exploration of the relationships between characters, which are as amusing as they are convincing. He portrays the life of Emilia through a series of flashbacks that allow the viewer to flick through the chapters of her life, juxtaposing past tragedy with the undying hope for happiness. All the while Cinematographer, Steve Yedlin, captures the winter wonderland of modern Manhattan.

Dramatic, emotional, and engaging, Love and Other Impossible Pursuits confirms that this is indeed the season of Natalie Portman.

you wiLL Meet A tALL dArk strAnGer DIRECTOR: WOODY ALLEN STARRING: ANTONIO BANDERAS, JOSH BROLIN, ANTHONY HOPKINS, GEMMA JONES, FRIEDA PINTO, LUCY PUNCH, NAOMI WATTS

Woody Allen once again offers fans a typically characteristic film. Although not unique, ‘You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger’ is a wonderful addition to his collection of works. This romantic black comedy reveals Allen’s distinct ability to portray life in all its complexity through interwoven relationships, evolved characters, and of course, humour.

In essence it is the story of one family and their tangled love lives, where all the poignant details are subtly captured by an all star cast.

Alfie (Anthony Hopkins) trades in his 40 year marriage for a gold-digging call girl half his age, while his ex-wife Helena (Gemma Jones)

BLAck swAn

DIRECTOR: DARREN ARONOFSKY STARRING: NATALIE PORTMAN, MILA KUNIS, VINCENT CASSELL, BARBARA HERSHEY, WINONA RYDER

Black Swan follows the story of Nina (Natalie Portman), an ambitious ballerina at a prestigious New York City Ballet Company who is trying to make it to the top. When Artistic Director, Thomas (Vincent Cassel), chooses to dump his prima ballerina, Beth (Winona Ryder), he picks Nina to take on the lead role in Swan Lake. It’s a dream come true for her obsessed and overbearing mother (Barbara Hershey). For Nina, however, it’s a dream that fast turns into a nightmare.

Despite her technical prowess, battered feet, skin-and-bone body, and tireless efforts, Nina lacks the ability to embrace her character as the Black Swan. Enter Lily (Mila Kunis), a dancer who is wild, oozes sex appeal and delivers her dance style with passion and abandonment – a challenge to 48

finds solace in the loopy advice of a psychic.

Their daughter Sally (Naomi Watts) struggles to keep her childless marriage together, and begins to develop a crush on her handsome boss, Greg (Antonio Banderas). Her writerblocked husband Roy (Josh Brolin) nervously anticipates feedback on his latest manuscript, but is more focused on gaining the love of a beautiful guitar-playing woman (Frieda Pinto).

This is a well-told tale of the expectations of life, the promise of love, making the wrong decisions, and the desire for always wanting more, of which we know Woody Allen is the Master.

Nina’s sorely robotic precision. The rivalry between the two dancers soon develops into a twisted friendship.

Encouraged to embrace her dark side, Nina is pushed to her limits. In her goal to truly let go, she aches for perfection. Portman’s committed performance draws the audience into her turmoil, and we explore the depths of her mind in her struggle with the pressure of stardom.

Director, Darren Aronofsky offers a brilliant psychological thriller about ambition, perfection and madness. The cinematography, memorable character performances and flawless choreography tell the dark tale of a star ballerina. It is certainly one you will remember long after the credits have rolled. www.afropolitan.co.za

BY SAM MATHE

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BEaT BOx phiNda

HEAVEN CAN WAIT [ SHEER SOUND ]

Songstress and songwriter Phinda Matlala (nee Mtya) continues her effervescent musical odyssey with the release of her third album. Like its award-winning predecessor, mbheka Phesheya, and the exquisitely crafted Yithi Paha, the songbird’s latest offering is a powerful showcase of her vocal prowess and peerless song-writing talents. With unparalleled artistry she takes the listener along on her personal journey. It’s a journey that’s often fraught with tragedy, as she poignantly demonstrates with Joliinkomo (mbheka Phesheya) and Jordana (Heaven Can Wait), about the passing of her mother

5/5

and brother respectively.

But as the album title indicates, this is in essence a work that celebrates life.

It’s mainly happy folk music steeped in her Xhosa heritage with a contemporary edge that’s been tailored for the dance floor. The title track itself has a Sophiatown-era sound that was inspired by the stories Mama Afrika related to Phinda about life in this suburb of Jozi.

Other outstanding tracks include Plea For Africa, a John Knox Bokwe classic composition she first recorded in Victor Ntoni’s groundbreaking project and mzansi Sings – A Tribute To Oliver Tambo. With other classic gems such

SkippEr ShaBalala lovers with his unforgettable dance hit Bricka Bhova (Current). As founder and leader of the popular disco outfit Zasha, Shabalala and his fellow band members contributed significantly to the evolution of township music as recording artists in their own right and backing band of household names such as Chico, Rebecca Malope, Kamazu, Ali Katt and others.

In the mid-1990s Shabalala reinvented himself as Lucky Dube’s lead guitarist.

He toured with the late reggae master and shared international stages with other revered reggae icons including

It’s been a long dance for veteran musician Skipper Shabalala. As the heartbeat of township disco in the golden 80s, the talented singer, songwriter and guitarist captured the collective imagination of music-

STimEla

A LIFETIME [ TMPAM ]

After 15 years in the recording wilderness, Stimela have finally reclaimed their voice as the country’s foremost musical institution. This is an epic album with magnificent songs – Stimela as you’ve never heard them before. As a historic project, this wonderful album largely owes its beauty and magnificence to a stellar line-up of some of the country’s most accomplished artists.

Distinguished guests – including American Puff Johnson, Thandiswa Mazwai, Soweto Spiritual Choir and Ladysmith Black Mambazo – lend their magical voices in exquisitely crafted www.afropolitan.co.za

as Umbi Kangaka (penned by Welcome Duru and popularised by Miriam Makeba), this album is irrefutable proof why Phinda ranks up there with the best contemporary female vocalists in Mzansi and beyond.

BEKEZELA

[ AFRICAN CREAM MUSIC ]

5/5

Burning Spear, Ziggy Marley, UB40 and Eddy Grant. But this album is not about reggae or township disco. It’s a testimony of Shabalala’s progression from a talented township musician with popular acclaim to an African artist who’s found his voice and purpose in contemporary African music.

Incorporating jazz, Afro-beat, traditional gospel and maskandi, his music promotes pride in indigenous values and culture. A star is reborn.

5/5

songs such as dance For me and Turn On The Sun. Band leader Ray Phiri and the late crooner Nana Motijoane reignite the vocal chemistry that brought about Whispers In The deep in the exceptionally soulful Holy Soul while the legendary female backing trio of Stella Khumalo, Faith Kekana and Felicia Marion keep the vocals tight.

The virtuosity of Stimela members – Ntokozo Zungu (guitar), Lloyd Lelosa (organ), Thapelo Khomo (piano), Isaac Mtshali (drums) and Jabu Sibumbe (bass) – is masterfully complemented by the cream of Afro-jazz. These include “young lions” like Tlale Makhene (percussion),

Lucas Senyatso (bass) and Joel Klein (guitar). Versatile and breathtakingly beautiful, this is an album for all reasons and seasons. The coal train is indeed back on track to the platforms of musical bliss.

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BY VINCENT VERRYDT

c u l i n a r y

c u l t u r e

Pop Culture “I drink it when I’m happy and when I’m sad.

Sometimes, I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it if I am; Otherwise I never touch it - unless I’m thirsty.” — Madame Bollinger, one of the “grande dames” of French champagne (1884-1977)

C

hampagne. This one word transcends all language barriers and has one universally accepted meaning —good times! It is the bubbly governing body of any celebration and has firmly positioned itself at the heart of style and elegance.

And according to popular belief, we have the feisty monk Dom Pérignon to thank (although the British may dispute this fact).

Recognised as the original creator of Champagne in the 1600s, Dom Pérignon’s first sip of his creation was so heavenly that it culminated in the words, “I am drinking the stars!”

In the years that followed it became clear that the Monk’s true talent was his ability to blend. He successfully mixed

grapes from different vineyards, from different locations, with varying ripeness and flavor. And through this careful blending process, Pérignon managed to create a relatively consistent flavour — a flavour fit for Royalty.

In 1715, Philippe Duc d’Orleans, became Regent of France and almost immediately the corks starting popping and the bubbly began to flow. This was the start of France’s most extravagant, hedonistic eras — one of unapologetic self-indulgence.

And although Dom Pérignon and Phillipe Duc d’Orleans bought into the bubbles, not everyone did. Early winemakers of the Champagne region of France didn’t want effervescent wine.

They were trying to make still wine, but the unwanted bubbles kept creeping in

Grapes 101

Champagne is often a blend of both white and black grapes, but if only one colour is used, then the label will say: Champagne made with only black grapes is called blanc de noir (white from black).

Blanc de blanc (white from white) means the grapes are all white grapes, specifically Chardonnay. Rosé champagne gets its color from still red wine being added to the bottle.

Best With…

The best thing about Champagne is its versatility. It can be served at any time of a day, and at any meal.

Elegant starters, like oysters and caviar, are best with dry champagnes. The semidry sparkling wines are suitable for a brunch, a lunch, and a salad.

The sweeter sparkling wines are perfect for desserts.

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Vincent’s Favourite…

Name: Moët & Chandon’s Nectar Impérial Flavour: It’s a sweeter champagne, made by adding sugar to the dosage, preserving the classic champagne taste while offering a subtle sweetness.

Color: Deep golden.

Aroma: Well-developed, reminiscent of toasted bread and raisins.

Palate: Balanced with a floral finish, suggestive of honey and grilled almonds.

Food Pairings: Excellent with pâtés (such as foie gras), blue cheeses, and peachy desserts, dried fruits or mixed nuts. Also excellent with spicy dishes.

Champ of a Salad - Rosa tomato, watercress and gooseberry salad with a champagne and watermelon sorbet.

Sorbet 250g Watermelon cubed ( seeds out and skin off) 120ml Champagne 80g Castor Sugar 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice Zest of half a Lemon

Method for Puree: Combine the cubed watermelon and lemon juice, blend to make a puree.

Method for Syrup: In a heavy pan combine the champagne, sugar and lemon zest. Dissolve the sugar over a low heat, stirring on occasion. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and allow to boil for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.

Method for Sorbet: Add the sorbet puree to the syrup and blend using a handheld blender. Freeze for an hour. Remove from the freezer and blend( this will break up the solid ice crystals) and return to the freezer. Repeat this process every hour for a couple of hours until a smooth texture is obtained. Place into a seal tight container and freeze until needed. Use an ice cream scoop to ball the sorbet when needed.

Salad 200g Rosa Tomatoes 1 Red Onion (peeled) 100g Watercress (can substitute with Wild Rocket or Baby spinach leaves) 100g Green Beans (can substitute with Asparagus or Mange tout) 100g Gooseberries (can substitute with Seedless Grapes or strawberries) 2 Tbspn Olive Oil Maldon Salt Cracked Pepper

Method for Salad: In a pan, heat the olive oil and add the gooseberries.

Pan fry, gently tossing the gooseberries until the the skins burst slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool (heating allows increases the natural sugar levels of the gooseberries). Poach the green beans in boiling salted water until al dente.

Cool under cold water to prevent discolouring.

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, season to taste, drizzle with a good olive oil if you like.

Serve: Serve salad in small china bowls and top with a small scoop of champagne and watermelon sorbet.

Serve immediately.

P.S: This salad is a great with grilled fish.

Enjoy!

For more ideas go to www.theculinary.co.za

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images courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

due to the weather conditions of the far north region of France.

They say the sudden drop in temperature stopped the wine’s fermentation process. Once bottled, the partial fermentation would then start up again when the temperature became warmer. The build-up of carbon dioxide created intense pressure inside the bottles and often, cool and calm cellars became a war zones with exploding bottles and flying corks. If, however, the corks managed to retain their dutiful positions, the secondary fermentation created bubbles.

With no other options these winemakers decided instead to spin the bubbles into positive PR. They marketed the festivity of the pop and the fabulousness of the fizz and voila, champagne hit the big time, becoming our current symbol of celebration!

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Catwalks of the world were recenty abuzz as the 2011 run of Fashion Weeks got underway. In these Afropolitan fashion pages, we pay tribute to the leaders of this year's haute couture.

NEW YORK FASHION

worldwide fashion

F A S HI O N

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IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

F A S HI O N

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PARIS FASHION

F A S HI O N

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IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

F A S HI O N

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JOBURG FASHION

F A S HI O N

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IMAGES COURTESY OF GALLO IMAGES

F A S HI O N

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BY STACEY VEE

B E AU T Y

BEAUTY BOSS Let them know that you mean business!

Look your best in the boardroom with these power beauty products.

Africology Antioxidant Serum R460

A potent anti-aging serum in a snazzy pink glass dropper bottle, this product contains vitamin A palmitate, DMAE, ubiquinone, evening primrose and borage oils. Smooth on five drops in the morning and evening before you put on your moisturiser, and your skin will glow with vitality.

Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum R199.99

After a long night, your eyes are puffy with dark circles. Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum smoothes away lines at the corners of your eyes, renewing the outer surface layer and giving your eye area a visible lift. Say hello to brighter eyes brighter and firmer lids.

Environ Hydrating Oil Capsules R395 for 30 capsules

These capsules introduce retinol to your skin and are enriched with both adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, which increase your body’s resistance to stress and infection and boost antioxidants in the cells. Apply one capsule to the face and neck at the end of your facial routine at night.

ghd Gold Series stylers R1 999 each

The last you thing need is frizzy hair!

The ghd Gold Series is now cooler to touch and lighter to handle and features glam golden plates. The Gold Classic styler, Gold Max styler and Gold Mini styler have universal voltage – in case your meeting is in Bangkok – and sleep mode after 30 minutes.

Revlon PhotoReady Foundation R195 For pore-less, airbrushed skin in any light, Revlon PhotoReady Foundation (SPF 20) is a must in your make-up routine after a night of swapping business cards. Photochromatic pigments bend and reflect light to erase every flaw for a soft, luminous finish. The range also includes a Translucent Finisher.

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GR O O MI N G

SUAVE CEO No matter what your official title, be the kingpin of well-groomed. Use these leading men’s products to dominate at the office.

Philips Nose and Ear Hair Trimmer R199

Unkempt nose and ear hair can affect a man’s professional stature! With an ultra-sharp close-cutting system, the Philips Nose and Ear Trimmer ensures that neatening up is easy, and nicks and cuts are prevented with its protective guards. Available from selected Dis-Chem stores nationwide.

Gillette Series Balm Finish R65.99

Give your skin that little something extra before your big day at the office. Finish your shave with this lightweight, nongreasy moisturiser. It contains vitra lipid complex, which is a blend of conditioning ingredients that help enhance the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Fragrance 100ml R239.95 Deodorant Spray R27.95 Roll-on R17.95

Clarins Men Active Face Wash

Make a statement with the Radar Red Alert Fragrance series from Revlon Man. The Radar man is someone who gets noticed. He’s ambitious, has keen insight and is fixated on his goals. He’s up to date with the latest technology. This woody range of products with chypre notes is just the thing for him.

R260

It’s a wake-up call for your face! Use Clarins Men Active Face Wash before shaving to remove impurities such as excess oil, dead surface cells and traces of pollution, and help prevent ingrown hairs.

This soapfree formula contains bison Grass, Chinese ginger and purslane plant extracts.

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Nivea for Men Revitalising Eye Roll-on with Q10 R112.99

Use this cooling roller ball in the evenings and morning to revive tired eyes and reduce dark circles, puffiness and fine lines.

This light formula contains the skin’s own coenzyme, Q10, which pumps the skin cells with energy, and is fast-absorbing.

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Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of shutterstock, manufacturers and distributors.

Revlon Radar Red Alert Fragrance series

BY STACEY VEE

GADG E T S

GADGETS LG 72-inch LZ9700 R249 999

www.lg.com/za Imagine watching Avatar in 3D on the world’s biggest Full LED 3D television? The LZ9700 is 59 inches wide and 40 inches tall, with a 72-inch display. That’s almost 183cm of life-size action with TruMotion 400 Hz that will immerse you in whatever it is you are watching. LG’s ultra slim depth, narrow bezel Infinia design means LZ9700 is also easy on the easy when it’s switched off.

Smart tech allows you to enjoy video streaming from YouTube and photos via Picasa, and the television comes with LG’s intuitive and easy-touse Magic Motion Remote Control.

Slingbox PRO-HD R3 595

www.slingbox.com The Arc is the first of a new generation of Xperia smartphones from Sony Ericsson. It combines Sony technology with Android 2.3, and Reality Display with the Mobile BRAVIA Engine for a crystal clear image on the 4.2inch multi-touch screen. The Arc is lightweight and is only 8.7mm at its thinnest part. The f/2.4 lens and 8.1 megapixel camera enables the capture of high quality pictures and HD videos, even in low light conditions, which you can view on a larger screen using the built-in HDMI input. Available in midnight blue and misty silver.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab R6 500

www.samsung.com/za Now you can make voice calls with your tablet, with the much talked about Galaxy Tab from Samsung.

The 7-inch TFT-LCD display lets you enjoy all forms of multimedia – e-mail, video, SMS/MMS and social networks – and runs on Android 2.2. The devices weighs only 380g and supports Flash (which of course Apple does not). The Readers Hub allows you to download, read and store your e-books and the Media and Music Hubs are a central place for all the movies, photos and music. Supports 3G, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for on-the-go users. Out in April.

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GADG E T S

Canon IXUS 115 HS R1 950

www.canon.co.za The new IXUS range from Canon is colourful on the outside, and on the inside is the high-performance HS system that takes great pictures in all conditions. The IXUS 115 HS is a 12 megapixel camera with Smart Auto mode that detects up to 32 different scenes and the new High-speed Burst Mode takes a rapid burst of action shots and you can select the best one. You can also film 1080p full HD movies and add effects to your photographs, like Toy Camera for pics with an aged look and Poster Effect to turn your pic into a retrolooking bright poster.

Philips SHL8805 headphones R649

www.philips.co.za

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

The Arc is the first of a new generation of Xperia smartphones from Sony Ericsson. It combines Sony technology with Android 2.3, and Reality Display with the Mobile BRAVIA Engine for a crystal clear image on the 4.2-inch multi-touch screen. The Arc is lightweight and is only 8.7mm at its thinnest part. The f/2.4 lens and 8.1 megapixel camera enables the capture of high quality pictures and HD videos, even in low light conditions, which you can view on a larger screen using the built-in HDMI input. Available in midnight blue and misty silver.

Sony Vaio F 3D R25Â 999

www.sony.co.za The F Series if the first Sony Vaio that is 3D compatible.

It has a 16-inch screen and is powered by an Intel Core i7 quad core processor and NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M graphics card. The F Series comes with a built-in 3D sync transmitter and 3D active glasses are included, allowing you to enjoy 3D movies and photos in 1080p. Your rich media content won’t just look great; it will sound just as good with virtual 5.1 channel surround sound from two Inbox bass-reflex speakers and Dolby Home Theatre v3. Available at Sony Centres and selected Sony dealers countrywide.

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GADG E T S

Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard 3D

R999

www.logitech.com/za

Battery hassles are a thing of the past with the solar-powered Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750. It’s only 7.5mm thick and charges itself whenever there’s light, even if that light is indoors, and it stays charge in the dark for up to three months. Good-bye to batteries, power bricks and charging cables! With sleek lines and a thin profile, this stylish, streamlined keyboard adds style to your workspace.

The Logitech unifying receiver is so tiny you don’t even need to unplug it from your laptop. Compatible with Windows XP, Vista and 7 operating systems.

R698

www.oregonscientific.co.za This great-looking Weather Light with LED backlight from Oregon Scientific delivers your own personal weather forecast for the day so that you can dress correctly and remember to take your umbrella. It displays three icons – Sunny (red), Cloudy (green) and Rainy (blue) – as well as the indoor and outdoor temperature (it comes with an outdoor temperature wireless sensor), and shows temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit.

The Weather Light has no buttons; instead a motion sensor detects movement and switches between displays with a wave of your hand.

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Epson EH-TW3500 Projector R21 500

www.epson.co.za This home theatre projector delivers 1080p picture quality, and contains Epson’s Crystal Clear Fine 3LCD technology that uses three individual LCD panels to form the image. You can adjust the projection with up to 96.3% lens shift, making the picture larger than life with a very impressive spectacular 36,000:1 contrast ratio. Watch TV, DVDs and video games in hi-def with Epson’s specially designed cinema filter that reproduces colours with accuracy and richness. There is an HDMI inputs that allows you to connect to any HDMI compatible source. www.afropolitan.co.za

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

Weather Light 3D

D E C O R

AFRO DECOR In living colour

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

Be inspired by a colour palette of creativity as we dedicate Afro Decor to the influence of colour and the effect it has on our lives, and in our homes. Increase the colour quota in your home by adding a bright piece of furniture to a tired room. Transform dull to daring by painting a bold signature wall. Play with pastel stripes or patterned wallpaper options for a quirky edge. Or simply accent a room by adding small pockets of colour in the form of lampshades, cushion covers and home decor accessories.

Incorporate colour in a way that suits you and see what a difference it makes.

INSPIRATION BY BELGOTEX

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BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

D E C O R

Colour Your Kitchen

Clean and Contemporary Nautical Inspired Summer’s nautical colours inspire a classic combination of navy blue and white, with cheery splashes of red.

Perspex and stainless-steel bar stools are a stylish touch, while inviting accents add a feeling of fun. Accessorise with a bright-red dustbin, bread bin, bowls and vases – it’s an easy way make a statement and enjoy your eating space.

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A kitchen is as much for cooking in as it is for entertaining. This one is uncluttered, clean and contemporary. Think factory floor meets high-tech home – the look is industrial with cement, steel and glass finishes.

A stainless-steel counter teamed with eclectic collections of glass and silverware can even double as an elegant bar, while simple-lined furnishings in monochromatic tones complement this palette of futuristic greys, shiny silver and stone.

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Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

A fresh lick of paint can improve the look of any space, but add some colour, and you will immediately kick it to life. Powerful enough to stimulate your appetite, increase your heart rate, evoke emotion and enhance your mood, Plascon introduces some great ways to colour your kitchen. Here, four colours transform the look of one kitchen.

D E C O R

Simply Red Modern Romance The soft pastels of macaroons, iced cupcakes and milky tea inspire a nostalgic kitchen painted in Plascon’s Sugar Dust. However, a romantic colour scheme doesn’t mean a kitchen can’t be modern as well. This feminine palette is teamed with lots of clear glassware and balanced with white to lend a more contemporary feel to the room.

Functional Design As homeowner tastes have become more sophisticated, the desire to create individual, highly original designs has also increased. Blum’s TANDEMBOX intivo brings endless possibilities to inspire and stimulate the functional design of kitchens, bathrooms and living areas that ensure optimum space utilisation and quality of motion.

Available exclusively from Eclipse, the brand-new drawer system creates versatile design for drawer pull-outs.

This system offers limitless options for constructing drawers, inner

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drawers, high-fronted pull-outs and inner pull-outs of the highest quality.

Homeowners can now also unify their interior look with the outside space and create accents or contrasts through the use of elements such as wood, glass, leather and stone.

For queries any of the five Eclipse stores nationwide (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Bloemfontein) can be reached through the central number 0861 ECLIPSE (325 4773).

www.eclipsegroup.co.za

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Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

Known as a colour that stimulates the appetite, Plascon’s deep Rickshaw Red livens up a white base. The key to achieving an eco-savvy look is to combine nature-inspired paint colours with earthy materials such as linen, wood and wicker. Both red and brown fall within the warm hemisphere of the colour wheel and lend themselves to a more rustic aesthetic. For visual interest, add a little punch of complementary colour, such as that lent by pots of lush green herbs.

BY ANGUS McEWAN

A F R O

W H E E L S

BIKES & SCOOTERS

A

t an educated guess the great majority of Afropolitans, when it comes to their chosen modes of transport, elect vehicles of the “stab-it-andsteer” kind – that is to say, you drive a car. That same guess suggests that few of you have ever had the experience of riding a motorcycle. For those who have, and particularly those who enjoy the experience, this review may be “preaching to the choir”.

Nonetheless, read on, because radical as it may seem, swapping four wheels for two may reveal a whole new world of joy and exhilaration and give cause for a budding new love affair with the open road. As with our four-wheeled friends, there are a whole lot of choices when it comes to bikes and scooters, so we’ve picked one or two you may recognise and a couple that are worth your consideration if you’re a beginner.

HARLEY DAVIDSON Amongst bike riders, Harley Davidson is often a love-or-hate brand of motorcycle, with opinions quite black or white (what, no rainbow?) on the matter.

Even if you can’t identify a Harley by its looks, I’ll bet there are very few of you who don’t recognise the unmistakable sound of the V-formed engine as it plopplops and occasionally bangs its way through every journey.

This is an American icon with a highly loyal community of owners and riders across the globe, and we have certainly seen an increase in their number on Jozi’s roads over the past 15 or so years.

In fact, I saw an Afropolitan lady cruising up Jan Smuts in the glorious sunshine the other day on a Harley cruiser of some sort, an irrepressible smile plastered on her face, not surprisingly!

Without getting into the technical stuff, there are five Harley categories: the Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Touring and Revolution. Where once the Harley was the domain of younger riders, today the typical rider in South Africa will be in his/her 40s. If you are just a bit curious, why not get down to a dealership and start what could be a love affair for life!

WHEN LESS IS MORE

BMW R1200 GS Whilst there are several versions of this bike from a specs point of view, this is a bike we see regularly on our roads.

The GS is versatile, so you can use it for getting around town, but it really comes into its own on longer journeys. So, if you have to travel between Johannesburg and Pretoria, this bike will get you there and back with all the power required and plenty of rider comfort and safety.

The R1200, or “boxer” as it is often referred to due to the configuration of the engine, is ideal if you want to do some serious touring kilometres too. Panniers can be fitted – tank bags too if necessary – while this bike will comfortably carry rider and pillion up and down the length and breadth of this remarkably diverse and beautiful land. It would allow you to explore “off-road” to a fair degree, but if that’s your intention, remember that you’ll need to consider the correct tyre selection. A great all-rounder.

Specs Model: R1200 GS Engine capacity: 1,170 cc Utility: Versatile – good around town and for long distance Price: From R152 300 incl. VAT

www.bmw-motorrad.co.za

Specs Model: Sportster XL 1200C Engine capacity: 1,202 cc Utility: Really a street cruiser Price: From R118,000 incl. VAT

www.hdavidson.co.za

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www.afropolitan.co.za

VESPA

Specs Model: GTV 300 Engine capacity: 278 cc Utility: Stylish 'get around town' commuter Price: From R89 950 incl. VAT

www.vespa.co.za

Vespa has iconic status in its section of the market and suggests the typical easy elegance and style that’s so Italian.

The first thing to note about a Vespa is that it’s a scooter and not a bike. Given that it has two wheels, what’s the difference?

Whilst a bike operates with a gear and clutch (as with a car), a scooter doesn’t have these; rather it creates motion via a direct-drive belt, providing “direct” power to the rear wheel.

So, once the engine is switched on, the “drive” system is already engaged. Forward motion is as simple as twisting the accelerator.

Vespa engine sizes range from 150 cc, nippy for general running around town, to 300cc, which can really shift and will take you on the highway with enough power to cruise.

Vespa owns the top end of the scooter market in South Africa. The brand demonstrates superior build quality, so it should see you through quite a few years of motoring and shows better economy than a traditional bike at the petrol pump.

Interestingly, the average Vespa owner is of the mature variety. This product is also definitely priced for a person with some means.

Our market is well catered for when it comes to the beginner. Big Boy motorcycles and scooters are very affordable, with purchase prices being on the lower side. For about half the price, Big Boy allows you to establish if riding a bike and pulling off its “lifestyle” suits you. If the answer’s yes, then moving on to big-engined bikes will be your likely direction. Until then, Big Boy is definitely a sensible option.

The GPR200 R is a commuter bike with modern “superbike” looks and enough power to nip around town without being too much for a first-time rider. Of course more experienced riders might also opt for this bike, purely from a price point of view, but it was designed with young bikers in mind.

Compared to a car, this bike will prove light on fuel, an important factor in today’s motoring climate. It is chain driven, has disc brakes front and back and all the looks and styling a modern bike needs to hold its head up. This is a reasonable and realistic place to start.

Specs Model: GPR200 Engine Capacity: 198cc Utility: Good bike for starters; good little commuter Price: R13,950 incl. VAT

www.bigboyscooters.co.za www.afropolitan.co.za

Despite all the wear and tear experienced on some of its urban roads, South Africa remains a country with a great national network of roads connecting its people. It’s a diverse, beautiful country with some fantastic motorcycling opportunities, which are the envy of many beyond our borders.

Advice on the right choice of bike for your needs and abilities can be gained from reputable bike retail outlets.

Equipment is easily available. Most importantly, rider training should be sought in order to keep safe.

Is there a caveat? Maybe this – once bitten... Enjoy!

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image courtesy of volvo

BIG BOY GPR200 R

BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

PR O P E R T Y

Blythedale Coastal Resort A True North Coast Gem

D

espite the general economic downturn of the last few years, KwaZulu Natal’s North Coast development activities have still continued with much vigour and gained further momentum with the completion of the King Shaka International Airport in April 2010.

It just takes a short drive from Umhlanga to Salt Rock on the N2 to see that the Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast is a continuous ribbon of progress. Office parks and multi-purpose shopping centres are emerging along the highway at a rapid rate while exclusive lifestyle developments can be glimpsed through lush coastal forests and dunes. But despite all the development, the region still retains its charm. Development company, the eLan Property Group, is upbeat about KwaZulu-Natal becoming the country’s next big property story.

Mark Taylor, CEO of the eLan Group, says, “With businesses moving north,

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the North Coast property market has already made a noticeable swing towards permanent residential accommodation, thanks to our warm climate and beautiful beaches.”

One of these developments along the North Coast is the pride and joy of the eLan Group – this is Blythedale Coastal Resort. Situated on the East Coast of South Africa, only 35 minutes north of Umhlanga, and part of the famed Golden Corridor, Blythedale Coastal Resort spans a thousand hectares, through 320 hectares of indigenous forest and mangroves, coursing rivers and estuaries incorporating a magnificent 3-kilometre stretch of unblemished beach.

Blythedale Coastal Resort is a magnificent tract of land with five different purchasing options encompassing all of South Africa’s lifestyle elements. Blythedale is the first large scale resort of its kind in South Africa and offers the discerning

property investor a diverse investment opportunity. The resort is a unique and expansive experience for those seeking a leisure environment on the coast boasting private and exclusive beach frontage.

Blythedale’s forested area covers a third of the resort and is its most beautiful asset. It extends for 2, 5 kilometres from the uMdlotane Estuary in the north to the town of Blythedale Beach on the resort’s southern border.

“Perhaps the most extraordinary section of the area is the estuary which is in an immaculate condition,” comments Peter Coulon, Land and Conservation Manager for the eLan Group. The attractive lagoon at the river mouth is fringed on both sides with dune forest and sandstone rocks, which according to Coulon creates a safe haven for fish to breed.

Because the area is environmentally distinctive, Blythedale Coastal Resort teems with wildlife and has a rich

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For more information about Blythedale Coastal Resort, visit www.blythedale.co.za or call Andrew Thompson +2782 858 1196

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of Blythedale Coastal Resort, the eLan Group has planned a few luxuries of its’ own. The resort will offer an array of tourist and resident facilities; a boutique and resort hotel, spa and wellness centre, a water theme park, restaurants, an 18-hole championship golf course and equestrian facilities.

The 600-bedroom beach resort hotel will cater for the thousands of tourists expected to come through King Shaka International Airport arrivals each year. While residents will be able to take full advantage of walking trails, bird-watching, water sports and other beach activities. Taylor continues saying that, “There are very few resorts which offer such a wonderful natural environment to explore. Adults and children alike will revel in the activities on offer which will make for a healthy and wholesome lifestyle in a pristine environment,” says Taylor.

The fantastic property purchase opportunities available throughout

the development will see buyers having the chance to purchase land from R50 000 to R5million hence seeing that people from all walks of life have the ability to buy into a ‘lifestyle development’ where a sense of community is delivered.

Encompassing 5000 residential units in total, 25 000m² of retail space and various other recreational and tourist attractions, the resort is expected to positively affect 50 000 people in the neighbouring communities.

The people who stand to benefit the most from the development of Blythedale Coastal Resort will be the Dube community and current farm residents. They will have first option on the 80 000 jobs that will become available over the ten year construction period and will have the chance to live at Blythedale Hills, the developments integrated social housing component, said Taylor.

image courtesy of aranmore estate

variety of birdlife. Bushbuck are present in the area as are the common and blue duiker. Crested guinea fowl, monkeys and mongooses are prolific, and among the rarer creatures that have been spotted are the African rock python, civets and a striped pole cat.

The eLan Group understands the importance of conservation and is wholly committed to preserving these precious natural environments which make up 33% of the resort. These areas will be protected by a comprehensive conservation management plan which has been formulated by the professionals of the eLan Group.

Importantly, for the conservation of these natural elements, only land which is currently under agriculture will be developed.

Surrounded by such beautiful scenery, it is easy to see why the eLan Group is so passionate about the North Coast. Amongst the many gems nature has so generously provided on the site

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BY Damian Murphy

t r a v e l

mozambique

E

ight people, seven nights in paradise, plenty of sun, sand and beer: how could this not be the best holiday of my life?

On a recent (and my first) trip to Mozambique, I discovered why preparation, planning and police can make or break a holiday. I also discovered a heavenly place that dreams are made of and books are written about.

On our trip to Mozambique the

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guys outnumbered the girls six to two.

Although guys are generally happy to do things on a wing and a prayer with little or no forethought and planning, whereas girls need to have every fine detail planned and every contingency covered, just in case, our gender imbalance was not a train smash.

We had planned (two days before) that we would leave the day after Boxing Day, travel to Maputo and stop over. From

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images BY DAMIAN MURPHY

Paradise Lost and Found

t r a v e l and we were heading into the unknown.

The stretch of road from Komatipoort to Maputo, although unlit, it was in superb condition and we reached the capital with no hassles.

Situated on the beachfront road, the VIP Hotel, an oasis in the city, was our rest stop for the evening. The rates were reasonable for peak season and included breakfast and the rooms were airconditioned and spacious.

“The journey through Mpumalanga is one of my favourite drives anywhere in the country, and the province during the summer months is splendidly green.”

After staying up most of the night up recounting the adventures of the previous day, we got a few hours of sleep and began our journey up to Inhambane at about 10am. The 490km voyage shouldn’t have taken us more than six or seven hours, meaning that even though we left a little later than we had planned, we would make it with plenty of time to get to our resort.

After snapping some pictures of the streets of Maputo, we were out of there.

Negotiating traffic for about an hour, we entered paradise. The beautiful road that stretched out in front of us was lined with local vegetation that thrives on the humid climate, local businesses and handmade houses. Every local kid shouted “sweeties!” as our obviously South African cars drove past.

We allowed ourselves to be hypnotised

by Mozambique’s beauty as we cruised down their major highway, the EN1.

But we were pulled from the dream when the military police suddenly pulled us over. Now, we had heard of the corruption that was rife within the police, so we were prepared to handle the situation with care. We had no idea why we were pulled over.

A couple of burly looking gentlemen in army regalia hopped out of the police bakkie and came over to our window.

It had appeared to them that we had been taking pictures of the police while photographing the streets of Maputo.

We tried to show them that there were no pictures on my Kodak Playsport, but the language barrier meant I had to fight them just to keep my camera.

Having had a confrontation the night before with AK-47-wielding police that cost us upwards of a grand, we were in no mood to give up the fight now that we knew we were out of the city and on our way to holiday. Anyway, we managed to talk our way out of the interrogation and were back on the road north.

We passed through little towns that were alive with local traders selling cashew nuts and fiery peri-peri sauces. Suddenly we could all see why Mozambique is loved by South Africans.

This place has a raw untouched beauty that I have never seen before. There is a peacefulness that I couldn’t imagine would exist anywhere else.

Having had our day delayed by the justice system in Maputo meant we arrived in Inhambane just before six in the evening to find that all the local shops were long closed. Although we were unable to buy any food, we were unperturbed and carried on to our resort, Horizonte.

We dropped of the Getz at a friend’s place and all crammed into the Hardbody to hit the 30km dirt road to the resort. Darkness was closing in fast, and we had no idea where we were going. The lack of planning meant we were ever-so-slightly worried about the short trip down the dirt road to the beach. The first 21km of dirt road were painless and fast, and an air of confidence set in as we were making good time en route to the resort.

But that holiday spirit vanished as we hit the beach sand that started 8km

images BY DAMIAN MURPHY

there we would head up north 490km to Inhambane, where we would be staying for the seven nights we had booked. So on 27 December we packed our trailer, the back of our Nissan 4x2 and the small boot of our Hyundai Getz, and hit the road. We stopped to get supplies for the trip and all the non-perishables we might need during our stay. We raided the Makro shelves in search of tinned food, cereals, liquid refreshments and all other goodies that would stand the gruelling 15-hour journey to a remote part of Mozambique. We had decided as a group (of guys ignoring the advice of the girls) to leave the purchase of anything that may go off until we reached the small town of Inhambane the next afternoon and then began the beautiful trip through Mpumalanga and Mozambique to Maputo.

The journey through Mpumalanga is one of my favourite drives anywhere in the country, and the province during the summer months is splendidly green.

Since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the N4 past Nelspruit has seen a major overhaul and is now in pristine condition. It made the trip to the South Africa-Mozambique border at Komatipoort a pleasant and painless one.

We had planned to get to the border post at 3pm, so we wouldn’t need to drive on the Mozambique side at night.

But the time we wasted running the aisles of Makro caught up with us as we hit the border post at dusk. A plethora of locals crowded our car, hoping to be able to assist us in crossing the border as quickly as possible, obviously with costs involved.

You are advised by every website that contains information about travel to Mozambique never to seek help from the locals as you cross the border, but we, in the confusion of things, elicited the help of a charming local to get our passports stamped and our vehicles cleared through customs. We watched as he ran from window to window and official to official before he returned without documentation and an outstretched hand for a donation.

We coughed up a couple of hundred rands and finally headed into Mozambique. By then it was pitch dark,

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t r a v e l

“The country is beautiful, our resort was first class, the people treat you like royalty because their livelihood depends on you, and I wouldn’t think twice about going back if the opportunity presented itself.”

images BY DAMIAN MURPHY

from Horizonte. When travelling to Mozambique, try your best to go in a proper 4x4. Our capable 4x2 struggled pulling a trailer on beach sand, and we had to abandon it at the first hill. Trailerless and four bodies lighter we made it up the first four or five hills before we got to an incline that seemed impassable.

Our brave Hardbody got stuck, and the four of us decided the only option was to cover the last stretch on foot. The torch was back in the trailer, it was nine at night, pitch dark, and all we had to guide us was a signal-less Blackberry. But we soldiered on, and after a mere 800m walk up on a beach road, we reached our resort, where we were able to get the owners to tow our trailer with their 4x4 and drive our 4x2 to the resort.

We had finally made it to paradise, five hours late and without any food.

We ate the most beautiful burgers in the Horizonte restaurant that was opened to cater just for us and headed up to our four-bedroom chalet for the night. It was only upon waking up the next morning that we were greeted with the sheer beauty we could call home for another six nights. Our chalet was perched at the top of a stunning dune overlooking the beach and our resort.

We had all the amenities available, the beach was a five-minute walk away and the water was warm and inviting. We had the beach just about to ourselves, and we were able to enjoy all the little things that make life so special. We soaked up the sun that shone every day we were there, we ate crayfish that cost one-tenth the price of a steak, and we enjoyed the hospitability of our hosts.

We were marooned at Horizonte for the entire seven days because our Hardbody was unable to cope with the soft beach sand, but the restaurant and bar made up, and we lived the life of luxury for seven full days. With nothing more than relaxation to occupy our days, we whipped out the sand wedges and played dune golf most afternoons, drank 2M beers and told tall stories.

We may have had a hard time getting to Horizonte, but that had very little to do with Mozambique and a lot to do with a lack of planning. The country is beautiful, our resort was first class, the people treat you like royalty because their livelihood depends on you, and I wouldn’t think twice about going back if the opportunity presented itself.

Mozambique opened my eyes to how much we take what we have for granted, but it also opened my eyes to what we as a continent have to offer the world.

Mozambique is affordable, beautiful – and right next door. www.afropolitan.co.za

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“Een, twee!” rugby and two-tone shirts. It is musically and mathematically speaking lethally difficult to play. It was only when I tried to play it myself that I understood why certain extremely complex events occur when it is played.

Here I speak not of the sudden mass eruption of the two-step, which requires lurching with outstretched right arm and upward-pointing thumb (hence the two-tone shirts: to dance in time, you look at your chest, then boep, chest then boep, and so on. The colour coding helps.) No, I speak here of what happens to the facial expressions and physiology of the orkes and its leader, the concertina player.

A convivial character, he will introduce a song with a broad smile and animated bearing. “En nou, dames en here, die Bloukrans Vastrap!” Behind him, the equally animated and broadly smiling band will be counted in by the drummer, thus: “Een, twee!” A blistering concertina intro, and the groove kicks in. This groove goes “rung-chukka-rungchukka-rung”, and it is at this point that

T

his publication has in its possession an astounding recently completed research paper, and we’re proud to be among the first to release this document to the world. The thesis contains undeniable evidence of interaction between higher-order mathematical, biological and musical disciplines, resulting in actual physical manifestation. The author is Dr JC Beukes, an Afrikaner from Germiston, who studied at the University of Southern Northern Limpopo. He is, in our view, a leader in his field. Herewith a summary of the findings of his groundbreaking thesis.

Doctoral candidate: JC Beukes Thesis title: “Een, twee!”

“One of the most misunderstood, indeed under-valued forms of music is sakkiesakkie, an iconic concertina-driven genre widely associated with braaivleis,

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“Now comes a truly astounding event. Amidst the awful amount of high-end musical mathematics going on, it is logical that chaos theory will emerge” something remarkable happens.

Such is the steaming concentration upon which the orkes now engages that, with the precision of Japanese kabuki, their postures and expressions change with an instant, horrible but awe-inspiring unity. The former joviality upon the visage of our orkes leader is replaced by a look of indescribable agony. Head tilted slightly and obliquely to the side, he stares viciously and crosseyed into an ill-defined middle distance.

His mouth, abruptly abandoned by a

totally overwhelmed brain, sags gapingly in the opposite direction, and drool emanates from this orifice.

Now comes a truly astounding event.

Amidst the awful amount of high-end musical mathematics going on, it is logical that chaos theory will emerge, this evolving to string theory, and therefore leading to the orkes beginning to flounder. At this point, in a supreme achievement of multi-dimensional cogitation, the band leader whips his contorted body through a 45° arc.

This is the mathematically accepted signifier for “bliksem, kêrels, we’re lost!” In a mind numbing leap, the orkes applies unification theory, and in a mathematical algorithm called the “gear change” they change key. This goes “karung-chung-chung!”

Now thundering ahead in uncharted territory, the orkes is an incredible assembly of problem-solving savants, each searching independently for a mathematical outcome that will not lead to the horrible genetic mutilation of the assembled swirling and stomping chestboep nodding herd. Unaware that they are too late to prevent this chemical/ biological event, the orkes valiantly and in total panic screams “Balke toe!”

This is a signal for the man behind the bar, in a validation of cross-disciplinary fusion of musi-mathe-biology, to quickly start opening the mampoer jugs in anticipation of the rapidly approaching event horizon. At this point, in a finite example of ordered random mathematics, a mathematical conflict occurs among the two-tones – a fight breaks out.

Variant causes exist, but generally it will be between a Bulls fan and anyone else within arm’s length. This causes a re-ordering of the complex musi-mathebiology involved, ie the re-ordering of the problem-solving priority order of the bass player’s reasoning: he snaps his G-string. Without this string, in theory, there is nothing going on. And so, in a cataclysmic, despairing resolution, the orkes crashes to an end. There is silence.

And the drummer shouts: “Een, twee!”

(Editor’s note: This publication regrets the fact that the Dr Beukes was discovered too late to be included in our previous edition’s list of top 20 South African leaders. Next time.)

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

BY KABURU

KA B URU

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