The Ridge 116

FEB-MAR 2020 ISSUE 116

HIGH FIVE

Has school sport lost the fun factor?

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

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The Ridge2 Thursday, January 30, 2020 8:43:09 PM

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The Ridge GOES DIGITAL Getting your very own copy of The Ridge has never been easier. If you or anyone you know – locally or overseas – would like to receive a free digital copy of The Ridge magazine, please email the details (first name, surname, email address and residing area) to theridge@ famouspublishing.co.za

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Change for the better

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y the time you read this we will have eased into February, leaving behind January, a month always filled with new hope, dreams and inspirations we plan to fulfil, and New Year resolutions that will change our lives for the better.

Many of us will probably have forgotten the resolutions we made on January 1, but it’s never too late to take action, and to add value and improve your life, your home and your environment. Our wellness story on page 48 gives a broad overview of wellness issues we should all be taking seriously in 2020. It looks at clean eating and drinking, a greener home, health, wealth, work and emotional points to help you live better.

On the home front, we should all be making more of an effort to save our planet –

one day at a time – and in this issue Tony Carnie offers an overview of simple, practical ways to get you started.

Of course, something else that comes around in January is the start of a new school year. For some learners it’s a time of anxiety and worry, not knowing if they’ll cope with the workload, the concern of adapting to new teachers, and making new friends; and for

LET US HELP YOU TALK TO OUR COMMUNITY Chat to us today about how we can make The Ridge work for you. Phone Lynda on 082 379 9912 or lynda@famouspublishing.co.za

our matrics, this is the start of their last chapter at school, and the work they put in in the coming months, will reward them in the years ahead.

In this education issue we discuss topical subjects relevant for learners, parents and schools. We unpack anxiety, and offer practical advice on helping your child cope with this debilitating and daunting feeling which can often prevent your child from being the best they can be.

Another topic we tackle is whether school sport has lost the fun element. Should professionalism even be

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entertained at school-level sport? Win or lose – what is important? A thorny issue, but we’d love to hear your thoughts. More on page 16.

On page 40 Anne Schauffer chats to North Coast resident Grant Fowlds about his crazy conservation journey in Saving The Last Rhinos, a book he has just launched; and on page 34 Anne braved the elements for a few days to experience firsthand what it’s like to be a wildlife volunteer. Don’t miss them … and all the other interesting reads packed into this issue.

The Ridge magazine strives to bring you the best stories of people in our community – people who are doing extraordinary things, going the extra mile, and overcoming adversities. Without these people our community would be faceless. To give you the very best in each issue, we welcome story ideas for consideration, so please share your thoughts with me – I’d love to hear from you. Send your ideas to Lorna.king@ famouspublishing.co.za.

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 DESIGNER Kyle Griffin SALES CONSULTANT Lynda Kapsimalis (082 379 9912) DISTRIBUTION Mphumzeni Thusi Enquiries: sumayia.khan@famouspublishing.co.za ACCOUNTS Sumayia Khan CONTRIBUTORS Doody Adams, Katrine Anker-Nilssen, Greg Ardé, Gareth Bailey, Candice Botha, Tony Carnie, Cathy Clark, Lee Currie, Brian Downie, Glynis Horning, David Knowles, Jeremy Nell, Anne Schauffer

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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

WELLNESS IN 2020

EDUCATION UNPACKING ANXIETY

10

Coping strategies for young learners

TO WIN OR LOSE?

16

School sport: Has the fun element been lost?

EDUCATION FOR THE FUTURE THE FUTURE TEACHER

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COMMUNITY

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.

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED

32

VOLUNTEERING: THE REAL DEAL

34

Helping to preserve wildlife

MRS M'S KITCHEN SECRETS

WE ALSO PUBLISH

54

WILDERNESS ON A WHIM

58

REGULARS ED’S LETTER TAKE NOTE SEEN AROUND TRENDING LAST WORD

1 4 8 52 64

PHOTONOTE CAPE SATIVA BY 3SIXTY CITY GATE PHARMACY MOTORING

22 30 38 60

44

Saving our planet one step at a time

GET GUT RIGHT A guide to restoring your gut health

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40

Grant Fowlds’ conservation journey

GREEN YOUR HOME IN 2020

WONDER WALLS

ADVERTORIALS 37

Gorima’s Chicken Roti Wraps

FROM GOATS TO GLORY

62

Property trends for 2020

Gwahumbe Game Lodge and Spa

Local schools share their values

An update on the M4

A GOOD TIME TO BUY

Wallpapers make a statement

Helping learners through digital education

BACK TO SCHOOL

48

Tips to get your attitude on the right track

LIFESTYLE 20

Redwood College: Innovative, education solutions Published by Famous Publishing, 52 Mahogany Road, Mahogany Ridge, Westmead, Durban, 3610.

031 714 4700 www.famouspublishing.co.za Printed by Novus Print KwaZulu-Natal Managed distribution by Vibrant Direct

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ON THE COVER: CLIFTON 1ST X1 CRICKET VS KZN *INLAND ACADEMY. PICTURE: RENATE MONTY PHOTOS

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take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP Precious Memories

KEPT SE ST

Nouriti - All Natural

Nouriti, a quirky, little health cafe in La Lucia Mall, offers food that’s not only nutritional and wholesome, but is affordable to eat every day. Their menu is a balance of healthy treats including multiseed wraps, sourdough sandwiches, fresh salads and soul-filling hot meals. Washed down with a smoothie (on average 82% less sugar than other cafes) or their legendary coffee, Nouriti ticks all the boxes for flavour and convenience.

For those conscious of what they’re eating, Nouriti’s weekly meal plan programme has a loyal following for those who like to take the thinking out of their eating. The meals – fresh, not frozen – are not only nutritionally balanced, they’re an excellent value for money too – at R545 a week for ladies and R750 a week for men. The meals on the programme average 380 calories for ladies and 520 calories for men, and are roughly 40% protein, 30% carb and 30% fat.

The meal plan menu changes weekly to keep it interesting, and includes lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday. And for R75 a week for daily delivery, you couldn’t ask for anything more convenient or nutritional.

FOR MORE INFO: Tel/Whatsapp 083 610 1916; www.nouriti.NET; also visit upstairs in La Lucia Mall

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ET • THE

INE’S BE AZ

FOR MORE INFO: dan@pinkglitter.co.za; 082 828 2116; www.pinkglitter.co.za

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GE MAG RID

It was while trying to find the perfect keepsake book for her daughter’s first years that Durban North’s Danielle BarrieSmith decided she’d design her own. “The design process involved a million sheets of paper, planning each page, each picture and each word,” she says. “We maxed out my husband, Nic’s, credit card buying the prints and empty files, and remember the panic when they all arrived and filled our garage. What if no one likes our albums?” She needn’t have worried, though, as Pink Glitter’s albums have been hugely popular with parents both locally and abroad.

The Pink Glitter range has expanded from the collection of five albums – one for the baby and toddler years, and one for each phase of school – to calendars, planners, reward charts and personalised memory books as well as an app, Pop by Pink Glitter, that Danielle recently launched. “The idea behind the app was to take the albums digital and create an online space where you can easily and conveniently store your child’s memories, privately on your phone,” says Danielle.

“All of our products are carefully designed to be beautiful, practical and interactive with space for plastic sleeves in our albums so that parents can add to them and the ability to add sections, and mix and match challenges to personalise reward charts.” With such carefully designed products, Pink Glitter will have you completely organised for 2020.

Valentine's Day Duo February 14, 6pm, Durban Botanic Gardens: Looking for a special way to celebrate St Valentine’s Day? Then try a romantic night under the African skies, falling in love with the sweet sounds of Louise Carver and Ard Matthews. In a rare collaboration, these two awardwinning South African favourites are pairing up to entertain you with some of the best love songs around; a partnership that will melt every heart and set the tone for a great night out. Tickets cost R130 for adults, R80 for children between six and 12, and R10 for children under six. Bring your own food, drink, blankets and chairs.

FOR MORE INFO: www.webtickets.co.za; 031 322 4021

Valentine's Day Dinner Dance February 14 and 15, 7-10pm: Celebrating love and lovers at the Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance. Enjoy a delicious six-course plated dinner and dance the night away to the fabulous Beat Route trio. The Grill Room and The Ocean Terrace. Tickets cost R1 200 a person.

FOR MORE INFO: 031 514 5000

Be My Valentine Spa Special

editor's choice

During the month of February: Celebrate each other this February with our 90-minute treatment which includes our B|Together couples’ rose quartz full body massage, followed by a glass of sparkling wine. Costs R3 200 a couple.

Know your NUMBERS HANDY PHONE NUMBERS FOR USEFUL SERVICES IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD  NORTH DURBAN

VICTIM SUPPORT SERVICES: (formerly Durban North/Umhlanga Crisis Team).

Trauma debriefing: 066 483 8589  NO WATER? SIZA WATER: 032 946 7200  POISON INFORMATION 24-HOUR HELPLINE: (includes medication, toxic substances snake and spider bites): 0861 555 777  POWER FAILURE: 032 437 5081  TO REPORT INJURED MONKEYS: Monkey Helpline: 082 659 4711/ 082 411 5444  CONCERNS ABOUT TREATMENT OF ANIMALS – SPCA: 031 579 6500  TO REPORT POTHOLES AND BURST WATER PIPES: 080 131 3013  SNAKE CATCHERS: Jason Arnold 082 745 6375 Neville Wolmarans 082 561 4969  TO REMOVE BEES: Honey Bee Removals: 084 594 1122  WHALES AND DOLPHINS (beached and well as entangled in shark nets).

Sharks Board: 031 566 0400

FOR MORE INFO: 031 514 5072 F E B - M A R

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Not Just A Doctor Well-known uMhlanga ENT specialist Peter Desmarais shares his earlier memoirs – from his humble beginnings in Newcastle (KZN) to his first few years in general practice – in a book entitled Not Just A Little Prick. As a child he ran a somewhat hazardous chemical laboratory in his bedroom often causing chaos for his unsuspecting family. His army years were equally eventful, as were his experiences as a student, an intern and a young doctor. Among many memories, he recalls the time he set a patient alight, as well as his pride in his first operation.

Small in stature he has the enviable ability to poke fun at himself with wry comments about being mistaken for a schoolboy.

With wave after wave of anecdotes that are both hilarious and enlightening, this is a book to keep on your bedside and dip into as the 51chapters will carry you through a different experience, each more entertaining than the last. The author’s delightful take on life and his compassion reverberate throughout.

Altogether a great read. And amazingly, Peter wrote the entire book on his iPhone with one finger.

– Lee Currie FOR MORE INFO: Reach publishers, R265; currently available at Amazon, Takealot, and Exclusive Books.

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take note* Decorex Durban March 19-22, Durban Exhibition Centre: This prestigious showcase of the latest products and trends from top designers, decor professionals and industry experts promises to be hotter, bigger and better than before. The overarching theme for Decorex Africa 2020 is Lifestyle by Design, an all-embracing approach that allows you to design your life the way you want it to be. It is about freedom, reclaiming your time and doing things you like.

This is essentially illustrated through design and looking to future trends when curating your own personal space.

FOR MORE INFO: www.reedexpoafrica.co.za/decorex

Happy Culture Takes Wellness To New Heights Happy Culture recently launched their much-anticipated new flavours, which draw several key ingredients together to create an innovative experimental range that further boosts their already goodness-filled living probiotic teas.

Placing Happy Culture firmly amongst the growing wave of businesses entering the cannabis market, the Cherry CBD Kombucha bursts with a fruity, cherry flavour and is infused with premium quality CBD oil for the optimal feel-good experience.

Taking tonic to new heights is the Zesty Energy Kombucha.

This drink has been infused with refreshing citrus and energy boosting guarana and ginseng. It’s an ideal way to invigorate both mind and body, and a perfect alternative to sugary and artificial energy drinks.

FOR MORE INFO: www.happyculture.co.za

What's new for the health conscious?

Ancient Cycads Take Root In MCCE The Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate celebrated the ceremonial final planting of a vast array of ancient cycads that were allocated to a dedicated area as part of the Estate’s plant diversification programme and for the conservation of these plants. The Estate received a large number of cycads from resident Dr Karan Nair who started his collection of cycads over 30 years ago when he lived in Verulam.

Fry's Vegan-Friendly Pizzas The Fry Family Food Co has launched artisan, stonebaked vegan pizzas – delicious and proof that there doesn’t need to be a trade-off between taste and plant-based eating.

The range includes two varieties, Smoky BBQ and Mediterranean, which are both non-GM and dairy free.

The pizzas are crafted in Italy and the sourdough base is handstretched and leavened for 24 hours, then wood fired to create an unforgettable taste experience. They are also a wonderfully convenient way for people to bring more plant-based eating into their daily lives – delicious and so easy to prepare.

FOR MORE INFO: www.fryfamilyfood.com

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Glenmor e a Th

Paired D e i in ng

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February 28, 7-10.30pm: Limited to 20 people, this educational and insightful evening on the art of drinking whisky is aimed at both aficionados and those who enjoy a great night out. Welcoming canapes on arrival, followed by a five-course dinner, each course matched with a whisky.

The Colony Room. Tickets cost R690 a person.

FOR MORE INFO: 031 514 5000

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Sports Riders Weekend February 22 & 23: The KTM Durban outlet is inviting experienced dual sport riders for a weekend adventure to Zingela Lodge situated within the battlefields of Weenen.

This weekend is not just about bringing like-minded people together for a fun riding weekend, but also incorporates a social element. The routes consist of various difficulties and cater for riders of certain styles and experience.

On a scale of green, orange, red, black, this ride rates as a “dark green�, heading into orange. It is a pillion friendly route, but best suited to riders who have a little more experience riding off road.

FOR MORE INFO: 031 035 0090; info@ktmdbn.co.za

take note*

SEEN AROUND!

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SEND YOUR PICS TO LORNA.KING@FAMOUSPUBLISHING.CO.ZA 2

Revamped La Lucia Mall Celebration La Lucia Mall recently celebrated the completion of the newly revamped mall with an official ribbon cutting ceremony.

 Patricia Zama, Pamela Hira, Nazrana Premlall, Cindene Sheasby, Nicole Bollman, Keri Miller, Vanessa Blevins and Donovan Solomon.  Donovan Solomon, Candice Downs, Sandra Reddy and Pamela Hira.

Pink Phoenix Flower Fiesta Fundraiser Dressed in the finest floral creations, 200 ladies attended the fundraiser in aid of cancer support and awareness and listened to guest speakers Sharon Van Straaten, Wendy Gordon and Courtney Hunt. R32 000 was raised.

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 Courtney Hunt, Sharan Van

Straaten and Wendy Gordon.

 Carmen Rossi, Shirley Holland

and Shirly Caffyn Parson.

Somerset Lodge CARE CENTRE

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY OF EXCELLENCE, OFFERING DIGNITY-BASED AND INDIVIDUAL CARE FOR OUR RESIDENTS Somerset Valley Estate – in close proximity to excellent uMhlanga hospitals and shopping centres Somerset Lodge offers strict, but discreet, security arrangements, with well laid out gardens and lovely furnishings Short-term stays are welcome, subject to availability NOW OFFERING HOME-BASED CARE TO RESIDENTS OF SOMERSET VALLEY ESTATE Visit our website for a virtual tour

www.somersetcarecentre.co.za

inf Cal orm l u ati s for on ta 03 riff 19 sa 40 nd 16 01

Inspiring Young Women Durban Girls’ College applauds the Class of 2019 on their outstanding IEB results. They have truly demonstrated their academic excellence and done themselves proud! We recognise the hard work and dedication of our teachers, without whom these results would not have been possible.

Now, it is time for these 73 remarkable young women to go out and enrich our society. Durban Girls’ College wishes them well as they embark on their onward journey. Find out more about how we have achieved 142 years of academic excellence: Tel +27 (31) 268 7200 marketing@dgc.co.za www.dgc.co.za

100% BACHELOR DEGREE PASS RATE 2 IEB ‘OUTSTANDING ACHIEVERS’ & 2 IEB ‘COMMENDABLE ACHIEVERS’ 252 DISTINCTIONS - AN AVERAGE OF 3.5 As PER PUPIL 79% OF ALL SYMBOLS ATTAINED ARE As & Bs 19 PLACEMENTS IN THE TOP 1% NATIONALLY FOR INDIVIDUAL SUBJECTS

Luisa de Vlieg 7 Distinctions

Emma Sharratt 7 Distinctions IEB Outstanding Achiever

Kereena Bhana 8 Distinctions IEB Outstanding Achiever

Caitlin Honeywell 7 Distinctions IEB Commendable Achiever

Shivika Govender 7 Distinctions

Micaela Kapp 7 Distinctions

Ara Naidoo 7 Distinctions

Rachel Wedderburn - Maxwell 7 Distinctions IEB Commendable Achiever

Andrea Reddy 7 Distinctions

Keren Wessels 7 Distinctions

HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING: 19 FEB 2020 AT 17H30 - BOOK ONLINE WWW.DGC.CO.ZA DEADLINE FOR SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES: 25 FEB 2020 - APPLY ONLINE WWW.DGC.CO.ZA

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e deal with stress every day – both in our professional and personal lives.

Unlike adults, who can communicate about how stress impacts their lives, children and teens may not recognise or even have the words to describe how they’re feeling. Positive stress responses from events such as changing schools and meeting new friends can actually help our youngsters learn and grow. But when exposed to repeated stressful events without the tools to manage feelings around them, stress can become emotionally and physically toxic. Parents and teachers can watch for short-term behaviours and physical symptoms that manifest when stress becomes a problem.

“Anxiety is a combination of intrusive feelings, such as worry, rumination, fear and concern accompanied by physical sensations, such as

Children and teens may not recognise or even have the words to describe how they’re feeling increased heart rate, dizziness, sweating and gastrointestinal complaints,” explains counselling psychologist Sia Rees.

“The amygdala, which is the emotion centre of the brain, is the primitive survival centre for humans and is intrinsic to how we function when exposed to a life threat,” continues Sia. “When we are in danger the amygdala automatically activates a fight, flight or freeze response in us that kickstarts the release of stress hormones – giving the body the extra energy it needs in order to attain safety.” Adrenaline acquires the extra energy from the body by “stealing” it from less urgent bodily processes and functions such as digestion – which is often why anxious children complain of sore tummies – and frontal lobe processing.

Our frontal lobes are responsible for our higher order thinking such as reasoning and problem solving. “If a learner is experiencing test anxiety, for example, they will find the test more

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Unpacking

ANXIETY

KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN TAKES A CLOSER LOOK AT ANXIETY AMONG LEARNERS AND SUGGESTS SIMPLE COPING STRATEGIES

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Over 70 Years of Excellence in Education

ANXIETY MANAGEMENT TOOLS Teachers:

Have a structured, predictable environment.

Be mindful of situations where the anxious child will struggle and offer support beforehand.

Include children in problem solving. There are many allowances you can make for the anxious child, while still ensuring that they face the anxiety head on.

Focus on fun; offer free fun time with limited pressures and expectations.

Believe in them, see their strength and help them see it.

Parents:

Make home a “safe place”.

Structure and a healthy, predictable routine is vital.

challenging as they won’t have full access to their frontal lobes needed to solve the problems in the test,” explains Sia. A degree of stress is normal and can be a motivating force. “All learners have experienced the anxiety associated with deadlines. This encourages them to learn important life skills such as time management,” says Sia. Common school stressors could include tests, assignments, performance, peer conflicts and challenging subjects. “Bullying can also trigger anxiety. Feeling unaccepted, disliked and like you ‘don’t fit in’ can cause learners to withdraw, which can perpetuate anxiety,” adds Sia. As children enter high school, anxiety can also be provoked by relationship challenges. And towards the end of high school a major stressor is often where/what/when to study. “There is a culture of fear and uncertainty in our country, fear that some children won’t find work and be able to sustain themselves financially, fear as to the state of the country and fear for their safety. Children are brought up amidst these fears, and this can also trigger anxiety,” says Sia. Anxiety in high school also stems from the marks that need to be achieved to get into tertiary education. “As a society, we are looking for a point of difference, something that sets us apart from others so that your version of success

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Create spaces in your home where the only expectation is to have fun.

Get out! Nature is so important, teach children to slow down – creating awareness and mindfulness.

Consistent 100% Pass Rate Top matric student awards include 7th in District (2017), 9th in KZN and 3rd and 6th in District (2015); 5th in KZN (2014), 4th and 8th in District (2014); 2nd in District (2010) and 1st in KZN (2006).

Decades of Quality Education With a consistent 100% Matric pass rate and Allan Gray Orbis "Circle of Excellence" School for the 7th consecutive year, high standards and quality education always remain at the fore at NGHS.

First Class Facilities Learners are exposed to 24 Academic subjects, including Music, IEB French, and Advanced Programme Mathematics. Fully equipped and state of the art Music, Media and Art Centres, Consumer Studies Kitchens, a modern Gymnasium, Swimming Pool and Astro turf facilities ensure a first class High School career.

Stimulating Programmes Outside the classroom, learners grow on the sports fields and in the 20+ Arts and Culture Societies on offer.

As they get involved in our innovative leadership, community service and environmental programmes, they grow into well-rounded, strong women.

Be physical, encourage children to exercise before studying, releasing endorphins.

Don’t problem solve for them, rather encourage their own problem solving and offer support.

• South African Representatives in Chess, Hockey, Rugby and Volleyball.

• Provincial representatives in Swimming, Softball, Netball, Hockey, Fencing, Chess, Touch Rugby, Figure Skating, Soccer, Gymnastics and Music.

Offer praise and reward.

Give them something to look forward to and something else to focus their attention on.

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Test/exam anxiety Preparation is key. Anxiety stems from feeling “out of control”.

Introduce study timetables at a young age, children process visual information better than they do verbal information.

Support with extra lessons if necessary.

Some high school children find past papers beneficial as they help them feel that the exam is more predictable and less unknown/frightening.

Encourage relaxation techniques the week/day before the exam, such as deep breathing and muscle relaxation exercises.

Practice mindfulness. Search online for mindfulness techniques or simply take your child out into the garden for half an hour and focus on breathing and being “in the moment”.

A good night’s rest is important, as is a good breakfast. Remember for the anxious child both of these things may be difficult. Don’t force them into a big meal, but encourage a smoothie or a fruit: something less heavy that’ll give them the boost they need.

Avoid pre-test/exam corridor hype. Encourage them not to discuss the upcoming paper with peers and rather sit quietly somewhere until the paper starts, or to chat with like-minded friends.

can be attained. I think this is heightened in a South African context, where there is pressure to get the best possible point of difference to set your learners apart in a South African and international context. This means that learners are trying to get into the best possible tertiary options, and this brings about a huge amount of anxiety to perform academically in high school,” says psychologist Bryce Dekker.

“To deal with anxiety in a positive manner, we have to reduce the anxiety around some of the key decisions that need to be made in the learners’ high school journey,” Bryce continues. “We want to endeavour to make the small decisions count by always asking whether we are playing towards the child’s strengths or not. In doing so, and supporting the key decision making with providing all the necessary

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education*

information to make informed decisions, I think we can deal with the inevitable anxiety as proactively as possible.”

“Having and following a structure can significantly improve marks, and by implication reduce performance anxiety,” says Bryce. “I always remember Benjamin Franklin’s words: If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.”

Therapy is sometimes stereotyped as being for children with “issues” or who are “crazy”. The reality is that our children are dealing with more than we ever did as children. “Today’s youth have exposure to more. They are growing up in a world that is busier, faster, smarter and more competitive. Many children don’t cope under this pressure. Giving them access to professional help can help them build grit, make necessary changes and attain a healthier balance in their lives,” says Sia. Sia suggests schools should offer teachers training on caring for the anxious child. “Anxiety awareness campaigns to both children and parents have proved to normalise the emotions associated with anxiety, and offer coping strategies and tools. It is essential for parents and teachers to feel empowered in how they support the anxious child.”

Creating a culture of openness and support, teachers should consider healthy allowances for anxious children.

“If they’re afraid of running the race, don’t let them skip the race but rather sit with them one-on-one, talk about the race, talk about their fears and of ways to alleviate those fears.

Don’t underestimate a child’s capacity,” says Sia. “Encourage children to believe that they are not victims but survivors; that they are not worriers, but warriors. Validate feelings, understand challenges – but don’t let their anxiety rule.”

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FOR MORE INFO Sia Rees: Counselling psychologist, 083 777 1017 Bryce Dekker: Psychologist, 082 653 7637

school sport*

To win or

LOSE?

HAS THE FUN ELEMENT BEEN LOST IN SCHOOL SPORT? DOES IT MATTER IF YOU WIN OR LOSE? SHOULD PROFESSIONALISM EVEN BE ENTERTAINED AT SCHOOL-LEVEL SPORT? DAVID FRANK LOOKS AT THIS THORNY DEBATE

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rofessionalism has changed and continues to change the face of sport across all disciplines – it has also wrapped its claws around school sport, particularly rugby. People in their mid-40s and beyond will remember sport at school as fun, a chance to test your skills and enjoy time with mates.

It never mattered who won or lost, and being chosen to play a game and representing your school was enough to swell the heart and get the adrenaline pumping. These days, school sport has become a semi-professional environment. Youngsters with a particular talent are singled out, nurtured and enrolled in a designated high performance programme where they eat and sleep their sport, regaled with stories of big money backed by a lifestyle previously unheard of.

Such a scenario begs the question, has the fun element gone out of school sport? It’s a topic of endless argument, yet the general feeling from a few sports personalities in Durban strongly supports and ticks the “yes” box on this one.

East Coast Radio sports personality Sky Tshabalala coaches 1st team rugby, 1st

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TELL US WHAT YOU THINK Has the fun element been lost in school sport? Is winning always important? Whether you’re a parent, learner, or school sports coach at junior or high school, share your thoughts with our readers.

Send your views to: Lorna.king@famouspublishing. co.za

BELOW: East Coast Radio sports personality Sky Tshabalala.

team girls’ soccer and U14 cricket in a school environment and has a two-fold outlook, depending on the status of certain schools. “I see a distinct A and B league especially regarding rugby at boys’ schools and hockey for the girls.

For kids playing at 1st team level, it becomes like a job, their main focus, having gym sessions and the like during school time,” he says.

“As a coach you like winning, but the underlying factor for the kids should be the privilege of representing their school at whatever level, no matter the outcome. Winning or losing should not be a representation of the status of your school or cast a dark cloud over a kid because he or she did not perform on the sports field.”

Errol Stewart, a former Natal rugby and cricket player, SA Cricket selector and a SA Schools’ cricket and rugby representative in 1987, was a gifted school sportsman, yet he too laments the current scenario. “Everyone had a go at sport then and if you were a decent allrounder, you were encouraged to play as many sports as possible. Players of all levels were accommodated but that’s gone out the window with kids told to focus on what they are good

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school sport*

at,” he says. “That creates all sorts of unnecessary pressure on say a 15-year-old who has been told he is the next Handre Pollard or Shaun Pollock. Teenage years are an area of massive development for any child and to be tampered with at that stage is detrimental for them.”

Tania Richardson, mother of Dylan Richardson – who played 1st team rugby for two years, captained the side and made his debut for the Sharks in 2019 while also representing the SA U19 side – offers words every parent should heed.

“Dylan started rugby at senior primary school and it was something he took a liking to and pursued.

He set his own goals and worked towards them in his own way. As a parent, I supported him but never forced him or interfered with what he was doing,” she says. “All he has achieved has been his own doing, but he enjoys it and still sees the fun element because he has appreciated what the game has given him without added pressure.”

Former Springbok wing Stefan Terblanche has similar thoughts. “As former players we are concerned at the intensity of what is expected of kids in top teams at top schools. The key to longevity in a sport is to enjoy it and have a love for it. Professionalism brings too much too soon and many kids are unprepared for what is expected of them, meaning they stumble and fail with nothing

Teenage years are an area of massive development for any child and to be tampered with at that stage is detrimental for them Errol Stewart

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as backup,” he says. “Professionalism is relatively new in South Africa and using sport to measure a school is absolute rubbish.”

Sixth in her debut Comrades in 2019, Durban’s Jenna Challenor has mixed feelings. “Sometimes giving everyone a certificate for participating is unrealistic as everything is earned in life, not given.

However, they must understand how to deal with winning and losing and controlling that without letting it dominate their lives,” she says.

“While winning is great, life doesn’t allow that

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level to last forever and difficult times come.

Nothing should be served on a platter and it takes focus, work and dedication, with the proper support base, to get the right results. Crucial to all of this is, does the person involved want to follow that path and want to achieve, or is the status of their school or dream of a coach more important?”

Professor Tim Noakes has said: “School sport is about promoting participation by all and not about winning, which is an egocentric, adult value that is important in the appropriate context, but not the most important outcome in school sport.

School sport is taking on the characteristics of professional sport. It has become too much like work, with a focus on an outcome and that is to

Sometimes giving everyone a certificate for participating is unrealistic as everything is earned in life, not given

LEFT TO RIGHT:

 Tania and Dylan Richardson.  Errol Stewart, a former Natal rugby and cricket player.  Former Springbok wing Stefan Terblanche.  Durban runner Jenna Challenor.

win. Winning is usually beyond the control of the individual. The idea that anyone can be trained to be a champion is nonsense.”

But, some schools say: “We believe that sports participation is more than just fun, more than optional recreation. It helps to build character. It teaches leadership. One learns to try harder when things get tough, instead of giving up, to persevere, concentrate, and practise.”

To summarise: There is competition out there whether we like it or not. Some people get medals and recognition and that’s not a bad thing. As parents, regardless of our children’s struggles or skills, how we help them manage the competitive landscape, is key.

Competition at school level needs to be healthy, but respect, humility, sportsmanship and enjoyment are the key elements, not a win at all costs, prove we are the best attitude. It’s an endless debate.

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education*

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estled in the heart of La Lucia on nine hectares of land, Redwood College is a modern co-educational school accommodating learners from Grades 000 through to 12. Redwood College recognises that the needs and expectations of today’s learners has changed dramatically, so to help learners make the right choices, Redwood College is committed to providing an inspired education that equips our learners for their future success through innovative, education solutions.

The blended learning environment embraces the benefits of face-to-face teaching and eLearning, creating a personalised system of instruction for each learner. This approach enables learners to work at their own pace which supports deep learning and ultimately mastery in every subject.

We stand proud as an independent Christian school, and it is our vision to release morally grounded, mature young adults who are equipped to productively impact their communities, country and ultimately the world.  A HOLISTIC OFFERING We are on the cusp of a fourth industrial revolution and the World Economic Forum has reported that 65% of learners entering college this year will be working in jobs that don’t currently exist. This opens up huge opportunities for learners, ultimately leading them into uncharted career paths. These exciting developments highlight the need for a personalised curriculum and the relevant skills to thrive in the workforce.

As a result, taking a forward-thinking approach to the holistic development of your child is critical.

We not only have the traditional and age-old subjects on offer, but also have an array of new and emerging supplementary subjects designed to enhance knowledge and future readiness.

Courses such as: Aquatic Science; Environmental Systems; Principles of Business, Marketing and Finance; Astronomy and Principles

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Education for the FUTURE REDWOOD COLLEGE – PREPARING LEARNERS FOR THEIR FUTURE SUCCESS THROUGH INNOVATIVE, EDUCATION SOLUTIONS

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GET TO KNOW OUR PRINCIPAL We welcome Bjorn Teunissen into the Redwood family as our new principal. As the previous deputy principal at Crawford Preparatory School, La Lucia, Mr Teunissen comes with a wealth of experience and knowledge he has gained over more than 20 years in education.

He started his teaching career in this community in 1997 at Virginia Preparatory School. In 1998 he joined the Crawford group to start Crawford North Coast, and in 2002 Mr Teunissen was appointed deputy principal of Crawford Preparatory School, North Coast. Solid leadership of a growing school resulted in him being appointed as principal in 2009, and until 2015 he continued to gain experience and add enormous value as an inspiring principal.

In 2016, Mr Teunissen relocated back to Durban North in order to support his wife Jo, who opened a baby rescue home in Sunningdale. He transferred to Crawford Preparatory School, La Lucia to take up the deputy principal position. Through the Crawford structures and AdvTech Group, Mr Teunissen has been exposed to extensive training and development. This, combined with his excellent track record and experience, equips him to lead Redwood College into a new season.

To discuss your child’s needs and their future with you, book an appointment to meet with Mr Bjorn Teunissen.

of Health Science are available (subjects such as Robotics and Computer Coding are in the pipeline and will be available in the near future).

An onsite film and music school, (both offering fully accredited examinations) further extend the highly personalised, adaptive and relevant Redwood education experience. We are currently building an onsite chef school which will be completed this year.

With a wide range of activities available, learners are encouraged to nurture their talents through our extra-curricular programme – a programme that gives them the opportunity to improve their self-esteem and develop their leadership skills.

Our core values of Respect, Excellence, Innovation, Godliness and Integrity inspire a learning environment that helps affirm your

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child’s identity and gives them the confidence and security to develop a softer skill set that includes resilience, curiosity, communication and empathy.  MATRICULANTS WRITE THE IEB EXAMINATIONS The curriculum at Redwood is CAPS-aligned, and matriculants prepare to write the IEB (Independent Examination Board) examinations which, combined with a holistic development programme, inspires young adults for a purposeful future.

Personal development is a critical part of establishing the learner’s process of self-discovery and ultimately provides effective career guidance.

With innovative guidance tools, we assist the learner in establishing the perfect career path.

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FOR MORE INFO 031 572 7182; info@redwoodschools.co.za; www.redwoodschools.co.za/lalucia

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advertorial*

The power of

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or 25 years PhotoNote has continued to offer technological innovation in the workplace, all the while maintaining a strong service culture with clients. These two principles are the cornerstone of their success as a Durban business, and their foundation for a future that will set them apart from the rest, making them your number one business partner of choice.

PhotoNote has come a long way. Phillip Kershaw started the business a quarter of a century ago with three staff operating out of a small office supplying photocopiers. Today, the company owns a big warehouse and office complex overlooking Riverhorse Valley, and atop the expansive roof of that building is the latest addition to their vast range of office equipment aimed at maximising productivity in the workplace – solar panels.

Years ago Phillip saw the power of technology when he set out supplying photocopiers.

In no time his exponential growth saw him extend his offering to include data projectors, CCTV cameras, telecoms, interactive solutions, access control systems, digital printers, computers … and now solar panels.

Along the way PhotoNote made diversification key to its strategy, while always maintaining a strong service culture. According to Phillip, you can have all the new-

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BUSINESS

FROM PHOTOCOPIERS TO SOLAR PANELS – FOR 25 YEARS PHOTONOTE’S PHILLIP KERSHAW HAS HEADED UP A BRAND THAT’S NOT SHY TO OPTIMISE THE INTEGRATION OF BUSINESS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

fangled technology under the sun, but if you don’t have open, honest relationships the gizmos are worthless.

PhotoNote’s emphasis is on good products and prized relationships, and customers who are confident of the company’s commitment to

25 years in

business

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them will stay the course – even if the ride gets bumpy.

“My ethos has always been ‘stay true to your word’. When I started out in photocopiers there was a multitude of problems.

Even the heaviest wearing copier takes a pounding.

Hiccups require regular call-

RIGHT: Director and Group MD, Phillip Kershaw believes high service levels entrench customer loyalty.

BELOW: The “power” team driving PhotoNote’s business success. From left: Jacques van Heerden, Gerhard Rudolph, Candi Moodie, Andrew Murray and Richard Pereira.

outs, but if you resolve problems swiftly and honestly you earn a reputation for reliability.

“If we say we will be there at noon, we will be five minutes early,” Phillip says. High service levels entrench customer loyalty, making it so much easier to sell more than CCTV

cameras and photocopiers.

The company’s clients rely on them for bigger technology solutions.

In addition to the technological side of the business, one aspect that is crucial to their success is the business solutions PhotoNote offer to ensure your business operates efficiently, every day, and keeps up with changes in the industry – leaving the business owner to focus on business.

PhotoNote is a let-to-own company that offers finance mechanisms for high-end equipment. Firms often cannot afford the capital outlay for equipment in a single transaction, and items like photocopiers and CCTV systems are often best funded through monthly instalments and service contracts.

PhotoNote also offer tailormade packages to suit your business; business continuity to limit downtime; and UPS and generators to keep your business running and making

You can have all the newfangled technology under the sun, but if you don’t have open, honest relationships the gizmos are worthless” – Phillip Kershaw money. Offering these business solutions is how Phillip has built a client base of almost 2 000 companies.

In 2018 Phillip had something of a revelation when a businessman offered to cut R8 000 a month off his electricity bill. He spent R400 000 installing solar panels on his roof in Riverhorse and experienced the saving

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firsthand. “In Durban, there are 300 days of pretty much guaranteed sunlight – enough to power solar panels.”

The new enterprise found their first customers among PhotoNote’s loyal clientele, and to date they have installed six projects worth R7-million.

PhotoNote has already covered acres of schools and factory roofs in solar, which from the onset is not meant to supply power during load shedding.

PhotoNote’s offering is simple: super savings on electricity bills.

Most of the solar leasing arrangements PhotoNote have installed have washed their face immediately, meaning the customers save more on their electricity bills than their monthly purchase commitment.

In five years, when customers have paid off their solar plants, the value of the saving will have effectively doubled.

“The solar aspect of our business is a no-brainer,” says Phillip. “The world is moving to greener technology and electricity tariffs in South Africa are only going up.”

With a strong management team in place – Phillip Kershaw, Andrew Murray and Richard Pereira – and the power to embrace technological changes in the office space to maximise productivity to the benefit of the business owner, PhotoNote is ready to be your number one business partner of choice.

FOR MORE INFO Contact PhotoNote: 031 583 8500; www.photonote.co.za

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education*

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rish was born and raised on a KZN South Coast sugar cane farm. “When I was two-bricks and a tickey high, I taught my sister in a make-believe classroom,” she laughs. “Thoroughly enjoying maths in high school, I decided to pursue a career in mathematics education.”

Trish studied at Edgewood, graduating in 1977.

“Shortly after I had my two sons, James and Crispian, I needed to supplement my income,” she says. “This threw me headfirst into maths tutoring, and since then I have always helped students in need – both in and out of the classroom.”

After teaching posts at high schools in Durban and Johannesburg, Trish spent a decade at Thomas More College. As a single mom,

the education crisis in South Africa. We would spend hours debating solutions and dreaming about it,” smiles Trish.

When the landscape in AP Maths education changed slightly, it offered them an opportunity to get started. “We created AP Maths centres at Maris Stella and Westville Boys High School,” explains Trish. “With the emergence of digital education and edtech, we could really help learners at a larger scale.

“Making progress with our AP Maths centres, we knew that in order to pursue the greater dream we had to earn money, reinvest it back into the business and build towards our greater purpose,” says Trish. “The anxiety around the National Benchmark Tests, initiated in 2008, was huge.

So we developed the first-ever training course to

The future

TEACHER

TRISH PIKE AND ADVANTAGE LEARN ARE HELPING LEARNERS ON A LARGER SCALE THROUGH DIGITAL EDUCATION, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN

choosing to work at top schools to get reduced fees for her sons allowed her to provide them with a great education. She also passed on her affinity for and years of experience in maths to them. “They both went on to use their aboveaverage maths abilities to study Actuarial Science (James) and Chemical Engineering (Crispian), something I am immensely proud of,” says Trish.

When Trish was headhunted by Kearsney College, James and Crispian continued her Advanced Programme mathematics teaching at Thomas More. “All three of us had a passion for education, particularly mathematics, and we really wanted to be a part of the solution to

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prepare learners for the daunting NBTs.” Using funds earned from these two soughtafter learning solutions, they began chasing other areas where they could make a difference.

Trish left Kearsney after six years to focus on Advantage Learn full time. Today, with James and Crispian, they employ 18 people and have over 3 000 active learners a year.

Advantage Learn’s main focus is to provide high school learners and parents with access to the highest quality educators, education materials, help and support by leveraging technology. “We believe we can create Africa’s premium online and in-person, multi-channel

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ABOVE: James, Trish and Crispian of Advantage Learn.

Mom has really established herself as what is referred to in the business world as a ‘turn-around strategist’

and trusted NGO partner.

Our world is changing fast, and so is the educational landscape. “The essence of teaching remains much the same. It’s the substance, method and resources that might change,” says James. “The future teacher will be much more focused on emotional support, accountability to mastery and curation of resources than on imparting knowledge, hence helping the learning journey rather than providing the inputs to skills.”

“A good teacher is well-prepared, able to adjust to the learners’ knowledge base and deficits, passionate and entertaining,” says Trish.

“Approach each lesson with energy, be flexible and rise to the occasion. Accept that you will learn from your students.”

“We work very hard to be human in a digital world, and so we are always just a phone call, live chat or email away. If you are a parent or learner in high school and are feeling worried about something that relates to your school academic career or tertiary career, we would love to hear about it and see if we can assist,” says James.

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FOR MORE INFO www.advantagelearn.com

and multi-location school that is able to reach and educate learners across the continent in a worldclass, high-touch and effective way through wellplaced, innovative learning solutions,” says James.

Their current offerings are NBT preparation and Advanced Programme Mathematics courses – both online and in-person – and Maths Online, where you get access to the full maths syllabus from Grades 8 to 12, put together in a way to help you thrive. “Our content is built to be applicable to many different curricula, so no matter where you are in the world you can get access to the best maths teaching and unlimited question-answer support,” says Crispian.

Aware that they can either perpetuate the widening education inequality gap or work smart to try to narrow the gap, Advantage Learn’s goal is that for every one subscriber, they distribute access to their valuable online resources through a vetted

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education*

Back to  Clifton Clifton offers a world-class, holistic education for boys from Grade R through to Grade 12, catering specifically to the development of boys into responsible, confident and competent young men.

The school provides an educational environment designed to facilitate learning and assist in developing young men of character, who share an uncompromising belief in the power of family values, thrive on competition, delight in discovery, exercise compassion and are courageous in their choices.

“While we walk this journey of progress and development with our young men, we are conscious of our motto, ‘prodesse quam conspici’ – to accomplish, rather than to be conspicuous. As such, our boys remain humble and well mannered.”  Dave Knowles, Clifton.

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SCHOOL WE MEET THE INSPIRING PEOPLE WHO HEAD UP THE SCHOOLS IN OUR COMMUNITY AND LEARN A BIT MORE ABOUT THE SCHOOLS AND THEIR VALUES

 Durban Girls’ College “Our aim is to contribute positively to education in South Africa through producing young women of substance who find their niche and who champion social responsibility, social justice, equality and environmental challenges; thereby enriching our community,” says executive head Marianne Bailey. “The educational experience that our girls receive equips them to be adaptable, and face the realities – and uncertainties – of a world that is changing, rapidly.  Marianne Bailey, Durban Girls’ College.

 Durban Preparatory High School “For me personally,” says headmaster Barry Wilson, “I cherish the fact that I am the first DPHS Old Boy to serve as headmaster with ‘blue and gold’ running through my veins for 30 years – initially as scholar, then student teacher for four years, staff member for 19 years, with 2020 announcing my fourth year as headmaster at DPHS.” Barry has lived the traditions and values that are constantly practised in this globally respected school for boys and share its common purpose in “Preparing our Boys for Life”. “This is noticed annually across high schools, tertiary, provincial, national and international levels where DPHS boys have continued to excel in academic, sport and cultural activities, as they build on their solid prep foundation that they received here,” says Barry.  Barry Wilson, DPHS.

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 Redwood Pre-Primary Principal of Redwood Pre-Primary in La Lucia, Kathy Fry believes in educational methods that aim to develop the whole child – physically, socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually, and strives to provide an environment that offers children the opportunity to enhance all these areas daily. This is done through pioneering activities that ensure these learners get the opportunity to develop many different skills, the most important of these being creative thinking and problem-solving.

Kathy is driven by seeing children thrive and develop, each one becoming increasingly spontaneous and confident in who they have been created to be.  Kathy Fry, Redwood Pre-Primary.

 The Wykeham Collegiate The Wykeham Collegiate endeavours to provide a happy, secure environment for girls to grow, take risks and identify their talents. Besides developing academic skills, the school plays an active role in preparing the girls socially and emotionally for the world beyond school. Lady Principal Sue Tasker believes the best outcomes arise when there is a balance between support and challenge, and this is why the school provides an abundance of opportunities for personal development – something for everyone!  Sue Tasker, The Wykeham Collegiate.  Northlands Girls’ High School “At NGHS we pride ourselves on our academic excellence,

combined with a healthy balance of experiences beyond lessons; this is what gives our young ladies the confidence and skills to excel in school, at university and beyond. One of the school’s key aims is to prepare our learners for the fast changing world of the 21st century, so that they strive to be the best that they can be; academically, morally and creatively,” says principal Theven Reddy.  Theven Satchidanandin Reddy, Northlands Girls’ High School.

a holistic education based on its founding values – faith, compassion and courage.

“Celebrating 122 years of academic excellence, complemented by vibrant cultural, sporting and spiritual programmes, our vision is to free the potential in individuals to become relevant, resilient and ethical leaders who contribute to our everchanging world,” says head of school, Laura Bekker.  Laura Bekker, Epworth High School for Girls.

 Epworth High School for Girls Pietermaritzburg’s Epworth High School for Girls is an independent, Christian school with a Methodist ethos offering boarders and day scholars from Grades 8 to 12

 Our Lady of Fatima Under the guidance of principal Deirdre Horsfall, Fatima girls feel a sense of security in their education, knowing it will equip them to be relevant in wherever their futures may lead. She believes

that relationships are essential to the continued success of her students and staff and is committed to building those positive relationships through communication with, and inclusion of families, in our school environment and curriculum. She is a strategic team builder, establishing stability in the teams around her allowing them to work to their strengths and facilitating avenues for them to flourish for both the individual and greater good.  Deirdre Horsfall, Our Lady of Fatima.

»

education*

 Reddam House Umhlanga Early Learning School “We provide a stimulating and exciting environment in which to learn. Our teachers are nurturing and empathetic, providing support and guidance in all the areas of learning. Our curriculum continues to unfold around the children’s interests and we prioritise helping each child to discover and celebrate their uniqueness,” says Paula

Algar, Early Learning School headmistress.  Paula Algar, Reddam House Umhlanga Early Learning School.  Reddam Preparatory School “We work determinedly to ensure that each student enjoys a stimulating and supportive learning environment, one that celebrates their unique character and capabilities. We strive to uphold the warm, caring and

nurturing ethos of a closely knit school community where excellent standards are the hallmark of everything we do,” says Penny Alston, Preparatory School headmistress.  Penny Alston, Reddam House Umhlanga Preparatory School.

 Reddam College “We understand the value of an independent, internationally competitive and child-centred education, and aim to nurture individuality, talent and selfassurance through a broad curriculum – including a dynamic range of academic, cultural and sporting activities – in order to equip learners with the knowledge, skills and

values to face an increasingly challenging, global future with confidence,” says headmaster Adam Rogers.  Adam Rogers, Reddam House Umhlanga College.

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services offered the artist who paints in a suit Collin Sabapathy – who holds a Fine Arts Degree – has been painting since 1983. He is ex-Zimbali Lodges residential artist and a professional photographer, whose works are represented in 35 countries.

G E N I U S A RT

084 415 1805 geniuskzn@gmail.com

ALL! ORIGINAL HAND PAINTED

* Photography Mural and ceiling * painting 3D floor painting * Mosaic art * Portraits * * Private art tuition * Art therapy Art * restoration * Picture framing

INSPIRED INNOVATIVE EDUCATION

ENROL YOUR CHILD TODAY

A nurtured mind is future-ready As the needs and expectations of today’s learners are changing dramatically, Redwood College is committed to nurturing your child’s development through innovative, education solutions. We offer a supplementary curriculum that is designed to enhance knowledge and future-readiness.

Courses such as Aquatic Science, Environmental Systems, Principles of Business Marketing and Finance, Astronomy and Principles of Health Science are available.

Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow REDWOOD COLLEGE

Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow

Our passionate educators are looking forward to meeting you. To enrol your child or to simply book a tour, email info@redwoodschools.co.za or call us on 031 572 7182.

Alternatively, visit our website at www.redwoodschools.co.za/lalucia for more information.

advertorial*

The future of skin

CARE IN A FIRST FOR SOUTH AFRICA, 3SIXTY BIOMEDICINE LAUNCHES THE FUTURE OF SKIN CARE – CAPE SATIVA – A CANNABIDIOLINFUSED LOTION THAT MOISTURISES, REPAIRS, INCREASES ELASTICITY AND PROVIDES AN ANTI-AGING FACTOR

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n a bold move that is addressing consumer concerns to treat skin diseases and skin care using alternative treatments which contain more natural ingredients, 3Sixty BioMedicine has recently launched the cutting-edge Cape Sativa brand into the South African market.

Cape Sativa Everyday cream is a cannabidiol (CBD) infused lotion with the following benefits:  It is formulated to moisturise and repair skin;  The natural ingredients in this cream help to increase elasticity and provide an anti-aging factor.  CBD has proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it suitable for everyday use and in dry skin conditions.  It is paraben-free, making it suitable

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ABOVE: Walter Mbatha, CEO of 3Sixty BioMedicine.

for sensitive skin.

With the vision of “improving livelihood, improving lives”, the launch of this firstever product to the SA market not only meets consumer needs and addresses a gap in the market, it also positions 3Sixty BioMedicine as leaders when it comes to CBD orientated products.

Due to the promising role of cannabinoids in the treatment of dermatologic conditions – among them, inflammatory skin diseases such as acne, pruritus, psoriasis, allergic contact and atopic dermatitis – there are plans afoot for the development of other CBD-based products under the Cape Sativa brand.  BUSTING MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS Cannabidiol is the second most prevalent of the active ingredients of

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WHAT ARE CANNABINOIDS? Cannabinoids are a diverse class of pharmacologically active compounds that are structurally and biologically similar to the primary psychoactive compound derived from Cannabis sativa tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Cannabinoid stimulates our skin’s cannabinoid receptors to regulate inflammation, pain, lipid production and cell proliferation.

cannabis (marijuana). While CBD is an essential component of medical marijuana, it is derived directly from the hemp plant, which is a cousin of the marijuana plant.

While CBD is a component of marijuana (one of hundreds), by itself it does not cause a “high”.

According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.” In September 2018 a groundbreaking ruling by South Africa’s Constitutional Court ruled in favour of cannabis use by South Africans and included an exemption regarding CBD-containing products released by the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).

Further to these important changes in

the SA legislative framework pertaining to cannabis and in particular CBD, 3Sixty BioMedicine’s CEO, Walter Mbatha, believes that with the growing number of studies and research now available about the health benefits of one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in hemp, CBD is not only being considered as the future of beauty and wellness products worldwide – but in South Africa in particular.

In October 2019, South Africa’s top health and beauty retailers, Clicks and Dis-Chem, listed CBD-infused products in their stores and already there are a number of reputable pharmaceutical companies gearing up to create and launch premium CBD products and ranges that are cultivated naturally, contain zero THC, are 100% organic, and most importantly, are certified and safe.

“The reason for the interest and intensified focus on CBD is that when used in skin care products, the ingredient’s anti-inflammatory properties can help calm and soothe irritation, reduce breakouts and moisturise without clogging pores. It’s these findings that

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prompted 3Sixty BioMedicine to invest in and develop a CBD-based product range under the Cape Sativa banner for the management of dermatological conditions,” said Walter.

Walter added that the company’s bold move to be one of the pioneering companies producing quality CBD-based products in the health and beauty space, despite CBD-infused products still being considered the “new kid” on the block, aligns with 3Sixty’s business vision to create and offer local consumers products and treatments that treat common health conditions using more natural ingredients.

“These are exciting times for the SA market, but as the market and number of CBD products grow, so will the need for the general public and healthcare practitioners to educate themselves about the difference between reputable CBD companies and their offerings versus opportunistic businesses producing cheaper, inferior products,” Walter concluded.

FOR MORE INFO Cape Sativa Everyday cream is selling for a special launch price of R799,32 (incl VAT) online at www.3sixtybiomedicine.co.za. Further retail outlets and stockists to be confirmed and announced on their Facebook page (@3Sixtybiomed) and website.

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update*

BRIAN DOWNIE UPDATES US ON THE REPAIRS TAKING PLACE ON THE M4

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The road less

TRAVELLED

s heavy rains lashed KwaZuluNatal during November and December last year, the coast took a pounding and, amongst all the other damage, the M4 between uMhlanga and uMdloti was washed away. Stormwater cascaded down the hillside eroding the fragile coastal sands and undermining the road above the Breakers Hotel.

The road has now been closed since November 11, and “at best” will only be open by the end of

Mopping up afterwards is just closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.

ABOVE AND LEFT: The

black plastic pipe was laid and welded in one length measuring 240m – the longest such use as a stormwater pipe in KwaZulu-Natal.

March – depending on swift action from the road’s authorities and good fortune from Mother Nature.

We are reminded every year that effective stormwater management is the best insurance we can have, and mopping up afterwards is just closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.

The first steps have been taken in the repair with the installation of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe 240m long through the entire site. The pipe has been

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welded into a continuous length, which guarantees that stormwater will be safely managed without fear of collapse – provided all the water is directed into the pipe.

This length is a record in KZN for the use of HDPE in stormwater control, however, considering that high intensity storms are likely to become more frequent in years to come, we trust that this baby will be well looked after.

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conservation*

VOLUNTEERING The real deal

I

AT A LOSS TO KNOW WHAT YOUR NEXT CHAPTER WILL BE? CONSIDER VOLUNTEERING. ANNE SCHAUFFER LIVED A DAY OR TWO IN THE LIFE OF THE WILDLIFE ACT TEAM AND CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS IN HLUHLUWE

woke seconds before the alarm – at 3.10am. Not the tiniest sliver of light, only the hush of soft rain, as we wrestled groggily into our rain gear. By 4am, we were on the open safari vehicle with our Wildlife ACT Priority Species Monitor, Marumo Nene, at the wheel. Each person had their designated seat and tools to perform a specific role. We were tracking an African wild dog pack.

Our base was the research camp of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, where the monitors and volunteers of Wildlife ACT (African Conservation Team) reside, and from where we would head out on the morning species monitoring session (never termed a game drive), living the life of a volunteer. We hadn’t a clue what was involved, nor how intense, exhausting and utterly satisfying the experience could be.

There were four volunteers – a young French couple, and two young women, one English, the other American. Over dozens of volunteering options, they had chosen Wildlife ACT. We were intrigued as to why.

Wildlife ACT was founded to provide vital “priority species” monitoring services to reserves which don’t have the means to do so themselves. They offer this service free of charge, to ensure the continuing safety of these endangered species – especially wild dogs – but also cheetah, black rhino, vultures, elephant, lion and leopard. They work in partnership with the management of five reserves in KZN. It’s costly, laborious work, but vital for so many reasons, including supplying regular, meticulous data to various organisations worldwide and devising effective management practices.

The funding for Wildlife ACT comes from the

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The work you do here is often not pretty, glamorous or easy. But what we can tell you is that it’s REAL

volunteers, and this funding model has supported the operating costs of the monitoring project for the past 10 years.

Johan Maree is one of the three founders, the others being Chris Kelly (based locally) and Dr Simon Morgan (Stanford University, USA). His welcoming words, “The work you do here is often not pretty, glamorous or easy. But what we can tell you is that it’s REAL.” And it is, for volunteer funding aside, without their manpower, the volume of monitoring work would make it impossible.

The majority of volunteers are international,

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but South Africans do join the team. They include young people on a gap year or during their tertiary education work experience, more mature participants on a career break/annual leave looking for meaningful opportunities, or retirees who have time and a wealth of experience to share. Most international volunteers have only ever seen Africa’s iconic species in zoos, so although a love of animals is usually a prime motivator, everyone has a vision to make a difference. Yes, they’re going to learn, see new countries, and meet new people, but their primary goal is to contribute meaningfully to conservation.

Volunteering has spawned an industry, particularly in the field of wildlife, and there are agencies established to facilitate this.

Volunteering encompasses a wide range of countries, activities and costs. Africa, with its complex issues around wildlife, poaching and poverty, is a popular choice, but homework is essential. Word of mouth is a good indicator, but it’s not enough. There are many organisations happy to take your money, but

TOP: A combination of telemetry equipment, binoculars, patience, and an understanding of the animals’ movement patterns, will eventually pay off.

ABOVE: Camera traps need constant attention.

LEFT: A welcome coffee and rusk break.

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you need to ensure complete transparency around an authentic experience.

If potential volunteers are unsure about the credibility of a volunteering experience – specifically around wildlife – this independent platform is useful: the Volunteers in Africa Beware Facebook page. It’s a valuable resource, as it highlights the pitfalls of many pseudoconservation volunteering organisations with questionable ethics that lure many unsuspecting participants.

So, how did these four young people, namely Florent, Louise, Jo and Ally end up at Wildlife ACT? They did their homework. Reservations Manager Bronwen Kelly handles the volunteer bookings: “The majority book directly through me (via our website, or emailing directly via word of mouth), and we have a few agents.”

Florent Locatelli from France, says, “My desire to volunteer stems from a personal passion for conservation work, fed by books, documentaries and travels. I wanted to contribute to this endeavour, and learnt about Wildlife ACT through web research and friends.” Expectations? A

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conservation*

grin, “Mostly I came prepared for anything!”

Ally Pierce says the team gelled from the outset: “I have smiled more in the past two weeks than I ever have in any other two-week period. I feel like I have gotten back my childlike sense of wonder about the world.”

Jo Haughton’s always loved animals: “Volunteering let me see animals in their natural habitat, while also doing something to help their

stationary, unseen animal to start moving. But the deep sense of satisfaction when that animal is seen, its puppies safe, no snares, and a host of other quantifiable markers, is unlike anything else. To know that you matter, the work you’re doing matters, that fitting fresh batteries into the remote-controlled camera traps to monitor black rhino, cheetah and leopard enables valuable data to be utilised, is everything.

If you’re volunteering at Wildlife ACT, you won’t have an en suite room, or even your own room. You’ll cook, clean, overheat, freeze, get wet, and tired. But while you’re collating the photographs and data from a camera trap or hanging on to the vehicle over rough terrain to ensure the safety of that wild dog, you’ll know that what you’re doing is the real deal.

When you sit round the campfire, talking about your day, your dreams for the future … you’ll know precisely why you’re there.

Volunteering let me see animals in their natural habitat, while also doing something to help their preservation preservation. Wildlife ACT seemed to be one of the few projects genuinely putting volunteers in the position to be a part of the conservation effort, and as it was supported by the WWF, I knew it was doing great work. It’s honestly been one of the best experiences of my life.”

Did we find the wild dogs? Yes, thanks to Marumo’s skills and the telemetry equipment.

It can take laborious hours, just waiting for a

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ABOVE: Everything in its place

– a well-maintained kit, with all the requisite tools of the trade.

BELOW: African wild dog.

Picture: Simon Watson

FOR MORE INFO www.wildlifeact.com NOTE: The volunteer participation fee is R22 000 a person for the first two weeks, then R15 700 for every two weeks thereafter. There’s a discounted rate for South African citizens: R17 700 for the first two weeks, and R13 600 for every two weeks thereafter. This includes all meals and accommodation.

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*food

Mrs M's Kitchen

SECRETS HERE’S A SUMMER FAVOURITE TO BEAT THE HEAT … AND THAT’S FUN TO EAT

GORIMA’S CHICKEN ROTI WRAPS INGREDIENTS: • 1kg chicken, cubed • 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste • 2 tbsp Gorima’s Orange Pepper spice • 4 tbsp oil/ghee • 1 onion, chopped • ½ cup Mexican Chicken marinade • cucumber slices • tomato slices • shredded lettuce • 1 tbsp fresh parsley

Orange Pepper

Many of us have used Orange Pepper to add a little spice to our meals, but did you know it has the power to change your health?

For the last 9 000 years it has been used in both food and medicine.

Some of the health benefits include the following: Boosts metabolism; reduces hunger; lowers blood pressure; aids in digestive health; and helps relieve pain.

METHOD: Marinate chicken with

ginger-garlic and Orange Pepper spice. In a pan heat oil/ghee, sauté onions and marinated chicken. Add Mexican Chicken marinade and cook for 15 minutes. Add cucumber, tomatoes and lettuce. Garnish with parsley. Serve on roti and wrap.

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FOR CONVENIENCE, TRY SHOPPING AT OUR ONLINE STORE The best and easiest way to bring every flavour of the world into your home.

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community*

small “stand alone” pharmacy in one of South Africa’s biggest shopping centres, surrounded by large corporate pharmacies may be daunted by such competition.

However, The Local Choice City Gate Pharmacy has been conveniently situated at Gateway Theatre of Shopping for 15 years and is still going strong. Owners, husband and wife team Shahida and Ismail Hansrot, have a depth of knowledge that spans 40 years (collective) experience in the industry.

Shahida, a Mount Edgecombe resident, recalls a conversation that led to her decision to open the pharmacy in Gateway in 2004. “I had been playing golf with a friend who had a shop in Gateway. At the time there wasn’t a pharmacy in Gateway and apparently many of the store owners felt that a pharmacy there was desperately needed. Well, that was the end of golf!”

The power of a

BRAND

THE LOCAL CHOICE CITY GATE PHARMACY IN GATEWAY IS SMALL ... BUT IT’S A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH

Gateway’s Revamp A recent major revamp of Gateway initially caused problems with customers having to “refind” some of the shops. “Thankfully we’re now back on track, with our customers having found us again!” smiles Shahida.

“Together with our well qualified staff we have always taken pride in our excellent rapport with our customers rather than a ‘take a number’ service.” The couple also own

The Local Choice Pharmacy in Stonebridge, Phoenix.

Last year Shahida took the pharmacy to an exciting new level by joining The Local Choice Pharmacies. “The people who run this franchise are young and energetic and really keen on getting the brand out there.”

The Benefits  A loyalty card offering instant discounts, rather than waiting for cash backs;  Regular promotions;  Eco friendly packaging;  National

ABOVE: Owners, husband and wife team Shahida and Ismail Hansrot. competitions – Shahida was delighted when one of their customers recently won a car;  Cost effective measures such as promoting generics;  Buying power – The Local Choice Pharmacies are a “mini cousin” of Dis-Chem which means consistently competitive prices;  Free delivery – “Customers can conveniently order via Whatsapp or email. This works well for our older customers,” comments Shahida “and when they do come in they sometimes stay for a chat and a cup of coffee.”

Expert advice, empathy and committed personal service is key to keeping community pharmacies alive and thriving.

Local Choice City Gate Pharmacy is a prime example.

FOR MORE INFO 031 566 3992, 076 611 3466; citygate@thelocalchoice.co.za

PHARMACY CITY GATEPHARMACY

PHARMACY CITY GATE CITY GATE 031566 3992 / 076 611 3466 citygate@thelocalchoice.co.za Shop no 77, Gateway Shopping Centre, 1 Palm Boulevard, uMhlanga Ridge Trading hours: Monday - Thursday: 9:00 - 19:00 Friday & Saturday: 9:00 - 21:00 Sunday & public holidays: 9:00 - 18:30 www.thelocalchoice.co.za

PHARMACY CITY GATE www.thelocalchoice.co.za

L I V E YO U R PA S S I O N L A D I E S A U T O M AT I C F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N C O N TA C T P I C O T & M O S S +2 7 1 1 6 6 9 0 5 0 0 frederiqueconstant.com

profile*

From goats to

GLORY

GRANT FOWLDS’ STORY, AS TOLD IN SAVING THE LAST RHINOS, DETAILS HIS INTENSE, RISKY, OUT OF THE BOX, USUALLY CRAZY, CONSERVATION JOURNEY, IN AN ACCESSIBLE, RIVETING, AND OFTEN, VERY MOVING WAY, WRITES ANNE SCHAUFFER

S

aving The Last Rhinos is Grant Fowlds’ story, and author Graham Spence helps him tell it. He tells it really well, because you’ll lose yourself in it … in the wonder of that unique breed of person who flies almost exclusively by the seat of their pants. Not that there is a textbook of course, because the conservation fight is a truly bloody one with no rules other than where the goalposts are.

When you meet Grant, he’ll tell you it’s not his story alone, and in the sense that he means it, he’s right. The book’s title is almost a misnomer, because although Grant is a passionate conservationist deeply committed to saving the rhinos, the story is just as much about goats, gorillas and elephants. It’s also about so many people globally, young and old, sung and unsung, famous and infamous, who wander in and out of Grant’s story, leaving little or large indelible marks mainly for the greater good, sometimes not. That’s what makes this story so captivating – it’s the good, bad and ugly of conservation. One thing’s for sure, there won’t be a single emotion you haven’t cycled through by the time the story draws to a close.

Grant lives here in KZN, on the North Coast,

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TOP: Grant at Sizani

Primary School at Salt Rock.

Picture: Paul Dutton

ABOVE: From left, Peter Eastwood of Tanglewood Foundation in New Zealand, Grant, and John Kahekwa of the PolePole Foundation.

Picture: Peter Boshuijzen of OogVoor Afrika ABOVE RIGHT: Grant Fowlds and Rhino Art: To date this project has reached hundreds of thousands of school children, and the educational impact has been phenomenal. Picture: Stephen Carl Mulholland

with his wife Angela and three daughters (when they’re home). The Fowlds family – and Grant’s story – originate from the Eastern Cape, where generations of Fowlds farmed on Leeuwenbosch, outside Port Elizabeth.

They’d been there since 1872. For Grant, “It was a childhood with unimaginable freedoms compared to today.” His first language was Xhosa, and at the age of six or seven, he’d disappear into the bush with his young black friends for several days; only after a couple of nights of his non-appearance would his mother begin to be concerned and ask farm workers to find him.

Grant became a goat farmer at the age of seven, a successful one at that. By 16, he had over 1 000 strong. From the profits of this venture, he paid for his schooling at the

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prestigious private school, St Andrew’s College in Grahamstown. But although Grant has the spirit of an entrepreneur, he’s more maverick than economist. He wasn’t simply farming goats for profit, he really loved these cranky creatures – and considers them the start of his love affair with animals. In addition, looking back, he sees how dealing with the goats drew him deep into the ancient spirituality of Xhosa culture. Today, doing what he does, working with different tribes and communities, there’s little doubt that his deep understanding of the highly complex, layered world which is Africa, has enabled him to communicate, negotiate and interact authentically at a level most others can’t.

You have to be a certain kind of crazy to do what Grant does. Certainly to succeed at what he does: “Being in conservation is sometimes

ABOVE: Grant Fowlds with his book, Saving The Last Rhinos. Picture: Peter Boshuijzen

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like bungee jumping. One minute you are standing on top of a bridge, the next you are plummeting down a canyon hoping like hell the cord doesn’t snap.”

Grant and his brother, William, a renowned wildlife vet, were instrumental in transforming their family farm into the renowned Big Five Amakhala Game Reserve. The innovative thinking, Grant’s persuasive marketing skills, and that rare ability to dream that bigger picture, all forms part of the story of Amakhala, and ultimately, saving rhinos. It was the gruesome start of the rhino war, and they were there at the rock face. Their experiences changed them both, and for Grant, agriculture waned, and wildlife and conservation became his driving force.

Grant’s path took “an almost vertical learning curve”, he says, when he joined forces with legendary explorer and eco-warrior Kingsley Holgate. Kingsley’s larger-than-life persona and mentorship catapulted Grant into a new direction: Rhino Art – a wing of Project Rhino – and a wonderful initiative of Kingsley’s, one which introduced conservation and rhinos in a visionary, accessible format to children who lived in communities bordering SA game parks.

For Rhino Art, Grant’s marketing skills moved into the realm of theatre. To date, this project has reached hundreds of thousands of school children, and the educational impact has been phenomenal. Most of the children had never seen a rhino in the wild, so attached little value to saving them. Rhino Art is changing that.

It moved from a local to a global platform – importantly, into the countries where the fallacies around rhino horn thrive – and children worldwide are becoming rhino ambassadors.

Grant’s goal is a million children, and he’s nearly there.

From farming goats, to gorillas in the DRC, to relocating elephants and rhinos … the stories within this story will have you ricocheting from

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heart-warming to heartbreaking and back again.

But a few threads run through the book which are Grant’s key drivers: “Game relocation and range expansion are one of my passions, and I hope never to see any healthy wild animal culled on my watch because there was nowhere for it to go.”

A lack of appropriate space, coupled with human settlement encroachment, is a primary conservation issue. And then, a beacon of hope – wildlife tourism – something in which Grant is deeply involved: “One does not have to be an economic genius to grasp that wildlife tourism is the most viable industry, as the product, wild animals, is already in place. Establishing game reserves owned by local communities and run by ethical wildlife managers, with the help of reputable conservation organisations, is a no-brainer. The lion’s share of the profits would be ploughed back

ABOVE:

Grant Fowlds and Richard Mabanga at Siyaphambili Primary School in Black iMfolozi.

into the community.” Skills, employment … the list is long. And the wildlife gets to stay.

Not that what Grant does is always a success, as you’ll find out, but as he says on one of his insane forays, this time into the DRC, “Success in Africa is not always measured in material gain. I learned a life-changing lesson that anyone who wants to thrive in the wilds of Africa, should experience. It is this: every day that you are still standing, you are winning.

It’s like getting knocked down constantly in a boxing ring … dealing with corruption, language barriers, civil war, often horrific disregard for life … but somehow just getting up and being on your feet signals victory. That’s why people such as me, whether we’re called idealists or idiots, keep coming back. It’s that simple, and that complicated.”

You’ll like Grant Fowlds. He’s on his feet, he keeps coming back … and is, thankfully, a delightfully idealistic idiot, a rare kind of person prepared to do the hard, dirty work for us. Saving everything we’ve messed up.

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FOR MORE INFO Saving The Last Rhinos is available from Exclusive Books and various online book stores; www.projectrhinokzn.co.za; www.amakhala.co.za

environment*

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here is no easy 10-step guide to saving the world, but here are some ideas to start recognising the damage we cause to the vanishing world of nature.

Reimagine your garden: Many suburban gardens look “green”. However, look a little closer and most are ecologically-sterile deserts with neatly-mowed lawns and brickpaving, roses and other alien plants which provide very little food or benefit to local birds, small animals and insect-life.

A good place to start is to buy a copy of Charles and Julia Botha’s book Bring Nature Back To Your Garden. (To order, contact Marylynn Grant on 082 663 8266 or email nflora@mweb.co.za) Some of the ideas in this book may challenge your comfort zone, but you don’t

GREEN

your home in 2020 NOW THAT THE SEASON OF FEASTING, REVELRY AND POPPING CHAMPAGNE CORKS HAS COME TO AN END, 2020 IS A GOOD TIME TO RE-INTRODUCE A NOTE OF SOBRIETY AND TO REIMAGINE HOW FAMILIES CAN LIGHTEN OUR IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AROUND US, WRITES TONY CARNIE 44

Are you willing to rewild and share some of your “private” space with other species of life?

have to change everything overnight.

Start slowly, gradually replacing exotic plants with indigenous varieties that will provide edible fruit, nectar, seeds and berries during different seasons.

Africa is beautiful, so do we really need neat and pretty English gardens? Are you willing to rewild and share some of your “private” space with other species of life?

Does the entire lawn have to be mowed every week before it can produce edible seeds? Do we need to poison our gardens with pesticides and toxic sprays? Should we be wasting energy on convenience appliances like electric leaf-blowers?

Reduce your electricity footprint: This is not just about saving money.

Most of South Africa’s electricity comes from burning coal in Eskom power stations which produce greenhouse gas emissions that heat up the world and change the climate. Consider installing a solar-powered-geyser the next time

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Build a small compost heap at home and start producing your own fertiliser

your electric geyser bursts. Solar systems are getting cheaper, and will continue to get cheaper as more people make the choice to switch over to greener power.

For starters, ditch the air-conditioner and open the doors and windows when it gets hot. We have survived quite well without air-con for centuries, even in Durban. Also consider taking expert advice from an electrician and plumber on smarter ways to reduce your power bills and your climatechange footprint.

Reduce water waste: The biggest waterguzzler in your home is the toilet. In most households, 35% of the water bill gets flushed down the loo daily. No one wants smelly toilets, but do they have to be flushed after every visit? Can we redesign our homes to harvest rainwater for flushing?

Don’t waste expensive tap water on topping up your pool. Rather buy a detachable length of PVC gutter pipe and hook this up to a gutter down-pipe to

In most households, 35% of the water bill gets flushed down the loo daily

catch rain water off your roof. You’ll be amazed how quickly the pool fills up after a heavy downpour. You can also install a JoJo tank to catch more rain to water the garden during dry months, but also select local, water-wise plants that are adapted to survive in dry weather.

Reuse, recycle and refurbish: Whenever possible, try to repair or refurbish your household appliances and fixtures instead of replacing them with new products. This is not always easy, because manufacturers design products to wear out quickly and force you to replace them. But, if you ask around, there are still some skilled handymen who can fix things professionally.

Rather than hauling bags of leaves and grass cuttings to the nearest garden refuse dump, build a small compost heap at home and start producing your own fertiliser. All you need are a few gum poles, wooden slats and some nails to bang together a simple storage area.

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The world is full of throw-away products but it all comes at a cost

Refuse single use: The world is full of throw-away products designed for the convenience of consumers and suppliers – but it all comes at a cost.

Fruit and vegetables are packaged in thick layers of polystyrene and plastic. Electric bulbs, chocolates and other products arrive in blister packs that eventually end up in landfill sites or polluting rivers and the sea. Can this be changed? Use your voice and your spending power to put pressure on supermarket and store managers to supply products in a way that generates less throw-away waste.

Recognise your personal impact: Almost everything you buy or do has a direct or indirect impact on the environment.

It is not just the luxury stuff or the exotic timber furniture chopped from a tropical rainforest. Look closely at every item in your home – including the “invisible” stuff like the

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Almost everything you buy or do has a direct or indirect impact on the environment

paint on your walls or the bricks, cement, tiles and aluminium or steel window frames.

Then ask yourself: Where did all this stuff come from? How was it made and at what environmental cost? Start to join the dots linking them to the giant mining pits, razed forests or polluted oceans across the globe.

This might not solve anything immediately, but it may prompt us to think more deeply and become less smug. Recognising our impacts may inspire more awareness and a responsibility to assume a personal role in influencing our friends, families and elected political representatives to change some of the bigger problems we can’t tackle on our own.

Rethink your choices: It’s fantastic to “do our little bit”, but quick, cosmetic solutions won’t make any measurable difference in reversing the current scale of rampant environmental destruction across the world.

Our public transport system is pretty hopeless, but you do have a choice between driving a flashy, fuel-guzzling 4x4 or downgrading to a smaller, fuel-efficient vehicle to reduce climate gas emissions. You also have a choice between jetting off to Mauritius or Switzerland on holiday – or reducing your carbon footprint by spending your holidays exploring the many natural and cultural wonders of South Africa.

The inconvenient truth is that we have to find ways to fly less, drive less and buy less while we navigate a very difficult path back to a less glamorous but more environmentallysustainable future.

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*health

S

o you’ve had an amazing year-end break, but like most of us you’ve probably overindulged. Feeling bloated, lacking energy and in desperate need of a detox? Now that the fun and festivities are over, it is time to kick those bad habits you’ve picked up to get your health back on track.

Our gut is the heart and soul of our body, and if it is not functioning to its best everything suffers. Hippocrates said more than 2 000 years ago that all disease begins in the gut, but we’re only now coming to understand just how right he was. Research has revealed that gut health is critical to overall health, and that an unhealthy gut can contribute to a wide range of diseases. Gut flora promotes normal gastrointestinal function, protection from infection, regulates metabolism and comprises more than 75% of our immune system.

The most obvious first step in maintaining a healthy gut is to avoid all of the things that destroy gut flora – such as antibiotics, chemicals and a bad diet. As we start 2020, let’s look at how you can get your gut back on track and keep it there:  Increase the amount of fibre (prebiotics) in your diet. Fibre feeds the beneficial

Get gut

RIGHT A POST-HOLIDAY GUIDE TO RESTORING YOUR GUT HEALTH

bacteria in your gut and creates an environment that your gut bacteria can flourish in. Some examples of fibre rich foods include avocados, berries, brussels sprouts, artichokes, chickpeas, lentils, nuts, beans and quinoa.  Give your body a detox from the following foods: wheat, sugar, red meat, dairy and processed foods. Even just a few days will be beneficial. Cutting out portions of your diet that are harmful for your gut health is a great way to get your gut back

on track fairly quickly.  Feed your body with probiotics. No matter how good your diet is or what supplements you take, your body cannot function 100% optimally without the correct balance of beneficial bacteria. If the gut flora is damaged, the best foods and supplements in the world may not be broken down and absorbed.

When it comes to gut health, it’s about giving your gut what it needs to recover and work properly. When it’s working as it should, you’ll certainly notice the difference.

Rawbiotics is a non-freeze-dried liquid and raw probiotic, is vegan friendly, suitable for diabetes, free of dairy, lactose, soy and gluten. Rawbiotics probiotics does not need to be refrigerated. This 100% natural blend of beneficial bacteria will ensure your body is able to utilise the nutrition from the food you eat, prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria, promote a strong immune system and create its own natural vitamins.

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FOR MORE INFO www.rawbiotics.co.za

A LIVE, LIQUID PROBIOTIC CONTAINING THE MOST NATURAL FORM OF BENEFICIAL BACTERIA FOR COMPLETE GUT HEALTH  Gluten and dairy free. Vegan-friendly  Suitable

AVAILABLE IN 500 ML & 1LITRE

for diabetics  Contains no colourants or preservatives

 Does

not need to be refrigerated at Health Stores, Wellness Warehouse, Faithful-to-Nature, and select Spar supermarkets

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well-being*

Wellness in

2020

ADOPT A NEW ATTITUDE TO WELL-BEING, EXTENDING FROM FOOD AND FITNESS TO YOUR EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH, FINANCES, WORK AND FAMILY. HERE ARE TIPS TO GET 2020 OFF TO A GOOD START, WRITES GLYNIS HORNING

C

LEAN EATING AND DRINKING It’s a buzzword bandied about by stars from Gwyneth Paltrow to Beyoncé, but it’s rooted in the natural health movement of the 60s and sensible principles.

• Focus on whole, natural, unrefined foods: lots of veggies and fruits, whole grains and legumes, some lean protein (preferably free-range), and healthy oils and fats like avocados, raw nuts and seeds and their oils, and fatty fish several times a week.

• Avoid or minimise processed foods (“occasional treats are fine,” says dietitian Dudu Mthuli, nutrition and health manager at Unilever in uMhlanga), as they can lose healthy fibre and nutrients, while gaining unwanted saturated fats or trans salt, sugar, preservatives and other additives. Read labels.

• Drink plenty of plain water, she says – invest in a filter, and keep a jug in the fridge, with sliced lemon, cucumber, apple or mint leaves for flavour; sip unsweetened tea or coffee.

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Look for organic, non-toxic products to clean your body as well as your home, dishes and clothes

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NON-TOXIC GREEN LIVING It’s easier to live a healthier and more ethical lifestyle than you think.

• Buy local produce in season to lessen your carbon footprint (support farmers’ markets), and choose freerange and organic if you can afford it, but only if it doesn’t mean you buy and eat less of a variety of fresh fruit and veggies: “Be sure to get at least five portions a day,” says Dudu. Rinse well – even produce with inedible skins, as cutting through these with a knife may contaminate the insides.

• Also look for organic, non-toxic products to clean your body (your skin is your largest organ and some

add up,” says Durban fitness consultant Hayley Cassim of Gym in a Box. • Work out with weights (or water bottles) for 10 minutes, to strengthen muscles and bones.

• Hire a trainer for a session to get guidelines on what works best for your body.

EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL WELLNESS This is vital to cope with the challenges in turbulent times, helping you put problems in perspective and bounce back.

• Name your emotions: anger, stress?

Don’t suppress or act on your emotions.

Take a few moments to compose yourself (breathe deeply), then address

them. If they’re more than you can handle, talk to an understanding friend, or a professional.

• Know the signs of depression – ongoing low mood, crying, agitation, angry outbursts, tiredness, changes in sleeping or eating patterns or libido, withdrawal.

“Start by seeing a doctor who can rule out physical problems such as anaemia and hormonal imbalance, and refer you to other professionals,” says Cassey Chambers, operations director of the SA Depression and Anxiety Group.

• Get moving and eat sensibly: just exercising briskly for 20-30 minutes a day can help relieve stress and boost feel-good endorphins, and a balanced diet can improve mood.

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chemicals can penetrate it and be absorbed), as well as for your home, dishes and clothes.

• Keep plants around the home and your workplace to clean the air – they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.

ACTIVE LIVING Moving briskly for just 30 minutes a day will give your heart and other muscles a workout, keep you strong and help you maintain a healthy weight.

• Do what you enjoy, so you keep doing it: walk with a friend, dance with your partner, do squats watching the news. Three 10-minute sessions a day will do it. “Small pockets of exercise beat no exercise and

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WORK WELLNESS Work should be satisfying and stretching, but today is often a major source of stress.

• Do regular stress awareness check-ins: Are you irritated, tired, does your head or stomach ache? Is there tension in your shoulders, neck or back? Stretch and take a break. Get up every hour for at least five minutes, take a brisk walk, trot up and down any stairs.

• Consider getting in an ergonomics expert to assess your workspace and make

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Are you irritated, tired, does your head or stomach ache? Is there tension in your shoulders, neck or back?

recommendations (visit www.nioh.ac.za or http:ergomax.co.za).

• Make time to connect with colleagues in a non-work way – at the water cooler, before meetings, or even after work to build rapport and support, and relax.

FINANCIAL WELLNESS Financial problems fuel stress and depression, while adopting smart financial habits can give a sense of security

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and confidence.

• Cultivate the three Bs: budget, build savings, become aware of your spending habits.

• Go through your bank statements and chat to your partner or best friend to see where your money goes: instead of your daily cafe cappy, could you brew your own?

• Understand “spending addiction”: Like our hunter-gatherer ancestors, we get a dopamine rush when we find and acquire something we desire, but it’s short-lived, and can leave us in debt, cautions businesswoman Steph Vermeulen, pioneer of EQ in South Africa.

FAMILY WELLNESS Nothing is more important than family – strengthen yours by checking

in regularly, however busy.

• If you can’t eat a meal together each day, have a weekly family night. Cook or braai together, or have build-your-own pizza bases and toppings, and play board games. These teach children problem-solving, turn-taking, and how to handle winning and losing, and let you laugh together.

• Have periodic family meetings to discuss and delegate chores, plan outings and talk finances and budgets in an age-appropriate way.

• Volunteer together – join a beach, river or street clean-up, plant trees, serve a meal at a homeless shelter, it develops life-skills and compassion. Visit www. charitysa.co.za, www.greatergoodsa. co.za for organisations and causes in each province.

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The greatest wealth is health – VIRGIL F E B - M A R

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trending*

O

ur digestive system was once considered relatively simple.

However, over the past two decades numerous studies have confirmed the incredible complexity of the gut and its importance to our overall health with links to the immune system, mood, mental health, autoimmune diseases, endocrine disorders, skin conditions, muscle strength and cancer.

There are between 300 and 500 different species of bacteria in our digestive tract, and paired with other tiny organisms like viruses and fungi, they form the microorganisms living in our intestines – commonly known as gut microbiome. While some microorganisms are harmful to our health, many are incredibly beneficial and even necessary to a healthy body.

Trust your

GUT

GET YOUR GUT HEALTH RIGHT, AND BETTER OVERALL HEALTH WILL FOLLOW

 Remove: The removal of any type of gut

irritant such as alcohol, caffeine, processed food, food additives, medications, stress, bacteria, parasites and pathogens.  Replace: Replace digestive secretions by adding back things like digestive enzymes, hydrochloric acid and bile acids that are required for proper digestion.  Repopulate: Once symptoms have improved significantly, it’s time to reintroduce foods that will help rebalance the microbiome. The following types of foods may be reintroduced: Prebiotic foods: This term describes the type of food gut bacteria love to eat, including

5 Signs of an unhealthy gut  Upset stomach – such a gas, bloating,

constipation, diarrhoea and heartburn.  A diet high in processed foods and sugar can

decrease the amount of good bacteria in your gut.  Gaining or losing weight without changing your diet or exercise habits.  Sleep disturbances or constant fatigue. The majority of the body’s serotonin – hormone that affects mood and sleep – is produced in the gut.  Skin irritations, like eczema. Inflammation in the gut caused by a poor diet or food allergies may cause increased leaking of certain proteins into the body, which can in turn irritate the skin.

The 5R Protocol There are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to positively affect your gut health as well as your overall health. Developed by the Institute of Functional Medicine, the 5R Protocol is a means of helping to restore the natural balance of the gut.

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WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY Nicole Clark: “I like to condition the metabolism prior to starting any diet. If the gut lining has multiple gaps in it, it is more likely that bacterial properties can pass through it and interfere with the immune system. I call it a Metabolic Prehab approach that is done over four to seven days, where we get the metabolism ready to respond appropriately to the diet that will follow. It’s like conditioning the metabolism. I recommend the 5R approach in conjunction with an eat less, exercise less approach.”

For a consult for a personalised treatment plan, contact Nicole on: nickyclark1977@gmail.com or text on 083 264 5552.

Emma Mentel: “We now know that disease starts in the gut and that several seemingly unrelated chronic conditions respond when we pay attention to improving gut health.

We often read and hear about the Gut-Brain connection – it has become a much researched topic, highlighting how our brain chemistry and the health of our brain depends and relies on taking care of our gut ecosystem. The term leakygut (referring to compromised gut permeability) is associated with all kinds of symptoms, including brain fog and headaches.

“I recommend the following supplements for gut health: Probiotics: Metagenics; The Real Thing; Florish Soil organisms.

Digestive enzymes: Good Health; Viridian; Metagenics; Pure herbal remedies IBS formula.

Glutamine: Solal glutamine powder; Metagenics Glutagenics.

Deworming: Nature Fresh parasite remedy; Aim Para 90; Pure herbal remedies Paraherb.”

Contact Emma on: emma.mentel@ gmail.com or text on 083 558 7166.

carbohydrates such as onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, apples and bananas, and a variety of grains like oats and barley, and seeds like flax.

Probiotic foods: Probiotic describes foods that are rich in bacteria beneficial to our digestive system. While we can take a probiotics supplement, we may want to reintroduce fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha.  Repair: Help the lining of the GI tract repair itself by supplying key nutrients that can often

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be in short supply in a diseased state. These include: foods high in vitamins A, C, D, and E as well as the mineral zinc; foods rich in amino acids such as bone broth; and supplements such as L-glutamine, collagen, or aloe vera.  Rebalance: Pay careful attention to lifestyle choices through stress management, improved sleep and the correct amount of exercise.

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FOR MORE INFO thegutstuff.com; www.fixyourgut.com/blog; blog.listentoyourgut.com

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decor*

Wonder

WALLS

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO CREATE A BOLD STATEMENT THAN WITH A GORGEOUS WALLPAPER. LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS SHARE THEIR TREND INSIGHTS, TIPS AND TRICKS WITH CANDICE BOTHA

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O

nce an old-fashioned interior design element, wallpaper is now a must-have in every stylish home with a colour, pattern or textured paper available in every which-way imaginable. They range in price, too, and there are many very affordable options along with imported wallpapers that can be quite expensive. “The key thing is to choose quality,” notes interior designer Sam Oakley of Sam O Interiors. Getting professional advice about the amount of wallpaper you need and having it installed by experts is also essential to ensure you don’t waste money, end up without enough paper or use the incorrect adhesive. “Patterned papers

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Metallic wallpapers add an element of opulence and are ideal for bedrooms LEFT: Lisa Walters has chosen a wallpaper with a shimmering metallic finish to create a glamorous bedroom.

BELOW RIGHT: Lisa Walters has used Magnolia Home in Black wallpaper from Hertex to give this patio a chic, contemporary look.

BELOW LEFT: Sam Oakley chose a busy floral design as a feature wall in a bedroom.

are particularly tricky to hang correctly so calling in a pro will make sure it’s done right,” says Sam. As technology has advanced, wallpapers have become more intricate in their design, and today textured, washable and natural fibre wallpapers are easily available. “Textured wallpapers – especially those with a natural feel like grass cloth – are very popular,” says Sam. “The new generation grass cloth has a printed overlay in colours or metallic finishes which create a contemporary feel.”

“Metallic wallpapers add an element of opulence and are ideal for bedrooms,” says Lisa Walters of Lisa Walters Interiors. Pair a shimmering paper with luxurious textures like velvet and flocked fabrics, quilted throws and gilt frames to add to the sense of glamour.

Lisa makes extensive use of wallpapers in her designs, often choosing one as the starting point for a scheme. “When choosing a patterned wallpaper, simple accessories in a similar colour palette make for a chic look that allows the wallpaper to star,” she says.

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decor*

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Wallpaper is a statement feature and if used cleverly, a little goes a long way. “Choose a patterned wallpaper to enliven an awkward space such as an entrance hall, powder room or staircase,” suggests interior designer Amy Mitchell of Studio Mitchell.

Wallpaper is not only for spacious rooms as Amy proves in this small bedroom. “The geometric pattern of this wallpaper – Delano from Cole & Son from St Leger & Viney – draws the eye upwards and makes the room look larger,” she notes. “It adds some interest to the room without taking up any physical space with furniture, shelves or accessories.”

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FOR MORE INFO Lisa Walters Interiors: lisa@lisawaltersinteriors.co.za Studio Mitchell: studiomitchell.co.za Sam O Interiors: instgram.com/samointeriors

Sam notes that playing it safe is no longer the norm, and instead of choosing just one wall for a statement wallpaper, designers are taking the pattern around the whole room. “There is a major trend towards eclectic spaces and pattern play. A wallpaper with a bold pattern and bright colours makes for a room that’s layered and interesting, especially when accent colours are picked up in other soft furnishings and patterns are cleverly mixed,” says Sam. Bold print wallpaper and wallpaper murals are also here to stay notes Amy. “I love to make a statement in an interior with an eye-catching wallpaper which can double as art in the right space,” she says.

TOP: For Amy, wallpaper works well in a small space to make a room look bigger.

ABOVE: The simple addition of Oyxgen wallpaper from Dreamweaver Studios creates a focal point in this entrance hall Amy designed.

LEFT: Sam Oakley of Sam O Interiors has used Amazon by Emma J. Shipley from Hertex to create an eclectic feel in this living room.

RIGHT: “Don’t be afraid to

hang framed artworks directly on to the paper for a look that’s layered and lived-in,” says Lisa.

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weekend escape*

A

short, comfortable drive from Durban, the peace and quiet of Gwahumbe Game Lodge and Spa awaits. The nature reserve is set among the rolling hills of Mid-Illovo – a perfect piece of paradise for a much-deserved escape from the routine of everyday life.

Heavy mist and a slight drizzle greeted us, but it wasn’t long before we were enjoying a three-course dinner in the central dining area – and city life was a distant memory.

By the next morning the mist had lifted and the abundant birdlife were in full song to welcome the new day. The view across the valley with rolling green hills and zebra grazing near our room was magnificent, and epitomized the peacefulness and tranquility of the area.

The recently redecorated

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ESCAPE THE BUSINESS OF LIFE AND ENJOY THE TRANQUILITY OF GWAHUMBE, WRITES DOODY ADAMS

WILDERNESS on a whim

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Sable Room is luxurious and comfortable, offering privacy, a beautiful viewing deck overlooking the valley, and an outside shower to complete the bush experience.

The family-owned 3 000 hectare property offers visitors game viewing opportunities either in the luxury of your own car, or in a

game viewing vehicle which is highly recommended to take full advantage of the local knowledge of the game ranger. When it was time for a break, we enjoyed a stop at a viewing deck and soaked up the surroundings while sipping a G&T. For avid game spotters, the reserve is home to a variety of buck, zebra, wildebeest,

The reserve can also be enjoyed via the multiple trail routes for cyclists, runners and walkers

giraffe and birds.

The reserve can also be enjoyed via the multiple trail routes for cyclists, runners and walkers, and are a fabulous option if you prefer to make the most of the fresh air and enjoy the scenery.

Gwahumbe has its own spa offering a wide range of treatments. The full body massage is highly recommended – especially after braving a trail run in and out of the valley.

All meals are served in the central dining area, however private dining experiences can be arranged either in the privacy of your room, in the spa, or the wine cellar.

An ideal way to celebrate a special occasion like a wedding anniversary or Valentine’s Day. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff at Gwahumbe, and they certainly ensured our stay was memorable and special.

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FOR MORE INFO 031 781 1082 www.gwahumbe.co.za

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motoring*

T

Elegance &

he Honda HR-V is the ideal compact family SUV, and is fast becoming a firm favourite among discerning motorists looking for an affordable, practical and modern vehicle. The HR-V ticks all those boxes and more with its iconic shape that is not only compact compared to the average SUV, but it’s also surprisingly spacious thanks to the clever Magic Seats system first introduced into the Jazz models.

Two versions of the HR-V have been launched aimed at young families: the 1,5 Comfort (available since July 2019) and a 1,8 Elegance.

The 1,5-litre Comfort version is equipped with halogen headlights, fog lights, roof rails and colour-coded trim. Inside there’s cloth upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, front cupholders, door pockets, front armrest and illuminated vanity mirrors.

The 1,8-litre Elegance received a number of upgrades such as new alloys, auto LED headlights with daytime running lights, leather trim, leather steering wheel, auto aircon, heated front seats and a rear armrest. The 13cm monitor in the Comfort version has been replaced with an 18cm touchscreen display with reversing camera.

From a styling point of view it certainly is a good-looking crossover. In particular, the front features tapered headlights framing a V-shaped

COMFORT

WITH LOOKS THIS GOOD, THE HONDA HR-V OFFERS SPACE, COMPACTNESS, AN EASY DRIVE, AND AFFORDABILITY ALL IN ONE PACKAGE

The high driving position also gives off a commanding sense behind the wheel

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grille and meshed lower air intakes, while the large wheel arches add to its rugged SUV traits along with slim roof rails.

At the rear there are large tail light clusters and – what will aid shopping and loading all the kids’ items a breeze – a tailgate which opens at bumper level. Because of its pronounced roofline curve, the car leans towards a coupe-like impression but the short overhangs, raised height and wide tracks shout typical SUV. The high driving position also gives off a commanding sense behind the wheel.

The 1,8-litre Elegance is a ravenous little creature with 105kW/172Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 6,8-litres/100km thanks to stop/start functionality.

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The 1,5-litre unit has recently been upgraded and is the same engine found in the Ballade and Jazz with 88kW/145Nm, up from 81kW. It’s mated to Honda’s constantly variable transmission (CVT) and according to Honda SA’s Graham Eagle, the automaker’s customers prefer autos – and judging by the numbers so far, he’s probably right. Honda says the CVT unit has been improved quite a bit, and even though it may not be smooth and seamless, it’s definitely much better than before. However, a manual gearbox would really bring out all the glory of this new HR-V. The HR-V is packed with equipment such as an electric parking brake, combined with an auto brake

The 1,5-litre unit has recently been upgraded and is the same engine found in the Ballade and Jazz with 88kW/145Nm, up from 81kW

hold function which is much-needed in SA’s traffic.

Regarding safety features, Honda says the electric parking brake is engaged via a switch on the centre console, and automatically releases when the accelerator pedal is pressed. The auto brake hold function engages automatically after the vehicle has been braked to a standstill, and the brake pedal is released. The hold function is disengaged as soon as the accelerator is activated.

In addition, there are six air bags, head restraints, inertia reel seatbelts for all seating positions, and Honda’s advanced compatibility engineering (ACE) body structure. Driver assistance programmes include: anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution; emergency brake assist and emergency stop signal activation; vehicle stability assist, hill-start assist and a high-mounted LED rear brake light.

The HR-V Comfort 1,5 starts at R376 700 and the HR-V Elegance 1,8 is priced from R445 700.

The HR-V comes with a 5-year or 200 000km warranty, a 4-year or 60 000km service plan, and a 1-year AA roadside assistance package.

Service intervals are 15 000km.

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FOR MORE INFO CMH Honda uMhlanga, 89 Flanders Drive, uMhlanga, Mount Edgecombe. Tel: 031 580 7900

property*

W

ith 2020 well under way, here are six trends to look out for in the year ahead.

Sectional title: There is an ongoing demand for sectional title homes, more compact homes with lower maintenance and lower operating costs, and homes in convenient locations close to schools, the workplace and all amenities

Ballito – the Garden Route and Western Cape, including the Boland and Overberg. On the our North Coast, we’ve recently seen as much as 60% of our buyers for new off-plan developments originating from Johannesburg, while Sibaya is also in demand due to its close proximity to King Shaka International Airport.

Value-for-money and hotspots: Country towns inland offer exceptional value – especially for retirees – and from a coastal perspective, the KZN North Coast is seeing developments still selling

A good time to BUY

GARETH BAILEY DISCUSSES CURRENT TRENDS IN PROPERTY BUYING, AND THE OUTLOOK FOR 2020

– thereby avoiding heavy traffic congestion. This is particularly evident in key hubs like our North Coast suburbs of uMhlanga and Sibaya. Besides appealing to the younger generation, sectional title buyers include professionals who travel frequently, downscalers and retirees who travel overseas to visit family.

Semigration: The semigration trend will continue to the coast, primarily KZN – Durban North and north to

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well and correctly priced stock moving. An influx of Johannesburg commuters and semigrants moving to the coast has kept the developments market alive. In addition, KZN is still well-priced compared with the Western Cape and affordable to the local market.

Sibaya has enjoyed exceptional sales over the past two years and is achieving record prices on vacant land at Signature Estate, where

Outlook: cautiously optimistic A key positive for South Africa’s housing market is the country’s young population – which ensures a steady increase in potential new homeowners entering the housing market each year, providing a solid underpinning for ongoing demand for homes.

With consumer confidence recovering slightly, inflation and interest rates relatively subdued, and the economy set to strengthen modestly in 2020, it seems likely that the recent period of price adjustment has seen a measure of affordability return to much of the national housing market – making it a good time to buy.

The residential property market is unlikely to experience a robust recovery until there is a marked improvement in economic growth prospects and employment.

Market consensus forecasts are for slightly stronger economic growth in 2020 and beyond. While inflation may be somewhat higher this year, it is not expected to force the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates during the next 12 to18 months. Add to this the ongoing appetite among financial institutions to extend credit, and there are numerous factors underpinning the market this year.

The outlook for 2020 is for a better housing market but only moderately better than 2019 – unless economic growth surprises on the upside, however, with professional advice and considered options, savvy investment and selling decisions are definitely achievable.

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luxury homes will range from R20-million up to R50-million once built. Saxony, a luxury development with sea views, offers drive-up access to apartments and penthouses.

We are expecting our new development, Sibaya Sands, to be well received by the market as it caters to both investors as well as an end-user market, with prices starting from under R2-million. uMhlanga sectional title is also sought after and the beachfront node popular as there is limited supply in this prime area.

Durban North continues to hold its own as a primary residential market that is well-priced and offers a family lifestyle with an abundance of schools. Somerset Park and

UMHLANGA 031 561 5300 EXCLUSIVE

Durban North / R11.9 million

Ref# 1ND1466664 Beds 5 / Baths 4 / Garages 4 / From the double volume entrance the eye is drawn to the reception and patio stack back doors which frame the spectacular views. This stunning residence is designed for entertaining.

Phillip Reynolds 082 780 9813 / Stella Simes 084 556 5842 JOINT

Umdloti / R14.8 million Ref# 1ND1455971 Beds 4 / Baths 4.5 / Parkings 5 / This luxurious home offers a lifestyle of privacy and solitude as well as amenities to entertain family and friends with ease and style. Breathtaking views of Indian Ocean and lush tropical vegetation are signature features.

Nico Swart 082 446 0008 / Mandy Radmore 073 587 3815 EXCLUSIVE

Sunningdale are increasing in popularity as you can buy small three-bedroom, family homes for under R3-million.

Estate living: This remains sought after, especially ecoestates and those which provide a range of amenities, even schools and leisure activities. There is also a strong focus in estates on creating a greater mix of price bands and retirement developments, ensuring broader appeal both in terms of available homes and amenities, such as shops, educational and medical amenities.

Sustainable homes: The sudden recurrence of loadshedding, coupled with rapidly escalating costs of electricity and water shortages, has seen

homeowners and tenants increasingly turning towards homes with “green” features.

Increasing demand for offshore property: According to our International Division, Pam Golding International, increased demand for international property is being fuelled by a desire to diversify investment portfolios with a rand hedge. The need to diversify, coupled with demand for offshore citizenship, has seen increased uptake by buyers investing in residential property in Portugal, the US and Grenada in the Caribbean which offer citizenship opportunities. Property in Mauritius and the UK remain firm favourites with SA investors.

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Umhlanga / R14.950 million

Ref# 1ND1468847 Beds 4 / Baths 3 / Garages 2 / This delightful 336m² beachfront apartment in Edge of the Sea is sheer luxury. The unobstructed sea-views are breathtaking. When not on the beach, enjoy the lush gardens and swimming pool at the complex. Includes furniture & appliances.

Sharon Westcott 083 270 0478 EXCLUSIVE

Izinga / R12.999 million

Ref# 1ND1467726 Beds 4 / Baths 4 / Garages 2 / Stunning home with water features at the entrance, set on prestigious Izinga Park 2, offering easy living throughout.

Undercover patio leading out into indigenous garden with rim flow pool.

Bev Sparks 082 781 7577

last word*

illustration jeremy nell

L

ife is full of opportunity! So I told myself at 5am on January 1, sans hangover, sitting in the lotus position: calm, serene and at one with the universe. My cross-legged asana was perfect, my chakras were aligned and I was the embodiment of good karma. I had to suppress the hint of a smug smile.

But I quickly cast that piety asunder and admonished myself. I was once a carousing drunken misfit who saw January in with a throbbing head and a bevvy of tattooed, scantily clad biker gals. (A spot of wishful thinking, but you get the picture.)

On the last day of December, I Googled success quotes and vowed to turn over a new leaf, wake up early, drink more water, less coffee and eat Jungle Oats every day. The power of thought, motivational speakers say, is just ENORMOUS. Dream, believe it, achieve it! I was seduced by visions of my better, leaner, meaner self with a six-pack. I was steely-eyed and unflappable.

I made bucketloads more dosh. I got promoted over the management dude with thick hair and great teeth. Then I went further, I ditched the job, bought a Mustang and went on ski holidays. My fringe grew back and women looked at me adoringly.

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Off to a good

START…

2020 STARTED OFF ON A HIGH NOTE – WITH VISIONS OF MY SIX-PACK, WAKING UP EARLY, DRINKING MORE WATER, AND AN AMAZING BODY. BY DAY THREE THE OUTLOOK WAS VERY DIFFERENT, LAMENTS GREG ARDÉ I was purity personified for a few days, jogging up and down the promenade at dawn, doing yoga at dusk and supping on steamed veggies. My workouts were spectacular. No pain, no gain! “You can have results or excuses, not both.”

By the second day, my biceps were a monstrous set of Arnie guns. Almost. And then, well, you know … Robin Sharma started irritating me. The hadedas pooped on the patio and ruined my Zen moment at sunrise. In the evenings the beachfront was crammed with other misty-eyed, Pollyanna

twits like me – so I bolted home to be rid of them.

The car guard outside the gym gave me a pitiful look when I emerged three days on the trot, a nasty, dishevelled mess of sweat and tortured flesh.

New Year resolutions are the bomb: a self-righteous riot of glorious good intention.

Until you succumb to one silly mistake and it’s a woebegotten downhill slide of vice. Mine was the packet of Quality Street that had beckoned me hither from the fridge the whole festive season, like a comely hussy with red lipstick in a dimly lit

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bar after vodka shots.

I smacked the whole packet, slurping through images of the car guard, the hadedas, the promenade pounders and my misbegotten resolutions.

At first, I tried to blame it on power cuts. When they kicked in I got hot and bothered.

The “The 5am Club” went from pride of place on my bedside table to propping up the pantry door where a hinge had broken. And it’s easier to braai without electricity. A “dop and a chop” is a doddle compared to roasted butternut squash salad with Tahini vinaigrette. It’s a lot less poncey too.

So I contemplated all this over the braai, basking in the beauty of summer in Durban and scratching my heat rash.

My mind kept flitting to images of snowy Norway or anywhere cold, really.

It’s not half bad to get your ass into gear in the new year, I figured. Look past the poppycock in the personal growth industry, with its twee catchphrases and inspirational tales. Most motivational speakers are snake oil salesmen with lapel mics and promises aplenty.

But I reckon success is the story you tell yourself. If you keep a sense of perspective and a sense of humour and you pursue a goal, you will develop habits around that. The benefit of repetition, I thought, cheerfully, checking out the chops sizzling on the grill.

Yes, and affirmation helps. So, cheer me on, I’m imaging myself back to the gym tomorrow.

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