The Ridge 133

JULY 2022 ISSUE 133

A FIRST FOR DURBAN Distributed to the communities of Ballito, Durban North, Gateway, La Lucia, Mt Edgecombe, Prestondale, Somerset Park, uMdloti, uMhlali, uMhlanga Ridge, uMhlanga Rocks, Zimbali

*ed's letter

Meet Lauren Dickerson,

our newest member to The Ridge sales team. Lauren will be selling in the uMhlanga and Ballito areas, so if you’re keen to have your business or product advertised in The Ridge to reach A-income homes, businesses and estates, give Lauren a call today. She will put together an advertising package to suit your budget and needs. Contact Lauren on 072 425 2780 or email: Lauren.Dickerson@ famouspublishing.co.za

Congratulations!

Congrats to our lucky readers who won prizes in time for both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The winners are:

MOTHER’S DAY WINNERS: • Mangwanani Spa Day worth R3 500: Ida Delport • Gateway Shopping Spree worth R2 500: Anusha Dhanraj • Edgars Beauty Make-over And Hamper worth R3 250: Linsey Luis • Capital Zimbali Overnight Stay worth R8 500: Elizabeth Evans • High Tea at The Oyster Box worth R1 600: Robert Kermack FATHER’S DAY WINNERS: • Gateway Shopping Spree worth R2 500: Robyn Clark • R2 000 Voucher for Fiamma Grill: Laura Mottura • R2 000 Meal Voucher for Mozambik The Pearls: Nisha Ramkhelawon

THEREÕS NO STOPPING PROGRESS

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t was in 1996 that we moved to the uMhlanga area. We bought our home off-plan, and while looking at the plans for the complex stuck on the side of a caravan parked on a dirt track surrounded by sugar cane, a small part of me did wonder if we were making the right move. Little did I know what was to come …

Within days of moving into our new home, uMhlanga Rocks Drive was widened from one lane to two lanes both ways. It wasn’t very long before the foundations were poured for Gateway, and over the years this massive shopping complex has mushroomed to become a central point in uMhlanga. With it, businesses and blocks of offices have taken root, turning uMhlanga into a thriving metropolis – where business and pleasure meet.

Closer to the beach, more

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development was taking place – and overnight The Pearls rose up from the ground, reshaping the skyline along our coastline. Fast forward to today – and not without a pinch of controversy – the newest edition to uMhlanga’s portfolio of hotels has recently opened its doors. The Radisson Blu Durban uMhlanga.

For once, the timing might be spot-on. After surviving the challenges that came with Covid, plus KZN residents contending with the riots a year ago and the devastating floods a few months back, it’s time we celebrated some good news.

With Covid numbers in control, and tourism on the upswing, now is the perfect time to welcome overseas tourists back to our amazing province, to our much-desired coastline, and to enjoy everything our community has to offer – new glitzy hotels as well as our

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more traditional experiences, a feast of food flavours, upmarket shops, and our warm ocean.

Progress might not always be what we desire because often we don’t have the vision to see the bigger picture. But at the end of the day KZN needs progress to build the economy, to attract the tourists, so that we have a better future.

Until next time, let's enjoy all that is on our doorstep.

TALK TO US

lorna.king@famouspublishing.co.za www.theridgeonline.co.za W Ridge Magazine

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in this issue*

GROUP EDITOR Doody Adams EDITOR Lorna King 078 750 9669 DESIGNER Stephanie Osborne SALES CONSULTANT Lauren Dickerson 072 425 2780 Lauren.Dickerson@famouspublishing.co.za DISTRIBUTION Mphumzeni Thusi ACCOUNTS & DISTRIBUTION QUERIES Meghan Dewet 083 533 5898 ONLINE EDITOR Sarah Mackintosh CONTRIBUTORS Val Adamson, Katrine Anker-Nilssen, Gareth Bailey, Jess Basson, Darrel BristowBovey, Cathy Clark, Lee Currie, Ant Ellis, Shan Fourie, Christy Herselman, Nelfrie Kemp, Anne Schauffer, Lisa Walters-Hunter

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Copyright: All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Famous Publishing unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced or stored by an electronic system without prior written permission from Famous Publishing.

Disclaimer: While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. Neither do they endorse any products/services advertised herein. Material which appears under ‘Advertorial’ is paid for.

* To the people of uMhlanga, La Lucia, Zimbali, Mount Edgecombe, Ballito, Gateway, La Lucia Mall, the Crescent, the office parks, the residential estates and, of course, all our advertisers, thank you for your continued support

38 COMMUNITY COVER: REACHING FOR THE SKY

Published by Famous Publishing www.famousdurban.co.za Printed by Novus Managed distribution by Vibrant Direct

LIFESTYLE 8

Perfect for all shapes and sizes

OUR COMMUNITY, YOUR MAGAZINE 12

A SOUPED-UP WINTER

Meeting our readers

Ant Ellis keeps the cold out and the warmth in

TURNING ATHLETES INTO ACTIVISTS 14

CORNER APPEAL

Helping the underprivileged through sport

Adding character to a boring corner

GROW YOUR VOICE WINTER GARDEN

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KZN

WE ALSO PUBLISH

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M AY / J U N E 2 0 2 2

INVEST CONNECT COMMUNICATE COLLABORATE

FROM HELPLESS TO HOPEFUL

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Conscience

Indaba

Logistics

Locals rally to help Ukrainians

Tenacious tourism’s valiant fight

New warehousing complex promises to boost city logistics

JUNE-JULY 2022 ISSUE 108

Passionate People

Chris Black's new restaurant

ED’S LETTER TAKE NOTE SOCIALS LAST WORD

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Buying property in the Metaverse

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1 4 44 48

ADVERTORIALS 35

THULA MOYA SOLAR AND ELECTRICAL

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Shan Fourie's wellness tips

IS THIS FOR REAL? THE BLACK RABBIT

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Choosing the right running shoes

WELLNESS MATTERS ISSUE 17

Developers Removing red tape to fast track investments and create jobs

REGULARS

Parenting: Learning to process emotions

THE BIG RUN

UP, CLOSE AND PERSONAL

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Maashi Rampersad: First-time author

ESCAPING THE HAPPINESS TRAP

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Connecting with nature at Rhino Sand

Jane and Jess: Three choices to help you

BRINGING US CLOSER TOGETHER

LET'S GET MOVING

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Trending: Best buys for runners

10 Tips to care for your winter garden

In compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4, if you do not want to receive The Ridge magazine for free, please email sarah.mackintosh@famouspublishing.co.za For more information visit: www.famousdurban.co.za

CLASSIC, FUN SWIMWEAR

Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga

Digital advice for growing your business

The ABC logo is a valued seal of trust, providing measurement, compliance and auditing services which protects the way advertising is traded. The Ridge is ABC audited and certified.

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ON THE COVER: Marius Earle and Neville *Matjie.

Picture: Val Adamson

Distributed to the communities of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier & Winston Park

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take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP

WORLD-FIRST FOR ESSE

PT SECR KE

• THE R I

E MAGAZ DG

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’S BEST INE

THE NEXT LEVEL Known for their innovative concepts and beautiful design, the team at Ballito’s Lifestyle Centre have launched yet another ground-breaking offering. Next Level presents a welcoming collection of meeting spaces in a casual and unpretentious, yet sophisticated environment, in which to connect with colleagues, professionals, friends and like-minded acquaintances.

According to Lifestyle Centre owner, Bruce Rencken, “Next Level is an integral part of the ethos of The Studios and Lifestyle Centre, enabling the North Coast community to connect, engage and perform at a different level by providing an unparalleled meeting experience.”

Four stylish meeting rooms are equipped with the latest technology for the best connectivity and audio-visual experience.

Offering a choice of boardroom or lounge type venues, they offer business

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ABOVE: The Dandelion Lounge is an

8-10 seater sitting room offering a casual yet sophisticated back drop for intimate events.

professionals, engaged hobbyists or friends the ability to effortlessly host or attend client meetings, team workshops, art classes, hobby clubs and intimate celebrations in an inspiring space.

Good coffee from Coffee Lab and great food options are also on offer, and the Next Level team can even tailor-make an event for you.

As Bruce states, “This is not your average meeting space, and it’s so much better than any boardroom or conference venue.

Everything is literally taken to the next level with the intention of facilitating productivity, creativity and delight.”

FOR MORE INFO: www.ballitolifestylecentre. co.za/nextlevel or follow them on @nextlevelballito or W @nextlevelballito.

Homegrown bio-clinical skincare brand, Esse, has launched a range of professional, customised skin rewilding treatments which incorporate advanced pre- and probiotics, as well as the application of live probiotics. The Esse Experience treatments – Esse Express, Esse Experience, and Esse Live Probiotic Experience – are world-first, science-based treatments that rewild the skin using Esse products.

“Conventional skincare has adversely affected the skin’s natural microbiome by stripping it of bacteria that actually protect the skin,” explained Trevor Steyn, founder of Esse. “Because of this, we’ve seen a drastic rise in modern skin conditions such as acne and eczema, with the problem further compounded by people turning to quick fixes that do more to harm the skin than help.

“The targeted facial treatments deeply hydrate, soothe, and renew the skin. This not only rewilds the skin – restoring the natural microbiome – but it also reduces inflammation and slows the ageing process.”

Benefits include: Boosting collagen production, soothing stress relief, antiinflammatory properties, strengthening the barrier function, and restoring the skin’s natural ecosystem.

FOR MORE INFO: www.esseskincare.com

A HABBY PLACE

GATEWAY’S INFLUENCERS

ABOVE: Six of the best: Tee Xaba, Shan

Six Durban-based content creators have joined Gateway Theatre of Shopping to share their experience of the mall’s ongoing, exciting story. Having established themselves as authentic voices and experts in specific interest categories, they know how to create engaging content.

“Gateway is active on Facebook, Twitter,

Instagram and, more recently, TikTok,” says Gateway Theatre of Shopping marketing manager, Michelle Shelley.

“The platforms let us share what’s happening at the mall, as well as the inside scoop from Gateway tenants.”

The selected content creators and their categories of interest are:

1. Fashion 2. Food 3. Wellness 4. Entertainment 5. Home and Decor 6. Tech, Gaming, and Toys

Fourie, Muhammed Timol (Moj), Lindiwe Dube, Nono Mtshali and Skye Wigley.

@moj_timol @Inthekitchenwithnono @Shanfourie.co.za @therealteexaba @lindiwe_doobear YT - KiLAB Gaming

NEW LOOK PLANTERS Brand new in SA, Japi by Hingham presents this stylish range of planters from Brazil. Conveniently super-lightweight, they’re made from highly durable polyresin material that is UV protected for both indoor and outdoor use. Chip and crack

Muhammed Timol Nono Mtshali Shan Fourie Tee Xaba Lindiwe Dube Skye Wigley

New kid on the block at Flanders Boutique Mall is Sew Hello. “I’ve always felt there was a need for a local ‘habby’ store as residents have to travel some distance to buy a simple needle and thread.

Sewing and crochet has definitely made a comeback – and at Sew Hello we give lessons in both. Also, well-known bear maker Dianne Sturgess will soon be joining us for bear making classes,” says owner Meryl Booth.

Sew Hello is also a Bernette agency working with Bernina Durban North. This makes it easier for Bernina clients in Mount Edgecombe and surrounds to drop off or pick up their machines for service, etc.

Crochet Classes: Alternate Thursday and Saturday mornings at 9am.

Sewing Classes: Monday or Tuesday or Wednesday mornings at 9am, or Thursday evenings.

Coming Soon: Bear making classes.

FOR MORE INFO: Booking essential on 078 559 0651; sew.hello.flanders@gmail.com; sew.hello.there

resistant, this material carries a 10-year warranty. The range is large with sleek modern styles and some classic designs too, with a spectrum of colours that is versatile and ideal for current decor trends.

FOR MORE INFO: 082 895 8701; available at www.japibyhingham.com or at Hingham Nursery in Glen Hills.

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ABOVE: Meryl (standing) with some fellow tenants trying their hand at crocheting.

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take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP SPRINGFIELD RETAIL CENTRE – LOTS MORE TO OFFER One year after the unrest, it’s great to find something to celebrate in KZN. Despite the challenges, Springfield Retail Centre’s landlord has rebuilt the centre, using the opportunity to add new features and upgrades to give shoppers an even better experience.

Stores that were affected by the unrest have risen to the occasion, with Dial-a-Bed and Ted’s Home Store recently opening brand-new stores in May. Ted’s Home Store now boasts a massive 1 000m² concept showroom, while the new Dial-a-Bed store has a new look alongside unique features – a Comfort Zone that lets you find the mattress softness that’s right for you.

Coricraft opened its doors in April, with an impressive 1 224m² showroom that oozes decor inspiration, and ToyZone will re-open in July. Also coming in July are Mr Price Home, Westpak and PetZone.

For a WOW experience, visit Springfield Retail Centre today!

FLAVOURS OF JAPAN Yori Oki is the newest addition to Eat Street’s restaurant scene at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre, offering an intimate, beautifully designed space in which to indulge in the flavours of Japan, on both a sensory and culinary level.

Owner-manager, Christos Konahos, explains that “Yori Oki is translated as ‘bigger than or greater than’, and although our space is small, our food, our ambience and our service embody the meaning of Yori Oki. Our aim is to ensure our patrons are immersed in a unique sensory experience that honours the Japanese culture and showcases our big flavours and generosity of spirit.”

Each dish is prepared and plated to perfection and signature cocktails create

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a feast for the senses. Yori Oki offers traditional and signature sushi, claiming to take sushi to the next level, along with an extensive main menu focused on the food of Japan, including Dim Sum, Ramen, Mamezara (small dishes) and Robatayaki (flame-grilled skewers on special Binchotan coals).

In addition, their small selection of main meals and desserts presents their unique take on the vibrant and distinctive flavours of contemporary Japanese fusion. An excellent wine list and extensive range of Japanese liquor and whiskies completes the experience.

FOR MORE INFO: View the menu and book a table or order online for home delivery or takeaway at www.yorioki.co.za

MUZE – NEW STORE AT GATEWAY

ECO-CONSCIOUS LUGGAGE COLLECTION The Thule Aion range is the latest luggage collection to join the Thule family.

Made from recycled materials with all-inone solutions for unparalleled functionality, each piece in the collection has been designed with the active lifestyle in mind and will help you seamlessly transition from everyday life to faraway adventures.

The highly durable and water-resistant waxed canvas fabric is free from toxic PFCs (perfluorinated compounds/ persistent organic pollutants) and will keep belongings dry in bad weather. The bag’s rugged and durable waxed canvas fabric

develops a patina that looks even better as it ages and gives it more character.

Every piece in the Thule Aion collection has innovative modular and multifunctional designs to allow you to use one bag for a variety of activities, or combine bags to utilise new functions. The Thule Aion sling bag, for example, doubles up as a hip belt when used with Thule Aion backpacks.

The bags also have unique interior features that separate everyday items from dirty or damp active gear.

Available in the collection are a duffel bag, carry-on suitcase, travel backpack and sling bag.

FOR MORE INFO: www.thulestore.co.za

Muze sells more than just beautiful clothes. With a desire for women to overcome insecurities, we draw out their beauty from within and take on the role of “personal stylist” and friend the minute one walks into our store. This is the thinking of Wendy van Zyl and Stephanie Wilkes, the partners behind the Muze brand.

Muze’s bespoke designs, limited runs and carefully crafted ranges are made with a passion for authenticity. This is testament in the fabric choices, pattern inspiration, colour palette and styles that are handpicked and carefully sought out.

Garments are 100% locally made, and the concept behind Muze is based on timeless pieces, interchangeable items that work together to create a complete wardrobe. Try something new, step out of your comfort zone – be fabulous!

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC Three music greats all wrapped up in one show. Don’t miss a tribute to Abba, the Bee Gees and Queen. Burning up the stage at The Barnyard Theatre, Suncoast, tickets cost from R195 per person. Get your body moving as this show takes you on a trip through space and time in the 70s and 80s when glitz, glam and some of the greatest pop tunes ever written emerged. On stage until September 18.

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cover story*

reaching

FOR THE SKY THE DOORS ARE OPEN OF THE LONGAWAITED RADISSON BLU HOTEL DURBAN UMHLANGA AND SOON, THE WIDER OCEANS PRECINCT. ITS IMPACT AS A BEACON FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IS FAR REACHING, FROM THE DRAMATIC BOOST FOR TOURISM IN THE PROVINCE, TO DIVERSE AND ON-GOING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, WRITES ANNE SCHAUFFER

T

he opening of the prestigious, certainly glamorous, shiny new Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga on Lagoon Drive – is a landmark moment for uMhlanga and the North Coast belt. But for KZN, the 206-roomed five-star hotel and its greater precinct goes way beyond glamour.

Vivian Reddy is chairman and co-developer of Oceans uMhlanga, under which falls ownership of Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga.

Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga is

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at the heart of a 250 000 bulk square metre development, the largest in South Africa. At R4,5-billion and counting, the investment is substantial, the complexities often unimaginable. “It’s going to change the face of uMhlanga Rocks,” says Vivian. “It’ll be the focal point of entertainment here.”

Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga is the globally acclaimed Radisson Hotel Group’s entry into its fourth South African city, Durban. This brings the Group’s portfolio in South Africa – one of its key African markets – to 14 hotels in operation

and two under development. It’s set to be a significant player and catalyst for growth in KwaZulu-Natal. Seasoned South African hotelier – and new general manager there – Marius Earle believes the hotel could not have come at a better time: “The hospitality industry has endured some tough times, and opening a new hotel has brought with it new jobs, renewed hope, world-class guest experiences and a turn-around in the tourism sector. I could not be prouder to lead this amazing hotel.”

Neville Matjie is CEO of Trade and

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Picture: Denver Govender

with the mandate to attract and retain investments into the province as well as assisting KZN companies to access international markets for their products.

As a generator of investments into the province, we work closely with project promoters of Catalytic Projects so as to ease the red tape and ensure speedy implementation of the different KZN projects.

“This project forms part of KZN’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan which drives the fast-tracking infrastructure projects – both public and private – which are critical in order to ensure that economic activity can be stimulated. TIKZN, through its facilitation, partnered with Oceans in the marketing of the facility in different markets, as well as through the funded mandate of the KZN Growth Coalition to fast track decisions that impacted on the successful implementation of this project.”

He, too, commented on the massive advantages which go beyond the obvious: “The opening of this hotel, conference

centre and shopping mall precinct is about so much more than what we see before us.

It’s about realising the growth in demand for such facilities in the uMhlanga node; about

Opening a new hotel has brought with it new jobs, renewed hope, world-class guest experiences and a turn-around in the tourism sector realising the importance of this uMhlanga node, which through added investments could sustain an additional 200 to 400 hotel rooms over and above what Radisson is offering. The uMhlanga node has also shown tremendous growth, boasting the highest hotel occupancy rate in the eThekwini region. This project is a practical demonstration of the resilience »

Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN). He explained the role of TIKZN generally in the KZN landscape, and in particular, the “partnership” between Radisson Blu uMhlanga/Oceans uMhlanga development, and TIKZN: “TIKZN is the official trade and investment promotion agency for KZN,

RIGHT: This sculpture that welcomes guests to the Radisson Blu Hotel was created by Carl Maritz to capture a eureka moment – one that evokes a feeling of complete emersion with its curling barrel waves alongside a splashing wave, highlighted by two dolphins playing together.

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of our home-grown companies, and of their determination to press ahead with developments that will have a lasting impact on the city, the province and the country.”

As with tourism, development has had an extremely tough few years: “KZN has been hardest hit for the past two years with Covid-19 that crippled tourism, the July civil unrest, and the most recent and devastating floods,” says Neville. “It has plunged our economy into turmoil, people have lost jobs and many promising investments were put on hold or shelved.

This investment, and the opening of this facility, is a clear indication of the belief that business has in the KZN economy.

It demonstrates that KZN is SA’s premier investment destination which has a resilient business community. Government support is also very visible in supporting all investments into the region. This

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investment will also open space for us to encourage intra-regional tourism. Marius Earle sees the hotel’s conference and events centre as a key drawcard: “It’s the largest in the node and very flexible.”

Neville expanded on the Radisson Blu brand: “It’s actually Chinese owned,

ABOVE: From left: GM for Radisson Blu, Marius Earle, chairman and co-developer of Oceans uMhlanga, Vivian Reddy, and Neville Matjie, CEO of Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal.

Picture: Val Adamson

which is a great advantage for KZN in our strategy to attract tourists from the Far East, particularly the Chinese market. With over 40 hotels on the African continent, it’ll assist us not only in attracting linkages with other African markets, but also in supporting the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.”

There are clear advantages to aligning oneself with an acclaimed international hotel group – the Radisson Rewards programme being one of them. Radisson has nine separate, distinctive hotel brands, and more than 1 700 hotels in operation and under development in 120 countries.

Radisson Blu has in the region of six million guests globally, so the frequent guest aspect works significantly in the brand’s favour. Across all their hotel brands – 50 million guests.

Two aspects of the development are still works in progress. The 500 towers – luxe

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Picture: Val Adamson

apartments – coming in at R2-billion. On the 27th floor, there will be two presidential suites of 650m² each, the biggest in South Africa. uMhlanga will have the most expensive presidential suites anywhere.

The second is the R1,3-billion luxury mall which is due to open in October.

Corporate social responsibility initiatives and the generation of authentic employment opportunities has been an integral part of the project: “During construction, we had 1 300 people working on our site. Aside from employment, we set up a food kitchen and school training centre for our neighbouring communities in Blackburn,” says Vivian. For Neville at TIKZN, “Hotels play a vital role in sustainable tourism. The demand for hotels is usually associated with the number of tourists seeking an overnight stay and the popularity of a destination. This, our focus as KZN, is to ensure the growth of

investments into tourism products. We know when an area’s tourist demand grows, the demand for hotels rises, driving developers and hotel companies to rush into popular destinations. Hotels, tourism, and local communities intertwine in close symbiotic

The uMhlanga node has also shown tremendous growth, boasting the highest hotel occupancy rate in the eThekwini region relationships due to their physical proximity of and inevitable collaboration.

“For this reason, sustainable tourism practices and ethical hotel development

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(that connects social, cultural and economic factors) are vital factors for both the longterm preservation of culture and the socialeconomic stability.

“In a nutshell,” he says, “it will not only increase the rates revenue for the municipality, but will create sustainable jobs for employees of the establishment and the suppliers of products and services to the facility.”

Radisson Blu Hotel Durban uMhlanga lays claim to a number of firsts which go beyond being the first Radisson in KZN, and include elements such as SA’s first Firelake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, one of only eight in the world. As Marius says, “It’s certainly the most talked about property in town, and the community is excited. It’s a fresh, new take on accommodation, dining and hospitality and fits in perfectly in the Durban skyline. In essence, we can be classified as an urban resort.

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readers breakfast*

OUR COMMUNITY,

your magazine

ENGAGING WITH YOU, OUR READERS, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE RIDGE MAGAZINE WILL BECOME A REGULAR HAPPENING AT THE CIRCUS CIRCUS CAFE AT GATEWAY. HERE IS FEEDBACK FROM OUR FIRST BREAKFAST NAZMERA ISMAIL For me The Ridge magazine is my preferred choice because it is a simple yet insightful publication that is also easy to read which makes it so enjoyable. It highlights very useful and trendy places to be, places to eat, as well as places to enjoy in our surrounding areas.

CARALINE HILLIER The Ridge magazine has always been a firm favourite read of mine. It is so exciting to discover new places to eat, drink and read about, as well as new small businesses in our community.

It always carries well informed, interesting articles to read from start to finish.

MICHELLE SHELLEY The Ridge magazine is a beautifully designed local publication filled with interesting to read, quality content.

It’s a great mix of what’s on, social happenings and relevant advertising – aligning itself perfectly to our needs.

The Ridge team understand our business and offer great support to our ongoing marketing efforts.

*

Do you have ideas of what youÕd like to see more of in The Ridge magazine? Email me on Lorna.King@famouspublishing.co.za with your thoughts, and you could be a guest at the next breakfast at Circus Circus cafe meeting The Ridge team.

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TILLEY DOORS DOORS FOR ALL TYPES OF GARAGE DOORS

THE GLOBE Saturday, 20 August 7pm - 10pm • Tickets from: R300 Available at Computicket

community*

TURNING ATHLETES

into activists

SPORT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A CATALYST FOR UNITING PEOPLE – THE SPORT FOR LIVES MOVEMENT HAS DEEPENED THAT CONNECTION, AND IT’S EFFECTING SOME IMPORTANT CHANGES, WRITES ANNE SCHAUFFER 14

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teacher at Hilton College for 13 years, Chris Kingsley and his family witnessed many people emigrating in recent times for various reasons: “Feeling called to stay and not emigrate, then one must stay and make a difference. But how would we actually do something that made that difference?

Generally, South Africans want to do so much, but don’t know where to begin, so keep on doing what they were doing.”

Chris was constantly wrestling with this challenge, and then, without trying, a solution presented itself – Jono Kruger, a teacher friend at Selborne College, told him about Tries for Lives. In a nutshell, it worked like this – individual children in a rugby team would get their friends and family to sponsor an amount of money per try – so the more tries, the more funds raised. But these funds were used in a very specific

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way: “It was not a simple fundraising initiative – a money transaction – it was about building relationships with local causes in need,” says Chris. As coach of Hilton’s under-15 rugby team, Chris was on board.

“Down the road from Hilton College is an orphanage, Thandi House. I talked to the boys about the Tries for Lives concept, and we went there to meet the children.

Relationships were formed, connections were made, and specific needs identified.

The money raised was not a general donation, it always had a specific purpose.”

Whether it was renovating a building or funding a washing machine, it was a focused initiative.

Over the next few rugby seasons – every try worth a few thousand rand – the under-15s raised about R150 000 for projects at Thandi House. The Thandi House children came to watch and cheer on the boys at their games, and the boys spent time with the children.

Chris is clear: “We are not about the transaction of giving, we are all about heart giving. Money is not the answer. It’s failed before.” The boys were playing with a real, greater purpose which increased their motivation to score tries. The change it effected in them was marked.

Living and working in a privileged environment such as Hilton College comes with a responsibility: “We didn’t want to

be ashamed of our privilege, but rather do something with it,” says Chris.

He recalls, “A 15-year-old Hilton boy knocked on my door and wanted to set up a Swim for Lives campaign. Six boys swam for 24 hours and raised R60 000.

We all think it’s a money thing, but what really happened was he’d spent about three hours with the orphans at Thandi House and that was life changing for him.

His parents phoned me the next day and said it’s the first time they’d sat down around the dinner table and spoken at length about privilege. Their son was so committed to the children at Thandi House, he didn’t want any Christmas gifts, no big holidays, but rather wanted funds directed there – the experience shifted his heart,” says Chris. “It’s this compassion we want – this will be the generation that makes the difference. These relationships and connections have a multiplier effect.”

Increasingly, Chris was approached by other sports teachers and schools: “They wanted to find out all about it, and how they could get involved. The more we were telling stories of hope, the more people wanted to get involved. It was having a sustainable impact in the community.”

And that’s how Chris became co-founder and managing director of Sport for Lives. A real leap of faith – two actually. He – and his wife – both teachers, resigned from their jobs and started two NPOs. Sport for Lives is a tool that can empower individuals and communities to be intentional about making a difference.

As Chris explained, “You can literally walk round the block, and still achieve a similar outcome.” Tries for Lives morphed into Swim for Lives, Run for Lives, Birdies for Lives, Boundaries & Wickets for Lives and Goals for Lives. “‘We are the most unequal country in the world’ – that’s our starting point.

That’s our Why,” says Chris. “Sport has the power to change that.” For him, there are enough resources in every community to »

LEFT: From left, Jono Kruger and Chris Kingsley, the brains behind Sport for Lives.

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community*

change the narrative in South Africa. He’s spent a great deal of time visiting schools, sharing the concept: “Generally, most of the schools that I’ve been to, do not have any long-term sustainable plan for doing something in their local communities.

It’s often just a once-off collection and handout. Our dream is to take our model across the country, across the world even.

Sport for Lives is not the only way to build in a community, but it’s a practical and effective tool to use.

“I’ve realised that this generation really wants to make a difference, so we’re offering a tool, a solution, to schools – there’s also a coaches’ manual, which is very practical, and provides questions that the coaches can talk through with their students. We often say to our students ‘make a difference’, but how do they do this? We’re so busy as adults, we don’t guide them in this. This kit does that, and because as teachers – we know how busy teachers are – we’ve made it really quick and accessible, so it’s not overwhelming.”

Essentially Sport for Lives is not a sporting initiative: “We’re a movement,” says Chris. “We’re conduits, similar to a Robin Hood mindset, empowering people to start their own campaigns in a

community and solve their own problems.”

In addition, Sport for Lives is slowly building relationships with several non-profits around the country, so – with the credibility of being part of our network – those NPOs can also approach schools and ask the school to do a campaign for them.

Four provinces, 20-odd schools, 20 non-profits, and around R1,5-million raised – in under a year. This has been achieved with collaborations with organisations like the Kolisi Foundation, the Sharks under20s, and a number of others. High profile personalities have the crowd-power – they set an example. Sport for Lives has a network of ambassadors, and Chris is focused on expanding that; likewise on increasing his base of strategic partners who’ve contributed valuable seed funding to the movement.

Sport is more than a game. It’s a voice.

Chris is using his – and showing others how to use theirs effectively. “We seek to turn athletes into activists, inspiring them to play for a higher purpose,” he says. “A heart change is how we change South Africa, one game and one story of hope at a time.”

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FOR MORE INFO www.sportforlives.org; info@sportforlives.org

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*digital footprint

M

eet Craig Brigg, entrepreneur, business owner and digital marketing strategist. Craig is a local Durbanite and owns the successful media agency UHI MEDIA GROUP. He has developed a number of large social media platforms on Facebook to assist communities and businesses to grow their voice, reach and engagement. Further to this, the UHI MEDIA GROUP also assist small to medium-sized enterprises to manage their social media strategy, brand growth and audience reach.

“UHI MEDIA GROUP was born when we realised there was a need for online community Facebook groups, where locals could ask for assistance with finding a lost pet, sourcing a new job or asking the community for a recommended service provider,” says Craig. The Facebook groups were created and have adapted beautifully to meet the community’s needs. “We now provide audience platforms that allow business owners to promote their services/products to a large audience they wouldn’t normally reach.”

Over the past 10 years,

grow your

VOICE Craig has grown and developed these community groups, a number of platforms that allow locals to reach out to the community for self-help, to request recommendations, and for small to mediumsized businesses to showcase their services and products.

“However, the face of social media and digital marketing changes daily, and many businesses have lost touch with how to keep pace with these challenges,” says Craig.

“The introduction of Meta is creating a headache for many business owners, with little understanding of the impact on their business.”

A business without a digital

J U L Y

ARE YOU FACING THE CURRENT ECONOMIC CHALLENGES OF BUILDING YOUR DIGITAL FOOTPRINT AS A SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESS?

footprint is lost and will quickly fall behind its competitors.

How your business engages across your social media platforms is equally important, and can significantly influence the sales and leads for your business. “Many businesses struggle to understand how to project their message in a valuable manner, how to gain the engagement on social media that is necessary to build a brand, and how to gain a business following,” says Craig.

Over the next few editions of The Ridge magazine, Craig will unpack and tackle these issues – providing valuable insight for you and your business.

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If you would like to contact UHI MEDIA GROUP and gain some immediate insight into how you can grow your audience and brand, email craig@upperhighwayinfo.co.za or WhatsApp 072 680 2352.

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gardening*

10 tips for caring for your

WINTER GARDEN

NEED SOME ADVICE ON WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR GARDEN DURING DURBAN’S CHILLIER MONTHS? WHO BETTER TO ASK THAN LANDSCAPE GARDENER JULIE SCRAGG, WRITES LEE CURRIE

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“W

inter in Durban is a particularly good time of the year for gardening, says Julie Scragg, owner of Hingham Nursery in Durban North. “The sun is less harsh and plants less likely to bolt (grow too quickly). Over the years aloes and succulents have become extremely popular as they are not only water wise, but they also flower in winter and present a glorious display of colour. However, keeping our gardens looking good this time of year is not without its problems.”  Water sustenance. Bear in mind that winter is our dry season and because it is cool plants do not show stress quickly as they do in the hotter months. By the J U L Y

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end of winter the water table can be very low and plants may be battling to source water. The occasional deep watering during the winter months will save the lawn and the garden from that all-toocommon “near-death experience” at the end of winter.  Sun and shade. The cool weather and low angle of the sun also creates excess shade in parts of the garden, for example the south side of the house that may never dry out if normal summer watering continues. Adjust your sprinklers accordingly. In some cases that zone should be turned off for winter, with only the occasional top up.  Growth slows down completely at this time of the year and one must be patient, allowing plants to sleep – ready for a burst of growth in spring.  Avoid smothering lawn with lawn dressing, especially in the shade.  Watch for weeds. It certainly helps to get your lawn strong and thick before winter to avoid becoming infested with weeds. If you feed and water regularly in summer you will have fewer problems.

Having said that, keep some weed killer handy so that you can spot spray as soon as you see a patch developing.

Avoid spraying more than necessary as it may damage your lawn.  Take time in winter to “lift” trees – prune the lower branches off to allow the sun to reach below. You can also shorten the higher side branches. Even shadeloving plants benefit from more light. The more you can get on to your lawn the less problems you will have.  Don’t be afraid of mulching with your autumn leaves. This reduces weeds in the beds and maintains moisture in the soil while raking damages plants.  Beware the winter fungus. When the conditions are just right you will notice all the aloes around suddenly getting ugly patches on the leaves. If you are determined to miss it this year, then you would need to spray preventatively, »

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gardening* ideally on a weekly basis with a general fungicide like Supremo. It will also help the aloes if you don’t allow them to become bone dry in winter. While they can cope, it does make them susceptible to disease.  In our hot rainy months, plants tend to “bolt” (grow quickly) tall rather than bushy. This makes winter a fantastic time to grow flowers and veggies. Plants stay short and compact which amounts to more flowers on a plant and plants like lettuce will not go to seed too quickly.  For spectacular colour, take the opportunity to plant primulas, cinerarias, pansies, violas, poppies, petunias (great in Durban in winter), dianthus, lobelia, snapdragons and the like. And don’t forget sweetpeas, they are such a treat at the end of winter when you can cut them for the vase. Feed to get the most benefit.

Soluble fertiliser like Multifeed is good but pellets such as Bio Ocean are really good and easy to apply.

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Julie’s list of winter flowering favourites: Aloe vanbalenii Aloe thraskii Aloe chabaudii Aloe ferox All the aloe hybrids that have been developed The Crassula family – ovata, multicava, sarmentosa X Leonotis leonurus Pincushions Kleinia fulgens Strelitzia Foxgloves Geraniums Gazania Pointsettias

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advertorial*

going

SOLAR

NEEDING SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS? LET THULA MOYA SOLAR AND ELECTRICAL PARTNER WITH YOU FOR A BRIGHTER, MORE EFFICIENT FUTURE

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s a leading solar power company in KZN, Thula Moya Solar and Electrical supplies turnkey solar energy installations and electrical contracting services, and delivers integrated sustainable energy production solutions to meet the needs of their clients – private and commercial users as well as the public sector.

Client relationships are important to Thula Moya Solar and Electrical, and right from the beginning of your journey with them – from the first introduction meeting to the final sign-off and through annual services – you are assured of excellent service and a solid partnership.

A partnership they will honour along with their warranties on their products, which can last at least 10 years.

All Thula Moya systems come with an online client and a service portal, which allows both ourselves and the client the ability to track power consumption and production in real-time. This in turn allows us to constantly make data-driven decisions on the upgrades and optimisation of your solar system, and more importantly, also allows us to programme functions and push software updates remotely – without the client lifting a finger.

Why Thula Moya?

Our team consists of qualified and registered electricians. Our professional team of solar installers also train with industry bodies PQRS and Green Solar Academy. They are accredited Sunsynk Inverter and Revov Battery installers.

Thula Moya aim to secure the power supply chain at all times, in the most reliable way, making it simple and effortless for clients. We strive to deliver outstanding service, innovative products and customisable, robust and reliable solutions that meet the demands of today’s energy provision and to prepare for tomorrow’s challenges.

Thula Moya Solar and Electrical is uniquely positioned to benefit long term from an emerging demand for intelligent internal energy supply due to an aging utility grid, and the increasing demand for a reliable energy source.

Our assurance is that you will instantly decrease your electricity bill, make substantial savings, and enjoy the benefits of clean, noise free energy while reducing the carbon footprint.

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3 STEPS TO GETTING STARTED  The relationship with Thula Moya Solar and Electrical starts with a phone call to discuss and determine your solar needs. We then provide an estimate cost. If the price falls within your budget, a technician meets with you at your home/business for a

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FOR MORE INFO

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formal site inspection. This allows us to determine the position of the installation and the cable routing. In some cases, we will install a power meter in order to determine what size system you would require.  Once you give the go-ahead for the project, construction usually takes place within two to three weeks and is customised to your requirements.

Our inverter products carry a fiveyear warranty, the batteries 10 years and the solar panels 12 years.

Contact Devin on 076 330 2618 | devin@thulamoya.com | www.thulamoya.com

the beautiful mess*

from helpless to

HOPEFUL

A

FEELING LIKE YOU’RE STUCK ON AN ISLAND WITH NO WAY OFF IT? JANE LINLEY-THOMAS AND JESS BASSON DISCUSS THREE WAYS YOUR CHOICES CAN MOVE YOU FROM HELPLESS TO HOPEFUL

Picture: Val Adamson

fter torrential rain beat down on KwaZulu-Natal for the second time in a few short weeks, Jane found herself and her family on an island.

They had joyously leapt at the opportunity to spend a weekend embracing nature, but as the waters rose around their quaint, stilted cottage, so did Jane’s anxiety. All night long, she was checking windows and water levels, waiting for morning to dawn.

What was the plan if the dam levels reached the house?

Should they move the car to higher ground? Would they even be able to leave by car, or would someone have to rescue them by boat?

Fortunately, when the sun came out, they were able to leave across the little wooden bridge and head home following the rainbow that spanned the Durban skyline.

What should we do when we feel stranded on a desert island? It might be a relationship, or debt, or your mental health. It could be an addiction you can’t escape, or an opportunity you’re afraid to take.

Island life is when we feel there’s no way out and we’re surrounded by water. Island life

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can leave us feeling helpless, so how do we move from helpless to hopeful?

The good news is that hope is something available to all of us – no matter what we’ve been through. Hope is not the same as optimism and it’s not a denial of how real the struggle is. Hope is unique because it co-exists with suffering and pain.

Why? Because hope is not a feeling – it’s a choice. And no matter what is washed away or taken from us, we will always have choice, which means we will always have hope available to humanity.

Here are three ways your choices can help you move from helpless to hopeful.

1. Keep moving: Whether it’s a flood of water or a flood of emotions, one of the best things we can do when we’re feeling overwhelmed is to keep moving. Recently, Jess was chatting to a friend who is a psychologist who explained how after massive natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes, the people who got up and physically started to help, repair, pull away debris or clean up would recover from their trauma quicker. Actual physical labour – whether it’s gardening or going for a run or cleaning out the cupboards

– can help us get out of our heads. This is true not just for our bodies but for our hearts.

Tough times will stir up all kinds of emotions – anger, guilt, despair, apathy. The key is to keep moving through the full range and not get stuck in only one of them.

After the anxiety of the heavy rains, there was a collective surge of hope when people headed outside into the sunshine. Even though the devastation and debris was all too visible, the simple beauty of a rainbow or clear blue sky introduced another emotion to our hearts – relief. If you’re feeling stuck on an island, what could you do to keep moving?

2. Build a bridge: There is a good chance you know someone who knows what it’s like to live on your lonely desert island. One of the most wonderful ways we can move from hopeless to helpful is by sharing our pain, our worries, our fears. Common ground is solid ground, and when we realise we are not alone, the world feels a little less scary. There are two ways to build bridges. One is to throw someone a rope by reaching out and asking how they are.

The other is to make a fire on your island and send out some smoke signals – “SOS! Help! I

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need to chat.”

3. Create a circle of control: Picture a small island surrounded by water, and everything on the island is what you have control over. If it’s not on the island, it’s not yours to influence. You might even draw a circle on a blank page. If it’s outside the circle, it’s outside of your control. So many of us spend all our time and energy trying to influence things that are not under our control, wasting our time and energy standing on the shore waving frantically at the vast ocean. But if you were to write down all the things that actually are on the island with you, and focus on what you can do about those things, you may experience a new range of hopefulness. Noticing what is on the island with us can awaken gratitude, it can make us feel empowered, and it can free us from drowning in the big, blue expanse of what is outside of our control.

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Listen to Jane and Jess here, as they further unpack their thoughts!

book launch*

bringing us

TOGETHER

T

here’s something evocative about a Zulu drumbeat, more so when followed by our anthem. By the time we had finished singing Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrica and swallowed the lump in our throats, add a couple of moving speeches, our muchtried positivity and indeed patriotism seemed to shine a little brighter.

This was the scene of author Maashi Rampersad’s book launch at the Beverly Hills Hotel last month. Your Basic Isizulu Guide To The Kingdom Of The Zulu is aimed at uniting people across cultural and language differences.

Hard cover and delightfully illustrated, it’s not a large book, but would grace any coffee table. Translating from English to isiZulu, it covers everyday vocabulary and includes themes such as greetings, family members, directions, shopping, visiting a restaurant and more, as well as snippets

RIGHT: Maashi shows off her book with her son Yariv, daughter Svara, and husband Ravi.

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MAASHI RAMPERSAD’S FIRST EVER PUBLISHED BOOK HAS A TRUE LOCAL SPIN AND IS PROUDLY KZN, WRITES LEE CURRIE of information such as Zulu beadwork nature reserves, The Mandela Capture Site, Oribi Gorge and the like. “This is my first published book written from a personal perspective to promote social cohesion,” comments Maashi, an isiZulu lecturer.

A former Miss India SA, Maashi is married to former East Coast Radio presenter Ravi R. They have two children, and live in uMhlanga.

Maashi has an NPO, Lifetree Foundation, through which she reaches out to less fortunate

communities.

Maashi recalls how her inspiration to write her book played out for her. “During my Miss India reign I was truly blessed to meet the father of our nation, Nelson Mandela, who inspired and encouraged me to assist in making our nation more literate in isiZulu.

“When I embarked on my undergraduate studies at university, I developed an immense passion for the isiZulu language. I completed a BA majoring in isiZulu and English before attaining my

honours and a higher diploma in education. My vision was to write a book as a survival guide and a clear lens through which fellow South Africans and visitors to our beautiful country would be able to learn the basics of isiZulu and communicate more effectively.

I firmly believe this book will appeal to learners at school, tourists, the corporate sector and indeed anyone who wants to learn the basics of the language.”

Maashi is currently lecturing and editing literature in isiZulu at tertiary institutions and also edits literature for primary and secondary schools. “I am currently in negotiations with The Department of Education and the Tourism Board to ensure my book is accessible to the respective communities, and I’ve also been approached by some of the corporates to structure an isiZulu course for their staff.”

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FOR MORE INFO The book costs R250 and is available from Maashi on maashirapmersad@gmail.com; www.learnzuluwithmaashi.co.za; or Whatsapp 083 786 2292

fashion*

ABOVE: Essiebess Swimwear sisters Caylee Dixon and Andrea Bezuidenhout.

S classic, fun

SWIMWEAR CAYLEE AND ANDREA’S ESSIEBESS OFFERS A BEAUTIFUL RANGE OF MIX-AND-MATCH STYLES TO SUIT EVERY SHAPE AND SIZE – WITH EASY TO WEAR COVERAGE 28

isters Caylee Dixon and Andrea Bezuidenhout grew up in Westville. “We are both married with two kids, and we both somehow manage to hold down full-time jobs – Caylee as a buyer for a large local retailer, and me in the investment and advice space – while running around after our children,” laughs Andrea. “When your plate is already full, why not add a start-up business to the mix?”

As a lot of new start-up businesses, the concept of the sisters’ swimwear business and brand took hold during lockdown when they were both somewhat disillusioned by corporate work life. “We wanted to create something that belonged purely to us, and that allowed us to be creative,” says Andrea.

“We had previously been purchasing similar swimwear from the USA, and when we looked into options locally we saw a gap in the market for more modest but still beautiful swimwear for women who aren’t super model stick-figures,” says Caylee. “We had both been down the road of experiencing changing bodies during and after pregnancy, and we wanted to celebrate women like us – who perhaps aren’t as confident as they once were in swimwear, and have very limited options available.”

The name Essiebess is their beloved

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story katrine anker-nilssen pictures courtney warren photography

late mother’s nickname. “It’s a name that joins us together and we love it,” says Andrea. “Our swimwear is designed by us and manufactured here in Durban, and we quickly realised how specialised swimwear design and manufacture actually is. But we managed to jump through hoops and find a process that worked for us.” Involved in every step of the way, the sisters do all the sample fittings on themselves so they can get the fit exactly as they want it.

“It took over a year from registering our business to actually launching our products, with many changes along the way,” says Andrea. “We launched in November 2021 with a range that included a one-piece costume and three top and bottom combos.

We love the idea of being able to mix and match across styles, sizes and colours.”

There are currently style options in six different colours. “We noticed that the current swimwear trends are incredibly high cut and revealing, whereas our costumes will usually be on the more generous side over the bottom and legs – with options for different tummy coverage in the tops,” says Caylee. “We aren’t trying to keep up with what’s trending, but would rather our ladies find some classic pieces that they absolutely love and keep coming back to.”

Based in Durban North, Essiebess mainly sell online but has recently also started selling at Spence and Mae in Hillcrest. “We absolutely love the idea of the ‘brand hub’ where small businesses like ours are able to have a physical presence without the overhead costs of a store. Our staff includes exactly two members for now, with us working after hours and in between juggling J U L Y

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life. Late night and early morning packing orders have become our reality, and we are so grateful for it,” says Andrea.

“Putting ourselves into a market we knew very little about was terrifying and has certainly pushed us both out of our comfort zones, which has been incredibly rewarding,” says Caylee. “There have certainly been times we have doubted ourselves and our ability, but the amazing feedback we have received from ladies who have purchased and come back again has been beyond what we could have hoped for.”

With plans for launching additional styles later in the year, the sisters can’t wait to have a children’s range that will allow for mix and match with mom. “Our daughters are constantly asking when they can have a cozzie of their own,” says Andrea – adding that they don’t have any intentions of opening their own Essiebess shop, but would love to be stocked in more collaborative shops across KZN and beyond. “Also, given that our products are currently very seasonal, we would love to extend our range beyond swimwear. But we are taking baby steps for now, and learning as we go.”

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FOR MORE INFO www.essiebess.co.za

The Essiebess Essence

Our mission is to celebrate you, the beautiful woman you are, at all stages of your life. We want to get you into swimwear that not only do you love to wear, but that you keep coming back to time and time again.

Our range is designed to cover bums a little bit more, to sit slightly lower around the leg and to keep the boobs tucked away when they need to be.

We’ve got you covered.

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rock the kitchen*

a souped-up

WINTER WELCOME CHILLY NIGHTS WITH A BOWL OF TUMMYFILLING SOUP AND GLASS OF RED WINE TO KEEP THE COLD OUT AND THE WARMTH IN, WRITES ANT ELLIS

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key component of my culinary studies was dedicated to stocks, broths and soups.

Considered by chefs as the lifeblood of their professional kitchens, stocks take time, care and commitment and form the very backbone of some of the world’s greatest food – soups, rich and luxurious sauces (including pasta sauces and ragus), stews, risottos, gravies and reductions. They’re also how chefs maximise the flavour yield from almost every vegetable offcut, bone or seafood shell that enters the kitchen – and ultimately, they’re seriously nutritious.

Now, I don’t expect y’all to spend your weekends crafting stocks – but I really do suggest a rich and clear home-made stock or broth as the base for your new favourite winter meals: Quality, delicious, warming, souped-up soups. Veggie friends, this one’s for you.

To kick off, let’s make a simple and tasty vegetable stock. You’ll need a few everyday ingredients: a couple each of carrots and celery sticks, an onion, two smashed garlic cloves, a bay-leaf, a sprig each of thyme and parsley, and about a teaspoon each of black peppercorns and coriander seeds.

Optionally, add a handful of dried shiitake or

Thick Butternut, Carrot and Orange Soup • 1 butternut, just over 1kg • 8-10 medium carrots • 4 tablespoons olive oil, split • 1 onion, diced • 4 cups vegetable stock • ½ tin coconut milk • juice and zest of 1/2 an orange • sprig of thyme • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • pinch of chilli flakes, optional Top, tail and peel the butternut, halve and remove seeds and stringy stuff. Chunk into 2-3cm squares. Peel and wash carrots and chunk up. Add to a roasting tray, add half

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ABOVE: Durban lover of good food, wine and company, Ant Ellis.

porcini mushrooms.

Chunk up your carrots, celery and onion to equal sizes and add to a pot with all other ingredients. Cover with about 2-litres of water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer for about 2 hours, reducing by a third to a half. Season with salt. Strain well, being sure to press the juices out of your veggies. Stock n’ roll.

You’ve got the stock, now let’s get into some delicious, warming soups. We don’t cook enough of ’em, so we don’t eat enough of ’em. These recipes use your kick-ass fresh veg stock, but of course, chicken stock is rad too.

the olive oil and roast at 190ºC until tender, tossing halfway through cooking time – about half an hour in total. You’re looking for some browning colour on the edges.

Set aside. Heat remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, add onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add butternut and carrots, cook for 5-8 minutes or until veggies start to stick to the bottom.

Keep moving them, don’t let them burn.

Now add the veg stock and bring to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the pot. Turn the heat down to medium-low and partially cover. Cook for 20 minutes, add coconut milk, orange juice, zest, thyme, salt, pepper and chilli flakes if desired. Finally, purée with a stick blender (or jug blender in small amounts, half cooled). Top with whatevs! CroÛtons, sour cream, Greek yogurt, seeds, parsley, basil, nuts or toasted coconut flakes.

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MomÕs Quick French Onion Soup • 6 medium-large onions • 4 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 level teaspoon sugar • 1½ teaspoons salt • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 cup red wine • 8 cups vegetable stock • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, optional • 2 bay-leaves • 1 tablespoon fresh or dried thyme leaves • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • baguette slices, toasted • Gruyère cheese, or Cheddar will do Slice onions as you prefer, add to a pot with olive oil and cook over medium heat until soft. Add butter, and cook until lightly browned. Add sugar and salt, stir until browned. Add garlic. Deglaze pot with wine and scrape down. Add stock, Worcestershire sauce, bay-leaves, thyme and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring now and then. Season with salt.

To serve in the classic way, portion into bowls, float a slice of toast and top with cheese, grill until oozy and melted.

Until next time: Winter’s here, and so are the calories. Enjoy the classic comfort food – yes, all of it – but come on dudes and dudesses, change it up this winter and try something new, too.

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FOR MORE INFO Talk to me at ant@rockthekitchen.co.za

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parenting*

escaping the happiness

TRAP

ALLOWING OUR CHILDREN TO PROCESS THE EMOTIONS OF BEING DISAPPOINTED IS NOT NECESSARILY A BAD THING, WRITES CHRISTY HERSELMAN

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ne of the most beautiful and heart-breaking movies I have ever watched was The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will and Jaden Smith. The true story of a San Francisco salesman struggling to build a life for himself and his fiveyear-old son, it is the name of the film rather than the storyline which has stayed with me as I raise my own children and work with families in various aspects of parenting.

And it has stayed with me as a warning rather than encouragement, because the pursuit of happiness can be a dangerous thing.

We often see T-shirts telling us to “Do what makes you happy!” and we think that happiness should be the goal for ourselves and our kids. But happiness is illusive and when

we pursue it as a constant state of being, we chase an ever-moving horizon.

The reality is that life is not always happy. Social media feeds the illusion that we should be living our best lives every day, riding a wave of achievements, celebrations, amazing meals and unforgettable trips. But some days just suck. Sometimes we go through periods of incredible hardship. Sometimes we hate our jobs or our marriages break down. When we (and Instagram) teach our children that they should be happy all the time, we are not equipping them to the reality of life’s ups and downs.

Last week I was chatting to a mom whose son had not been selected for a sports team he had worked very hard to make. This is a high-achieving child who succeeds in many

The Chat

fields. The experience of disappointment was not something he experienced often. What struck me in this conversation was how his mom was trying to find ways to cushion the blow, reasons why it was a good thing he had not been selected. My loving advice to my friend was to simply say to her child, “This time you didn’t make it.

Well done for putting yourself out there and trying,” and to allow her child to process the emotions of being disappointed.

The reality is that much disappointment lies ahead for this and every child: job promotions they won’t get,

The Chat is a culture-shaping movement which exists to start conversations and impart accurate information around issues like sex, identity, social media and pornography.

The Chat believes that if these issues are left unaddressed, they threaten to derail a generation. The Chat was founded and is led by Christy Herselman, and is overseen

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relationships that won’t work, friends who will let them down.

Life is a gloriously messy mixed bag of experiences and emotions.

So let’s not fool ourselves or our kids that life will always be happy. Let’s rather live wholeheartedly where we find ourselves. Instead of pursuing happiness, let’s pursue purpose: put ourselves out there, try new things, serve others, do what is right, love unselfishly, process pain, develop our talents and take time to invest in others.

The beautiful by-product of this kind of life is joy, which comes from within and spills out into the world around us.

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by The Table Church in uMdloti. Christy has a background in journalism and teaching.

She has written two books and currently divides her time between researching, writing, speaking and being a wife and mom. She lives in uMdloti with her husband Brad and her children Emily, Ryan and Blake. Please contact Christy on info@thechat.co.za or visit www.thechat.co.za for more info.

EDEN DURBAN

*ed's letter

Pre-Primary | Preparatory | High School

THEREÕS NO STOPPING PROGRESS

Meet Lauren Dickerson, den Schools Durban offers the best quality co-educational private

schooling from Sunshine Group (grade 0000) to Matric in KZN. our newest member to The Eden Durban has the highest standards, expert teaching and Ridge sales team.

Laurenacademic will a caring that extends beyond the classroom. besupportive selling in theenvironment uMhlanga and Our learner’s horizons are broadened and they are challenged to Ballito areas, so if you’re keen to become more involved, thus developing their social, leadership and have your business communication skills. or product

advertised in The Ridge to reach A-income homes, businesses Matric Results and estates, Lauren a call Our matric resultsgive each year are outstanding. Eden has ranked as one of She willinput together the top today. five schools South Africa for our NSC matric results for the past 5 an years.

In 2021 package Eden was advertising toranked suit Number 1 in South Africa with 3,76 A’s per candidate.

We have had 100% bachelor passes since our your budget and needs.

Contact t was in 1996 that we moved inception in 2007 and425 our2780 number Lauren on 072 or of A’s per candidate regularly exceeds 3,5. to the uMhlanga area. We email: Lauren.Dickerson@ bought our home off-plan, famouspublishing.co.za Coping with Lockdown

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and while looking at the plans Despite the lockdown due to the Covid 19 pandemic and the for the complex stuck to ononline the disruptions of the past 2 years, our students have had access and recorded Zoom lessons and materialside loaded onto Google of a caravan parked on a Classrooms. We are confident that our students are always well dirt track surrounded by sugar Congrats to our lucky readers prepared for examinations and will continue to achieve excellent results. cane, a small part of me did who won prizes in time for both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. wonder if we were making the The SecretThe towinners Eden’s Success right move. Little did I know are: The secret to our success is firstly due to our small classes, and the what was tosecondly come … to our warm,MOTHER’S friendly, family and DAYatmosphere WINNERS: we cultivate experienced, caring teachers who are prepared todays go the extra mile, Within of moving into • Mangwanani Spa Day worth giving extra lessons when needed. our new home, uMhlanga R3 500: Ida Delport • GatewayatShopping worth DriveAt was widened fromto The children Eden areSpree happy to comeRocks to school.

Eden we strive 500: Anusha Dhanraj provide aR2 unique and vibrant educational experience for our students. one lane to two lanes both We celebrate diversity of cultures • Edgars the Beauty Make-over And in a cosmopolitan South Africa ways. wasn’t faiths. very long before and respect religious practices ofItvarious Hamper worth R3 250: and holidays the foundations were poured Linsey Luis for Gateway, and over the • Capital Zimbali Overnight Stay worth R8 500: Elizabeth Evans years this massive shopping • High Tea at The Oyster Box complex has mushroomed worth R1 600: Robert Kermack to become a central point in uMhlanga. With it, businesses FATHER’S DAY WINNERS: and blocks of offices have • Gateway Shopping Spree worth R2 500: Robyn Clark taken root, turning uMhlanga • R2 000 Voucher for Fiamma into a thriving metropolis – Grill: Laura Mottura where business and pleasure • R2 000 Meal Voucher for meet.

Mozambik The Pearls: Nisha Closer to the beach, more Ramkhelawon

Congratulations!

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Eden’s Philosophy: Holistic Education

Eden Schools are committed to provide a balanced holistic education to produce well-rounded, accomplished, self-disciplined and confident individuals. In addition to offering a wide range of learning areas, we encourage our students to participate in various sports and extra-mural activities such as soccer, cricket, swimming, water polo, basketball, netball, sailing, dance, chess, debating, public speaking, eco projects and community outreach programmes.

We have a strong programme of arts and culture enabling our music, dance, drama and art students to have the opportunity to perform in festivals, productions, shows and exhibitions. Our children also take part in many online events such as an International Online Mock Court moreSpeech traditional experiences, a development was taking place Debate, the GMMDC Art competition, Festivals and Online Competitions. feast of food flavours, upmarket –Talent and overnight The Pearls

shops, and our warm ocean. rose up from the ground, Extension at Eden Progress might not alwaysthinking be reshaping the skyline along our At Eden, we extend our children by encouraging out-the-box and developing problem-solving skills. children exceloften at various what Our we desire because coastline.

Fast forward to today such as the South African Mathematics we don’t have the Olympiad, vision to see –Olympiads and not without a pinch Conquesta, the Computer and Physics Olympiad and the English the bigger picture. at the end ofOlympiad. controversy – the newest One of our students, Jaedon Naidu made But it through to the top 10to ofuMhlanga’s the SAMO (Maths) of the SAAO (Computer) of thetop day10 KZN needs progress edition portfolioOlympiad, Olympiad and won the gold for the Programming Olympiad during to build the economy, to attract of hotels has recently opened 2021. In addition, Jaedon has been selected to represent SA teams for the tourists, so that we have a its doors.

The Radisson Blu Mathematics and Computers. better future.

Durban uMhlanga.

AsFor a once, centre excellence, EdenUntil College Durban’s vision next time, let's enjoy all is theof timing might tospot-on. be a leading institution in that educating and girls to is on ourboys doorstep. be After surviving enable themthat to came become the challenges with responsible young men and women will make significant, positive contributions Covid, pluswho KZN residents to the situations faced in South Africa and the world. contending with the riots a year ago and the devastating floods PRE-PRIMARY (Sunshine Group - 0000 to Grade 00) a few months back, it’s time we Love and laughter; work and play celebrated some good news.

PREPARATORY (Grade R to Grade 7) With Covid numbers in control, Growing happy children and tourism on the upswing, COLLEGE (Grade 8 to to Grade 12) now is the perfect time The genesis of genius welcome overseas tourists back to our amazing province, to our much-desired coastline, TALK TO US and to enjoy everything our lorna.king@famouspublishing.co.za community has to offer – new www.theridgeonline.co.za glitzy hotels as well as our W Ridge Magazine

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1

get my style*

pictures michigan behn

CORNER appeal ABOVE: “Mirrors are my favourite for adding glam to a room, and reflect light in your home,” advises interior designer Lisa Walters-Hunter.

MAKE THE MOST OF AN EMPTY CORNER WITH A COLLECTION OF CAREFULLY SELECTED PIECES

nchored by a French looking display table with a marble top and a dull gold full-length arched mirror, I was keen to create a muted, casual yet neutral tablescape for an empty corner of this home,” says uMhlanga interior designer Lisa Walters-Hunter.

Lisa achieved her desired look by using various materials and considered the

following pointers: On the table-top Lisa looked for smooth ceramics, natural clay-looking ceramics, aged-looking vessels, earthy ceramics with a textured or rough feel, organically shaped ceramic objets, stacked coffee table books, a large pale amber-coloured glass lamp base with raffia lampshade, plus other items of interest.

“To add the finishing touches I added olive branches and bougainvillea cut from

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the garden and placed in selected urns.

This immediately created a relaxed yet chic and Mediterranean feel.

“Personally, I love using mirrors extensively in my interiors. They create another ‘window’ and reflection of the room which I find so interesting. For a dark room they also reflect much-needed light,” concludes Lisa.

Find my style: Cecile and Boyd; Lisa Walters Interiors.

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*

foot care*

the big

RUN

WITH THE COMRADES MARATHON ROUND THE CORNER, BALLITO PODIATRIST NELFRIE KEMP LOOKS AT THE ONLY AND MOST IMPORTANT PIECE OF EQUIPMENT THAT WILL GET YOU OVER THE FINISH LINE

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t’s in the air. Can you smell it? There is not a run my local group does that the Comrades isn’t mentioned. The excitement and anticipation is mounting, whether you are planning on taking part this year, or if it remains a dream.

I am not running – but am in the privileged position to share with runners their Comrades journey as they prep for qualifiers, increase their distance training, navigate their injuries, and negotiate and research the latest and best shoe for them.

The only piece of equipment you really need is your running shoes. Yes, I know barefoot running is an option, but we’re not going down that route for this year’s Comrades.

The impact of your foot on the ground is three to five times your body weight; and the function of your running shoes is to absorb enough shock to

take the stress off your joints and to complement your foot mechanics for the most efficient gait.

Your choice of shoe will depend on your foot shape and function. It is different for every person and your choice of shoe should not be based on aesthetics, what works for your friend, or for the Olympian marathon runner. Depending on your running pace and style, it will have an effect on your choice of shoe.

WHERE DO I GO?

Best to go to a running specific store with trained staff, but not just trained in the different brands. Staff need to understand running and it’s a bonus if they run themselves.

WHICH SHOE DO I CHOOSE?

Taking your running style and pace into consideration, try on two to three pairs of different brands in the same function of shoe – that is, neutral shoes.

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HOW DO I KNOW MY SIZE?

Your running shoes should be one size bigger than your normal shoe size. This will allow for elongation of your feet while running, and accommodate the slight swelling of your feet with exercise. To size the shoe, take the innersoles out (the innersoles are not usually stuck into the shoe) and stand on top of the innersoles with your heel aligned at the back.

There should be a thumbs width between the tip of your longest toe and the front of the innersole.

IS IT THE CORRECT SHOE?

Try on both shoes with socks you would usually use and tie the laces properly.

Walk and run up and down in the shop. Does the shoe accommodate the shape of my foot? Does it feel as if my foot and shoe function as a unit when running? If you are 2 0 2 2

confused, consult a professional – a podiatrist can assess your gait and advise you more specifically.

Lastly, don’t discard your previous running shoe that gave you so many happy miles of running. Just because it’s old and worn out and you might have developed niggles does not mean you have to change the type of shoe or brand – from neutral to stability. Also, be aware that with every new model/version of the shoe, there will be changes to the shoe. The aim of manufacturers will always be to improve the functionality of the shoe, and the changes might not always complement your running mechanics. It’s always best to try on “your” brand and a few others just to see what works best for your foot.

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FOR MORE INFO Nelfrie Kemp: www.nelfriekemp.co.za; @nelfriekemp; W @nelfriekemp

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wellness*

WELLNESS matters

A SEMI-FINALIST FOR MRS SOUTH AFRICA 2022, SHAN FOURIE IS THE OFFICIAL WELLNESS INFLUENCER FOR GATEWAY THEATRE OF SHOPPING. HERE SHE SHARES HER TOP FIVE WELLNESS MUST-HAVES

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han Fourie – wellness content partner for Gateway – is a Durban-based lifestyle blogger/ influencer with a background in marketing who began blogging in 2018. With an Instagram following that has grown significantly, Shan uses her platform to share brands and businesses as well as to raise awareness and funds for causes and initiatives close to her heart.

For Shan, she believes that wellness is all-encompassing – mental, physical and emotional. She believes it is important to keep your life clean of toxicity, and self-care is her number one priority.

Shan is an ambassador for The SA Bone Marrow Registry, the Red Movement (eradicating period poverty), and the voice for the oppressed for the Rise Up Movement, an NPO that stands against GBV, child abuse, and human trafficking.

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EXCLUSIVE BOOKS Because wellness is all-encompassing and feeds your body, mind and soul, I feel it so important to learn, grow and transform as human beings (not just human-doings). My current read is Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown – a guide to understanding your emotions and learning how to regulate them. We all experience strong emotions, but most of us can’t identify what it is we’re feeling, or work out where the feelings come from.

This book promises to help develop your emotional vocabulary and transform your relationship with yourself, and the people around you. R484.

ADIDAS ULTRABOOST A great pair of sneakers is essential for busy, on-the-go people, and Adidas has the finest selection of sneakers that cross the bridge of being great with leisurewear and incredible running/training shoes.

Anyone who follows me knows I LOVE my kicks! These Adidas Ultraboost shoes have a water-repellent upper, a “boost” in the midsole energises your stride, and the rubber outsole offers extraordinary grip.

Also made in part with recycled content generated from production waste. I am obsessed with anything leopard and anything neon-coral, so these are a match made in heaven! R3 499.

THE HARVEST TABLE COLLAGEN GRANULES The benefits of taking collagen are endless. I have been using The Harvest Table Collagen Granules every day for the past three years and have noticed improved skin texture, strong and healthy hair and nails, and overall well-being. Taking pure collagen can aid the digestive system; I also find it supports weight management by reducing blood sugar and boosts your metabolism. R834,95 for 700g.

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RAWBIOTICS GUT CORRECT Your gut is the foundation of everything – it aids in the digestion of the foods you eat and absorbs nutrients our body needs to function. A healthy gut contributes to a strong immune system, heart health, brain health, improved mood, healthy sleep, and effective digestion. R299,95 for one litre from Wellness Warehouse.

SPA CEYLON I am all about finding inner peace and tranquillity – and something that helps me with that is essential oils. The Peace Essential oil from Spa Ceylon is beautiful – and a top seller. Peace is a unique blend of essential oils to promote total peace and harmony. Organic Lemongrass helps calm and balance the senses, promoting inner peace. Soothing Lavender gently relaxes, while precious Spiked Lavender helps restore tranquillity. Pure Peppermint cools the body and helps clarify the senses.

For aroma veda benefits: At bedtime, mix three drops with 25ml water into a Spa Ceylon oil burner, leave to heat and let the aroma spread all round the bedroom. Can also be used in a diffuser. Helps to promote deep restful sleep. R419.

SHAN FOURIE’S WELLNESS TIPS

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Meditation and taking time out to just be in the moment is so very important for your well-being. It helps to ground you, bring a sense of calm and balance to your life, which is often very frenetic and busy.

Including breathing exercises when meditating or before falling asleep at night helps to calm you and bring you into a deeper sleep state. I’ve been taught the fourseven-eight breathing technique: breathe in for four, hold for seven, and out for eight. It is amazing – try it.

Practicing yoga is one of my number one wellness tips.

Yoga brings breathing and exercise together in such a way that helps you not only stay fit physically, but also releases tension and stress psychologically. It truly helps ground me.

Never underestimate the power of a long, hot bath with beautiful oil or salts. My current favourite bath oil is one from Babylonstoren in the winelands. Find one that makes you feel peaceful, grounded and relaxed.

Lavender is fabulous for this.

It’s no secret that true health starts in your body and mind.

What you put into your body is just as important as what you put into your mind. Remove toxicity from your life, whether it be Instagram accounts that leave you feeling unworthy, or people who bring more negativity into your life than positive, as these things no longer serve you.

Self-preservation is vital.

When it comes to what you put into your body, drinking loads of water is number one on the list. A minimum of two litres a day will help flush toxins, keep your cells hydrated and help your gut to work properly.

I try to start most days with a green juice. Celery alone is brilliant, but if you can’t quite stomach that then a mix of celery,

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spinach, half an avo, an apple and some cucumber is brilliant. I like to add Harvest Table Nutrafy collagen for uneven skin tone into my green juice.

It’s important to find the time for a regular massage – every six weeks is ideal. It helps relieve stress and tension that builds up in the muscles before they start creating serious pain and discomfort.

I highly recommend prioritising regular facials with skin specialists to keep your skin healthy.

Also take their guidance on what to use on your skin. Healthy skin = products best suited to your needs.

Carve out time to spend time with friends and those who fill your soul with sunshine. We all need to feel loved and love on one another. Isolating yourself due to being “too busy” can easily lead to feelings of depression. Spend time with people who leave you walking in sunshine.

Practice gratitude. This isn’t always easy, especially when we feel like we are barely keeping our heads above water, but when it comes down to basic human needs, we have so much to be grateful for.

The sun that rises every day. The air we have to fill our lungs and cells with life. Love – that we can freely give and receive. I assure you that by practicing an attitude of gratitude you will soon see how your outlook changes and will start to notice more goodness around you. You’ll start to appreciate more moments.

Lastly, splash out every so often on something that makes you happy – whether it be a beautiful candle, a new make-up product you’ve been saving for, or a fragrance that makes you feel happy. Fragrance is such a powerful way of changing mood and evoking emotions due to its ability to influence our brain.

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trending*

1. SHOES

An all-in-one neutral running shoe for any distance, the Velocity NITRO 2 is a lightweight and sleek update to the Run PUMA roster. Featuring NITRO foam for exceptional responsiveness and ultimate cushioning, this upgrade to the original is a well-fitting and durable shoe for a smooth ride. Built for comfort at whatever speed, this running shoe also provides enhanced visibility through reflective accents, so you can hit your stride on your time.

NITRO is infused with nitrogen gas through an innovative new process that makes it possible to combine three key benefits to the runner – responsiveness, cushioning and a lightweight shoe.

R2 799, www.puma.com.

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unning is one of the oldest and most instinctive forms of exercise around. It’s simple, just put one foot in front of the other and repeat in quick succession.

However, new research reveals there has been a running boom since the Covid pandemic.

Among the many health benefits of running, is the chance to experience the “runner’s high”. “It begins with this peace of mind and then a greater ease of movement, a sense of power and confidence, optimism and hope, and you will often hear runners describe feeling connected to everyone and everything,” explains Kelly McGonigal, a psychologist, educator and author of The Joy of Movement.

The research reflects that three quarters of all runners agree that “running is good for my mind as well as my body”.

Furthermore, according to data from endurance sports networks such as Strava, there has been an increase in the number of new runners over the past year.

A general change in the way we think and live has driven a move towards an increase in exercising outdoors. Whether it’s road or trail running, jogging or sprinting, 2022 is the year to lace up those shoes and get out there. Here are our five top running picks.

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letÕs get

MOVING

KEEN TO TAKE UP RUNNING? HERE ARE OUR TOP FIVE PICKS TO GET YOU STARTED

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2. WATCHES

Whether you’re looking to get in shape or just want an upgrade, choose a running watch that will look and feel great on your wrist, while providing accurate tracking of how far you’ve gone and how fast you’re going. Ensure it is easy to read and navigate at a glance while you’re moving.

These days GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring are standard on nearly all running watches, and most of them also support other sports such as cycling and hiking, as well as being water resistant.

The Garmin Fenix 7 is a running watch packed with advanced training tools to help you optimise your weekly training and perfect your strategy for race days. It keeps all the best features of the Fenix 6, but adds some excellent new tools such as a real-time stamina meter which shows how your energy level is decreasing over the course of a run so you can tailor your effort accordingly. There’s also a new graph to show how your training efforts are affecting your predicted race times.

This is the first Fenix watch with a touchscreen. The GPS accuracy is exceptional and Garmin has made a whole set of map packs available to download through the new Map Manager. From R13 499, Cape Union Mart and Takealot.

4. HEADLAMP

As the days get shorter and darker, look no further than the Lumeo Pro headlamp to provide you with perfect night vision.

It is the first of its kind, being the world’s widest LED headlamp offering you 230° of bright continuous illumination with unrivalled light coverage. The wide viewing angle illuminates more than what your eyes can see and has zero blind spots. It also delivers effective light coverage up to 100m. It comes with an adjustable light brightness, a flashlight function, and a comfortable, adjustable headband to fit all head sizes. The sleek design is low profile and lightweight. R499, lumeo.co.za.

3. DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE GUN

Recovery following a run is as important as the run itself. There are many recovery suggestions after a run – healthy eating, hydration, ice baths and a deep tissue massage. Thanks to technology, you can now enjoy the benefits of a deep tissue massage in the comfort of your home.

Train harder, recover faster and maximise your performance.

Massage guns help to relax and recover your muscle soft tissue. A massage head penetrates into the objective part of the muscle, decomposing the lactic acid that was generated during sport, work and general life. This relieves muscle soreness and stiffness.

Tested and trusted by international pro athletes, the Botthms Massage Guns are our pick to ensure relief, recovery and relaxation through innovative, user friendly, massage technology. From R2 399, www. botthms.co.za.

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5. SHORTS

Husband and wife team, Billy and Tracy Harker, are the founders of the Durban based Funky Pants. The Funky Pants are ridiculously comfy and seriously funky, with a wide selection of brightly coloured and wonderfully patterned fabric choices.

The range includes classic shorts, threequarter length leggings, full leggings, sports bras, cycling shorts and more. High waist Funky Pants, R490, www.funkypants.co.za.

Contact tracy@funkypants.co.za for more info.

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travel*

S

hannon and Dale Airton are both passionate conservationists.

While Dale has worked in conservation management doing everything from rhino and lion monitoring to trail guiding, Shannon’s background is more research-oriented.

“I did an undergraduate and graduate degree based in the US and spent time in SA researching rhinos, wild dogs and leopards,” she says.

The couple met while working and living in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve 20 years ago. “We were fortunate to receive an ecotourism opportunity via a business venture with Dale’s family,” says Shannon, adding that they are today kept on their toes running two lodges in Manyoni – Rhino River Lodge and Rhino Sands – on top of raising their eight-year-old son.

“I split my time between the reserve and

up, close and

PERSONAL CONNECTION WITH NATURE, WITH A STRONG FOCUS ON CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY, IS KEY AT RHINO SANDS – A SMALL, INTIMATE CAMP IN ZULULAND’S MANYONI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN Ballito, where our son is enrolled in school.

The school has been extremely flexible, allowing us to spend a portion of each term on the reserve – distance learning with Wyatt. In that way life on the game reserve is an integral part of his childhood and learning, but he still gets to participate in the classroom and school environment when we are in Ballito. We get to enjoy a wonderful balance of the two incredible lifestyles that KZN has to offer … beach and bush,” says Shannon.

The Airtons initially learnt about Manyoni

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Private Game Reserve via the WWF’s Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. “Dale was working for the project, conducting research and providing training for the monitors who would be tracking and caring for new populations. So at the reserve’s inception, we were present and in attendance for the release of the vast majority of black rhinos,” says Shannon.

“It struck us as such a beautiful reserve, right in the heart of Zululand, and it was an exciting project where landowners were joining their properties together – all

towards a common conservation goal. We could see the potential in the project and the area and when the opportunity to invest and make a living in the reserve came up, we both jumped in feet first.”

Rhino Sands is an incredible piece of bush heaven – and it’s Zululand at its very best. “We wanted the camp to be eco-friendly and tented, as there is just something about how people experience nature when staying in canvas as opposed to behind four walls with windows shut and air-conditioners on,” explains Shannon.

“Part of what we love about safari is the romance – the throwback to a simpler, slower time. We love how a classical style facilitates that.” The camp is small and intimate, where guests feel like family.

“They get to know our team, the reserve and the area well. Large camps often lose this sense of connection,” says Shannon.

The Rhino Sands ethos is definitely one of connection. “Our aim is to connect our guests with nature, our beautiful reserve, and our beautiful country. We also aim to facilitate a connection with people – not just our team, but also for guests to connect with one another,” says Shannon.

“It’s all about making lifelong memories together, setting aside the stresses and

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challenges of day-to-day life.”

What sets Rhino Sands apart from other lodges came into sharp relief during the pandemic. “We are a small family-run company,” says Shannon. “While many of the corporations in our industry laid off large numbers of staff, refused to issue refunds to guests, and drastically cut salaries, we took the opposite approach

The camp is small and intimate, where guests feel like family – applying empathy and understanding with every decision we took, and standing by our team and guests to the very best of our ability.”

Because the camp is small, the team is small. “While we look for good experience and training, we hire largely based on personality and passion for creating a stellar guest experience. The small size of our camp allows us to tailor the guest experience to the individual, and this extends to our kitchen. It keeps our chefs

stimulated and creative, and the quality of the food always reflects that.”

The Airtons are not about chasing awards or accolades, but feel guest feedback and experience are the true measures of success in the safari industry. “While we would like to potentially add one additional tent to the camp, bringing the total number of tents up to five, we will not be expanding beyond that. Our future goals are to continue striving to be the best fivestar safari experience in KZN while staying true to our ethos, making gentle improvements, and focusing more and more on our sustainability efforts.”

Shannon says there is just a certain magic about Zululand. “I am convinced that once a person spends time in the bush here, nothing else will ever compare.

The landscape is dramatic and varying, the area is wild and untamed,” she says. “With a high human population and many truly unique wild areas and animals, conflict and conservation are endemic and in a precarious balance. The challenge and coexistence makes it all the more exciting and meaningful.”

TOP: Shannon, Wyatt and Dale Airton.

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FOR MORE INFO www.rhinosands.com J U L Y

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property*

is this for

REAL? GARETH BAILEY UNPACKS THE CONCEPT OF BUYING PROPERTY IN THE METAVERSE

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he Metaverse has been dubbed the “next generation of the internet” and the likes of Meta, Nvidia and Microsoft are investing heavily in this space. The concept of the Metaverse really took off in October last year when Facebook changed its name to Meta, signalling its primary focus of developing software for this virtual universe in the foreseeable future.

The Metaverse is a broad term referring to a digital world where we will (have the opportunity to) have a virtual existence alongside our real lives – one in which we will be able to work, play, socialise, learn and … invest!

This presents a new opportunity to traditional real estate investors – is it worthwhile buying property in the Metaverse? While this is not yet mainstream and is highly speculative and risky, companies like PwC, JP Morgan, HSBC and Samsung have already hopped on board as investors.

Metaverse real estate investor and advisory firm, Republic Realm, recently paid

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a record $4,3-million for land to develop 100 islands, called Fantasy Islands, comprising apartment complexes including the opportunity for its residents to purchase or rent boats and jet skis. Ninety of the islands sold on the first day for $15,000 each and some are now reselling for over $100,000.

Celebrities have also embraced the Metaverse.

Major artists including Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande have performed using their online avatars – an online representation of their real-life identities. Even Paris Hilton DJ’d a New Year’s Eve party on her own virtual island.

At the moment, most property purchases in the Metaverse are taking place on gamified Metaverse platforms like The Sandbox and Decentraland using their cryptocurrencies SAND and MANA respectively. The actual transfers are recorded in the form of non-fungible tokens, or NFT’s. In addition to these platforms, a third-party resellers’ market is emerging, such as opensea.io, which allows buyers to bid on listed properties.

Like physical real estate, some investors are buying virtual real estate principally for rental income and others for capital growth. While many of the same principles apply, there are potentially some differences. According to Janine Yorio, CEO of Republic Realm, “Land value in the Metaverse will be determined by what owners do with a property – like designing a popular attraction, museum, or feature – rather than location.

You can teleport anywhere, so location isn’t as important.”

However, others feel that location is still the most important consideration.

For example, Snoop Dogg is building a virtual mansion on a plot of land in Sandbox, and someone recently paid $450,000 to be his neighbour.

Either way, it seems that any property that attracts eyeballs, rather than foot traffic, is enjoying strong demand and

attracting the big spenders.

Over and above the highly speculative nature of virtual real estate, there are some other risks involved. For example, this market is

Snoop Dogg is building a virtual mansion on a plot of land in Sandbox, and someone recently paid $450,000 to be his neighbour unregulated which makes it easier to fall victim to criminal activity without recourse.

Another consideration is that the value of property is linked

NORTH DURBAN Durban North office · 031 573 6000 Umhlanga office · 031 561 5300 Umdloti office · 031 568 1299

ABOVE: Gareth Bailey, Pam Golding Properties. to the value of the underlying cryptocurrency, which can be volatile. There is also the risk of simply forgetting your NFT wallet password. Lastly, while blockchain technology is based on encryption principles and is inherently safe, the advent of quantum computing and its ability to potentially break current encryption protocols poses a further risk down the line.

In conclusion, there is no single answer to the question of whether investing in virtual real estate is a good idea.

Rather, one needs to weigh the upside – the extent to which it

may take off – with the risks above and the fundamental economic principle of supply and demand. Mark Twain’s quote Buy land, they’re not making it anymore may no longer apply, because while supply of land and property in the real world is limited, supply in the virtual world is potentially limitless.

Some may choose to steer away from the plentiful risk, while others may embrace it as early adopters and reap handsome rewards.

According to Andrew Kiguel, CEO of tokens.com, “There are generations that have a difficult time attributing value to things that are digital, that you can’t hold and that don’t have weight. The younger generation has no issue with it. Like with NFTs, blockchain technology allows for something to be digital, irreplaceable, and scarce. You can hold it, store it, display it and sell it.

Umhlanga Rocks / R5.995 million

Ref# 1ND1573731

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 3 / Garages 2 / Prime position set on dead level land. Excellent flow from the dining room, lounge, undercover patio and Mediterranean style Pergola to the beautiful garden and pool area.

Anne Felt 083 740 6102

La Lucia / R7.95 million

Ref# 1ND1571884

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 4 / Garages 2 / High-end finishes throughout this magnificent duplex with 2 huge ocean viewing balconies. The fully fitted large double kitchen with a separate scullery has plenty of storage.

Lara Suttle 071 230 0853

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La Lucia / R5.75 million

Ref# 1ND1573909

Bedrooms 5 / Bathrooms 3.5 / Garages 2/ Gracious home at sought-after address. Step into open-plan living with a grand state-of-the-art kitchen.

This home truly has it all, just move in and live happily.

Dean Fox 082 771 3762

Durban North / R4.25 million Ref# 1ND1572886 Bedrooms 8 / Bathrooms 8 / Parkings 10 / This home is in immaculate condition, a corner stand with sea views, two entrances, plenty of parking space with a stunning entertainment and pool area. Don’t miss out on this amazing B & B opportunity.

Phillip Reynolds 082 780 9813

socials*

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 RADISSON BLU HOTEL Glitz and glamour reigned supreme at the recent opening of the stunning Radisson Blu Hotel in uMhlanga.

1. Sihle and Nelly Zikalala.

2. Pearl Bengu and Phindile Makwakwa.

3. Moses Tembe and Princess Ntandoyesizwe Zulu.

4. Sisa and Ayanda Ngebulana, Sorisha Naidoo, and Dr Anna Mokokong.

5. Tessa and Rob Alexander.

6. Thuli Mpuntshe, Neo Sekhantso, Portia Molefe, and Matau.

7. Neville and Lenore Goss-Matjie, and Bheki Cele.

8. Lesego and Keketso Motsoene.

9. Sorisha Naidoo and Vivian Reddy.

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 HQ SANDTON

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HQ Sandton – currently one of the best-selling residential developments in the Sandton, Gauteng area – recently hosted an event at the prestigious Pencil Club for Durban-based potential investors. Alex Algunik, co-developer of HQ Sandton, presented the various investment opportunities at this popular development.

10. Niquita Kissun and Nathi Barlow.

11. Mlu Mbokazi and Sli Mbokazi.

12. Megan Naidoo, Nazia Moonsamy, and Ashnee Bharat.

13. Sbahle Dube and Alex Algunik.

14. Andrew Paterson and Shantal Govender.

 THE SMILE BAR New to La Lucia Mall, The Smile Bar gives us all a reason and the confidence to smile all day long. Offering the fastest and most effective system available in SA today, you can see amazing results in 20 minutes.

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15. Dinishan Govender and Andile Pieterson.

16. Candice Wallace, Bronwyn Kotze, and Nicky Diffenthal.

17. Nicole Kruger, Marlini Govender, Shan Fourie, and Candice Wallis.

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socials*

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 HOPE & HAPPINESS Durban ladies recently met at The Pencil Club at uMhlanga Arch to network and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Cindy Norcott and Caitlyn de Beer – both well-known in their fields – offered their opinions on happiness and hope. A raffle raised funds for the Robin Hood Foundation, and fabulous prizes were won.

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18. Caitlyn de Beer, Lisa Prashma, Linda Stonier and Cindy Norcott.

19. Sumaya Nandhray, Nicola Inggs, and Haley van Niekerk.

20. Samantha Maere, Michelle Isaac, Cindy Norcott, Nokukhanya Mkhize, and Rose Govender.

21. Lee du Plessis, Lynn Gillham, Sonia Zocchi-Dommann, Michelle van den Berg, Ingrid Hatton, and Tanya Taylor.

 TERRY SCOTT GOES GREEN Terry Scott Hair Fashion salon recently hosted the launch of O’Right eco-friendly haircare products – healthy for users as well as the communities and environment which are critical to everyone’s wellbeing. All products are natural, eco-friendly and pure.

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22. Allan Liu, Lisa Lockhart, and Terry Scott.

23. Melinda Marx, Suhil Singh, and Christine Dasary.

24. Sofi Wilson, Michael Scott, and William and Geraldine Chandler.

25. Francois Vedemme, Frank Strydom, and Aldytha Da Silva.

26. Gavin and Janet Eastwood, and Mandy and Ian Gourley.

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 TIDAL EXHIBITION The Gallery at the Lifestyle Centre in Ballito recently launched Tidal, an exhibition of artwork from local artists. The Gallery is run by artist Jane Digby and her team of artists.

27. Gift Dlamini, Leigh Bisset, Jane Digby, and Sharon Paterson.

28. Phindile Mkize, David Wachania, and Jane Digby.

 GOLF CART WINNER

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Elaleni Coastal Forest Estate held a competition for residents to win a brand new EZGO golf cart. Residents and homeowners turned out at the Elaleni Estate Hide where the winner was announced, and to launch the first of a number of regular social events planned to rollout in 2022.

29. Sam Edwards, Gary Uys, Luciano Sandrini, Andre Botha, Jason Skewis, Greg Simmonds, and Andrew Church.

30. Shelagh Rhodes, Scott Skewis, and Stephanie Wilkes.

31. Lucy Richardson, Benjamin Sparks, Kate Sparks, and Kate Charteris.

32. Golf cart competition winners Shelagh Rhodes and Stephanie Wilkes.

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last word*

in my

OPINION ...

THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY TO GET ROUND UNDERSTANDING SOMETHING, SAYS DARREL BRISTOW-BOVEY

“H

ow’s our NFT doing?” said my partner.

“Hmmm?” I said.

In retrospect, this was a mistake. My partner knows me well enough to recognise “Hmmm?” as a desperate stalling tactic.

“Our NFT. The NFT you bought.”

“Oh, that NFT. Well, you know what they say, never count your money while you’re sitting at the table.”

“Who says that?”

“Economists.”

“No, they don’t. That’s from a song.”

It’s a pity she’s finally starting to realise that most of my financial insight comes from Kenny Rogers’ The Gambler. It’s easy to be an expert until people start to suspect you aren’t.

The problem is, I don’t really understand most things, but I don’t like to admit it. I get around this in social situations by loudly

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and confidently asserting a strong opinion.

The real trick is deciding which opinion to have. I do this by seeing what my partner’s brother says, and then saying the opposite.

I don’t know if you have met my partner’s brother, but he’s a nice guy and drives a better car than me and he’s always taking me aside and offering me advice, and therefore I dislike him greatly. One night he was talking about Bitcoin, which is what I thought pirates did with gold doubloons to make sure they’re real.

“Bitcoin’s a bubble,” he said knowledgeably. “It won’t last.”

Everyone else was sort of nodding as though this made sense to them. What a creep.

“I disagree!” I said vehemently.

“You do? Why?” Why? That was a damaging question.

Why? Why? Must stall for time while I think of an answer.

“Hmmm?” I said.

“I said, why don’t you think Bitcoin is a bubble?” he repeated.

“Oh,” I said firmly, leaning forward to show how passionate I was about what I was about to say. “I think you’re underestimating the fundamentals of the blockchain.”

That impressed them – but not for long.

“What about NFTs?” he said.

“Ha! Indeed! What about NFTs?” “So you would invest in NFTs then?” said my partner’s brother.

“Not only would I, I already have!” I said grandly.

That was the winning blow. It’s like when I’m arguing with someone about how to raise children who behave themselves and don’t kick the backs of seats on aeroplanes.

I am always entirely right, but all they need to say is, “I have children. Do you?” and they win. But as an actual NFT investor, I was the indisputable expert at the dinner table.

I was even impressed with myself. I felt like a grown-up, like a fully functioning adult member of society. It felt good.

But like most spur-of-the-moment lies, I’d forgotten all about it. I sort of know that NFTs have something to do with bad drawings and computers, but it’s a subject so achingly dull that whenever people talk about them I tune out and go to a happy place in my head that doesn’t have space for other people and their boring opinions.

“Umm,” I said. “Our NFT is doing great.”

“Is it?” she said.

“Oh yes. I looked at it this morning. It’s looking good.”

“Where did you look at it?”

“On the, you know, on the computer. It’s all there. Maybe it’s even grown a bit. It’s looking, um, it’s very logarithmic.”

“You never bought an NFT, did you?”

“Of course I did!”

“You’re not even really sure how to spell NFT, are you?”

“No.” I was bracing for the worst, but she came over and kissed me on the cheek.

“What’s that for?”

“That,” she said, “is for saving us money.”

With a girlfriend like that, who needs NFTs?

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