Creative king

have struggled with fear in that stark, naked place. It is in that place where you find yourself and realize that you have something to give this world.

I have come to realize that you are the Use what is in your hand to create a future with it. At times in my life, I have experienced a stripping away and I have struggled with fear in that stark, naked place. It is in that place where you find yourself and realize that you have something to give this world.

I have come to realize that you are the king of your own kingdom; if you give up, it will perish. And you will too.

Hallo there The fact that you are reading this magazine means that you’ve been introduced to Creative King, the business who inspired it. We are so proud to bring you our first issue as it will bring you closer to the heart of who we are and what we’re about.

Sometimes life strips away all your securities and it makes you feel unworthy, not good enough, you feel like a failure and you feel as if God doesn’t care about you. Fortunately there’s hope.

Use what is in your hand to create a future with it. At times in my life, I have experienced a stripping away and I

Let’s look at a pattern in the Bible. The scriptures are filled with people who all had a calling on their lives. And they all experienced a lot of raw and difficult times. Fear and insecurity threatened to overwhelm them and many of them felt they were going to die. If I were to interview them today and ask them how they have succeeded, they would probably tell me that they got over themselves and started believing in themselves.

In all of this, I went back and looked at successful people in our day: musicians, artists, business owners, pioneers who turned spectacular ideas into a million dollars; they all walked the same journey. At the end of the day it’s about you – how you think, what you do, how you confess, how you live, how you are prepared to change, how you treat others.

We have to get to that place of rawness to discover who we really are and what is inside us. Many times people put us in a box and expect us to react in a certain way and be a certain way. Our response: we get into that box! In the end the box is so full with expectations, empty words and disappointments that there’s hardly room to breathe. Sometimes life has to strip away everything and leave you naked thinking “I don’t know what to do or where to go; I don’t know where my food is going to come from”. It is in that place where you discover yourself and you start believing who you REALLY are, you start throwing away the lies that you’ve believed about yourself. You also discover your gifts.

A year and half ago I was in Cape Town for a photo shoot and I got robbed. Everything I had with me was taken: cameras, laptops, and hard drives… suddenly my means of creating an income was gone. There was a lot of guilt, resentment and anger about what had happened. Then people started reminding me that I that resigned from my job to do this, and now what? It affected me so much that there was a time that I couldn’t even get up; I was at a point where I didn’t know how to handle what had happened, or what to do next. In that dark place, I went back to the beginning because the foundation that I had built, crumbled; it just wasn’t strong enough. I had to get back to the person I knew – me – and make peace with myself, value myself and treat myself better. I had to realize that I am a king, with or without my gear and my job. That was how Creative King was born. Your destiny starts on the inside, believing in yourself and confessing that you can do it.

Believe that you are good enough for this world. With the onslaught of social media there is so much pressure to be better and better; self-doubt creeps in and you feel you’re not good enough. You judge yourself constantly because you’re not making the grade and in the end you are tired and drained. It’s like putting a nicotine patch on your arm; poison dripping into your bloodstream; you are poisoning yourself taking all this on.

The day that I stopped comparing myself to everybody else is the day that I found peace. Our magazine is meant to inspire, to lift up and to challenge you to be the BEST version of YOURSELF. The market is flooded with magazines already, but we offer something different, something that is real and authentic. It has been birthed out of a real place, a raw place.

This is our first edition; enjoy it. We hope you get something out of it.

If you want to partner with us, our contact details are on the next page. Thank you for your support.

Esaias Calitz

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Elizabeth Calitz Commissioning Editor

Contents Life Begins at 40

By Clara Joubert van den Bergh and Elizabeth Calitz

Queen In Waiting

By Elizabeth Calitz

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Take your Freelance Career To The Next Level

From Ashes To Art

By Buhle Nkalashe

Living An Authentic Life

By Shawn Basson

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Decor, Food and DIY

It’s A Beard Business

By Esaias Calitz

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Many years ago a friend came for coffee. Not being in a good place at the time, she said to me: “When you reach 40, your life is over.”

Without thinking I replied: “You’re wrong, life begins at 40.” I was quite a few years younger than my friend and did not speak from experience. I could not know that my words would be proven true, but only years later. Today, in retrospect, I empathize with her. Life on the run as a younger person suddenly halts, your children are grown and have their own lives, your husband still lives for his job, and you’re left waiting, like a forlorn passenger at an discarded train station, for a train that is not coming, seemingly for months or years. With a shock of realization you get up, check your watch and know that you’ve missed the train. I suspect that women all over the world, even men, experience this faith crisis.

I’ve always had a fighting spirit when I have had to encounter obstacles, even when I am scared to death! I decided that, before my 41st birthday, I am going bungee jumping to prove to myself, and possibly to the world, that I’m a ‘mean machine.’ On the way back from a camping trip I asked my husband to stop at the Blaauwkrans bridge near Tsitsikamma in the Eastern Cape. I pretended wanderlust. Then the whole camping party arrived at the bridge. I left to make enquiries and before I knew it, I

was booked to jump! To this day I don’t know whether my husband booked me or if had done so in a moment of weakness. Everything happened so quickly, and when I peered over the edge of the bridge, harnessed and ready to go, I kept saying, “I am scared, I am so very scared.”

“No man, it’s going to be a blast!” the bungee instructor calmly replied to my distress. So there I was standing, somewhere between heaven and earth, and I had to muster up the insanity to throw myself off a bridge! As I watched the valley below me I suddenly realized what a stupid thing I was about to do. But the moment has come and there is no turning back; I was the center of attention and could not disappoint.

Our ‘friends’ were watching to see me sweep through the air like a frisbee, only to be yanked back to my senses by a bungee cord. Then it came. “5, 4, 3, 2, 1, bungee!” My last thought was: “Well, here goes”… I opened my arms and surrendered to the force of nature. My next lucid moment found me hanging like an Orang-outang by my feet, screaming for my life. The bungee instructor couldn’t get to me fast enough. But even bungee jump has its moments; when I put down on firm ground with the video camera in my face, I was so proud of myself that I started preaching to the nation.

“Everyone that turns 40 this year, GO FOR IT!!!”

And that is how my 40 started. I believe that everyone should start their forties with a bang.

By Clara Vd Bergh & Elizabeth Calitz

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Forty doesn’t mean the end of the world as you know it, but merely the beginning of a new season where you can connect with yourself and discover the things that God still has for your life. We are so quick to accept that THIS IS IT; I AM DESTINED TO BE A TEACHER OR A DOCTOR FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE while we have so much more brimming inside. Don’t be caught by a spirit of fear of timidity – you will never flourish if you cling to a lie.

There is a saying in Afrikaans that means, literally translated, “crisis brings prayer”.

Obstacles aren’t always negative. When I went through my divorce I felt that I was standing at a crossroads. What is my next

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move; how am I going to survive? I had to find a quiet place in myself and take stock of my life, think about what I like and what God says about me. I have always liked working with children so I decided to study teaching through UNISA, then go and teach in Korea. But God had another plan and that plan took me to a small rural school near Jeffreysbay called Uitvlucht. It was quite ironic that He sent me there for a time of isolation… escape. When He thought I was ok, he brought Regardt into my life!

I still made the decision to go and study, broadened my horizons and realized that humankind doesn’t perish easily. We have been given a stronger will to survive than we realize. Everyday life has the habit of putting us in a comfort zone, and it’s usually when the paw paw strikes the fan and the olive gets pressed, that our true strength rises up.

Life begins at 40! Life begins at 50! Life actually begins anywhere you want it to begin. As a child of God I have a future and a destiny, and He wants to use my energy and enthusiasm to go after it. It’s a bit like doing snakes and ladders – a wonderful journey of discovery that we’ll probably never finish until the day we greet life for the final time.

New days bring new things! What a great feeling it is saying to God: “What else have you hidden inside me?” And indeed He has.

I am currently busy finishing the script for a comedy “Bon Voyage, Ouma Koos”, a quirky story with an Ubuntu feel. There are a few other projects pending that Regardt and I are developing.

It is comforting to know that “all God has appointed for me, He will prosper.” What I am doing is to walk on this journey with energy and focus.

The secret to an amazing walk after 40?

Faith, a persistent walk and an expectant heart.

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Maybe you’re craving the flexibility and freedom of being your own boss, or you’ve just had enough of office politics. Perhaps you’re realizing you can’t progress the way you want in your current role. Whatever your motivations, the lure of freelancing is a powerful one. This is a job where, it seems, you can choose how, when and where you work – all while getting paid to do something you really love.

Freelancing can indeed offer immense creative and professional satisfaction, but there are plenty of challenges too. From the stress of working from home, juggling multiple projects and knowing you’re 100% responsible for them, to clearing your schedule for work that never materializes, freelancing can be as distressing and infuriating as it can be brilliant.

Here, we’ve explained the three main stages of your freelance career, from seeking your first commission through to working on exhibitions, agency commissions and more. To take the stress out of freelancing, we’ve navigated some common pitfalls and

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challenges, with some of tips to help you improve your freelance career right away.

Get started as a freelancer

Make the decision to go freelance and you’ll probably feel excited, daunted and more than a little bit terrified. As a freelancer, you’re likely to become very familiar with that sense of nagging worry, like when you find yourself fretting that turning down one brief means you’ll never work again. Taking jobs that you perhaps don’t fancy and therefore don’t enjoy just isn’t conducive to producing your best work. Know exactly what your skills are, your interests and areas of expertise. It’s okay to have your own rules about how and where you work and what types of clients you want to work for.

be more fun, although getting paid is often a struggle. Do a few stints in studios to line the coffers and buy yourself some breathing room – and then build up your own clients in the meantime.

Admin counts as work Like it or not, being freelance means you’re running a business, so it’s a good idea to treat it as such right from the start. That includes getting to grips with the joys of paperwork, as well as making yourself known to the taxman.

Remember that doing admin is work. Don’t be afraid to put aside time to keep on top of it, and don’t feel guilty that you seemingly aren’t working when you’re doing it. It can be tempting to leave any paperwork to pile up on your desk, but this isn’t wise. Don’t go thinking it will look after itself. It won’t. Either learn to make a simple spreadsheet or ask someone who can. It’s essential to have a clear record of expenses and invoices with due dates.

Learn to sell your skills It is a good idea to start freelancing alongside your day job. Start off with some small projects at night and on weekends. Freelancing is not just about having good ideas and good skills. The most important thing is how you sell yourself and talk to clients.

And the best tip anyone can get is: don’t be afraid to invoice. Get your invoice in the moment you finish a project. If you’re dealing with clients directly, rather than through a commissioning studio, make sure you have written terms and conditions. There are plenty of online resources that can help.

Going it alone from home offers far more in the way of freedom and versatility. It can

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Level Two: Build your freelance career Freelancing is a constant process of hustle and flow, which means the need for self-promotion and reinvention never stops. The challenge is striking the right balance and showcasing a little bit of everything without spreading yourself too thinly.

One of the most important lessons you can learn as a freelancer is the importance of simply being yourself. When you start out as a freelancer you may think that trying to present yourself as being all things to all people is the way to go, but it will take longer than it could have to find your niche and create a sustainable and enjoyable work environment for yourself.

Don’t neglect personal projects Personal projects help you to expand your vision and skills, and you also find yourself doing work that you wouldn’t usually do as a commission.

Try to add something new to any project because it’s no fun to repeat the same pattern over and over. Keep yourself culturally updated by visiting local art exhibitions and events.

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Start networking Networking is also hugely valuable for freelancers, which includes strengthening links with each other. Don’t disregard building relationships with other freelancers – they’re not necessarily your competition. Freelancing can be isolating - collaborate on projects, share tips and advice, pass leads to each other and just generally be supportive of your fellow freelancers, as more often than not it’s mutually beneficial.

Choose the right hours Learn when you function best; it will boost your productivity. Some people come up with ideas in the morning and fulfill them during the afternoon, but can’t think of new ideas or finish something to a high level.

Freelancers sometimes think they have to sit at their desks from 9am, but before or after that is when they actually get their best work done – either before the client is in, or after they leave. What matters is that you’re on top of it. This flexibility to work whenever and wherever you want is one of the great draws of freelancing, yet you can easily forget to make the most of it. Don’t be afraid of leaving your desk to work in libraries or coffee shops. You need to interact with the outside world and get inspired, and if you’re working from home then you can miss out on that.

It’s hard to predict what will win future work, new clients or positive media coverage, as there’s no tried-and-tested formula. It’s worth remembering that it’s virtually impossible to measure the cumulative effect of social media, blogs and other profile-boosting activity in terms of commissions won or money earned.

To keep yourself developing creatively is to have personal projects going on permanently and to be open to any sort of project, even though it may seem a bit out of your comfort zone.

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself The pressure of taking full responsibility for your own business and livelihood can feel relentless at times. Design is usually a collaborative process, and you’ve been commissioned because clients like you and your work.

It’s important to remember that existing clients can be one of your best sources of future work. Repeat business will potentially arise from successful projects, so keep your standards high and do your best work.

Make yourself invaluable.

Become a freelance star

Be versatile There may be times when you have a twoweek wait for news on whether a project is actually going ahead. You might be sitting there thinking it must have fallen through because it’s been two weeks, then all of a sudden it’s on and they need it by the end of the week. It can be quite a rollercoaster and you need to be versatile.

Of course, the same could be said about almost any aspect of freelancing. If you’re freelancing at a studio, it’s important to fit in and be part of the team.

This article first appeared inside Computer Arts issue 249, a special issue packed with advice for freelancers, whether you’re thinking about taking the plunge or a seasoned freelance pro.

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By Elizabeth Calitz

Illustration Inspiration Homegrown Mieke van der Merwe is a vibrant young woman with a big heart. With a Masters Degree in her pocket and a passion for all things art, she is ready to take on the world. Mieke’s dream is to paint every day, make her own art and get paid for it. She has a drive and determination that brought her where she is today and a don’t-give-up mentality.

She oozes talent and her work inspired us so much that we decided to meet her and find out more about this budding artist.

Where did it all start? Tell us a bit about your background; what led you here, and where did you study?

I grew up in Strand in the Western Cape, where I began art classes at the age of 4. I then continued doing art until high school and even moved schools in grade 11 so that I could take two art subjects. From 2007-2010 I studied Graphic Design at Stellenbosch University, which consisted of many sleepless nights, terrible eating habits and exposure to the wonderful world of art. The years spent at Stellenbosch really formed me as an artist. It taught me never

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to give up and to keep on trying even when you get bad critique and to believe in your work in times when no one else does.

After University I went to South Korea for 2 years to teach English. Before I went to Korea I have never been to any Asian country and was unprepared for the overwhelming impact the tall buildings, neon light signs and electronic billboards will have on me.

I was so ‘gob smacked’ when I first visited a shopping district in Korea. There was an ocean of black haired people walking like sardines in the streets, it reminded me of something like Durban on New Year’s Day.

I am a very detail orientated person and the million things going on at the same time was visually stimulating. I couldn’t help but be inspired to draw what I saw around me.

When I depicted the city scenes, I tried to not only draw what I saw but to also try and capture the feeling and atmosphere of the space. I wanted to invite the viewer into the busy, clustered city streets of Korea.

After Korea I did my master’s degree in children’s book illustration at Stellenbosch, specializing in transcultural children’s books within a South African context.

Please tell us about yourself and your work?

My love for art started at a very young age in the church. I was a very restless child with a short attention span and the only way my parents could keep me calm and collected was by giving me a pen and paper to draw.

I filled books and books with my sermon doodles and I have just kept on drawing. I never stopped!

I studied at Stellenbosch University and today I am a freelance artist/illustrator and I also teach part-time at the University of Stellenbosch. Most of my work consists of architecture and cityscapes or everyday objects drawn in my travel journals and sketchbooks. The line work in these illustrations isn’t rigid or straight but rather a little bent and varies in thickness to give the work a more organic feel. When I draw I make a lot of ‘mistakes’, but feels that it contributes to bringing the inanimate to life rather than being something negative.

I enjoy drawing intricate illustrations where the viewer can look at the picture for a while and still find something new, almost like a ‘Where’s Wally picture’. Humor also plays a big role when I create work and is used in a way to bring quirkiness to everyday situations.

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Why do you do what you do? Is this what you’ve always wanted to do, or did you change course somewhere along the way?

My parents encouraged me to pursue my gifting and dream which really helped me in deciding my profession. Since I can remember I’ve always loved drawing, so for me, art has always been my passion and I cannot imagine my life without it because it is such an integral part of who I am.

Please describe how you like to work, from brief to completion?

When I receive a brief, I usually start out with a rough sketch where I draw out my ideas for the brief. Then I go to the internet to find reference images and look at other artists’ work to find inspiration.

After some research I start the drawing or painting process. When I’m done I send the images to the client hoping that there will be no changes to it. Half of the work I do, I draw by hand and the other half I draw on my Cintiq tablet. So my work is mostly a mix of different techniques and mediums.

What is integral to your work; what influences your work and where do you draw your inspiration from?

Architecture has played a really big role in influencing my work. I started drawing buildings after I traveled to Europe in my third year of University and that experience had a huge impact on my work. I like drawing city scenes because it has so much movement, yet it is so static at the same time. People on the streets are always on the move, and this ever changing landscape contrasts with the majestic, tall buildings that stays the same from morning till night.

The difference is not only interesting when making the composition, but it is very helpful if I draw from real life. Old buildings are also something that I find fascinating, especially the ones where each building has different window frames, roof tiles and decorative detail. To me each building has its own personality and history, which I like to portray in the way I draw them.

What artistic role do you have in life/ society/community?

In 2014 - 2015 I volunteered at an orphanage in Gordon’s Bay, teaching art classes to primary school children. I really enjoyed it and although it was tough on some days, the smiles and love I received from the children made it worthwhile. I also did work for an NGO, Nal’ibali, for their Reading For Enjoyment campaign, where I painted recycled chairs with children’s stories. These chairs are currently exhibited in the national library in Cape Town.

Is there an illustrator out there that you most identify with, and why?

I really love the work of Oliver Jeffers. He illustrates the most wonderful children’s books using a lot of humour and most of his lettering is handwritten. In my work I also try to give my work a more handmade feel and that’s why I really admire the work he does and how he is able to make good art seem effortless.

Is there a specific characteristic, or something special that it takes to be a successful illustrator, apart from knowledge and talent?

I think perseverance is definitely the most important aspect because you will find people that won’t like your work. It also takes a lot of discipline to make art even when you don’t feel like it, because practice is the only thing that will make you a better artist. In my own career there were times that I wanted to give up because people said I wouldn’t make it. I am glad I did not take their criticism to heart because then I wouldn’t be here today.

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How do you think you can make illustration relevant within the context of our country, relevant to the different target groups represented, but not stereotypical?

To work within your frame of reference is key. For my master’s degree I specifically looked at this aspect because there are so many children’s books written by white authors about the townships they don’t have personal knowledge or experience of. Therefore, for my own children’s book “Thandi goes to Cape Town” I illustrated the story within a hybrid space where different cultures overlap such as public settings. I think where this overlapping of cultures happen is the key to creating interesting and exciting work.

Mieke, we wish you well in your promising career, may it be all that you hope it will be!

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By Elizabeth Calitz

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“ When Beulah heard the haunting melody, everything in her responded. It was as if she had put on a familiar cloak and she was reminded of a different time, a different place. Even the air, for that moment, smelled different. Beulah closed her eyes and tried desperately to place it in her mind. Where had she heard that before? Then, as gently as a flower unfolding on a bright summer morning, a vision of herself came to her.

She was playing in field, carefree at 3 years old. An older woman was with her, and there was so much peace and love between them that the tears came unbidden. Beulah blinked them back, amazed at the intensity of the emotion it brought. As she closed her eyes again, she saw herself walking hand in hand with the woman in the earlier vision into a huge room filled with beautiful things.

As her eyes swept the room, they landed on boxes filled with so many toys they seemed to spill over. Then her gaze moved upward and she stood transfixed as she took in dresses of every colour and variety. She has never seen so many dresses before…or has she? An inexplicable longing swept over Beulah.”

stirring of things just out of your reach? And yet you had the feeling that THAT was what you were supposed to be and do? Almost as if a part of you is missing and you’re not living the life you ought to live. Cause for pause.

Have you ever looked at something that tugged at the strings of your heart? A familiar

If there are unfulfilled dreams, GO AFTER THEM. If you feel that you’re not reaching

The fact is, we are all much bigger than the lives we’re living. The way we look doesn’t define us, the jobs we have don’t give us our identity. I dare you to take the time and think about who you really are. Without all the trappings of modern life, set aside the gadgets and things and tasks that fill up your life and take a Selah moment.

You see, women of the world, a giant lives in each one of us, a supreme strength, an indomitable will and abiding grace to conquer the world. We are queens in waiting.

In a driven world, women are expected to perform. That’s all good. We have it in us. But whether you’re coming to the party dressed in an apron, evening gown or power suit, KNOW who you are. Let that inner beauty shine, let the world see your grace and dignity.

your full potential, do something about it. Respond to that gentle tugging; awaken to that which liberates your spirit. For only then you will run at full throttle, undeterred, driven from within.

If it’s fear that is keeping you from reaching forward, become still. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and go on a journey. Where did it start? What is the source of the fear and the circumstances surrounding it? Let your mind wander for a moment into that dusty room and bring back events; people, that were involved. What did you feel?

It could be something substantial, or it could be something someone said. Be honest with yourself. If you need to talk to someone, please do it. We are not meant to live in fear! The giant wants to wake up and subdue something!

Think about Joan of Arc. She led an army into war against a multitude. That had to take courage. I’m sure she was afraid, but she dealt her a fear a deathblow and ran into battle with a sword in her hand.

Fear has no place in our lives. Decide now to let it go.

Ladies, creation awaits; a breathless moment before the first notes of a great symphony; for your dream performance. You are the crescendo, the astonishing work of art, standing in the wings. Go and let your light shine!

Woman…

Delicately woven in the fine fabric of womanhood.

An intricate pattern, exquisitely wrought.

A palette of colour, the brushstrokes of a gentle spirit, colouring a backdrop of inner beauty.

Sister, daughter, wife, mother these four created to be, and woman, with graceful ease embracing each – naturally.

Oh spirit of woman!

Born to rule.

Arise from your slumber for the world awaits to see you become all that you were created to be.

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From Ashes to Art

By Elizabeth Calitz

Buhle Nkalashe’s story is one of courage in the face of incredible odds, an unswerving steadfastness and indomitable will to succeed, no matter the cost.

This is his story.

My name is Buhle Nkalashe. I was born in 1994, in the township of Khayelitsha near Cape Town. I was raised by a single mother and was the only child. I had an older brother who died when I was only two years old. My mom was a high school teacher at Masiyile Secondary High in Khayelitsha. My parents were never married and I seldom saw my father.

My mother worked very hard to provide for me and struggled to understand me most of the time.

She couldn’t give me advice about anything as a young boy. I had to deal with certain situations like bullying and lack of self confidence as I didn’t have a father figure in my life. My father left because my mother couldn’t handle his heavy drinking and smoking. In 2014, after 12 years, my father reunited with us. It was uncomfortable and strange at first having a father in my life after so many years. We didn’t speak a lot then, and we still don’t speak to each other than much, but there is some progress.

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I guess we just didn’t connect as father and son. My mother is still the sole provider of the family as my father is unemployed and I am still studying, although I am making extra money by doing artworks for people.

with little result while they put in little or no effort at all, but they managed to score higher marks than me. I isolated myself even more. It frustrated me that I didn’t perform; I wanted to earn the scholarship and make I attended Wynberg Boys’ High School, where my mother proud. Most of all I wanted to be I discovered my artistic talent. I also went proud of myself. Year after year I thought to Primary School in Wynberg. During my that I would fail. school career I struggled with my academics, The constant worrying lead to high anxiety personality issues and verbal abuse from levels and eventually depression. I began to other learners. In grade 7, I was called for feel worthless, useless and hopeless about an interview at the high school regarding my future. I began to withdraw socially and possible scholarship and was awarded the isolated myself from my family. By some Kids Foundation Scholarship for my high miracle my scholarship grant continued. school studies. I didn’t understand it because My mom kept encouraging me to pursue my marks were average and I wasn’t the the extra classes, even though I felt I was brightest student at primary school. With wasting my time and the scholarship’s a grateful heart I accepted the scholarship money. I worked hard and gave everything award. even though I had difficulty concentrating; I In high school there was no difference in my had lost my motivation. academic achievement; in fact I struggled even more. I was quiet and sensitive and didn’t enjoy being among crowds. I found myself asking, ‘’what am I doing at this prestigious high school when I am not academically bright, not good at sport and I don’t have an interesting personality?” I wondered what I had to offer this school and why I was given a scholarship for academics when my marks were average, sometimes below average. Amazingly I didn’t give up and I continued to do everything that was required of me at school even though I was not the best.

In grade 10 I fell in love with art. I didn’t excel on the theory side but my work and passion showed up in the practicals. I felt a sense of achievement for the first time in my life and continued taking art as one of my subjects until my final year in high school. My art teacher, Mrs. Mandy Colman, and Hassan Essop, assistant teacher, saw potential in me and that encouraged me to continue with art after school. In my final year, I was awarded the Caxton prize for outstanding effort in academics. It inspired me to carry on doing what was expected of me. I narrowly passed my matric year.

I was an introvert and felt comfortable being alone and I didn’t want to feel pressured to fit into certain groups in high school. There were groups who were good in sport and others who were academically bright and then there were the troublemakers. I didn’t fit into any of these groups. I felt alone and worthless. This presented a perfect opportunity for bullying.

I was verbally abused at school by my peers because I was different. I didn’t achieve good marks even though I attended extra lessons at school. There was little or no difference in my marks. The other learners saw me as a joke; they thought I was dumb, hopeless, and stupid. They made remarks and teased me because I had to put in so much effort

I never formally studied art because I saw it as a hobby and not a job with a steady income, so I opted for Graphic Design. After I matriculated, I started art projects to earn pocket money. Art was a way to escape from my reality of anxiety, depression and loneliness. I expressed myself in my art and sought comfort in it, because it made me feel that I can offer the world something.

I applied at different universities but didn’t match the minimum requirements. So I began to look for work. I also did portraits of people for extra money.

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Then I heard of a college in Khayelitsha which offered a bridging course in Graphic Design. Upon checking it out I learned that the class was full and left my details with the trainer in case of a cancellation. At the end of the week one of the students dropped out and I got called, so I studied there for a year. One of my fellow students applied to Cape Town Creative Academy to study Graphic Design, but I thought that was too expensive so I tried other colleges. After being rejected at most, I applied at Cape Town Creative Academy and got accepted without a bursary. It felt wonderful. My mom paid for my first year and for my second year I received a bursary by an I.T company (Jurumani) in Johannesburg. It was so encouraging and exactly what I needed to make me realize that I am on the right track.

outstanding effort in academics. One of the top improvers in Grade 12, he has shown determination and commitment to work on his very mediocre Grade 11 marks. He is an inspiration to all boys who think that they can never do it.” I then understood why the scholarship, school and family supported me. It was because of my perseverance and attitude to carry on even though I wasn’t a high achiever. They believed in me and admired me for just trying my best. That was my reward for years of thankless labour and pressing through the obstacles in my way.

People were watching me and saw my hard work. Looking back now, I am so proud of myself. I faced many giants but never gave up. I have found the strength deep in myself to overcome. I am now a stronger and richer person because of it.

During my studies I heard from one of my high school teachers that I was mentioned in the headmaster’s speech during prize giving. He said “Most Fulfilling Moment: Seeing Buhle Nkalashe come up on stage at Valedictory to receive the Caxton Prize for

And there, on the sidelines, were people silently cheering for me, willing me to win.

Buhle is currently doing his second year at Cape Town Creative Academy. In his spare time he is drawing portraits using oil pastels. He is planning on showing his work in a gallery once he has enough drawings.

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Art doesn’t have to be for professional artists only. If you can grab a paintbrush and splash some paint onto a canvas, this is for you.

Whether you want to revisit old favourites or be lured by enticing new hotspots, you’ll be looking at them with a different set of eyes. Various locations can inspire your creativity, which is why painting holidays are becoming so popular with artists and amateurs alike.

We all get excited when we are about to embark on a holiday, especially if it’s a place you have never been to before, but if you have a passion for painting why not combine the two? A painting holiday has a lot to offer painters at all levels.

If painting is an outlet to an otherwise stressful life, then a painting holiday kills two birds with one stone. Or if you are looking for a new landscape to paint, then why not consider a painting holiday? Here are four reasons to give it a try.

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1. New surroundings provide inspiration and spark creativity Nothing gets the creative juices flowing more than being inspired by interesting surroundings. Let your eyes wander and picture what you want to paint. Being somewhere nice not only poses challenges, but also can lead to wonderful new discoveries. Italy is a particularly good place to paint and its landmarks, architecture and landscape have inspired artists for centuries. Step into the shoes of many an artist and paint the Grand Canal in Venice or capture the Tuscan landscape in a new light – the options are endless. What about the majestic Drakensberg mountains, the unforgettable Franschoek Valley, the green belt at Midlands Meander in Kwazulu Natal; our country has all we need when it comes to scenery and inspiration. We all need new stimulation, so take some time to sketch, develop your ideas and collect your thoughts on paper.

2. Exploring new light, contrasts and compositions Painting in a new light often brings new challenges. This starts with your palette.

Depending on your new location, your palette could be more blues if you are by the sea, or more green if you are in the countryside. Developing your use of colour and learning how to step away from your comfort zone is what you can expect from a painting holiday. This is the exciting consequence of painting in new surroundings. Exploring new places means viewing things with a new perspective.

Imagine you are in a small fishing village, the sun is high in the sky and there isn’t a cloud in sight. You notice the contrast between light and shadow is outstanding.

This has captured your imagination. So you sit down to paint the contrast between the blue harbour and the old stone buildings.

The light is strong and the shadows are short and deep. There are challenges of shifting light and how best to capture its transition. You wonder how best to mix the blue of the sky? This is the kind of scenario a painting holiday throws at you and it’s exciting.

3. Creating new and lasting memories We all take photographs on holiday to capture a moment in time, but how many of us bother to print photos or make albums anymore? A painting holiday offers

you the opportunity to travel and create your own lasting and physical memories on paper. This can be in the form of finished pieces of work or a detailed sketchbook, which acts as a diary for the week. This is your chance to record some beauty in your life and paint things that make you happy.

The aim of the holiday is to create artwork that you can be proud of and frame. It is these types of artistic mementos that will be yours to keep forever.

4. Stress relief There are some real mental benefits to painting and the hobby can be a great way to relieve stress and relax. It helps you reconnect with your creative side and this is particularly true if you are picking up painting again after a long time. A painting holiday is a time for some cathartic pleasure. When you draw, you enhance your memory. By slowing down and observing carefully, you create deeper and more vivid records of everything that surrounds you. If you make drawing a habit, and develop your skills, you’ll probably surprise yourself. A painting holiday serves as a distraction to everyday life and gives some balance in your life. It allows you to get into a flow and focus your attention on the job at hand. We all deserve some time for ourselves and if you have a creative streak, a painting holiday could be just what you are looking for.

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Having a dinner party? Or an intimate dinner for two? Whatever the occasion, why not try something a bit different. We live in a world where ‘going natural’ has become the new craze. And why shouldn’t it? With a market that is flooded with new gadgets and pimped up ideas, we are looking for simplicity - something that is authentic.

branches reinforces our natural theme. We stuck some greenery into our centerpiece, which ties together the whole theme.

What we love about this look: the bold interplay of colour – brown, black and green – creating an earthy feel.

The transition between autumn and winter brings lovely mild days that are perfect for early evening dinners before sipping brandy in front of the fireplace. Our table is an in between one – we’re basking in the last echoes of summer while celebrating the arrival of winter. When we were searching for ideas for our table, we came across these lovely gnarly branches lying on the beach and were so inspired that we decided to make them the centerpiece.

We used a farm kitchen table and left it uncovered to expose the markings and grain of the wood. The black and cream stoneware plates were used to contrast with the table and we opted for white napkins to add a touch of softness.

The pencils are gifts for the guests and the fact that they are made out of actual

Meet Gepetto, our interior design assistant, who has inspired our authentic look. His input is much appreciated!

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Gently cut the tops off of the rolls and hollow out. Spoon the beef and sauce into each breadbasket and fill up. Replace the ‘lid’. Garnish with the tomato and onion mix. Serve and watch everyone eat up!

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By Elizabeth Calitz

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Is with joy that we introduce this flamboyant young woman with the great sense of humour. We met Marize in 2002 when we all did theological studies together. She was such a young vibrant girl with big ambition, fresh out of school. Since we’ve known her she has had a flair for the creative and the colourful. At the graduation ceremony, Marize received the Student of the Year award, which showed just how versatile, outgoing and creative she was.

Marize grew up in an artistic house; her mother was an art teacher and her father an architect. Already we can see where she got her design talent! She was surrounded by arty things growing up, did art at school Everionetur acereribus in many art and design and participated competitions experumquam iliquist,at high school and tertiary level.

Shedoluptate was taught a very important conecabore voluptis principle at a young age: do more than what ditati sitis as aliquidis arciis is expected of you; strive for excellence. It is et vitatur sum, sae comnis this solid foundation that has undergirded demoluptat sequodand quiagrounded her - she has herquas passion nemolor porrori apicatem chosen an industry that demands long rerspic tusaessum hours and high pressure.

After her studies at the Design School of Southern Africa, Marize moved to Cape Town where she worked for fashion retailers like Woolworths and other fashion brands like Didi at YDE while building her own brand. She quickly proved her worth when she became a finalist in the Elle New Talent Design competition in 2008 and won in 2009. It was through hard work, dedication and endless creativity that Marize was able to finally open her very own flagship store in Newtown, Johannesburg a few years later.

We are proud of you!

Marize grew up enjoying the feel of fabrics and regularly played dress-up as a child.

That and a love of art and colour made her decision to study fashion design an obvious one.

Her brand, Morphe, originates from ‘metamorphosis’ and it means to outwardly transform.

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Her clothing is conceptual and can be worn in more than one way; it is playful and has an interactive DNA. Marize sees women expressing themselves in their own personal style and designs clothing that allow them to do that.

“I just keep doing what I’m doing.” In such a fickle industry Marize considers consistency important. She plans on becoming a tour de force in fashion design and not fall prey to the unsteady attitude of the industry that so many others before her have. One of her secrets in remaining steadfast is to offer clothing that is timeless.

In today’s world where survival of the fittest is paramount, Marize has come a long way to proving herself strong and faithful. “Know what you like, who you like and why you like them.” She has spent countless hours researching, interning, and learning about the fashion industry by asking the right questions to the right people and practice, practice, practice.

She is staying true to herself and her vision and is surrounding herself with quality people. Marize is constantly pushing herself to excel and to reach new heights. Knowing and appreciating herself is a quality that will keep her grounded and focused. Although she is a newcomer in the industry, we believe she’s got what it takes, so we join in the applause and cheer her on in her exciting journey to possible stardom!

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By Shawn Basson

It seems as if the word ‘authentic’ has become the IT word for our time and is being used more and more by corporate companies, design and fashion houses, social media and even in church circles. Like so many other words people use, it’s worth looking at to really understand it.

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What does it mean?

Genuine, original, real, actual, true.

Let’s pause for a moment and dissect the word to understand why it’s relevant to us and why we should sit up and smell the “authentic coffee”.

When we look at the different definitions above, we see words that are as old as time.

We are living in a generation that is so tired of ‘fluff’ and fake and is looking for the real, the true, the genuine, in life. From the décor in our homes, workplace and restaurants, to the food and coffee we drink; our entire world is filled with the search for what is genuine; for some it’s just the new craze, but for most it is the inner search for that which is true.

We want to be more ‘natural’; we find that people are moving away from hotels in favour of camping, others finish their gym session and run home, more and more people grow their own vegetables and herbs; there is a definite move towards things and activities that go ‘back to the old days.’

A more authentic life - but what is the root of all of this, and why?

Our original design is unique and true but, through sin, failure, religion and many other distractions we have put on layers of fluff. We dress ourselves in failures and achievements, and end up either trying to fix it or keep it. We end up being fake. Let me first state this: there is a mindset that believes that if you speak your mind or just do what you feel like doing regardless of what others feel or think, that is being ‘real’. In fact, it’s just being rude, selfish and inconsiderate. Being authentic is much more than being rude.

Truly being real, is being real with yourself about everything through the eyes of God. Now it depends on how you think God sees you.

Scripture says in Rom 12 that you are changed by the renewing of your mind.

What you are thinking right now will be your

future, and who you are right now is because of your thinking. Let’s look at the prodigal son. In the story both sons have an identity problem; the son that leaves, believes it is his right to have his inheritance; the other son never takes his. Both associate more with slaves than with their father. When the prodigal son returns he says he wants to work for his father because he treats his servants well, and because of his mindset he wants to earn back his sonship. The older brother returns home the evening of his younger brother’s return and sees a party going on. Instead of entering the house he goes to the servants to enquire about the party. He also associates more with them than with his father. When his father asks him about this, he mentions his good deeds and how he has never asked for anything.

The father’s response is that everything belonged to him (the son) and why did he never partake of it?

This is the question: if you strip down to the real, true, original, aunthentic you, without your failures or your achievements, who are you, what are you, what do you see, what does God see.

What is your association?

I believe it’s a journey, not a destination, even though we have heard that many times before, we tend to forget it. Authenticity is a discovery, every day, in your life.

We live in expectation, instead of appreciation, and never really find peace. True peace is not based on an external experience or state but an internal realization.

A gentle reminder, authenticity is unique to everyone; don’t live in comparison; that is the very essence of ‘falseness’ and the trap so many fall in. Be yourself and respect others. Raise your own values and not your expectations.

I believe the authentic life is not the external search the world is focused on, but rather the discovery of internal peace, and from my experience is only found in God, who is a good father, Who chose to love me before I ever chose to love Him.

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We built this project out of pine wood. Since our garden was going to be outside, we knew it would have lots of contact with water and direct sunlight, so we pre-treated the pine.

Don’t use pressure-treated lumber for this, as it contains chemicals that will leach into the soil where the edibles are growing.

The slats on the sides are made from pine 1x2, cut to 23”. This size allows you to use an 8” 1x2 to cut 4 slats for the front, while allowing for waste from the saw kerf. Be sure to place them flush with the top and bottom of the box, hiding the 1x3” base when viewed from the front. Just space them evenly by eye, about 1 to 1 1/2” apart.

Attach them with 1 1/2” long #8 decking screws. Because you’re screwing so close to the edge of the wood, you’ll definitely want to drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood.

The main boxes measure 10” high by 23” long and 7 1/4” wide. The sides are made from pine 1x8s, cut to 10”. Two pine 1x3s make up the base, 21 1/2” in length, to give the bottom strength. Note that this is not a solid bottom, so that the soil can have proper drainage. The 1x3s are spaced evenly across the bottom.

To give the covered boxes a little more space, the center boxes are 12 3/4” tall, and use five slats to make up the front and back.

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The boxes are supported with a simple L-shaped riser. It’s cut to the same height as the taller boxes - 12 3/4” - and is a piece of 1x8” with a 1x2” screwed perpendicularly to the back.

This gives it a face to screw into the wall. Line it up carefully with the bottom box, and attach.

Then, line the sides and the bottom with weed barrier cloth.

This is, admittedly, the hardest part, as the cloth is stretchy and can be a bit unwieldy. Start by cutting the weed barrier to length, leaving an extra inch or so on each side. Then, to figure out the length, wrap it around the outside of the two sides and the bottom, like you would when wrapping a gift. Cut to size, then staple to the top slat of one side, and work your way down the bottom, across, and up the other side, using lots of staples to keep things taut.

Continue to build your structure until all the boxes and risers are attached and secure. Then, fill them with potting soil, and add your plants, and voila!

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By Thabo Ntuthu & Elizabeth Calitz

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Thabo Ntuthu’s story is one of NEVER giving up. His first words when we interviewed him were “if your dreams don’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough.”

This comes from someone who was raised by a single parent. Thabo is one of five children who never had a relationship with his father. He had a low self-esteem growing up which resulted in overweight issues in primary school. Thabo was the object of ridicule and labeled as “fat” by his school peers. To address the problem, he tried cross-country running and soccer but left both when it didn’t really take off.

Motivating factors Thabo’s mother played a big role in his success. Working hard as the only parent and support in a family of five children, she always wanted the best for them and somehow managed to send them to good schools. Her love energized Thabo into getting out of his slump and make something of his life, even if it wasn’t in academics.

Being very reserved, he found it very challenging to join another sport. Then help came in the person of a grade 9 teacher, who encouraged him to put himself out there. Through her support and motivation Thabo started believing in himself and achieved Boland Schools colours for race walking and later on, Western Province for athletics. That made Thabo realize that he could achieve anything.

Progress After Thabo’s personal victory and his accomplishment, he noticed that his hard work on the field was paying off; he loved being fit and decided to pursue study in the field of fitness. At the age of 16 he stopped doing field sports and started fitness modeling. It was something he loved and excelled in. When he did his first competition, nobody thought he would make it to the top 3. He made 2nd place. In 2014 and 2015 Thabo had the opportunity to represent Western Province.

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He is currently working to get his SA colours in Body Building.

“I thank everyone who supports me because I wouldn’t be able to do this alone. The only thing stopping you is you. I didn’t need to go to a fancy gym. I gym in a backyard gym and wouldn’t change it. The only thing you need to do is make a start.

Don’t worry about what people say. They may hate you and even break you. Your victory lies in how you get up, shake it off and move on.

Reach heights that you never knew existed.

Dream big.”

“I believe support is the best thing you can give to anyone.”

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Style 02 $ 165 store.com

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By Esaias Calitz Everionetur acereribus experumquam iliquist, conecabore voluptis doluptate ditati sitis as aliquidis arciis et vitatur sum, sae comnis demoluptat quas sequod quia nemolor porrori apicatem rerspic tusaessum

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How to grow a beard The following information should help get you through the beard-growing process.

1. Commit to growing a beard Growing a beard requires a commitment.

The experience can even be a test of character as well as a surprising process of self-discovery. Do you have what it takes?

Shaving is the norm and letting your beard grow is the exception. When you see a man with a full-grown beard, you know he made the decision to be bearded and he had the determination to stick with it.

If you have developed enough facial hair to allow you to grow a beard, then you owe it to yourself to grow it out at least once during your lifetime. You may be so pleased with the results, even unexpectedly so, that you decide to keep the beard permanently. If not, then shave it off. At the very least you will have given it a try and you’ll know what it was like to grow your beard.

2. Stop shaving and start growing •Consider starting your beard while on

vacation. You’ll be more relaxed about it while away from your job.

•Don’t be overly concerned about other people’s potential reactions to your new beard. If you have a good beard, most people will probably react favorably. So relax and enjoy the experience.

•When starting to let your beard grow, just stop shaving — completely. Do not shave at all for at least the first four weeks of growth. One of the most common errors is to attempt to start shaping or sculpting the beard too early in the process. If you don’t wait, you might cut off more than you really wanted. You can always trim it down to a smaller size later.

•After four weeks, you can start shaping the beard.

Usually, you’ll want to define a “neck line” along the bottom of your beard around the neck. This is probably best done by a professional barber or stylist. The hard part may be finding one who has a lot of experience in beard styling.

•Generally the “cheek line”, the upper limit of the beard on the cheeks, is best left natural. Some men butcher otherwise excellent beards by shaving the cheeks into strange shapes. Unless your beard appears to be starting just below your eyes, you probably are better off not shaving or sculpting the beard on your cheeks.

•Don’t let itching deter you! If you experience itching, keep your skin clean by daily shampooing (with a gentle shampoo) and optionally using a conditioner. Your skin will eventually adjust to the new situation. If you happen to need more relief, try applying some baby oil or moisturizing lotion to the areas that are itching.

3. Maintain your beard •Invest in a beard trimmer •learn how to use it.

•Usually you should shampoo your beard

with the same shampoo you already use for your head.

•Pat your beard gently dry with a towel.

Blow drying is not usually necessary and is probably not recommended anyway.

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When we contacted Farren from Barnet Fair to arrange for our beard makeover shoot, we didn’t know what to expect. When we pulled up in front of the shop, we were delighted to discover that the entrance had an authentic look and there was a barber pole as well, which takes you back to the days when barbering first began.

So we walked inside, and we were instantly transported to the heydays of old fashioned barbering. The place had an otherworldly feel; you were almost expecting a butler to take your whiskey order while you wait! Then we were approached by a friendly red-haired vision, Maxine, who is a partner and co-owner of the business. She welcomed us and told us that they are just finishing off the last few customers. We started doing light tests and preparing ourselves for the shoot.

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In came Farren, the owner of Barnett Fair, and he looked just the part with his twirled up moustache. And so our experience started. It was evident that he knew his trade well from the way he talked about cutting, grooming and maintaining your hair and beard.

Esaias got a thorough makeover and everything was documented on camera, before, during and after.

We enjoyed our experience and have only good things to say about Farren, Maxine and Barnet Fair. They are quality people, knowledgeable about what they do and we look forward to a continuing partnership with them.

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2. Tell us about the services that you offer The basic services that we offer are haircuts, traditional barber fades and then the classic hot towel shaves. Besides the fact that we only do men’s hair, it’s the hot towel shave that really sets a barbershop apart from other salons. We use shavettes, which simulate the shaving experience using a traditional cutthroat razor as well as the old-fashioned badger hair brushes to apply shaving cream.

1. How and when was Barnett Fair started? What made you decide to go into this industry?

My ex, who is an international hair stylist, came across the opportunity in 2010 to buy Barnett Fair, which was originally started by a gentleman by the name of Steven Pitt. We had just moved here from the UK; I was still in hospitality and needed a career change so this opportunity came at the perfect time.

Initially I was just running the shop and the day-to-day tasks and administrative stuff until I noticed some theft; there were some in-house politics going on as as well, so I realized that I needed to be on the floor as a barber.

Luckily I could get some training from an academy but the majority of my training is self-taught. I spent hours watching Youtube videos on how to cut, shave and groom and Barnett Fair has just grown from strength to strength ever since I became a barber there.

Watching all those clips and during my training, I fell in love with the industry and culture. I enjoy talking to people and my job allows me to connect with an amazing variety of people. You develop such a personal relationship with your clients; it’s really so much more than just cutting hair – people tell their barber things they would never tell anyone else and vice versa. Now we have a strict rule: what happens in the barbershop stays in the barbershop!

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Men’s grooming and the love of facial hair has grown from strength to strength among men, and women! No one wants a scraggily untamed beard, so we also offer beard shaping and trimming and a great range of products that will suit everyone’s needs.

3. Any tips on grooming and maintaining a professional look (hair and beard)?

It’s all about the small details; making sure there are no lines or flyaway hairs or hair sticking out when styling your hair. Make sure you go to a good barber that will give you clean lines around the neck and face and really make your hair, beard or mustache look clean and well groomed.

Daily grooming, of course, makes all the difference. Brush your beard and mustache every day to stimulate healthy skin and hair growth, use beard oils to soften the hair and make it look shiny and give it a good styling to keep yourself looking sharp.

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Jan-Roux is local boy turned mover-and-shaker in the fitness industry. He is the first to admit that he has come a long way. Interestingly, his journey started being ‘short and pudgy’, which kicked off the decision to start playing rugby after some positive feedback from his Physical Education teacher. Jan tasted his first victory when he made the U/12 rugby team and dropped 30kg during training sessions. He also skateboarded, which helped improve his physique.

With high school came new challenges when Jan’s

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By Jan-Roux

family went through a crisis, and high stress levels caused him to run more and eat less. Things went from bad to worse and after he matriculated, Jan fell into a deep depression, started binge eating and starving himself, and locked himself in his room with computer games as a means of escape. Jan’s student years saw him studying graphic and web design, and with it came a student life of partying and drinking.

Everyone reaches that low point when they have to decide between life or destruction.

Jan-Roux is local boy turned mover-andshaker in the fitness industry. He is the first to admit that he has come a long way. Interestingly, his journey started being ‘short and pudgy’, which kicked off the decision to start playing rugby after some positive feedback from his Physical Education teacher. Jan tasted his first victory when he made the U/12 rugby team and dropped 30kg during training sessions. He also skateboarded, which helped improve his physique.

doing and adjust plans according to each individual client.

With high school came new challenges when Jan’s family went through a crisis, and high stress levels caused him to run more and eat less. Things went from bad to worse and after he matriculated, Jan fell into a deep depression, started binge eating and starving himself, and locked himself in his room with computer games as a means of escape. Jan’s student years saw him studying graphic and web design, and with it came a student life of partying and drinking.

Everyone reaches that low point when they have to decide between life or destruction.

Jan chose life. He realized that his life had to change and asked his mom for a gym contract. And so his fitness journey started.

Jan started doing research on fitness training and nutrition and using a scientific approach, started changing the way he looked. He overcame his fear of gaining body fat again because he learned that, in order to build quality muscle, he would need to have some fat in his body.

As with all things, people noticed the difference and wanted to know more. Jan started helping others and so realized his passion. He had a purpose and was determined not to get sidetracked again. He finished his certificate in exercise science, got work as a personal trainer at the gym and within a year he was fully booked, working from 5 AM to 7 PM seven days a week. Jan also began coaching international clients via a training platform, which allows him to create programs and upload meal plans. With this program clients can track their weight and repetitions according to a training plan; Jan can see what they are

What is Jan’s secret to looking the way he does?

“I now personally follow a flexible dieting approach to nutrition where I am able to consume anything I like while staying within my calorie and macro nutrient limits. From a health standpoint, I try to consume 80% of my food from wholesome food choices and I leave 20% wiggle room to sneak in something sweet every day.

From a training standpoint, I train 5 – 6 days a week and I follow a High Frequency Full Body Routine (HFFB) that I designed myself after going over some research and playing around with full body training. This will mean that on any given day, I try to perform 2x chest exercises, 2x back exercises, 2x lower body exercises, 2x shoulder exercises and 2x isolation exercises like bicep curls, tricep extensions, abdominals and calves.”

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“…know exactly what goes into your body; this is where most guys fall short.”

When training for a competition, Jan steps it up a few notches. He says competition training is one of the hardest tasks he has yet encountered, both physically and mentally.

An interesting fact is that only about 10% of people training for shows actually make it onto the stage. You go against your body’s will to survive by staying in a state of starvation for 16 – 20 weeks. On top of that you are also putting your body through strenuous training regimes and countless hours of cardio. Everyone reacts differently through mood changes and irritability.

Some people cruise through this process while others will be affected more seriously.

Apart from a rigorous training schedule, Jan believes that a healthy lifestyle is the way to go.

“A healthy lifestyle also means being mentally healthy. According to studies, 90% of bodybuilders suffer from mental disorders and thousands of women and men suffer from eating disorders. While they might look good from the outside, they are miserable on the inside. I believe in following a balanced approach to bodybuilding and fitness and I live by the 80/20 rule. As long as you can stick to your diet and train 80% of the time you can allow yourself to be flexible and indulge in things you love and enjoy 20% of the time. This also means that 20% of your total calories for the day should go to something you enjoy eating.

For me that is ice cream, so I make sure I

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have enough room (calories) left by the end of the day to enjoy some Marcel’s Chocolate Frozen Yogurt covered with coco pops and chocolate sauce.”

We admire Jan for being so single minded in going after his dreams and we salute his courage in jumping over his hurdles to be an international fitness specialist and trainer.

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Get to know

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your camera

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Manual photography cheat sheet

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Elbi Basson ICON PROPERTIES / EIENDOMME Office: (021) 855 2814 / Fax-Mail: 086 647 0590 / Mobile No: 084 600 6350 P.O.Box 278, Soneike, Kuilsriver, 7583 Email: elbi@iconpropertygroup.co.za Web: www.iconpropertygroup.co.za