The Afropolitan Edition 38 by Contact Media

C O N T E N T S EDITOR

In This Edition

Brendah Nyakudya

CONTRIBUTORS

4 EDITOR'S LETTER

Alyn Adams Heather Clancy Eric Miyeni Damian Murphy Stacey Vee Helen Seimenis Dominique Wolf Xolani Mancotywa Carmen Petre

Happy Africa day

PUBLISHING HOUSE

6 READER'S EXPERIENCE The Arrogance of the ANC

10 COLUMN Why Oscar would never admit blame

14 FEATURE Africa, my love

18 CULTURAL CORNER The Charm of Zimbabwe

23 ENTREPRENEUR FEATURE

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E D I T O R ' S

L E T T E R

Happy A Africa Day

frica. This is the one continent that has always been treated like that kid in the neighbourhood that everyone plays with but only to take advantage of them and their belongings. In recent years however, it has started to get some backbone and fight the bullies that keep taking its toys and trashing its playground. More and more Africans are becoming confident in not only their talents but their ability to make money out of these talents, and as a result more African countries are no longer holding out a begging bowl but choosing to talk trade and hold out partnership agreements.

With Africa Day being commemorated on the 25th May, in this edition of the Afropolitan we are taking time to celebrate all people African that have made a success of their talents. We can only pray that soon Africa will be seen as the place to come and do business and a place to dump genetically modified food that no-one else wants or second hand clothing! But until that day comes, aluta continua!

@brendahnyakudya @AfropolitanMag Facebook: TheAfropolitanMagazine

R E A D E R ' S

E X P E R I E N C E

The Arrogance of the ANC WE CAN ADD ONE MORE WORD TO OUR VOCABULARY OF FILTHY WORDS: NKANDLA. THIS WORD HAS COME TO MEAN ALL THINGS CORRUPT, AND IS THE HEIGHT OF DENIAL AND UTTER DISREGARD FOR THE RULE OF LAW AND PUBLIC CONSENSUS. writes reader George Xulu

he Public Protector a.k.a. the Iron Lady, Thuli Madonsela entitled the whole saga “a license to loot”. In the long-awaited report on her findings after the Nkandla investigation she stated that she found state president Jacob Zuma and his ever-increasing family unduly benefitted from the R246 million-worth of ‘security’ upgrades that were made at their Eastern Cape compound. In spite of all this, our leader has remained resolute in his defiance; he’s flatly refused to take any responsibility. Not only has he placed the blame at every one’s feet, save his own, he has also claimed ignorance as to the type of upgrades that took place at his home, under his very nose. He confidently told the country that he would not be paying back any of the money spent as he “did not ask for them”. If we as South Africans were to adopt this childish approach then there are some things that I would like to, as Advocate Barry Roux would say, “put to” our President.

THE ROYAL FAMILY

YOUR LEGAL BILLS

At no point did we ask to be responsible for your host of merry wives and scores of children. We should be able to refuse to pay for them, no matter what the Ministerial Handbook says. One wife, yes. A number of kids, no problem. Four wives and more than 20 kids – not on our tab.

When you went on trial just before you hoodwinked former President Thabo Mbeki and took over the reigns as leader of the country, you rang up quite an amazing legal bill in your bid to avoid jail-time. We did not ask for this, so following your flawed logic, we shouldn’t have had to pay for them either.

IF WE AS SOUTH AFRICANS WERE TO ADOPT THIS CHILDISH APPROACH THEN THERE ARE SOME THINGS THAT I WOULD LIKE TO, AS ADVOCATE BARRY ROUX WOULD SAY, “PUT TO” OUR PRESIDENT. E-TOLLS This dull spark of an idea was hatched at Luthuli House and forced on us with not so much as a consultation. Not only did we not ask for e-tolls, we vehemently said we didn’t want them, so catch us if you can!

Mr President, you may have won this battle and we may never see a single cent from you as payment for Nkandla, but the war is still on. Our voices may be muted when we cry foul over and over again about the R246 million spend on your personal home but come voting day on 7 May 2014 we will speak loud! Maybe then you will listen.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PHILIPS INTRODUCES NEW MALE GROOMING

“BE SHARP” AMBASSADOR MEET PHILIPS’ NEWEST AMBASSADOR, AVID SPORTS FANATIC AND JOURNALIST, UDO CARELSE!

hilips is proud to have sports journalist, Udo Carelse associated with its “Be Sharp” campaign. Following his studies at the University of Cape Town where he obtained a BA degree, he landed a coveted position working at KFM as a news anchor for three years, and next progressed to Talk Radio 702 and 567 Cape Talk where he now hosts Sports Talk. Udo’s involvement in television started when his ‘tell-it-like-it-is’ style of sports commentary and his satirical way of expressing himself got him noticed by producers of the Television Sports Preview Show. Instead of just plying his craft behind the scenes though, Udo was thrust into the deep end of also having to co-anchor this highly popular TV show. After that experience, Udo successfully produced and presented e-TV’s satirical That Sports Show for two years, while also holding the position of sports anchor and news editor at YFM, South Africa’s biggest youth radio station.

As if all these roles weren’t enough to keep him busy, Udo is also actively involved with lecturing at Boston Business Campus as part of a radio course; running a mentorship programme for the youth in his home town of Atlantis in the Western Cape; and presenting and writing for TV. Working within the media field in South Africa is something he is extremely passionate about, and he is excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead for broadcasting in SA. In terms of style, Udo is very much his own man and tends to dress himself, focusing on a casual and comfortable style. “I don’t really have any style icons, I just like comfort and you’ll often find me in jeans or track pants and hoodies, but I also love dressing up…just not every day.” Udo is an advocate of male grooming and insists on sporting a well-styled beard if you’re going to go the facial hair route. “Nobody should ever look dishevelled. Look after yourself, man. It’s

not such a schlep! The only place where I can grow facial hair is my chin, so by default, I started grooming that part of my face. Now I can’t imagine getting rid of this little bokbaartjie…it’s a part of me, you know?” It seems that Udo is a man who knows how to “Be Sharp”. Philips is proud to be associated with the enthusiastic and credible sports journalist as he is an idyllic representative for what it means to be a man. “Guys identify and resonate with Udo, due to his passion for sport and is wealth of general knowledge, whilst being down-to-earth. He is well-spoken, takes great care in his grooming efforts and appearance, and yet is the type of guy you would invite to a braai. He represents the quintessential South African male, which is what makes him an ideal ambassador for the Philips “Be Sharp” campaign. A guy who loves sports AND stays well-groomed? What more could you want?” exclaimed Jolene Roelofse, Philips Marketing Manager: Personal Care.

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BE SH ARP T HIN K S H ARP LO O K SH ARP

C O L U M N

WHY OSCAR WOULD NEVER

ADMIT BLAME

Oscar Pistorius

WITH THE WORLD FOCUSING ITS ATTENTION ON THE TRIAL OF PARALYMPIAN OSCAR PISTORIUS WHO IS CHARGED WITH MURDERING HIS GIRLFRIEND REEVA STEENKAMP, ERIC MIYENI LOOKS AT HOW DIFFERENTLY THE SCENARIO COULD HAVE PLAYED OUT.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

BY Eric Miyeni

“M

y lady, I am Oscar Pistorius. I was born with a condition that left me with stumps for legs. I don’t know if it would have been right to mourn this, to cry over it or feel sorry for myself. I was never given that option.

made to believe that I could do anything that any able person can do as long as I set my mind to it. She taught me that I was not different.

“In addition to this, I grew up in an environment where being ‘a man’ is important, where being strong and being in charge is so critical that the “My mother, a strong woman, a loving thought of losing control, manly power woman who was taken from us early in my life, taught me never to give up. I was and respect is unbearable. The men in

my family, like my father who did not spare the rod, often to cruel extents, own guns and use them. They are men’s men. I was brought up to be strong. “My lady, it is this rigorous psychological training that turned me into what the world called the ‘Blade-runner’. I have to say; it is exhilarating to think of all my achievements. Not only have I competed in the Paralympics and won many

C O L U M N

medals, I have made history and run competently in the real Olympics against some of the finest able athletes. “I have, because of my background, achieved a great deal more than anybody with my physical disabilities can dream of. In fact, I have attained a lot more, physically, than millions of able people can dream possible. I am proud of my accomplishments my lady, and, I believe, rightly so. “In the end, I had it all, because there I was, a global icon, a rich man, a handsome man and she, a woman I loved desperately, a woman I was so lucky to share a part of my life with, one of the most beautiful women on earth, came to stand by my side and complete the picture.

SOUTH AFRICANS, AS A RULE, NEVER ACCEPT BLAME WITHOUT BEING FORCED TO DO SO AND EVEN THEN, WE WILL FIGHT TO THE BITTER END BEFORE WE ADMIT THAT IT’S OUR FAULT.

“If you had asked me, my lady, a mere week before that tragic Valentine’s Day, if it would have ended with me standing before you today facing life in prison for killing this woman, I would have laughed, and thought you mad for even asking. “But here we are, my lady. Here I am, up for murder before you and the questions remain: ‘Why? What happened? What in God’s name was I thinking?’ How can this be explained to any rational person in a manner that makes sense? “Sitting here now before you, looking back, knowing that this is my story, I am at a loss to justify my actions of the morning of 14 February 2013, a morning that will remain a stain in my heart for the rest of my days. A morning that remains a nightmare in every waking second I live. A morning, I believe now, that proved that a lot of what I was brought up to believe is power and bravery is actually weakness and cowardice. “It would be very easy for me to blame

fateful night that, after all, I have no legs, I am incomplete, I am not in charge and Reeva was not mine. “Maybe these realisations came too quickly for me to control the impact, my lady. All I know is that I look back in horror at what these sudden discoveries made me do, what I did when I unexpectedly learnt what I should have been taught from the start; that it’s okay to lose, that who I am is deeper than what most call being a man, that a woman’s love is hers to share with whomever she chooses, that rejection of any kind does not define who one is or what their truest value in life is. “My lady, I have had to learn this the hardest way anybody can, by committing one of the most terrible acts any human being can in a fit of unexpected, unmitigated, blind rage. I will not take any questions on the matter my lady. I plead guilty and leave my fate in your hands. I might have been taught the things I was taught, but I am still responsible for how I act because of those lessons. To the Steenkamp family, and to you alone, I am deeply, deeply sorry for what I did. I am more saddened by it than you will ever know. And I am ashamed. I thank you for your forgiveness Mrs Steenkamp. The damage done can never be repaired, which makes your forgiving words all the more difficult to bare. I am deeply sorry. That is all, my lady.”

my mother, my lady. I could point to my macho upbringing from my father’s side. I could blame it on a psychological flaw that comes with being raised to believe that a man must always stay on top. I could blame it on an internal vortex of anger I never knew I had for whatever reason that might be totally intertwined with the realisation on that

Unfortunately, you will never hear these words. Most South Africans, as a rule, never accept blame without being forced to do so and even then, we will fight to the bitter end before we admit that it’s our fault. I feel sorry for Oscar Pistorius. To a large degree, he is a product of this sick, sexist, take charge, macho, gun-toting environment that calls for this overrated need for men to have control over everything. We are, in many ways, collectively to blame for all the women who get murdered at the hands of their lovers daily in this country.

F E A T U R E

AFRICA,

MY LOVE

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

ON A CONTINENT THAT IS ONE OF THE GREATEST MELTING POTS OF COLOURS, CULTURES AND CONTEXTS, WHAT MAKES YOU LOVE BEING AFRICAN? By Heather Clancy

F E A T U R E this great continent as our home vary like the colours of a rainbow. Our cultures, religions, races and languages often differ greatly, yet we are all bound not only by the geographical borders of this continent, but more importantly, by the intangible belief that this is home. It is only natural that we love our home; after all, it is the place where we can be ourselves

ESTHER MEIKLE Proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Young at heart with a penchant for dark chocolate and dark humour. “I have never considered the question why am I proud to be African. Being born in Lithuania and then moving to South Africa as a young girl, I never chose to come here but I built a life here with children and happiness and sadness too. At my age now, what I enjoy most about living here is the weather. It is never too cold and the sun is always shining. Outside of my

window I can see children playing cricket in the sun. How lovely to be young in the sunlight? We are very spoilt here. There is more hope here than anywhere else. Other countries are held captive by tension; we are more tolerant and at ease here. Although things are very bad in other African countries, there is hope for change. God doesn’t give problems to those who can’t take it. Africa has many problems, but things can get better. Anyway, you have to think that things will get better; it is the only way to survive. I am turning 89 this month, I should know.”

PHINDILE THENGENI By passion, the founder of COST wear. By trade, a graphic designer and researcher specialising in fashion and music. Originally from the Free State, she now makes her dreams come true in the City of Gold.

as Babatunde and musicians such as Okmalumekoolkat (Smiso) for infusing African elements in their craft.

I am proud to be African in this day and age because the world around us is finally taking note and shutting up “Not only do I love being African, but to listen to us. As a young creative it is really liberating to know that the art I am proud. As an African I feel it in my soul, the struggle of my ancestors forms I experiment and create can get worldly recognition with the click of a and the journey it has taken us on button. I am not really an “Africanist”; as Africans today. It’s encrypted in I am NOT going to be pumping my fist me and that is why spirituality and up and forcing my perception of whom culture matters to me. As an African and what Africans are down anyone’s in this part of Africa I must say I am of a certain privilege. There are plenty throat. I believe in freedom-of-whatever, of opportunities for me here and I can which means people are free to create be whomever I want to be, which is a a character of their own and live how they see fit. And on that note, even really special feeling. though there are still negatives about Africa and Africans, or rather negative And being alive in this era I see the perceptions, I am proud to be African attempts from Africans and other nations to go back to our roots. Music, of this generation because a lot more understanding is being put into defining fashion, art and even politics are the people of Africa. The movement of all covered in traditional African Africa and its people is really inspiring veils and it makes me happy even and beautiful to be part of currently and though I feel the attempts can be I encourage everyone to at least be part and are sometimes desperate. I of it.” am proud of clothing brands such

and the place where we can remake ourselves in the image of our dreams. Africa, with its boundless energy and unmistakeable spirit, offers a springboard to its citizens only limited by their own limitations. However, we often take for granted the gifts we are bestowed and so it is necessary as a reminder to ask: why do you love being African?

“I AM BORN OF A PEOPLE WHO ARE HEROES AND HEROINES [...] PATIENT BECAUSE HISTORY IS ON THEIR SIDE, THESE MASSES DO NOT DESPAIR BECAUSE TODAY THE WEATHER IS BAD. NOR DO THEY TURN TRIUMPHALIST WHEN, TOMORROW, THE SUN SHINES. [...] WHATEVER THE CIRCUMSTANCES THEY HAVE LIVED THROUGH AND BECAUSE OF THAT EXPERIENCE, THEY ARE DETERMINED TO DEFINE FOR THEMSELVES WHO THEY ARE AND WHO THEY SHOULD BE.” Thabo Mbeki, 1996

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

t is said that when you are born in Africa, Africa is also born in you and so the love affair with your homeland begins. Moreover, being African seems to be more than simply a coincidence of birth, it is a choice too. Those living in the Diaspora have often never touched African soil, yet Africa is alive in them. But what does it mean to be African? We who claim

F E A T U R E

MARU NIRVANA MOKUENA A seven-year-old chess and soccer enthusiast with more stamps in his passport than most adults. From travelling the States to Germany, he is happiest dancing in front of the TV to his favourite hip-hop tune. “What I like about being an African is that people are normal.

TOMMY DENNIS Writer and student of international relations and philosophy at Monash University in Rumsig. “Hope is what I love most about being an African. That unlike other places and other people, Africa and Africans come from a history of

And people are very kind and there is something else I like and it is that I learn different languages every day because there are different countries. And what I also like about being African is that there are villages here and Africa is such a great place that I could stay here my whole life! And it is always sunny.”

pain and loss. I think because of that we almost have a clean slate to start from. We can do anything we want to; our world is not ancient and rigid like Europe or Asia. We can find new ways, and new answers for questions that have plagued humanity. That is what I love most about being an African – the endless hope that I feel for the future.”

SALENDRA MOODLEY A loyal sports fanatic who is passionate about development and growth. Prefers to take the road less travelled. “There is one thing that immediately stands out – there is absolutely nothing that compares to being an African. We experience highs only quantifiable by Mount Kilimanjaro and lows that go into the depths of Lake Assal. Regardless of if we are surfing a wave of pure ecstasy on the east coast of South Africa or treading over unstable territory in a newly formed democracy, there is this unique spirit that connects us and carries us forward. We have faced many challenges, some of which are still on-going, having detrimental consequences towards our fight for freedom, equality and certain human rights. Our cultural diversity is what sets us apart from the rest of the world and makes us who we are. By interacting with

various ethnic groups, learning about different cultures and most importantly respecting their practices this not only betters us, but helps to understand our common view points and encourages us to embrace our proud heritage. The growing recognition of Africa as a major contributor on the global economic scene is something most Africans should be proud of. We now possess the ever-growing knowledge and have the required skill sets to live off monumental mineral wealth, develop first world infrastructure as well as making positive strides with great innovation and momentum, turning our continent into global leaders in certain functional areas. We have it all on this glory bound continent: rich cultural diversity, increasing potential for economic supremacy and unrelenting passion, all of which catapulting us towards greatness.”

F E A T U R E

GARETH COWDEN Born and bred in Johannesburg. Stylist and founder of Babatunde. “I love the fact that I am living in a time where there is so much opportunity and that we have an opportunity to create a positive identity for ourselves and all Africans. As Africans we have an opportunity to influence the way future African generations think about and interact with each other. I love that we live in a time where we as Africans have so much freedom to shape our continent’s identity and self-esteem.

I love it that I can be in the city, and then in an hour’s drive be somewhere that seems like the city does not exist. Alternatively I can be in a friend’s lowcost home and then in an hour’s time be in another friend’s mansion and get the same warmth and hospitality and feel a sense of belonging and comfort in both. Although I am from a privileged background it is important to experience how different Africans from different backgrounds live. And beautiful to see that we can have great friendships and live through each other.

I love that when I travel abroad, the people I meet are so intrigued with I love it that myself, along with an ever- Africa. And generally this interest increasing number of Africans, realise is from a positive place. They want our responsibility to Africa and fellow to know about our lifestyle and if Africans and make this not only an everything they have heard is true. economically powerful continent but also a continent that its people can be Mostly, I love the fact that I am born African and can’t be anything else.” proud of and prosper on.

The second-largest continent on the planet is our home to claim and what a home it is: the diversity, unyielding potential, tireless spirit and natural beauty of Africa is unmatched anywhere else. Our history represents the rich tapestry of life – struggle and triumph with our ending yet to be defined. With so much to love and to be proud of, the question “What do you love about being African?”. This seems to always garner the same response: first a smile and then a gasp of, “There’s just too much to mention” seems to be the overwhelming sentiment. But it is only to be expected when the continent that you call home boasts being the birthplace of humanity and the hope of tomorrow. However, from old to young there is some consensus, it is the simple joy of sunny skies and even sunnier dispositions that make the heart really swell and sigh: “I love being African”.

F E A T U R E

The Charm of

Zimbabwe

FOR THOSE WHO READ THE PAPERS OR WATCH THE NEWS, ZIMBABWE IS PORTRAYED AS NOTHING LESS THAN HELL ON EARTH, RULED BY A MANIACAL DESPOT OPPRESSING HIS SUBJECTS. BUT FOR THOSE WITH A SENSE OF CURIOSITY, THERE IS MORE TO THIS COUNTRY, INCLUDING ITS FANTASTIC EDUCATION AND FRIENDLY CITIZENS.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

By Brendah Nyakudya

The Victoria Falls

F E A T U R E

THE VICTORIA FALLS Stretching across Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Victoria Falls (also smugly known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or the “smoke that thunders”) tops the list of majestic sights and experiences Zimbabwe has to offer. A World Heritage Site, the Victoria Falls is the world’s largest waterfall spanning a total of 1,708m in width and 108 metres in height. Surrounded by luxurious resorts and game farms it is the perfect holiday spot for anyone wanting to be wowed by nature.

KARIBA An outing on Lake Kariba might be the most underrated excursion the country

offers. Unlike the Victoria Falls, this is a man-made wonder that offers safaris that can be taken by houseboat or on foot. Bird-watching and fishing are very popular on and around the lake.

KWAMEREKI Every town has that one thing that is inexplicable, and defies logic and all the laws of economics. KwaMereki is one such place. Offering nothing else but picnic areas in sparse surrounds, a lady to braai your meat, and a place to park your car, this venue has been in existence since time immemorial. Every weekend scores of local residents make their way there and soak up the sun with some grilled meat and the

company of good friends. While most companies folded during the economic crisis that hit the country and crippled the economy, KwaMereki not only remained in business – it thrived! Next time you are in Bob’s country ask a local to take you there for the best braaied meat and cold beer in town. You will not be disappointed.

JACARANDA’S IN BLOOM Planted alongside neighbourhood avenues all over the country, every spring jacaranda’s trees are in full bloom, and proudly litter the road with their vibrant purple blossoms. This makes for a gorgeous purple carpet on the road that is the most magnificent sight.

F E A T U R E

OLIVER MTUKUDZI

A WORLD HERITAGE SITE, THE VICTORIA FALLS IS THE WORLD’S LARGEST WATERFALL SPANNING A TOTAL OF 1,708M IN WIDTH AND 108 METRES IN HEIGHT.

While most artists might lament that they, like prophets of old, are not appreciated in their hometowns, nothing could be further from the truth when it comes to multi award-winning musician Oliver Mtukudzi. A regular on the local music scene since 1977, Oliver, affectionately known as Tuku, is undoubtedly one of Zimbabwe’s most successful exports and well-loved artists. With his distinct Tuku music style he, to this day enjoys sold-out performances whenever he takes the stage at home and abroad. Tuku is the first Zimbabwean to be titled UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and be awarded the prestigious Cavaliere bringing huge audiences together to of the Order of Merit Award by the celebrate something positive – the government of Italy. healing and constructive capacity of the arts. HIFA 2014 will be the 15th edition of the Festival. Since its inception HARARE INTERNATIONAL in 1999, the Festival has received FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS recognition for its support of arts and culture in Zimbabwe and is seen as a HIFA is a six day annual festival and major contributor to development in this workshop programme that showcases area. HIFA is now the largest cultural the very best of local, regional and event in Zimbabwe, among the eight international arts and culture in a major festivals in Africa and a significant comprehensive festival programme player on the international Arts and of theatre, dance, music, circus, street Culture circuit. performance, spoken word, visual arts. HIFA has come to be seen as an important symbol of something positive LEGEND OF THE about Zimbabwe, unifying socially NYAMINYAMI and culturally disparate groups of Zimbabweans at a time of ideological The legend of the Nyaminyami is one conflict and political uncertainty – that every Zimbabwean knows. Said

Jacaranda Trees

to reside in the Zambezi River, this is a dragon-like creature with the head of a fish and the body of a snake. Locals believe that the spirits of the Nyaminyami (and his wife) are there to protect the locals (particularly the Tonga people) and provide for them in times of lack.

Nyaminyami

Did you know? • Zimbabwe got its name from “Dzimba dza mabwe”, which means “great houses of stone” in the Shona language. • Zimbabwe is believed to be the location of Ophir, the ancient wealthy country from which King Solomon got ivory, gold, and such other precious items.

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E N T R E P R E N E U R

F E A T U R E

EVANS WADONGO lighting the way for Africa EVERY SO OFTEN, THE WORLD PRODUCES A VISIONARY WITH A BIG HEART AND EVANS WANDONGO IS ONE SUCH INDIVIDUAL. A KENYAN ENGINEER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CHAIRMAN OF SDFA-KENYA, HE IS ONE OF CNN’S TOP TEN HEROES OF 2010 FOR HIS INVENTION, THE MWANGABORA SOLAR LAMP.

MwangaBora Solar Lamp

orn in the Western part of Kenya, Evans, the youngest of five boys, attended Bisunu Primary School, a rural primary school that was a 10 km walk away. After completing his studies here, he attended Kakamega High School, where he graduated with top marks and was consequently listed as one of the top 100 best students in Kenya. When he enrolled at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Kenya

he studied electronic and computer engineering and graduated in 2009 with a BSc in Electronics and Computer Engineering. As a young man growing up in rural Kenya, Evans saw the limitations that came with a lack of electricity in the village and at home. Crowding around single kerosene lamps with his four older brothers was the norm. Under the dim smoky light emanating from the

kerosene lamps they tried to study and do homework for school, unaware of the harmful effects the fumes from the lamps posed to the environment and the people who use them. With both his parents being teachers the importance of education was always stressed to the boys and as a result Evans spent much time around the kerosene lamps that he shared with his siblings. For Evans, the lack of sufficient light to

E N T R E P R E N E U R

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study became frustrating as it led to unfinished homework and poor exam performance. “Many students fail to complete their education and remain poor partly because they don’t have good light,” says Wadongo. Over and above this, the consequences of the kerosene lamps were more permanent as his eyesight, and that of many others, became damaged from the poisonous gases.

LIGHT BULB MOMENT Wadongo’s experience and frustrations didn’t end in him lamenting the problem. In 2004, at the tender age of 19 years old, he found a solution to this and the MwangaBora (“Good Light” in Swahili) solar lamp was developed. The MwangaBora solar lamp is a fume-less light source made up of scrap metal and off-the-shelf photovoltaic panels, batteries, and LEDs. This, his first solar lamp, was made using part of his student loan and subsidised by friends and family, so he could afford to buy the necessary materials. As with most inventions the production of the lanterns was off to a slow start until Wadongo attended a leadership-training program that was sponsored by the nonprofit organization Sustainable Development for All-Kenya. On hearing his dream the group committed to helping Wandongo with his MwangaBora project. Over time they helped him reduce the cost of production of the lamps and well wishing volunteers helped to build them. Since then, some 15,000 lamps have been made and Wadongo says his goal is to make 100,000 solar lamps by 2015.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Realising the communities that needed the product the most were the poor villages similar to the one he grew up in, Evans embarked on his project ‘Use Solar, Save Lives’ as he wanted to use solar technology as a way to save lives in the poor communities that he grew up in. With this in mind Evans made

women of Chimvi. With the money saved the women set up a micro-lending service and started a craft business with much benefits not only to themselves but the village as a whole. With the profits made from the micro-lending business and the handbags and beads, the women also managed to purchase 120 more lamps giving the village cleaner better light for all.

FUTURE PLANS For Wadongo its not just about the number of lamps bought or sold. He truly believes that his lamps are making a difference and he hopes to ultimately improve education and reduce poverty and hunger with the invention of these solar lamps. Today, solar-powered LED lanterns light up several Evans Wadongo and Halle Berry CNN Heroes 2010 villages in the rural areas of Kenya. Children are able to the decision not to sell his lamps but to study and families can buy food with give them to local communities for free. the money they save on kerosene. The However, these lamps are given with solar lanterns have a good impact on the the understanding that they will be the environment too, as they help reduce gift that keeps on giving. To those that carbon emissions. In addition, the Wadongo gives lanterns, they are urged lanterns help keep children in school to take the money they will be saving on by giving off a strong light that can be kerosene and put it into local enterprises shared, without risking their health. that will benefit the community. In order Evans has dedicated his life to spreading to fund his project Wadongo uses donors solar-powered lamps throughout rural funds and proceeds from exhibitions Kenya to give communities light and to provide the lanterns to villages. hope for a better life. This “sustainable gifting” mindset has already started yielding results as in the With Kenya firmly on its way to being case of Chimvi village in Kenya. Inspired lit up, Wadongo plans to extend his by the MwangaBora, Eunice Muthengi, project to neighbouring countries that a Kenyan born US citizen, bought 30 have the same challenges, with Uganda MwangaBora’s and donated them to the being next on the list. “I want to reach out to as many rural communities as possible,” he said. “The impact is saving lives.” He has started training interns, from Kenya, the rest of Africa and also from American universities. Over time Evans will be looking to decentralise the production of the lamps in order to provide work for unemployed youths. Wadongo says that he says aims to “directly impact at least five hundred thousand people by 2015 and raise a million people out of poverty by 2018.” Evans Wadongo

The future for Africa is looking bright!

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J.D.

BY SHALDON KOPMAN

he year is 1978. The place: South Africa. Life was tense. The country was on lockdown thanks to sanctions placed on all international trade. Jonathan Dale Marcus a.k.a. Jonathan D, walked down the Cape Town promenade. The south-easter picked up, gusty, when it hit him: barring earthquake or revolution, Jonathan D was going to scrape every last cent together and open his first factory to supply European fashion to the South African man. One factory turned to two and a simple dream into a destiny. Fast forward to present day. The city pulsates as people make their way to work in taxis that cough and splutter and swerve as if they have minds of their own. The bill-board seems to touch the sky, Jonathan D would be proud, his name shining down on the faces of hundred as they rush by, his clothing worn by thousands. One such traveller, tall, knowing, walks into the office. In his hands lies the future of Jonathan D concealed between covers. His name is Shaldon Kopmanâ&#x20AC;Ś.

Shaldon Kopman

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Images courtesy of Dinoko Communications

“A GOOD APPEARANCE CAN CREATE AN ENTRY; A GREAT APPEARANCE CAN CONSTRUCT YOUR SUCCESS IN BUSINESS AND SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS.”

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ABOUT SHALDON KOPMAN Shaldon Kopman is a well-recognized name in the fashion Industry. His career to date has spanned the globe. He is the director and founder of the bespoke men’s brand Naked Ape. Shaldon’s comprehensive knowledge of the fashion industry as a whole is complementary to his creativity and ability to look at the task at hand, and conceptualise it in a refreshing and exciting way. He has a special talent for interpreting trends and producing within an African context. Shaldon’s experience and standing in the fashion and lifestyle industry commands respect both locally and internationally, paying tribute to an illustrious career built on a passion for the sector as a stylist and fashion director in New York, Chicago, Sydney, Milan, Paris and Dubai – to mention a few destinations. In his hometown, South Africa, Shaldon has worked as fashion editor for Elle, Soccer Life, and Y Magazine. His meticulous attention to detail, natural eye for aesthetics, and daring spirit won him the “GQ Best Dressed Man” award for 2006/7. Shaldon Kopman brought South Africa a one of its kind fashion installation title “Journey of a travelling man” at the SA Fashion week 2013 and this year he aims to do the same with the JD by Shaldon Kopman. More over to this, Shaldon styled Samuel L Jackson for the move “Kite” which will be released this year on South African screens and also styled Mr. Jackson for cove magazine with GQ Magazine. This fashion designer and director of Naked Ape has styled some of South Africa’s most prominent males such as Kojo Baffoe, Promise Mlambo, Ex Orlando Pirate coach Roger De Saal, Matthew Boothe, Danny K, Vusi Kunene, Mfundi Vundla.

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JD by Shaldon Kopman introduces a line of elegant sneakers Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new stylish and groundbreaking creation in menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footwear: JD by Shaldon Kopman. It is designed by Shaldon Kopman of Naked Ape who is collaborating with menswear brand, Jonathan D to create a casual sneaker for the elegantly street savvy man.

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Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

THE KING OF FLAVOUR Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

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gold

All that glitters is

FROM 3600 BC TO THE PRESENT DAY, GOLD HAS BEEN A DRIVER OF THE WORLD’S DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMY. FROM THE EMPERORS OF ROMAN GREEK DESCENT, TO THE DYNASTIES OF ANCIENT EGYPT AND SYRIA, RIGHT UP TO THE GANGSTER RAPPERS ON THE STREETS OF COMPTON, THIS RARE METAL HAS ALWAYS BEEN CONSIDERED A COMMODITY. By Helen Semeinis

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

arly civilisations equated gold with gods and rulers as it was sought after in their name and dedicated to them. One of the most iconic pieces of gold in history is 18-century Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamen’s burial mask, which was a plaster cast of the great leader’s face made as a memento after his death. Made out of gold and precious stones, this funeral mask was used in the mummification process and believed to have the power to strengthen the spirit of the deceased and safeguard the soul from malevolent spirits has it made it way to the afterworld. Over and above this the tomb Tutankhamen was laid to rest in was nothing but gold – so much so that when Howard Carter, the famous archeologist who discovered this tomb, opened it he saw: “gold – everywhere the glint of gold”. Ancients Egyptians, as a people, were well known throughout history for their love of and association with gold and

the importance they awarded it. History has it that they believed that this metal, with its illuminous qualities and nondestructive nature was the skin of their gods and associated with eternal life and a solar deity named Ra the God of Sun. Gold was so important to the Egyptian pharaohs that it was reserved for the exclusive use of royalty and important nobility; always associated with beauty and power. When the Spaniards first came across gold they claimed they’d found enough to build a bridge with it that would span the distance from Peru across the ocean to Spain. In the Inca civilization, they believed that gold was the sweat of the sun god Inti and so it was used to construct objects that had religious significance. In pre-Hispanic Colombia, gold had great meaning and was not used in any way as currency. It was admired more for its radiance and association with the sun

and spirituality and was often used in powder form to cover the body of the future king in a coronation ceremony. When used in ornaments it was to show the rank of a leader or a religious shaman. Many of the citizens of the time believed that the illumination surface of the gold meant it could communicate with the spirits and other supernatural beings.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY Gold is deemed valuable in every culture around the world for a myriad of reasons; it cannot be artificially produced or printed, it doesn’t tarnish and has always been considered attractive by most people. It also has a very strong reputation in the investment and banking world. Unlike other currencies, which lose value due to factors such as inflation, gold has maintained its value through the ages

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making a very worthwhile investment. Trends have shown that when currencies weaken and the cost of living goes up, so does the price and value of gold as more people turn to it as a way to hedge against inflation. As in many times in history, in this present age gold is currently ranked as the world’s top currency and according to Money Morning, investors are now realising the full potential of investing in gold. Today, like most commodities, the price of gold is driven by supply and demand, including demand for speculation. The price of gold is closely related to interest rates, as interest rates rise the general tendency is for the gold price, which earns no interest, to fall; as interest rates dip, the price of gold rises. The demand for gold has also grown among investors and it is often used in investment portfolios to hedge against portfolio volatility and minimise losses during periods of market shock. It serves as a liquid asset when selling other assets would cause losses. Gold has often been used as a safeguard against inflation, because its price usually rises when the cost of living goes up. It retains its value not only in times of financial risk, but also in times of geopolitical uncertainty. To note, however, are concerns from other investment specialists who note that gold being a “fear trade” or a “safe haven investment” might no longer be an attractive investment once markets start correcting and currencies and stocks get stronger.

BLING NATIONS There are various ways different races and cultures use gold as a display of wealth and status. In the hip hop world, few videos that will get the seal of approval if it doesn’t showcase rappers with over-sized platinum chains, jewellery and the ever so fabulous ‘grillz’. Famous Lil Jon set the Guinness World record with the world’s largest pendant, which was made out of white gold and diamonds and valued at US$500k! In cultural Indian weddings the gold brought by the bride is an announcement of her family’s wealth. As well as this, gold has great religious significance, as it is the symbol of the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi and considered highly favourable.

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WHEN THE SPANIARDS FIRST CAME ACROSS GOLD THEY CLAIMED THEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;D FOUND ENOUGH TO BUILD A BRIDGE WITH IT THAT WOULD SPAN THE DISTANCE FROM PERU ACROSS THE OCEAN TO SPAIN. IN THE INCA CIVILIZATION, THEY BELIEVED THAT GOLD WAS THE SWEAT OF THE SUN GOD INTI AND SO IT WAS USED TO CONSTRUCT OBJECTS THAT HAD RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE.

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THE PRICE OF GOLD IS CLOSELY RELATED TO INTEREST RATES, AS INTEREST RATES RISE THE GENERAL TENDENCY IS FOR THE GOLD PRICE, WHICH EARNS NO INTEREST, TO FALL; AS INTEREST RATES DIP, THE PRICE OF GOLD RISES. It has become a stereotype among many South Africans to have gold dentures as a fashion statement, and a sign that they have ‘made it’ in life.

GOLD GONE CRAZY There will always be some people that take things too far. Here are a few items you would not expect to see in gold and yet…

GOLD BRAAI Valued at US$164k, this gold-plated barbecue grill stand made by Beefeater Barbecue is made up entirely of gold, save for the grilling surface.

GOLD BATHROOM Every single element found in this bathroom is made of gold. It can be found in the Hang Fung Gold Technology showroom in Hong Kong. And should you want to experience it you will have to fork out US$128.

GOLD-PLATED CARS This, it would seem, is the latest trend in the Arab countries. Many car-owners in Dubai are gold-plating their cars to give them that shine. Topping that list is the gold Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 on show in Dubai that was built on a carbon fibre base and opulently covered with nothing but solid gold.

GOLD SHIRTS In a bid to impress the ladies, Indian moneylender Datta Phuge commissioned a designer to make him a shirt made out of white velvet, 3.2-carat gold, and buttons made out of Swarovski crystals. Valued at US$22,400 we can only hope it found him love.

GOLD LEGO Tired of Lego in boring primary colours? Despair no more – for somewhere in the universe there are gold Lego bricks and mini-figures! The list also includes: • Gold tricycles • Gold vibrators • Gold ice-cream • Gold instant noodles • Gold pencils

Fast facts Gold has been referenced in ancient writings as early as 2600 BC in Egypt and Syria. The Egyptians originally started smelting gold in about 3600 BC using clay blowpipes. Gold was first used as coinage in the late 8th century BCE in Asia Minor. From about 1500 BC, gold was used for its monetary value for international trade.

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Winter wines to warm heart and hearth By Xolani Mancotywa

riends often ask me what the best wines are to pair with particular dishes and in certain climes. I say: picking out a wine should depend on three things – where you are, who you are with, and what you are eating. The food, company and moment should dictate the wine, and THAT is what will keep you warm this winter.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

“Is wine not then a seasonal thing?” some ask. “Are there specific wines best

enjoyed in summer or winter?” The answer is ‘no’. Globally, it has become acceptable to serve white wine during the colder months, just as it is becoming the norm to enjoy reds in the summer. In winter, we do, however, tend to consume heavier wines, both of the white and red varieties. The heavier wines are those that are reminiscent of the weight of full-cream milk in your mouth. The wine enters your mouth

with gusto and presence; entirely encases and romances your tongue for a few moments as nothing else matters. In these moments your mind drifts: to oven slow-braised beef in red wine infused with exotic spices and herbs. Fireplaces to keep us warm as we sit with friends over home-cooked dishes. Don’t forget to put on that jazz as the world fills with greater harmony… or maybe that’s the wine talking!

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This is the time of year when we cook robust meals from the heart, soul food with no regard for the gym or cholesterol levels as the host ensures all wine glasses are topped up. When we think of pairing food and wines, we tend to feel anxious. After all, it is in these moments we need to become our own Sommeliers or wine fundies. When you are wearing the wine fundie hat, and playing with food and wine pairings, keep it simple and balance the flavours; have the wine and food in rhythm. Your friends have been blessed with a plate of food and a glass of wine they chose from your private wine collection. (Even if it’s just three bottles of wine in the fridge or cupboard, it is still a private collection!)

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IN THESE MOMENTS YOUR MIND DRIFTS: TO OVEN SLOW-BRAISED BEEF IN RED WINE INFUSED WITH EXOTIC SPICES AND HERBS. FIREPLACES TO KEEP US WARM AS WE SIT WITH FRIENDS OVER HOMECOOKED DISHES.

we have all eaten or cooked great food, to waltz with the food; richness and and served it with a drink that we have freshness in harmony. chosen. In restaurants this is where Sommeliers come with grandeur and TIP: recommend the most expensive wines The wooded character (by wooded we refer to complement the chef’s beef short rib to the wine having spent a few months in a dish or eggplant (for the vegetarians). Do When we delve into our private barrel to mature and add complexity) gives collections, we open a bottle of wine with not get bullied into buying a wine you do us the butter and nutty flavours. Time in a not understand. the hope that it will either complement barrel gives a bit more body and dimension to white wines. our food, or rather just walk besides the The old adage of white wine with white meal as a friend. We are aiming for the restraint of the waltz and not necessarily meat, red wine with red meat, is just the risqué moves of the tango. Match the that: old. Imagine the slow-cooked beef herbs of your slow-cooked dish and think in the oven with a superb Cab Sauv; this is the safe option. Who says you My name is Xolani Mancotywa. I am a of the fresh veggies, and, of course, the Xhosa wine-lover and just keen to share succulent nature of the meat. The rule to cannot have that beef with a wooded food and wine moments with the world, stick to is simply: pick the drink that you Chardonnay – imagine the richness and depth coming from the sauce and the from a South African viewpoint. want and also the meal you want. texture of the beef as it melts in your @XolaniSomm mouth. Take a sip of Chardonnay and Gone are the days where food and wine Blog: www.cheninnoir.co.za pairings were only for the well-travelled; allow the buttery and nutty flavours

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Internet Dating The Odds Are Good But The Goods Are Odd THE INTERNET IS LIKE THE BEST FRIEND THAT YOU NEVER HAD. IT DOESN’T JUDGE YOU WHEN YOU PURCHASE A BULK ORDER OF ICE-CREAM ONLINE… AT MIDNIGHT… WHILE WATCHING A ZUMBA DVD. By Heather Clancy

onveniently, it also doesn’t judge you when in the very same instance you list your interests on an online dating site as “exercising and preparing healthy meals for friends”. The internet has no qualms about lies so long as you have the Wi-Fi to broadcast them. In addition, the internet allows you to create an almost celebrity-like persona for yourself with painstakingly curated photos and statuses. Your Facebook profile can read like a fairytale loaded with holiday photos and humble brag statuses, while your Twitter feed can give the impression that you are a business dynamo on the speed-dial of every Fortune 500 CEO. It is entirely up to you what you share and most people prefer to present themselves in the best light, even if that means stretching the truth further than they can stretch their skinny jeans. And therein lies the double-edged wonder of online dating. You can paint yourself in the best light, complete with flattering Instagram filters (i.e. lie) and you can find that ever-elusive Michael Ealy lookalike all while in your pyjamas. The problems arise when you don’t think that everyone else will do exactly the same and “stretch the truth” all in the name of love. So when you do finally meet your “perfect” online man or woman you are shocked to discover that they actually look like an extra straight out of Lord of The Rings. However, horror stories aside, recent studies have suggested that couples who meet online are more likely to end up happily married compared to those who meet in a more conventional way.

HORROR STORIES ASIDE, RECENT STUDIES HAVE SUGGESTED THAT COUPLES WHO MEET ONLINE ARE MORE LIKELY TO END UP HAPPILY MARRIED

right? Online dating means that you no longer have to trawl trendy bars and cute cafes for your type; instead you can conveniently trawl dating sites for profiles that feature keywords such as: “CEO” and “former lingerie model”. Even better, niche-dating sites allow users to seek out their exact preferences, from religious-based sites such as the Muslim only, Muslimdating.co.za to the more quirky “cougar friendly” sites such as Sugarmummies.co.za. This means that you might be a lonely and loaded Muslim cougar in a small town, but with the help of online dating you’re transformed into “HotMama56” with several suitors from across the country.

The saying the “odds are good but the goods are odd” seems to ring true when it comes to online dating. Most online daters are aware of the risks, but reason “why not?” when seeking romance online. The overwhelming popularity of online dating is obvious; fill in a few details, tick a few boxes and provide your all important credit card details and you are promised to find your soul mate faster than you can update your Relationship Status to “married”. You can find anything online, why not the love of your life?

Online dating puts the user in the driving seat and this proactive approach can be empowering and enlightening. Listing your exact desires and filtering out all of the rest tells you as much about yourself as it does about who you’d like to cosy up with. It also means that you don’t have to settle for Mister he’s-okay or Miss my-mother-likes-her, because online dating sites present potentially millions of people looking for love just like you. However, it can also mean that in the pursuit of perfection (tall, dark, handsome and rich) you are likely to miss the person who could make you very happy despite their less-than-perfect appearance or unlikely interests. That’s the thing about love; the very things that you often believe to be off-putting or “not for you” might be the very quirks that drive you wild when chemistry and serendipity collide. Applying a checklist for the person that you want to wake up next to every morning might be fun and even useful, but ultimately there

INTERNET DATING HAS ITS PROS AND CONS Online dating seems to be a good idea for many reasons. Firstly, it is convenient and easy; the once heartbreaking and treacherous search for the love of your life is magically outsourced, usually for a fee. But what’s money without love,

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will always be a mysterious element of love, the “we just click” feeling that often cannot be found with a click of a mouse. But then again, online dating also means that you can cut your losses without cutting your precious ego. No longer do you have to endure torturous dates with people who match the description “nice from far but far from nice”. Instead you can view a profile, perhaps engage in a bit of banter and then decide whether you’re willing to get a new hot-date-worthy outfit. And if a hot date is your only requirement, dating sites such as Beautifulpeople.com should be bookmarked on your laptop. The creators of the site don’t endorse the age old fib that all that matters when it comes to finding your sweetheart is a sense of humour and a great personality... Rather, members have to earn their entry before they can even send a smiley emoticon by being voted “beautiful enough” to find love on the site. This is problematic for many reasons but truthfully it is reflective of the superficial society that we live in. Another problematic aspect of online

ONLINE DATING PUTS THE USER IN THE DRIVING SEAT AND THIS PROACTIVE APPROACH CAN BE EMPOWERING AND ENLIGHTENING dating is that it works on the underlying and misleading premise that if you have the right profile and the right checklist you will find your perfect match. Yes of course, the possibility exists; however, finding love is as much about striving to be the perfect partner as finding the perfect partner. Like most things, with dating, whether it’s online or in the real world, it only works if you do. It is unrealistic to expect the perfect partner when even the perfect person doesn’t exist. But growing up on a steady diet of Hollywood-manufactured romance it is

easy to overlook the fact that the person to make you very happy might actually have love-handles and earn a salary best described as “pocket money”. Life is short and the way to get the most bang for your buck, so to speak, is to share it with someone you love. Extramarital dating site, Ashleymadison. com agrees that life is short, so much so that its slogan is “Life is short. Have an affair”. The clandestine site allows users to seek out a little something on the side all the while offering the supposed justification that basically you’re going to die anyway. Their “carpe diem” logic seems to be popular as the site boasts 21 million members worldwide with South Africa being the only African country represented on the site. So here’s the bad news, you’re probably not going to find the perfect partner online. In fact, you’re probably not going to find them anywhere. But, perfect doesn’t mean happy and online dating might make it easier to find the person that will make you very happy even though they’re a bit short and hate long walks on the beach.

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Pamela Samasuwo – Nyawiri

Designer Extraordinaire FOUNDER OF THE BRAND VANHU VAMWE (ONE PEOPLE), PAMELA SAMASUWO IS BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER THROUGH THEIR COLLECTIVE LOVE OF FASHION, ART AND MUSIC REGARDLESS OF RACE OR CULTURAL DIFFERENCES.

Can you share some of your background with us? I am originally from Zimbabwe and now live between the United Kingdom and Canada. I grew up in a household where my mother and grandmother collected these bizarre objects and fabrics. Our outside buildings were like a junkyard! Looking back, I see that my creativity was born in the midst of these “mystical, magical narratives".

How did you get into designing accessories? I studied journalism back in the 90s. Writing has always been a big passion of mine, and while I wrote well, I really had a craving to do something creatively hands-on. At this stage I had a makeshift studio in my house, where I made earrings and knitted some really awesome scarves. A few years ago while working for the BBC, two fashion students came into the studio for an interview and at that point I had a ‘light bulb’ moment. Two months later I enrolled for a degree in fashion accessories – coincidently it was a new degree that had just been introduced. I could have happily continued making accessories in my studio and looking up YouTube videos for the ‘how-tos’, but

reference my African heritage. I have recently gone and stuck my fingers into a pie called ‘dresses’, which introduces the question: “What is an accessory?” I am rebelling against the concept of what a fashion accessory should look like, and creating the idea that a dress can be categorised as an accessory.

Pamela Samasuwo - Nyawiri

credibility is very important to me. Age has put me on the trajectory towards self-confidence. One has to have passion, it does not matter what passion you have. I was taught that I either do something all the way, or not do it at all. This led to my brand Vanhu Vamwe was born in 2012.

What accessories are in your range? My range is mostly leather handbags. You will find that it is not your typical handbag, and one has to understand the story behind it first. While I use leather, I use it responsibly. Some of the materials I use for my bespoke collection have been found in abandoned skips and redefined into clean, contemporary pieces which have great energy and

Where do you get your inspiration? I have no interest in fashion as a means to fall in line with the latest trends. The goal of my conceptions is to engage in a way that incites questions, and perhaps cultivate a communal discussion about fashion. I always say I sell dreams and storytelling, not handbags. I look to the globe for my inspiration, and take on research on colonialism, primitive cultures, wars and a variety of concepts. My last collection was inspired by sleep paralysis, a condition I suffered from for a long time. I wanted to reflect something positive from a nightmare that had terrified the hell out of me.

If you could, how would you define your style? Style is innate and unconscious. As a teenager my mother was a bad-ass who wore leather pants and owned

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Sleep Paralysis Range

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THE WESTERN WORLD, WHILE USING AFRICA AS INSPIRATION, HAS NO UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURE OR AESTHETICS WHICH THEY REFERENCE.

a motorbike. On the other hand my grandmother was a nurse and was very clinical in her ways. I am really a cross between bad-ass and clinical in my style. I have this ferocious appetite for craftsmanship and articulation of classic, contemporary, avant garde minimalistic luxury (a mouthful). My specialty is leather luxury goods, which is really broad, however my collections explore the recurring theme of the contrast between masculine and feminine.

You were recently nominated for the "Vogue and Muuse Talents Young Vision Accessories Award for The Best Emerging International Fashion Accessories Designer". What does this mean to you?

Sleep Paralysis Range

Oh, wow. I still pinch myself. It was a dream come true; not only did I receive the nomination, but I was the first African designer to receive the nomination ever. Firstly, this was a big stride for me as an individual; many designers would kill for the association with Vogue as it houses the most powerful people in fashion. That aside, it was a revelation that what I had set out to do those few years ago in terms of African designers being recognised on an international platform, was coming to fruition. I am a serious advocate for African fashion. I believe that in the very near future, many of us will be flooding the global fashion industry.

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The opportunities that have come as a result of the nomination, even though I did not eventually get the overall award, are mind-blowing. I feel that I did not need to fetch the award, but needed the platform to make a representation of what I am fighting for.

Can you tell us a bit about 54faces, and how it started? 54faces is a project that is so close to my heart, which has been moving on progressively for the last 18 months. Last year, whilst giving a talk on the Crushing Capitalism of African Fashion Weeks, I was approached by Nottingham Trent University, who thought my presentation was very powerful and it would be a shame to just write about it and not pursue it. Having carried out some research I found that a transparent structure was much needed for the African fashion industry. 54faces launches a couple of months later.

What is the vision for the organisation? 54faces will be the first creative resources platform providing essential tools for African designers by showcasing Africa as a source of inspiration in the design process. We aim to follow an international structure that will place African fashion in a balanced process, and begin to compete on the same level as the rest of the world.

What are the challenges of being an African designer abroad? There are so many challenges. Being an African itself creates boundaries. In this day and age there are still some shocking misconceptions of Africa. The Western world, while using Africa as inspiration, has no understanding of the culture or aesthetics which they reference. However, when an African who understands it uses African inspiration, it becomes primitive or too tribal. The issue of quality control and mass production is not only an African dilemma; it exists in the Western world too. Another issue is many designers lack funds to start off good quality collections, leaving them no choice but to hire back street manufacturers. This has been seen on some platforms at African fashion weeks, where clothing is literally falling apart. As a result world media, buyers and big fashion players

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automatically dismiss the potential of African designers at home and abroad.

What advice would you give young African designers looking to make their mark in the industry? Fashion is a brutal industry. You have to live to create in honest abandon. Everything I do serves as a beacon to inspire others and illuminate new ideas. I do this by following the natural flow of creativity and bringing together those who share my vision. My advice would be to create strong personal relationships with everyone you work with. Attend fashion events, network and meet people to enable you to get on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s radars. As a designer, listening to your ideas being questioned and your hard work being ripped apart is not pleasant but constructive criticism of your design work is the most effective way to grow. You can actually be anything you want to be.

Where are your pieces retailing at the moment? For the last few years, my work has been commissioned for art galleries and high fashion magazines. However since the Vogue nomination, the demand for my work has been higher. I am currently working on my first commercial collection which is due at the beginning of October 2014. I am also in negotiations with some very exciting retailers in New York, Toronto, London and New Zealand. I am looking to bring a limited edition collection to Africa. I am hoping this comes through, as it would be a shame to sell everywhere else in the world except my motherland.

Can international customers order your accessories online? Yes, we are revamping the whole website (www.vanhuvamwe.com), which will showcase a limited collection of handbags and beautiful dresses. This is also launching in October 2014. Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri was always inspired by fashion and consequently went back to university to study fashion accessory design. She is a woman with many feathers to her cap: designer, journalist, stylist, columnist, author, philanthropist and fashion activist. Her passion and creativity only seem to be matched by insatiable curiosity.

Sleep Paralysis Range

Photographers: Lenny Lawes & Davota Stumpf Models: Model Management Sccessories: Pam Stylist: Jenni Elliot

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The Royal Portfolio

Fulfilling a longing for Luxury

Royal Malewane Luxury Safari Lodge

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ITS ALMOST HALFWAY THROUGH 2014 AND MOST OF US ALREADY NEED A BREAK AWAY FROM THE MAYHEM OF THE DAILY GRIND. IF YOU AREN’T TOO SURE WHETHER TO ESCAPE TO THE BUSH OR RETREAT TO A BEACH HAVEN, THE ROYAL PORTFOLIO HAS OPTIONS THAT WILL BLOW YOU AWAY WITH THEIR BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS AND LUXURIOUS OFFERINGS. BEACH, BUSH OR WINE LANDS… THIS WILL MAKE IT HARD TO CHOOSE! By Dominique Wolf ROYAL MALEWANE LUXURY SAFARI LODGE - GREATER KRUGER PARK If the bush is your favourite place to unwind and detox the senses, this exclusive African safari getaway offers private and personalised service and the best game viewing in Africa. The glorious unspoilt bush setting stirs the senses and touches the heart and combines the joys of nature with a warm and welcoming atmosphere for an effortlessly relaxing time. Far from the madding crowd, this gem is situated on a private reserve within the Greater Kruger Park and hosts only 20 guests in superb luxury and style. At the Royal Malewane lodge, the exuberant spirit of Africa is enchanting and energising. The complete seclusion and unbelievable views from this lodge create a feeling of old-world charm and splendour, whilst every modern-day whim is generously catered for.

and a great challenge for avid golfers. Not too far off, the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate offers horse-riding safaris, which show a totally different perspective of the game plains from the saddle.

IF GROUND TRAVEL IS NOT YOUR THING, THERE ARE HELICOPTER FLIGHTS, WHICH OFFER THRILLING VIEWS OF CANYONS, WATERFALLS AND ROCK FORMATIONS.

With two daily game drives, the guides and trackers from the lodge offer a detailed insight into the fascinating ecosystem of the bush, whilst bringing you exhilaratingly close to the Big Five. If ground travel is not your thing, there are helicopter flights, which offer thrilling views of canyons, waterfalls and rock formations. And if you are after a more unique and unconventional way of seeing the bush, there are hot air balloon flights on which you can watch the spectacular sunrises and survey the African wilderness from the sky. If a bit of a trip on water takes your fancy there is always the Canyon Cruise and picnic lunch on the Blyde Dam.

For those wishing to indulge in the peace and serenity of the bush and restore their bodies and minds, The Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa is an oasis of calm. The lavish massages and body treatments given by internationally qualified therapists use indigenous ingredients and mineral rich water which is sourced from the underground stream running through the reserve. The signature treatments and African Rituals, which are unique and unashamedly indulgent, are the epitome of luxurious pampering. The comprehensive facilities of the spa include a sparkling heated lap pool, steam room, jacuzzi, hot and cold African baths and a pool where you can sap up the sheer tranquility of the location.

Further afield, amidst bush dwellers such as giraffe and impala and bordering the Crocodile River, you can enjoy a Ambient Bush Dining round or two of golf on the exclusive The dining experience is one of the Leopard Creek Championship Golf highlights of the Royal Malewane Game Estate. This course is expertly designed

Images courtesy of The Royal Portfolio

What to do there

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Lodge. Some spectacular mealtime game viewing can be seen from the dining area overlooking the waterhole. The incredible atmosphere of the bush at night can be experienced in the Boma. Whilst you are serenaded by crickets and frogs and entertained with traditional singing and dancing, you will enjoy an exceptional flame-grilled fare under the endless canopy of stars. For an equally special and dazzling experience, there is also an option of dinner in the Bedouin tent lit by Moroccan lanterns and overflowing with an exotic feast of flavours. Handpicked South African wines are selected to compliment each meal. Naturally, the lodge also offers sophisticated indoor banquet dining beside a glittering fireplace and personalised service is of the highest order - leaving you wanting for nothing!

Royal Malewane Luxury Safari Lodge

Best time to visit The time is now! The winter months (May, June, and July) are a great time for good game viewing as the bush is quieter, drier and more open. With temperatures being more moderate, you are more likely to be able to go off road for close-up viewing and there are no insects to bother you! What are you waiting for?

FOR RESERVATIONS AND FURTHER INFORMATION ROYAL MALEWANE Tel: +27 (0) 15 793 0150 Email: info@royalmalewane.com Africa House at Royal Malewane Luxury Safari Lodge

BIRKENHEAD HOUSE - HERMANUS If you prefer beach to bush and are looking for an exhilarating seaside experience, look no further than Birkenhead House in Hermanus. From its cliff-top position overlooking the whale-watching paradise of Walker Bay, this luxurious beach hotel is the epitome modern, stylish and laid-back. With its enviable location atop the rugged cliffs of the Cape Coast, Birkenhead House boasts dazzling ocean views and easy access to the beach. Its contemporary feel and quirky opulence ensure a relaxed and easy going atmosphere where you can indulge in breakfast at noon, take tea on your balcony and then watch the ocean at dusk over a cocktail. Birkenhead House, Hermanus

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Birkenhead House, which is located along this wild, rugged and beautiful Cape coastline, is stylish and charming and has an amazingly relaxed atmosphere which makes you feel instantly at home. The suites are designed with a mood of humour and fun whilst the white walls and contemporary artworks exude serious modern chic. The chilled ambience of this hotel is instantly felt on arriving there.

What to do there Hermanus is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best location for land-based whale watching and from May to December the Southern Right Whale graces this area with its magnificent presence. In August, the height of the birthing season, calves as young as a couple of hours old and their mothers can be seen from the wonderful vantage points at Birkenhead House. Aside from whale-watching, a myriad of activities is possible on both land and sea in Hermanus. It is a town world renowned for its wild beauty, artisanal food producers and its very own wine route. Its quaint boutiques, markets and galleries as well as its pure air and sheer tranquility are a captivating combination providing the backdrop of an unbelievable holiday. There is the option of amazing mountain trails and walks, indigenous birdlife to study and deep sea fishing adventures. The beaches are clean, safe and easily accessible with an irresistible beach vibe and there are pathways and scenic trails along the world-renowned cliff path providing spectacular views of the ocean and the coastline.

Birkenhead House Room

Birkenhead House, Hermanus

To round off a leisurely day or just to enjoy the surroundings whilst indulging your senses, Birkenhead House Spa offers a medley of massage, aromatherapy and reflexology treatments.

Fusion beach dining At Birkenhead House, world-class cuisine is a matter of course. The fusion of modern African Cuisine, Cape seafood and French techniques with Asian and Italian influences, make for sensational and exotic creations. The meals, designed to delight guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; individual palates, can be enjoyed overlooking the ocean, next to the pool,

in the glass fronted dining area or in the privacy of your suite.

Best time to visit From December to February, which is peak summer season, Hermanus is very popular with warm sunny days with regular afternoon breezes. During the months of June, July and August, you can expect frequent rains and chilly evenings.

FOR RESERVATIONS AND FURTHER INFORMATION BIRKENHEAD HOUSE AND VILLA Tel: +27 (0) 28 314 8000 Email: info@birkenheadhouse.com

Birkenhead House Bathroom

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Bathroom, La Residence - Franschhoek

LA RESIDENCE - FRANSCHHOEK

Images courtesy of The Royal Portfolio

Within the category of luxury hotels in the Cape winelands, La Residence is in a class of its own! It is located on a private estate in the heart of the beautiful Franshhoek valley and is surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards and shrouded by stunning mountains. If you are looking for opulence, grandeur, elegance and refinement, this is the ultimate in sophistication. With enchanting mountain views in every direction, the uninterrupted peace and tranquility of La Residence offers unparalleled luxury. The eleven suites are all individually and lavishly furnished with charming antiques, Persian rugs and a wonderfully eclectic mix of objects d’art. Grand but welcoming, visually stunning yet

WHEN THE TEMPERATURE DROPS, THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN TO SIT CURLED UP IN THE LIBRARY WITH A GOOD BOOK IN FRONT OF AN OPEN FIRE AMIDST THE COLLECTION OF FINE PAINTINGS, SIPPING DELICIOUS RED WINE.

supremely comfortable, this gorgeous hotel has a relaxed and informal atmosphere where there is time to stop and gaze at and relish the very special surroundings. Franschhoek is known as ‘The Food and Wine capital of South Africa’ for a very good reason. Despite its tiny size, it boasts an incredible range of cafès, bistros and restaurants which offer a kaleidoscope of exciting flavours in a variety of settings. The wine tasting in this area offers a unique experience for wine lovers. The Franschhoek Valley has a 300-year old wine making history and the quaint architecture and beautiful vineyards of the old family-owned wine farms are definitely worth a visit. Many of the wine estates also offer museums, gardens, farm shops and restaurants

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as well as cellar tours. You can explore boutique wineries or experience a private tasting with an expert - with or without food pairings. From pink champagne to red dessert wine, pinotage or grappa, Franschhoek has it all!

What to do there La Residence offers a whole host of activities for a varied stay. There is a magnificent infinity pool and reclining sun-loungers under umbrellas for hot summer days or the chance to unwind with a massage in the spa treatment room. If you are feeling a little more energetic, there is an option to stroll or cycle around the estate and soak up the beauty of the olive trees, vines and roses and the vast Franschhoek valley beyond. When the temperature drops, there is nothing better than to sit curled up in the library with a good book in front of an open fire amidst the collection of fine paintings, sipping delicious red wine. You can also play golf, go trout fishing or quad biking, paragliding, hot-air ballooning or take horseback tour of the surrounding wine farms. A more sedate excursion is the horse-drawn carriage ride through the local village or perhaps a ride on the Franschhoek Wine Tram.

Wining and Dining Dining at La Residence restaurant is always a leisurely experience. It is reminiscent of a manor hall with dazzling chandeliers, black and white flooring and vast fireplaces. Outside, the

La Residence - Franschhoek

Persian Alley offers a delightful setting for alfresco summer meals. The chef prides himself on using the best local ingredients and produce picked from La Residence’s own kitchen garden. For something a little different, you can indulge in your own personalised cooking demonstration at the Chef’s Table. At this beautiful marble table in the restaurant dining hall, the chef will prepare your dinner, course by course, with full opportunity for interaction. This is a lovely experience for anyone remotely keen on cooking. The Franschhoek area is rich in producers of the finest artisanal products. Handcrafted cheeses such as smooth, straw-coloured Angelot and

delicious, cumin-spiced Boerenkaas are served with home-made preserves and breads after dinner. Local berries and fragrant fynbos honey are also familiar faces on the dessert menu. Excellent South African wines compliment all menus in La Residence’s restaurant.

FOR RESERVATIONS AND FURTHER INFORMATION LA RESIDENCE AND VILLAS Tel: +27 (0) 21 876 4100 Email: info@laresidence.co.za For The Royal Portfolio Central reservations office: Tel: +27 (15) 793 3977 Email: reservations@theroyalportfolio.com

La Residence Franschhoek

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ON NOVEMBER 4TH 2008, SENATOR BARACK OBAMA BECAME THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN TO BE ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. HIS HISTORIC VICTORY WAS THE CULMINATION OF ONE THE MOST THRILLING ELECTION CAMPAIGNS IN MODERN HISTORY.

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Election Campaign H

Barack Obama

is campaign made politics appealing and accessible to most and people all over the world had taken a keen interest and were gripped by election fever. Obama’s election campaign was a unique one and the interest it stirred was partly because of his willingness to embrace and utilize technology to reach young people. While other campaigns made use of the Internet and technology, few used Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and other social platforms so extensively. The website barackobama.com, launched and coordinated by Chris Hughes – one of the original founding members of Facebook, was used by individuals to organize their communities on behalf of Obama, fundraise and create volunteer groups. Obama’s legendary “Yes We Can” speeches struck a chord with voters who had endured the Bush administration, the war in Afghanistan, a global financial crisis and were in desperate need of fresh hope. Obama’s campaign ignited something in Americans and people all over the world, especially in Africa. African election campaigns are far less glamorous affairs and often fail to rouse national, much less international, interest. Perhaps it is because the concept of true democracy, political tolerance and multi-party states is less of a reality in many African nations and as such elections feel to most like an exercise in futility. Over the years however, a number of elections (and the campaigns leading to them) have attracted attention and captured our imaginations – each one for different reasons.

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the presidency: to empower women and inspire them to run for office. “The Iron-Lady” as her supporters affectionately call her, is currently serving her second term as President and slowly Liberia is rebuilding itself.

ZIMBABWE: ROBERT MUGABE AFRICA’S OLDEST AND THIRD LONGEST SERVING ELECTED HEAD OF STATE.

LIBERIA: ELLEN JOHNSONSIRLEAF

This “sensitivity and emotion” though did not mean she was a soft on issues. Even before she was elected president, AFRICA’S FIRST ELECTED FEMALE Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and several HEAD OF STATE. female lawyers had set out to address Liberia was founded by former American the issue of rape and the prescribed sentences and they were taking on the slaves and was Africa’s first republic. legislature of Liberia. Johnson-Sirleaf The country’s past is one of military had never been afraid to take anyone coups, presidential assassinations on and voice her criticisms. She was and a bloody civil war, which saw imprisoned for publicly criticizing the young children being turned into Doe administration and twice had to flee drug, addicted soldiers who raped and murdered on command. The war ended her country and go into exile as her life was threatened. in 1997 and Charles Taylor was elected Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s 2005 President in July of that year. His greed presidential campaign appealed mostly and mismanagement resulted in fresh to women and gender sensitive men rebellion and in August 2003 he agreed (one man was quoted as saying only a to step down and he went into exile in Nigeria. Taylor siphoned Liberia’s funds man could be strong enough to deal with Liberia’s problems) and women into his personal coffers (an estimated turned out in droves to vote. This was US$100million), bankrupted Liberia part of her desire in daring to run for and left it the world’s poorest nation. In 2003, the various rebel groups agreed to appoint businessman Gyude Bryant to the position of Chairman of the National Transitional Government and he ruled until democratic elections could be held. In 2005, Liberians were finally given the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote. Ellen JohnsonSirleaf, who was contesting elections for the 3rd time – she ran for Vice President in 1985 and ran against Charles Taylor in 1997 - put herself forward once again. In her campaign, Johnson-Sirleaf who was a mother and grandmother said she wanted to become President “to bring a motherly sensitivity and emotion to the presidency” in order to heal a nation which had endured so much brutality and pain.

Robert Mugabe

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

Robert Mugabe came to power in April 1980 after the Rhodesian Bush War which started in 1964 and ended in 1979. Mugabe and his previously banned ZANU party won the first democratic elections resoundingly: they were, after all, the party, which had fought for Zimbabwe’s independence and attained majority rule. Mugabe’s first term sought to reassure Zimbabweans, black and white, that the country belonged to them all and they should work together to build it. In the 1985 elections, ZANU and Robert Mugabe increased their majority and Zimbabwe continued to enjoy prosperity and Mugabe was the darling of the world. ZANU united with their main political rival ZAPU, which had contested previous elections as Patriotic Front, led by Joshua Nkomo and became ZANU PF in 1987. In this way Robert Mugabe had shut down the competition and Zimbabwe essentially became a one party state. Up until the Parliamentary elections of 2000, Zanu PF faced no real opposition. The emergence and popularity of MDC woke Mugabe and ZANU PF up to the realisation that their position was not secure and they needed to do something other than hold rallies and make a few promises around election time to secure votes. The 2000 election campaign focused on the land issue (very near and dear to the hearts of Zimbabweans who

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were historically forced off their land) and ZANU PF used this to regain its popularity. The campaign was successful, but only marginally so as MDC secured 57 of the 120 seats in Parliament. (ZANU PF had previously held 117 seats) This seeming return to multi-partyism upped the ante in Zimbabwe’s subsequent election campaigns. Listening to the campaign speeches of ZANU PF, it would appear their campaign strategy is about gathering people in large stadiums and giving them three hour lectures on the imminent threat of a return to colonialism should MDC ever come to power and then handing out food parcels. Little in the campaign speeches actually pertain to the party’s plans to resolve Zimbabwe’s massive issues or an plans for Zimbabwe’s future.

KENYA: 2007 AND 2013 ELECTIONS

THE JOURNEY FROM VIOLENCE AND DISPUTE TO RESTORED FAITH Kenya’s 2007 elections, which resulted in violence and left more than a thousand people dead in just over a month, seem to have paved the way for a more mature style of campaigning and handling election outcomes in the East African country. In 2007, 10 candidates contested the election, but the main rivalry was between Mwai Kibaki and Raila Odinga. Odinga had been leading in opinion polls, however when the results were released, Mwai Kibaki was declared the winner. Odinga disputed this result and within hours tribebased riots and violent attacks against Kikuyus had broken out across Kenya. This violence left more than a thousand people dead in a month. On February 28th 2008 Odinga and Kibaki eventually arrived at an agreement and signed the National Accord and Reconciliation Act in which they agreed to form a coalition government and Odinga became Prime Minister of this government. In the 2013 election campaign, all the contestants (one of whom was Raila Odinga) were at pains to address issues of ethnicity and tribalism. While the politicians had previously accused one another of using ethnicity for political purposes, two of the main contestants Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga both denied running ethnic campaigns and a quotation from Kenyatta read “Tribalism is a cancer that has afflicted this country for a very long time. I personally believe that this problem is largely… as a result of a battle for resources”. Odinga in his turn described it as “a disease of the elite”.

As part of the election campaign, the candidates also agreed to accept the outcome of the election and concede defeat should they not be winners. In televised debates the candidates addressed issues of the economy, infrastructure development, unemployment and improved social services. Uhuru Kenyatta won and the loser graciously accepted the outcome of the campaign and Kenyan’s faith democracy was restored.

desired result. This is the first phase of the ANC’s campaign and seeks to ensure that those who would vote for the ANC re-registered. The next phases of the ANC’s campaign are about consolidating support and big rallies are organized where various ANC officials downplay their failures, dispute allegations of poor performance in service delivery, laud their successes (however modest), criticise the opposition and make fresh promises to voters. Jacob Zuma, as the party’s presidential candidate seems to SOUTH AFRICA: 2014 have a unique ability to connect with his constituents and he has been shown at Since 1994 when the first democratic various ANC campaign events dancing elections were held, the ANC has won and singing and having a good time on every subsequent election. There is the campaign trail. much speculation that this election will The ANC’s strategy of continuing to be the first in which the ANC does not appeal to voters based on the illustrious win by a landslide. This speculation past and great former leaders of the may be based on all the issues the ANC party is wearing thin as voters grow has faced over the last few years, not more disillusioned with the lack of to mention new opposition parties delivery on election promises, the emerging. However, the ANC has the rampant corruption and arrogant financial edge over the other parties in leaders. Zuma, as the party’s presidential campaigning and can thus reach more candidate, has been booed at various voters, afford more volunteers, print more t-shirts (who doesn’t love a freebie), public events and the campaign trail put up more posters and hand out more he has been no different inspite of his handing cash to voters from his own food parcels. pocket. In this 2014 campaign the ANC has This election has also featured Town been travelling from village to village, mobilizing volunteers to carry the ANC’s Hall type debates and round table discussions focusing on various issues, campaign message into communities and encourage people to register to vote. like the economy, unemployment and other issues. As in the famed US They not only have foot soldiers going election of 2008, SA politicians have into the communities, but also host used the various social platforms in this events in communities to encourage campaign, but according to researchers voter registration. The ANC has been and commentators, they have used the criticized for the “parties” they host under the guise of an election campaign, platforms to slam one another and not so much to engage with voters. but these events seem to achieve the

Uhuru Kenyatta

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Our love affair with

Crabtree & Evelyn EVERY WOMAN HAS TO HAVE THAT ONE THING THAT SHE INDULGES IN - THAT ONE, RECURRING, PURCHASE THAT IS ABOUT HER AND HER ALONE. FOR US AT THE AFROPOLITAN, CRABTREE & EVELYN IS THAT BRAND. WE ADORE EVERYTHING THEY PUT ON THEIR SHELF AND WOULD HAPPILY OBTAIN A SECOND MORTGAGE TO BUY IT ALL. ENGLISH HONEY AND PEACH BLOSSOM Lip Salve The Crabtree and Evelyn Lip Salve has been specially formulated with conditioning wild flower honey extract and ultra-moisturising olive fruit oil, sunflower seed oil, beeswax and shea butter. All this combined ensures your lips get lasting moisture and a lovely sweet natural flavor! If your lips need some restoration, slide it on for pout-worthy lips!

ENGLISH HONEY AND PEACH BLOSSOM Hand Therapy With winter on its way, our skin is going to need some extra care. This is where the Crabtree & Evelyn English Honey and Peach Blossom Ultra-moisturising Hand Therapy steps up to the plate. Infused with shea butter, macadamia nut oil, and peach blossom extract, this intensive cream nourishes skin so it’s noticeably smoother after each luxurious use.

CRÈME DE MENTHE Lip Butter There is nothing like the fresh minty flavour of Crème De Menthe Lip Butter to refresh your lips. You’ll keep cool and conditioned with this luxurious lip butter that’s packed with four nourishing butters and two botanical oils. This beauty secret weapon serves up a lustrous shine and a fresh minty tang.

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POMEGRANATE, ARGAN & GRAPESEED Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy Crabtree & Evelyn’s award-winning UltraMoisturising Hand Therapy not only takes care of your hands and skin with its infusion of macadamia nut oil, shea butter and oils of pomegranate, grapeseed and argan - this intensive cream contains Myrrh extract which also helps condition nails and cuticles.

SOMERSET MEADOW Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy Somerset Meadow Hand Therapy locks in moisture to keep your hands soft and nourished. Infused with shea butter, macadamia nut oil and a fresh green fruityfloral scent, this intensive cream nourishes skin where it’s needed most – on our hardworking hands.

NAIL POLISHES

LA SOURCE Ultra Moisturising Hand Therapy

Now that your hands are feeling pampered and looking divine, nothing finishes off the look like perfectly manicured nails. The new ranges of nail polishes from Crabtree & Evelyn are smooth, gorgeous and glossy! They are also fast-drying and come in a variety of colours – what more could a girl ask for? At just R160 a bottle from their online store, the Crabtree & Evelyn nail polishes are the perfect way to polish off your hand pampering.

We saved our favourite for last. La Source is the most luxurious hand therapy offered by Crabtree & Evelyn. Not only does it smell of the sea, but its elements of macadamia nut oil, shea butter, seaweed and algae extracts also treat your hands with such intensity you will notice the difference from the very first time you use it, and every time thereafter.

You can purchase Crabtree & Evelyn products at their official online store: www.crabtree-evelyn.co.za.

PHILIPS HAIR CLIPPER SERIES 5000 Hair Clipper with DualCut Technology With advanced titanium blades for superior cutting performance and long lasting sharpness, the Philips Hair Clipper Series 5000 is a must have for any man who wants to look good with no mess and no fuss. Not only is it easy to clean (you pop the head open and use the cleaning brush to sweep away the loose hairs) it follows every curve and contour of your head for a very comfortable, even and fast cut. Catering for all hair types, the Phillips Turbo with its dual cut technology ensures you step out well groomed every time.

Specs

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24 length settings • 90 mins cordless use/1hour charge • Adjustable beard comb and case • Titanuim Blades • No oil needed • 5 year worldwide guarantee

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Dream

CITIES THAT By Helen Seimenis

Images courtesy of Atelier Hapsitius Architects

PAINTER. SCULPTOR. ACHITECT. LEBANESE ARTIST NADIM KARAM IS ONE OF THE MOST INVENTIVE STORYTELLERS THE WORLD HAS EVER SEEN â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BRINGING URBAN SPACES TO LIFE WITH HIS FASCINATING CREATIONS.

Prague, Czech Republic

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orn in 1957 in Senegal, Nadim Karam now lives and works in Beirut. Nadim Karam’s multidisciplinary approach incorporates painting, drawing, sculpture and writing, but he is renowned for his work in urban regeneration. In 1996, he established Atelier Hapsitus, creating large-scale urban art projects for cities throughout the world.

You were born in Senegal, grew up in Beirut and left during the civil war – how did the change of countries and the civil war affect you growing up and influence on your career? I was very young when I left Senegal, but I have returned to Africa several times as I find the landscapes and creativity in craftwork inspiring. War became a part of my life as a teenager in Beirut, and I think it has never really left me, it is always nearby. I think that my feelings about war in Lebanon have been responsible for many of my works and exhibitions and my concept of multi-pluralism. There is a difference within society as a source of enrichment rather than a source of conflict, which manifests itself in the hundreds of forms I use as a visual alphabet.

CITY LIFE CAN BE STIFLING; THE TENSION OF TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATION NETWORKS, THE DENSIFICATION AND STANDARDISATION OF SPACE, TIME AND EXPERIENCE LEAVES LITTLE ROOM FOR DREAMING

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Beirut Project

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We know you have extensive professional training, with a Bachelor of Architecture from the American University of Beirut, and a PhD in architecture from Tokyo University, how has this contributed to where you are today? The Eastern philosophy of space, which I encountered in Japan, has influenced much of what I do. I would not be able to create my urban sculptures and projects without the specialised knowledge that my architectural and engineering background has given me. The study of space and light has also given me my perception of cities as living, breathing organisms that we animate with our own energy.

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THE CLOUD IS A PUBLIC DREAM SPACE; A HORIZONTAL LANDSCAPE ELEVATED 300M ABOVE GROUND, SUPPORTED BY A CLUSTER OF SLENDER SLANTING STILTS. IT EMBODIES THE ESSENCE OF DUBAI, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME PROVIDING A SOCIAL AND VISUAL CONTRAST TO THE SUM OF EXCLUSIVE SKYSCRAPERS SPREADING OVER THE CITY.

You are best known for the public sculptures and installations that you have created for various cities around the world, what was your motivation for these largescale creations? City life can be stifling; the tension of transportation and communication networks, the densification and standardisation of space, time and experience leaves little room for dreaming – something which is reflected in the physical environment. With the sculptures I call ‘urban toys’, I try to bring some anarchy into the rigid normative systems imposed on society by introducing lapses of fantasy and rebellion. These take the form of narratives from my own universe, which build upon the stories from the city’s memory.

You talk about creating art to help cities dream. Tell us a little bit more about this. Bombs used to rain upon my city when I was a child, and I fantasised about turning them into ‘dream bombs’. As an adult, these dream bombs concretised into large-scale urban art projects for cities. After September 11 and the wave of attacks in European cities, I published a manifesto called “Can Cities Dream?” in which I wrote that we should produce dream bombs while the world is threatened with terrorist bombs. Dream bombs are planned for years in advance, probably requiring as much energy, financial backing, organisation and know-how as the terrorist kind. The Cloud of Dubai

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F E A T U R E They might fail to happen, but when they do, their vitality permeates the city. Cities need to dream – they were built up slowly on thousands of small dreams and in a world full of wonder and danger, cities should still dream.

You’re an architect, sculptor, painter and an urban artist, but what are you most passionate about? They are all means of creation for me. The difference is mainly that the sculptures and paintings I create on my own terms, how and when I wish, while public art and architecture are projects requiring management, team-work, important budgets and negotiations with different individuals and groups. I enjoy working most at the nexus of art and architecture; engaging with a city’s history, cultural identity and collective memory and introducing the new and unexpected within it.

One of your most prominent projects is “The Cloud” in Dubai; is this the biggest project you’ve ever done? It is probably the largest conceived project. I first presented it at the International Design Forum in Dubai in 2007 and left it as a theory, but recently I have gone back to developing studies on it with ARUP’s Advanced Geometry Unit in London. The Cloud is a public dream space; a horizontal landscape elevated 300m above ground, supported by a cluster of slender slanting stilts. It embodies the essence of Dubai, while at the same time providing a social and visual contrast to the sum of exclusive skyscrapers spreading over the city. The largest realised permanent project is probably “The Travellers”, commissioned by the State of Victoria and City of Melbourne in 2006, an urban art installation of ten 9m-high sculptures for the Sandridge Bridge in Melbourne, Australia. Nine of the sculptures are a metaphorical re-creation of the major waves of migrants who travelled on the train from the port of Melbourne to the central Flinders Station for more than a century. The sculptures go out on the bridge along a railway and return morning, noon and night daily, participating in city life and functioning as an urban clock. “Gayip”, the tenth sculpture, represents the indigenous aboriginal community and stands high on a nearby rock, watching the travellers coming and going. Nara, Japan

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Melbourne

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ALSO MY BRAND OF ABSURDISM AND ANTISYMBOLISM CAUSED CONTROVERSY, CONSIDERED REFRESHING BY SOME, AND IRREVERENT BY OTHERS. PRAGUE, BECAUSE OF THE POST-COMMUNIST AMBIANCE, WHICH DREW ME INTO A KAFKAESQUE WORLD OF BUREAUCRACY... What has been your most challenging project to date? They were all challenging for different reasons. Beirut, because after the civil war, it was difficult to justify why a Christian should do a large project and not someone from another religious community, which I resolved by making it itinerant for three years, then removing it entirely. Also my brand of absurdism and anti-symbolism caused controversy, considered refreshing by some, and irreverent by others. Prague, because of the post-communist ambiance, which drew me into a Kafkaesque world of bureaucracy, and “The Three Magic Flowers of Jitchu” for Todai-ji temple in Nara because the Japanese monks put my project proposal to the vote and refused it every year for 19 years, finally accepting it on the 20th anniversary of my first proposal.

Atelier Hapsitus has created some extraordinary pieces, what has been your favourite project to work on? Always the next one!

What is your future vision for Atelier Hapsitus? We would like to walk on a Cloud. Melbourne

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R E V I E W

A HIDDEN GEM

in the heart of the city IN THE VIBRANT SUBURB OF SEA POINT, HOUSED IN A BRAND NEW DEVELOPMENT - THE POINT, YOU FIND A RESTAURANT IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN. NV-80 GRILL & BAR, NAMED AFTER THE INITIALS OF THE GONÇALVES BROTHERS, NALDO AND VICTOR, JOINS THE FAMILY OF RESTAURANTS THAT HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFULLY OPENED AND RUN BY THE DUO. By Carmen Petre

NV-80 in Cape Town

NV-80 is more than a place that serves food - it is an experience. Our dinner was perfect from start to finish - from the parking spot that we grabbed right in front of the Point - to the most delicious dessert that I have had in a long time. To be honest, the food was amazing, I feel like I could skip telling you about the decor, the service, or the wine list - but if you read on, you will find out why they are worth a mention.

From arrival, I could feel the vibey, yet intimate atmosphere. It is important to have enough personal space and to be far enough from the other patrons to not hear their conversation, and I felt perfectly comfortable the entire evening. The decor of the restaurant is sophisticated and subtle, with originally designed wallpaper, beautiful couches and comfortable seating; The long, well lit bar stood out as a perfect place to

have cocktails before dinner and the prints decorating the wall behind the bar contributed to the cosy and relaxed ambience. As a former restaurant manager, I am quite critical when it comes to the service I receive and my standards are sometimes met, but very rarely exceeded. From the warm welcome at the door, to the perfect (and I do not use

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this word lightly) service throughout the evening, I was very impressed with the attention to detail of all the staff members. Our waiter, as well as the two front managers made sure that we were happy at all times, without being intrusive. Reason I love trying out new restaurants is the opportunity to sample different wines - being so spoiled for choice in our beautiful Cape Town it is hard to try all of them. I could tell you about the wonderfully aromatic Fleur de Cap Chenin Blanc that accompanied our meal, but I feel that the most important piece of information that I need to give you is the formidable price that you will pay for a bottle of champagne. French Champagne. The price for a bottle of Veuve Clicquot is R 600,00 while the Moët & Chandon is R 500,00.

Even if you are not a meat lover, the steak is a must - grilled to perfection, it was juicy and scrumptious, my personal favourite of all the dishes that we tried, rivaled only by the clementine chocolate desert. My partner, who is not a seafood lover, declared himself truly delighted by the langoustines and the prawns. We finished off with dessert: an apple tarte with a dollop of chai ice-cream as well as a mouthwatering, smooth and creamy chocolate and clementine cake slice that I hope they will make a permanent feature.

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First impressions are so important, and NV-80 makes a great one. I cannot wait to go back for lunch and champagne on the romantic patio overlooking Lion’s Head or the busy streets of Sea Point or for a birthday dinner.

Fast Facts The restaurant is open from 11:30 - 15:30 and from 18:00 - 22:30 Sunday to Thursday and from 11:30 - 15:30 and 18:00 - 23:30 on Friday and Saturday.

REASON I LOVE TRYING OUT NEW RESTAURANTS IS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SAMPLE DIFFERENT WINES BEING SO SPOILED FOR CHOICE IN OUR BEAUTIFUL CAPE TOWN IT IS HARD TO TRY ALL OF THEM. The part that impressed me most would be the food, which was presented in a wonderfully appetizing way. We started our dinner with some of the freshest West Coast oysters, sprinkled with freshly ground black pepper and a dash of lemon juice, accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine and we knew that this was going to be a special experience. We also tried the sautéed cubes of fillet, mussels, and prawns deliciously sautéed with garlic, chilli, caper berry and Chenin Blanc, definitely a firm contender for best dish of the evening. Our main course comprised of a specially made platter: medium rare rump steak, line fish, langoustines and prawns grilled in lemon, chilli, garlic and parsley, with a side of roast vegetables and french fries.

NV-80 Grill & Bar

Explore, Experience and Enjoy Joburg in 72 hours

As always Joburg is jam-packed with events ranging from leisure to business. Explore the city and see why it is a preferred destination for business, lifestyle, heritage, culture, arts, sports, nightlife and shopping. A trip to Joburg is not complete if you haven’t ticked off our list of top ten places to visit: • • • • • • • • • •

Soweto Apartheid Museum Gold Reef City Newtown Precinct Johannesburg Zoo Liliesleaf Farm Constitution Hill Maboneng Precinct Sandton City Hard Rock Café - Johannesburg

info@joburgtourism.com www.joburgtourism.com +27 11 214 0700

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EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE & ENJOY JOBURG in 72 hours

oburg’s allure as Africa’s most exciting business destination and a vibrant, cultural hotspot is legendary. It truly is an all year round global destination for business, sports, leisure, lifestyle, design, the arts, fashion and film. While the majority of visitors arrive for business reasons or events, ever increasing numbers are staying to sample and experience Joburg’s fascinatingly diverse, urban tourism and lifestyle scene. Although only 128 years old, Joburg boasts layer upon layer of interesting, arts, culture and heritage – from its ancient palaentological and anthropological history to its farming, Boer War and mining boomtown past, and of course, not forgetting its significance in the more recent struggle history. The development of the tourism scene in Joburg over the past twenty years has seen a dramatic increase in the number of precincts, museums and attractions to highlight the city’s fascinating story, developed by both the public and private sectors. Vilakazi Street in Soweto, the Maboneng Precinct to the east of the CBD, as well as Braamfontein further north, are just some of the lively neighbourhoods and precincts which have come into their own over the past decade or more. Myriads of outstanding new heritage sites have been brought into being

including the Origins Centre at Wits, the Apartheid Museum at Gold Reef City, the award-winning Liliesleaf Farm, the Hector Pietersen and Chancellor House Museums and the epic Constitution Hill complex, home to South Africa’s Constitutional Court. These are just the tip of the iceberg and a number of routes have been developed to take in the City’s diversity in terms of themes and attractions, including arts, cuisine, Indian and Chinese heritage, adventure and nature. All these developments showcasing the city’s extraordinary story have been complemented by infrastructural developments [like the Gautrain the Rea Vaya BRT], as well as the arrival of the City Sightseeing Bus, Johannesburg’s first hop on, hop off tourist bus and hundreds of tour guides and transport companies operating in the private sector. Johannesburg boasts layer upon layer of fascinating history, development and human interest stories – of course not forgetting the leisure and lifestyle aspects of entertainment, sports, music, arts and culture. This is a city with a colourful past and a future filled with excitement, potential and promise. A trip to Joburg isn’t complete if you haven’t ticked off our list of top places to visit: Soweto, Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, Newtown Precinct, Joburg Zoo, Liliesleaf Farm, Satyagraha House,

Maboneng Precinct, Braamfontein, Chancellor House, the Lion Park and the recently opened Hard Rock Café in Sandton’s Nelson Mandela Square. We invite you to stay, play and discover why those who live in Joburg love it – and those who visit our City never forget it.

Joburg’s top attractions – don’t leave without experiencing: City Sightseeing Bus: www.citysightseeing.co.za Origins Centre: www.origins.org.za Gold Reef City: www.goldreefcity.co.za Johannesburg Zoo: www.jhbzoo.org.za The SAB World of Beer: www.worldofbeer.co.za Montecasino: www.montecasino.co.za Apartheid Museum: www.apartheidmuseum.org

The Struggle Route including: Mandela Family Museum: www.mandelahouse.com Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication: www.waltersisulusquare.co.za Hector Pieterson Memorial & Museum: www.joburg.org.za Liliesleaf Farm: www.liliesleaf.co.za Constitution Hill: www.constitutionhill.org.za Johannesburg Tourism Company has three offices: Joburg Tourism Head Office, Parktown North Tel: +27 214 0700 Soweto Tourism Information Centre Tel: +27 11 342 4316 Park Station Tourism Information Centre Tel: +27 11 333 1488 Operating hours 08:00 – 17:00 Monday - Friday

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Best of the beasts THREE OF THE BEST SUVS ON THE MARKET GO HEAD TO HEAD: THE BMW X5, THE RANGE ROVER SPORT, AND THE VW TOUAREG. BMW X5 Technical Top Speed: 236km/h Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 5.9 secs Fuel Consumption (combined): 6.2l/100km CO2 Emissions: 164g/km

ver the last few years it has become a popular trend for those interested in both luxury and safety to purchase a large SUV. These hefty machines have, as such, evolved from being workhorses to city slickers, and you see more parked in front of night clubs than you will ever see in the bush. But there is good reason for the migration to these behemoths: they provide you with all the elements you need in a utility vehicle, but have the added luxuries of a business sedan. We have chosen our three favourite SUVs and highlight their best features for the discerning motorist.

THE BMW X5

BMW X5

a 3-litre diesel to a 4.5-litre petrol. It handles supremely well and despite the size, there is very little roll from the body, meaning you always feel very safe behind the wheel. The sense of speed in the new X5 is fabulous as you jet down the freeway. The 230kW of power, backed up with the 630Nm of torque from the 3-litre diesel engine we had a chance to test, did plenty to make the hairs on the back of our necks stand on end. BMW prides itself in producing classleading vehicles and the X5 has long been top of the class, both in technology and performance. The X5 is equally as capable on and off the road – not just a pretty face for the city sidewalk.

We can’t be sure if the X5 was the first business SUV, but over the last decade, it has certainly become the most popular. The Bavarian powerhouse has been producing the X5 for as long as we can remember and their popularity has done nothing but grow with each new model.

The one problem with BMW, however, is the rapid rate at which it brings out new models, or the same model with a minor facelift, which does nothing but lower the value of your investment. It has been a while between X5s, but it does little to negate the fact that this X5 will probably be followed by a newer version in no time at all.

The X5 drives like a sports car, with engine size choices that range from

The BMW X5 we tested cost R921,000 at the base end and a whole lot more

with the optional extras. The other models range from R790,000 to roughly R1,100,000.

RANGE ROVER SPORT Now the BMW may very well be a city slicker with 4x4 capabilities, but the Range Rover is a true bundu-basher that just happens to be magnificently elegant on the inside. Land Rover has long been the absolute leader in all that is off-road and 4x4, and the Range Rover arm of this British manufacturer is to Land Rover what Victoria Beckham was to the Spice Girls – something very posh. Victoria Beckham actually had a hand in the Range Rover Evoque’s design (the Range Rover Sport is the Evoque’s big brother). We had a chance to put the Sport through its paces off-road. It did everything asked of it, in some of the toughest conditions we have ever seen. We drove it up steep slopes of loose gravel and through door-high water. It handled with the brutishness of an adventurer, yet in the comfort of a firstclass seat on a luxury airline.

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impressed. We were able to take the Touareg through loose beach sand and down sheer rack faces with certitude and in the lap of luxury. The VW looks more at home in the bush than the BMW and the Range Rover, but not because it is any better off road, but because we felt less worried about scratching it. On a catwalk the Touareg may not be the beauty queen, but in a fashion show, is there ever really an ugly contestant?

Range Rover Sport Technical Top Speed: 210km/h Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 7.2 secs Fuel Consumption (combined): 7.2l/100km CO2 Emissions: 209g/km

The VW is a beautiful-looking car, and with a 3-litre diesel engine is impressively powerful and with 180kW and 550Nm of torque, is both a beauty and a beast. We were extremely impressed with the VW and believe that it deserves its place among the stars. The VW Touareg we tested was a whole lot cheaper than the other two megaSUVs, at R758,000, but the other models range from R662,00 to R912,000 at the Range Rover Sport top of the range. The Range Rover Sport doesn’t stumble in its performance on the road. The huge 3-litre diesel engine in the version we tested pumped out a decent 215kW of power with 600Nm of torque being delivered. Like the BMW, the Range Rover also feels like it has a very low centre of gravity despite the high ride height, but this is almost all down to the sheer width and size of this SUV. That size and width comes in handy when going on a long journey, but is very cumbersome around town and in the parking lots of Johannesburg’s shopping malls. A black Range Rover Sport is becoming a very popular choice of car for the newly wealthy and the A-listers around town and for a good reason: it is a nearly perfect example of what a real SUV should be. The only question is: should you trust the flock and get a Range Rover, or see if there is anything better? The Range Rover Sport we tested costs just over R1,100,000 and had almost everything standard, but the other models range from R809,000 to R1,250,000 at the top end.

VW TOUAREG Volkswagen translated is ‘the people’s car’. VW has become famous for producing vehicles that make people happy, and in recent memory, very few cars in the SUV segment have come as far as the VW Touareg. Of the beasts we are testing for this article, little have shown as much improvement

VW Touareg Technical Top Speed: 218km/h Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 7.8 secs

as the Touareg. It has never been a bad car, but over the last two generations of this German giant’s production, the advancements in performance have come along more noticeably than others’. Part of that reason must surely be because of their relationship with Audi, but VW is taking the bull by the horns and trying to establish itself as a member of the elite SUV club, rather than be an alternative to it. In the Touareg, like the Range Rover Sport, we were given a chance to push it through its paces off the tarmac in an attempt to really gauge how good an SUV the VW is, and we were beyond

Fuel Consumption (combined): 7.3l/100km CO2 Emissions: 193g/km

None of the three SUVs we tested had any major faults and separating them to pick the best would be like having three children and choosing your favourite. They are all good, they all have features we like and features we don’t. They are fast and can go offroad, but when it comes time for you to pick yours, maybe try them all on and see which one fits you best. None will disappoint, but one may spark a love affair.

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THE MIGHTY MORPHING I

BY ALYN ADAMS

bank manager – two stereotypes busted in one.

’ve written a gag, but I’m not doing stand-up nearly often enough at the moment, so I haven’t got to try it on an audience yet. But what’s a modest little magazine column for, if not to guarantee an audience? I’ll give you the background, then the gag, and you can decide.

“I want that jacket,” says Eugene. “Eugene,” says omniscient voiceover guy in paternal – some would say paternalistic – tones, “do you want it, or do you need it?” So Eugene curbs his impulses and goes on to buy a cupcake outlet. As you do.

Adverts are really positive about transformation and diversity, aren’t they? Actually, they have been for ages – back in the late ’90’s, I wrote a joke that went, “So, a black guy, a white guy and an Indian guy walk into a bar together... Because they’re making a beer commercial.” It didn’t always work; some white crowds would look around at the three people of colour in the room (who were generally trying to chuckle without looking threatening) and just not get it. Of course, now that a lot of the popular comedy rooms attract properly diverse audiences, it no longer applies. Except perhaps as evidence that advertising can inspire positive social change, which is an admission I’d shudder to contemplate.

As I said, on the face of it, an uplifting story of aspiration and transformation. Unless you’re a nasty mean-spirited cynic who believes that assumptions about class, race and gender are built into the very language and imagery of the dominant hegemony, in which case all you see is another Uncle Tom who can only succeed if he lets an invisible white guy tell him what to do...

But you can’t deny adverts live in an inspirational, non-racial, happy South Africa. These days, we even have lots of chic, savvy black mums doing all the washing in the washing powder ads, have you noticed? In all those brand tests against Powder X that generate so much narrative tension... (“What if this time, Omo loses?” We’re on the edge of our seats...)

BUT YOU CAN’T DENY ADVERTS LIVE IN AN INSPIRATIONAL, NON-RACIAL, HAPPY SOUTH AFRICA.

What they tend to gloss over, is that in washing powder advertising history, it was usually black mums doing the washing anyway. The only reason all the ads back in the ’80s featured solely white mums, was that buying the washing powder was the madam’s entire contribution to laundry day. But I digress.

The other ads – or perhaps I should call them lifestyle-enhancement featurettes – battering away at stereotypes right now are in the Nedbank campaign. That savvy Eugene and his omniscient voiceover guy. A young black hipster who can handle money and a caring

That was it – that’s the gag I’m testing. Is it funny, or is it offensive for me to be flippant about these things? Is it, “Not funny, just painfully true”? I’ll probably only be doing the bit from “Adverts live in a diverse, happy SA” down, so I don’t think it goes on too long before an attempt at a punchline, does it? And I’ve scattered a few minipunchlines throughout, to keep them interested. Tweet me at @alyndenzel or find me on Facebook if you like; I’d truly appreciate an opinion. Amusingly, the voice behind omniscient voiceover guy, if I’m correct, is Michael Richard’s – one of our finest stage and screen actors. He’s just spent a few weeks in Isidingo, playing a gambling addict who defrauds his own son – and then gets killed in a messy family shooting. Which puts a wonderfully ironic spin on the idea of him giving Eugene advice on how to handle money... @alyndenzel www.alynadams.com