Thgvjb by feliz16

NEW WORLD, NEW RULES Post-pandemic tailoring, cuts and prints

INVESTIGATION QAnon: What is it, and where did it originate?

GQ-APPROVED SUNDOWNERS (and how to make ’em) Siya Kolisi Makhadzi Tatjana Schoenmaker Dr Brian Monaisa

JAN/FEB 2022 R70 ( INCL VAT ) OTHER COUNTRIES R52.17

In conversation with the legend

SIPHO “HOTSTIX” MABUSE Harari, fatherhood, his legacy, politics and more

www.bisquitdubouche.com

01 02 22 G Q

THE COVER Photography by Obakeng Molepe at Red Hot Ops. All prices quoted in this issue are approximate and subject to change.

Ditch dressing down for bold prints and effortless tailoring, p54

04 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

FEATURES 66 Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse: 50 years a music legend 80 Themba Mbuyisa’s 2021 GQ Best Dressed Portraits 86 Conspiracy theories through the ages

ESSENTIALS 10 Hot swimwear, festival fashion and new brands to know 16 SA menswear we love 22 How did Makhadzi and Tatjana Schoemaker get so good? 26 Spotlight on toxic masculinity 28 Our fave men on the lessons they’ve learned from those who matter to them 30 How to make summer’s coolest cocktails (as chosen by the GQ team)

GEAR 34 Porsche 911 GTS 36 Volvo XC40

SPORT 39 How Henry Cavill honed his Superman physique 42 The bulk-up workout 44 An extract from Siya Kolisi’s intimate memoir

WEALTH 46 Oscar ‘Oskido’ Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa on staying relevant 50 A beginner’s guide to Forex Trading

ST YLE 62 Suits you, Sir. Smart leisure is the new normal 94 Directory

P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y S T E V E H A R N A C K E ; P R O D U C E R : S I M O N E B R O N Z I ; FA S H I O N D I R E C TO R : A L E S S A N D R A B L O O M AT C O R N É FA S H I O N M A N A G E M E N T ; FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T : V I T TO R I A R O S S I P R O V E S I ; F E AT U R E D FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T : G I A C O M O D I N I ; S T Y L I N G L O G I S T I C S C O L L A B O R ATO R : M A R I A B E R N A R D I ; FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T C O L L A B O R ATO R S : E L I S A B E T TA C ATA L A N O , C A M I L L E C E S A N A V E R G A , L U C A G O N E L L A ; V I D E O M A K E R : PAT R I C K I N V E R N I C I ; H A I R & M A K E U P : G I A N L U C A C A S U AT M M G A R T I S T S U S I N G N A R S C O S M E T I C S ; S E T D E S I G N E R : I L A R I A G E R L I ; M O D E L S : T H I A M AT I M G M O D E L S M I L A N O , A M A D O U S A N N E H AT I L O V E M O D E L S M A N A G E M E N T ; S P E C I A L T H A N K S TO : K U M A S T U D I O M I L A N O . A M A D O U W E A R S F U L L L O O K V E R S A C E ; T H I A M W E A R S K N I T W E A R J U S T C AVA L L I ; PA N T S R O B E R T O C AVA L L I

DEPARTMENTS 06 Letter from the Editor

L I V E YO U R PA S S I O N HIGHLIFE H E A R T B E AT For further information contact Picot & Moss (011) 669-0500. www.picotandmoss.co.za

EDITOR'S LETTER

Live your very best life

He’s lived in all corners of the globe, met and worked with global icons such as the late Nelson Mandela, yet, at 70, he still oozes a love for life that leaves everyone he meets feeling livelier. We visited Mabuse’s home in Pimville, Soweto, Joburg, for our shoot and a conversation of a lifetime on page 66. On page 22, we chat to two young women who redefine what it means to be winners, mega entertainer Makhadzi and

Olympic gold medallist and world-recordbreaking swimmer Tatjana Schoenmaker for Women We Love. If there’s one thing their story taught me, just like Mabuse’s, it’s to give your all to and enjoy everything you do. As you page through this issue, I hope it’ll inspire you to live life to the full. Till next time. M O L I F E E D I TO R- I N - C H I E F

passed away recently with whom I shared a very close friendship, the kind you don’t broadcast on social media. We spoke often and shared dreams and hopes we had for ourselves. His passing shook me as he hadn’t been ill, he just went to bed and never woke up. I remember following the news of his death. A couple of people posted on social media about how much he loved his life, and live it he did. I re-read messages we’d sent to each other and realised we’d fully expressed our appreciation for each other. Our notes affirmed two things I strongly believe in: tell people you love and appreciate them all the time, and, by all means possible, live your best life, always. Speaking of which, one man who knows all about this is our cover star, the legendary muso Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse. His illustrious 50-year music career has afforded him the sort of life of which many can only dream.

06 GQ.CO.ZA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIBONELO NGUBANE

A FRIEND OF MINE

PUBLISHED BY CONDÉ NAST

EDITOR-IN- CHIEF Molife Kumona EDITORIAL

Lesley Mathys Walter Hay ward

GROUP MANAGING AND SY NDICATION EDITOR MANAGING AND SY NDICATION EDITOR

FA SHION

Jason Alexander Basson Mira Leibowitz Tania Durand

GROUP FASHION DIRECTOR FASHION EDITOR FASHION AS SIS TANT AR T DIRECTOR GR APHIC DESIGNER GR APHIC DESIGNER SENIOR COP Y EDITOR

GROOMING

Jesé Lillienfeldt-Har tman

CONTENT PRODUCER

FE ATURE S

Shannon Manuel Thobeka Phanyeko

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD JONATHAN NEWHOUSE

WORLDWIDE EDITIONS

COPY

Lisa Abdellah

CONDÉ NAST ENTERTAINMENT PRESIDENT AGNES CHU

ART

Robyn Pretorius Asanda Kumbaca Alex Stewar t

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ROGER LYNCH GLOBAL CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER & PRESIDENT, U.S. REVENUE PAMELA DRUCKER MANN GLOBAL CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER ANNA WINTOUR CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER JACKIE MARKS CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER DEIRDRE FINDLAY CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER STAN DUNCAN CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER DANIELLE CARRIG CHIEF OF STAFF ELIZABETH MINSHAW CHIEF PRODUCT & TECHNOLOGY OFFICER SANJAY BHAKTA CHIEF DATA OFFICER KARTHIC BALA CHIEF CLIENT OFFICER JAMIE JOUNING CHIEF CONTENT OPERATIONS OFFICER CHRISTIANE MACK

SENIOR CONTENT PRODUCER CONTENT PRODUCER

C ONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dieter Losskarn (MOTORING) CONTRIBUTORS Alioune Badara Fall, Maria Bernardi, Alessandra Bloom, Simone Bronzi, Gianluca Casu, Elisabetta Catalano, Camille Cesana Verga, Richard Cook, Muhammad Fadel, Ilaria Gerli, Luca Gonella, Caroline Greeff, Giacomo Dini, Patrick Invernici, Shaldon Kopman, Sanelisiwe Maliza, Nare Kekana, Bamike Ogunrinu, Tamaryn Pretorius, Vudani Ranziba, Vittoria Rossi Provesi, Mick Rouse, Amadou Sanneh, Thiam, Lydia Tzirkova, Jason Woosey PHOTO GR APHERS AND ILLUS TR ATORS Yaw Aseidu, Nick Bolton, Deji Dada, Anton Geyser, Steve Harnacke, Edwin Hooper, Themba Mbuyisa, Obakeng Molepe, Sibonelo Ngubane, Zander Opperman, Franco Pizzochero, Isaac Quesada, Jayana Rashintha, Alexander Shatov, Scott Webb C ONTENT NATION MEDIA (P T Y ) LTD CEO Samantha Subrayen HEAD OF FINANCE Paul Myburgh FINANCE CONTROLLER Marjorie Lotterie GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER Jean Jacobs / PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Charné Phillips CIRCULATIONS MANAGER Frederick Smit / CIRCULATIONS CO-ORDINATOR Bertina Ellis PERSONAL ASSISTANT AND OFFICE MANAGER Karen Shields ADVER TIS ING HEAD OF SALES AND MONETISATION Tumi Moatshe ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lorraine Bradley and Wendy Robinson (JHB), Charlotte Nutman (CT) ADVERTISING LIAISON MANAGER Natasha O ’ Connor SALES REPRESENTATIVE ITALY Angelo Careddu (OBERON MEDIA) DIGITAL ACTING DIGITAL MANAGER (CONTENT) Arthur Mukhari ACTING DIGITAL MANAGER (TECH) Viné Lucas CONTENT PRODUCER Farah Khalfe CONTENT PRODUCER Amy Saunders CONTENT PRODUCER Luthando Vikilahle BR AND PROPERTIE S BRAND PROPERTIES MANAGER Desiree Kriel E VENT S EVENTS CO-ORDINATOR Lindiswa Putuma CAPE TOWN HE AD OFFICE Content Nation Media (Pty) Ltd, 10th floor, Convention Towers, Heerengracht St, Cape Town City Centre, 8000. PO Box 16414, Vlaeberg, 8018. Tel: 021-344-0500; Email: gq @ condenast.co.za REPRODUCTION Studio Repro PRINTING Novus Print Montague Gardens DISTRIBUTION Allied Publishing, 32 Wepener Street, Booysens, Johannesburg RESEARCH Publisher Research Council PRODUCT MANAGER Soraya Pretorius, 011-248-2418 © 2020 Content Nation Media (Pty) Ltd. Copyright subsists in all work published in this magazine. Any reproduction or adaptation, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited and is an act of copyright infringement which may, in certain circumstances, constitute a criminal offence. ‘The paper used for this publication is a recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and elemental or total chlorine free bleached pulp. The producing mills have third-party management systems in place, applying standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. This magazine can be recycled either through your kerbside collection or at a local recycling point. Log onto www.prasa.co.za to find your nearest sites.

ISSNs: 1562-4366

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PEOPLE WILL STARE AND SO WILL YOU.

Introducing a convertible that’ll turn heads with every turn. The NEW Lexus LC 500 V8 Convertible not only puts out an ear-enticing 351kW of V8 power, but it’s also sure to draw attention with its 21-inch wheels, eye-catching colour options, and sleekly modern stance expertly crafted by our Japanese Takumi masters. Plus, with its range of noise management and climate control features, the NEW Lexus LC 500 V8 Convertible is truly designed from the top down so you can spend more time driving it that way. The NEW Lexus LC 500 V8 Convertible: The thrill of it all.

FIND OUT MORE

lexus.co.za

Ts&Cs apply.

THE NEW

LC 500 V8 CONVERTIBLE

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and you’ll guarantee yourself a serious look. These guys know how to do it. »

O N

lilhuddy

WORDS BY MIRA LEIBOWITZ; PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALLO/GETTY L LAUGSETSR, ACTHI O Y USDI S MO ON N/ A I C, ZT H O M B R O W N E / I N S T A G R A M , IM AN S EB H I NBSRTAAN GO RW AM T H E B L O N D E D O N / I N S TA G R A M , T R AV I S B A R K E R / I N S TA G R A M

ALTHOUGH FESTIVALS AREN’T POPPING OFF IN SOUTH AFRICA as they are abroad, it won’t hurt to start planning or fantasising about your next fezi look. On that note, we’ve a slight inclination festival fashion will take a nostalgic cue from punk rock gods and emo kids alike. Mash this up with today’s top trends,

thombrowne

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 11

Threads

W O R D S B Y : TA N I A D U R A N D ; PHOTOGRAPHY BY: FRANCO PIZZOCHERO

ESSENTIALS

E Western Shirt R3 999 G-star Raw T-shirt R650 Good Good Good

Chelsea boots R38 500 Louis Vuitton

Sunglasses R4 500 Prada

Linen jacket R399 H&M

12 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Linen suit pants R199 H&M MANY OF US ARE VACCINATED, and we can once again gather in person for work meetings (goodbye, Zoom). We need to elevate our workwear looks and say adios to sweatpants. Choose eye-catching colours, cuts and shapes for a fresh take on workwear »

STARTER PA K C Trousers R1 699 Zara

Cardigan R1 099 Zara

Shirt R1 949 Tommy Hilfiger

Messenger bag R38 500 Louis Vuitton

ESSENTIALS

Threads

TWO THINGS I APPRECIATE ARE a beautifully crafted fragrance and people who have disruptive or unconventional ideas. So when I stumbled across the Joburg-based perfume brand *Apartment, I just about “ﬂooded my basement”. South African perfumers are rare, but this brand’s distinct visual language appeals to my cold, minimalist sensibility. It also approaches fragrance from an unconventional perspective, which I love. I was ﬁrst drawn in by its visuals: captivating, somewhat clinical, and devoid of typical perfume marketing, which tends to be overtly sensual, romantic, emotional or often sexualised. How refreshing.

The ﬁrst fragrance I stumbled upon was called ‘Hydrogen is my favourite element’ – an odd name that, ironically, happens to be true in my case. It was when I started reading about its fragrance notes that I began to understand how unique this brand is: fragrance notes in its range include Bic ink, cathedral incense, pencil shavings, ozone (that smell emanating from printers in an ofﬁce) and moss. It specialises in eau de parfum (the top-notch stuff with a scent so robust you only need a tiny squirt. And it isn’t swimming in alcohol or skin cancercausing chemicals). Around R1 490 for 50ml. For more information, visit aptaptapt.co

*Apartment *PAGE 128 WAS MISSING. An abstract scent. The velvety, inky smell of squares and circles. A fragrance built without a traditional centre focus, linear in form but highly layered in development. NOTES: Ambergris, velvety wood, ink, Japanese pepper, ozone

*PLEASE WAIT HERE. A scent of juxtaposition. Barbed and vivid yet rounded and still. NOTES: Hinoki, pine, cedarwood, sandalwood, violet leaf, violet, moss.

*DONE IN STRAIGHT LINES. The embodiment of utterly modern dryness and clean lines. Dry woods with the tiniest ﬁzz of pepper. Later leaving the room trailing deep greens and moss. NOTES: Wood, sandalwood, oakmoss, galbanum green, black pepper

GQ fashion director Jason Alexander Basson handpicks his favourite ﬁnds from around the globe to bring you only the best curation of must-have collectables and buzz-worthy brands 14 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Masa Mara MASA MARA FOUNDER AMZA NIYONZIMA, KNOWN AS ‘NYAMBO’, is a versatile textile and fashion designer-slashartist from Rwanda. He’s had one of the most extraordinary journeys through fashion that, I believe, is exemplary and inspires young African creatives across the continent.

The name ‘Masa Mara’ comes from a Rwandan saying, amara masa, meaning empty-handed or something from nothing. Given Nyambo started his brand from nothing, what it’s become is a testament to what you can achieve through hard work and bravery. Even as a young man, Nyambo would customise his style. His friends were interested. He had a job working for a clothing retailer that paid him in T-shirts, upon which he’d print unique designs. Nyambo thought about developing his clothing line and taught himself the skills of pattern making and sewing. In 2013, he launched his ﬁrst clothing line, which he proudly named Ma Casi (strength or power in Swahili/Lingala). Masa Mara is synonymous with colour and unique prints, and it redesigns African symbols from different cultures and tribes across the continent. The brand tells African

stories from a local perspective and through innocent eyes. It’s grown from strength to strength, having received several local and international accolades, and had opportunities to showcase and stock Nyambo’s creations worldwide. It now includes exceptional artwork and performances pieces. There’s no stopping Masa Mara. It’s one brand to watch.

ESSENTIALS

Pan-African Menswear

WEAR S N E M N ICA PAN-AFR

TEMS ON OUR RADAR

WHEN IT COMES TO FASHION, OUR EYES CONTINUE TO BE ON PAN-AFRICAN TALENT. AND LATELY, A FEW EXCEPTIONAL MENSWEAR ITEMS HAVE CAPTURED OUR AT TENTION

Words by Farah Khalfe

VIPER WIDELEG TROUSERS BY RICH MNISI

NOT ONLY DO LOCAL FASHION LABELS PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL QUALIT Y and style, but there are meaningful stories and inspirational tales woven into the fabric of each design. Whether you’re a streetwear enthusiast or a highfashion follower, there’s a designer and garment for you. Here are a few menswear pieces we’re loving at the moment.

Rich Mnisi’s Viper Wide-Leg Trousers from his Ku Hahama collection are crafted from mid-weight cotton and patterned in an original Alix Stemmelin x Rich Mnisi snake print. The high-waisted fit and structured tailoring make these perfect for a formal occasion – without having to compromise on your fun and playful side. Duality, which places a role in most of his pieces, inspires this collection. We also love the matching Viper Rope Shirt and Tote Bag to take the look to the next level.

16 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

SILK PRINTED SCARF BY IKIRE JONES There’s nothing simplistic about Ikire Jones – and that’s exactly why we love it. Nigerian designer Walé Oyéjidé is the driving force behind the brand, known for its luxury printed scarves that have been featured in Black Panther and Coming 2 America. This bold, gold and purple ‘St. Michael Des Masaai’ design is one you need in your closet – if you’re bold enough to rock it, this 100% silk accessory will add a touch of luxury to any outfit.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZANDER OPPERMAN, SUPPLIED

WE, THE PEOPLE DUNGAREE BY TSHEPO Tshepo jeans creates streetwear at its finest. The Joburg-based brand, headed by designer Tshepo Mohlala, aims tells stories through each of its denim items. We’re loving this We, The People tailored dungaree. Sporting a relaxed fit, dark-wash denim and

light-wash denim pocket, this look is effortlessly cool and comfortable. According to the brand’s website, the silver button and buckle details were cut from steel bars used in the jail cells at Constitutional Hill, giving the garment even more sentimental value.

SISTERHOOD V-NECK SWEATER BY THEBE MAGUGU Trans-seasonal weather calls for versatile items appropriate for both summery days and overcast nights. In this case, the Sisterhood V-neck Sweater by Thebe Magugu is just what you need. Forming part of the designer’s Alchemy collection, the garment is constructed with a boxy silhouette and white banding design that takes inspiration from collegiate sports team staples. Why do we love it? It’s sophisticated, sleek, can be dressed up or down, while Magugu’s original Sisterhood emblem gives it a uniquely South African eye-catching touch.

GROOMING AWARDS 2021

SHOWER Cleanliness is next to godliness, obviously

WINNERS

Aesop Citrus Mélange Body Cleanser R695 Urban Men Tea Tree & Mint Bath & Shower Gel R89.95 GLOV The Glov Man 2-In-1 Shower Mitt R199

SKIN Everything you need to maintain that glow

DEODORANTS Your pits will thank you for the freshness

BODY Restore moisture and protect your skin no matter the weather

Africology Hydrating Cleansing Lotion R450

Lamelle Clarity Body Spray R425 Chanel Boy de CHANEL Lotion R1 190 The Body Shop Hemp Dry Oil R305

Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant Deodorant R345 dermalogica hydro masque exfoliant R1 290

HANDS Rejoice, all you frequent hand-washers

Kellerman 3 Swords Manicure Set R1 049 L’Occitane Eau de Cédrat Hand Cream R155 Bioderma Biphase Lipo alcoolique R199.95

Terre d’Hermes Deodorant Spray R745

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution R550

Grooming Awards After a gruelling testing phase, these are the products that made the cut. Tasked with keeping us fresh, moisturised and well-groomed all year long – they’re now reporting for duty! Words by Jesé Lillienfeldt-Hartman

Clere For Men Active Roll-on R13.99

AQ Skin Solutions Serum R1 545

Vichy Homme 48hr Optimal Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Sensitive Skin Spray R180

Zero Day Cream R395

FEET

BEARD

Keep ’em dry, keep ’em trimmed and keep ’em clean

Whether you’re into a smooth shave or maintaining the beard

SVR Xerial 50 Extreme Créme Pieds 283 Avène Akérat 30 Cream R330 Earthsap Tea Tree Foot Powder R49.99 Citrusway Foot Care Restoration 3 Piece Kit R355

The Bluebeards Revenge Liquid Wood Beard and Mo’ Comb R190

GROOMING AWARDS 2021

WINNERS

TEETH From gum care to fresh breath and even whitening

SCENT Your dizzy quest to find the best cologne ends here

Clubman 2-In-1 Beard Conditioner R209.95

Earthsap Tea Tree, Mint & Herbs Toothpaste R59.99

Red Dane Signature Beard Elixir R450 Hérmes H24 R1 929

Dunhill Driven Eau De Parfum R1 399

Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio Profondo Lights Limited Edition R1 950

Aqua Di Parma Colonia R3 399 Sunstar GUM Soft-Picks Comfort Flex Cool Mint R99

HAIR It’s time you treat your hair with the same amount of love and attention you do your skin. After using these products you’ll understand why.

Sisley Paris Revitalising Fortifying Serum For Scalp R3 100 Urban Men Tea Tree & Mint 1L Shampoo & Conditioner R99.95 Wahl 25 Piece Extreme Grip Groomer R599 American Crew Fiber R375

PHILIPS Shaver Series 7000 Wet & Dry Electric Shaver R3 299

Kindbrush Adult Bamboo Toothbrush R85

Dr Hauschka Sage Mouthwash R299

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 19

GQ PROMOTION

THE PRIZE INCLUDES:

w Ingro n Hair

Normal Hair

WIN

LASER HAIR REMOVAL SESSIONS VALUED AT R48 000

The Laser Beautique (TLB) will give 8 lucky GQ readers laser to the value of R6 000 each! S UF F ER F RO M INGROWN HAIR ? WAN T T O GE T RID OF E MB ARR A S SING HAIR PAINL E S SLY AND P ER M ANEN T LY ? Be that man who gets things done smoothly. Life’s too short for uncomfortable hairy situations and, hands

down, pain-free, permanent laser hair removal at TLB is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. If you thought laser was unaffordable, you were right. Not anymore! TLB recently launched their very own laser technology called BeauLase Remove and can now offer state-of-the-art laser for less.

20 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Laser at TLB is a self-care treatment that’s affordable and saves you time in the shower or cleaning out your bath. Bye-bye razor bumps. So long ﬁve o’clock shadow, shaving nicks and in-growns. You’ll also help save the environment, one razor at a time. It is FDA and/or CE approved as ‘painless’ and safe for all skin types. thelaserbeautique.co.za @thelaserbeautique

HOW TO ENTER SMS

G Q C O MP , yo ur n am e, a dd r e s s an d e m a i l

TO 33258

Sms costs R1.50

FRONT-OF-NECK TREATMENT R250 BACK-OF-NECK TREATMENT R250 SHAVE LINES TREATMENT R220 BUT TOCKS TREATMENT R510 CHEST & STOMACH TREATMENT R1 580 FULL BACK TREATMENT R1 400 FULL LEG TREATMENT R1 800 Each entry receives a R100 voucher for The Laser Beautique (TLB). The competition closes on 20 February 2022. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Product images are for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual prizes. As all entrants will receive an R100 voucher for TLB, they consent to TLB contacting them. Appointment times are subject to availability. See ‘Directory’ page for competition terms and conditions.

GQ PROMOTION

The freedom of contradiction Modern hero Adam Driver stars in the BURBERRY Hero campaign

About the fragrance

The modern hero

The scent is brightened with sparkling bergamot and invigorated with juniper and black pepper. Juniper, a classic British ingredient of the perfumer’s palette, brings a vibrant freshness to the scent and is deepened by a trio of warm cedarwood oils from three distinct mountain ranges: Virginia’s Appalachian, the Atlas Mountains in Africa, and the Himalayas in Asia. The right balance between the three cedarwoods adds strength and a vibrant spirit of freedom.

Through the metaphor of a man becoming a mythical creature in the powerful and vivid sea, the campaign illustrates the power of a man leaping into the unknown, overcoming overwhelming struggles, and transforming into something new while remaining true to himself. Enigmatic and adventurous, Adam Driver embodies the spirit of BURBERRY Hero through the ease in which he embraces the freedom of contradiction: strong and subtle, powerful and compassionate, athletic and creative.

The bottle

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Strong and modern, like the Hero fragrance it carries, the bottle is an angular and abstract reinterpretation of a horse’s hoof, engraved with the curved Burberry logo and featuring the TB embossed monogram on the cap.

The Collection BURBERRY Hero 150ml (R2 235), 100ml (R1 845), 50ml (R1 360)

The campaign Directed by Jonathan Glazer and photographed by Mario Sorrenti, the Hero campaign imagines the metamorphosis of man into a mythical creature as a metaphor for personal transformation and freedom Captured in the early morning on a beach in South Tenerife, the powerful imagery of a man, a horse, and the vast coastline draws on Riccardo Tisci’s new house codes for BURBERRY: duality, contradiction and the power of the animal kingdom.

MAKHADZI IF YOU’D HAVE WALKED THROUGH THE STREETS OF VENDA IN THE TRANSVAAL A FEW YEARS AGO, you would’ve spotted Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, a young, energetic singer, dancing determinedly for an enthusiastic crowd. Her fans know her today as Makhadzi, who performs on grand stages, at home and abroad. In her early years, she would brave judgemental, often unreceptive, shoppers to perform in bustling supermarket corridors. Through willpower and passion, she overcame her trials to become one of Mzansi’s biggest musical exports. The 25-year-old songstress chats to GQ about her successes and challenges.

GQ : How did you think 2021 would turn out? Makhadzi: After Covid-19 hit us in 2020, I honestly didn’t expect my music to be successful in 2021. We had to forget what ‘normal’ was and adapt to living differently, which affected many industries besides music. GQ : Has releasing your new album during various lockdowns and restrictions been challenging for you and your team? M: I think the most challenging part was not being out there

gigging, and I was new to relying predominantly on social media to promote an album.

GQ : Following the success of Khokhovha, how did you feel about releasing African Queen in quick succession? M: I was more excited than scared. I couldn’t wait to release my album and share the vision I’d had since I started working on it. GQ : It must’ve been fun. M: It was an honour to collaborate with excellent artists on my #AfricanQueenAlbum. GQ : Is being busy what you envisioned? M: Yes, that’s definitely how I imagined my life would be. GQ : How do you cope with being away from home for a long time when touring? M: I keep in touch with my family and loved ones. It sometimes hits me, but I’m busy most of the time, which is a welcome distraction.

Songstress Makhadzi (real name Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona) and Olympic gold medallist Tatjana Schoenmaker had to work harder than ever to stay on top during Covid19. Here, they reveal how they achieved their goals in 2021 Words by Nare Kekana

GQ : What or who made Makhadzi who she is? M: She’s authentic, resilient and her loved ones support her. GQ : Last year was such a big year for you. What did you find most exciting about that? M: Releasing my album was the best thing to happen to me last year. GQ : What advice would you give young aspiring artists? M: I’d tell them to learn all they can about the music industry, be consistent and work hard.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIRECTOR TOOLS, ANTON GEYSER

GQ : How has success affected your life? M: It’s changed it for the better. I’m able to take care of myself and my family. Not only that, but I get to travel and experience other countries.

Women we love GQ : Considering how 2020 panned out, did you expect 2021 to turn out the way it did for you? Tatjana Schoenmaker: When I realised it was 2020, the year of the Olympics, how fast time had passed since 2016, I was nervous, almost scared. I could’ve done with one more year, so [the fact the Olympics were postponed due to Covid-19] was a blessing because I could train without disruption.

Olympics were over in 10 days. And here I am, an Olympian.

GQ : What’s been the highlight of your year? TS: I’d dreamed of being part of the Olympics since I was a child, but I never thought something like that would happen, and that I’d walk away with a gold medal and a world record. It’s surreal.

GQ : How has your life changed since? TS: I’m fortunate my team helps me cope with being in the spotlight. So many people want to hear your story or meet you, but you can’t be available 24/7.

GQ : What challenges did you face when you were preparing for the Olympics? TS: Trying not to get too excited, focussing on my training and end goal, and challenges brought on by Covid-19 in general. GQ : Have you always wanted to be an Olympic medallist? TS: Yes. I think most girls would love to win a gold medal at the Olympics, but for it to happen is surreal. Seeing myself in pictures feels even more bizarre. I’d been swimming for 16 years, yet the

ESSENTIALS

GQ : What surprised you most following your success? TS: The amount of support I received from South Africans. I’m blessed. It was amazing how people reacted, going all out as if I’d won the Rugby World Cup. I never thought swimming could be so impactful.

GQ : How did your family react to your win? TS: They’re proud. It was special to see them having this ‘athlete’s moment’ after the race, to see them live on a Zoom call. Swimming is as much a team effort as it is an individual sport. Without my team, fellow swimmers and family, I wouldn’t be where I am today. GQ : Do you have more friends now you’re famous? TS: I’m sure people want to be my friend, and I’d love to meet more people and make new

TATJANA SCHOENMAKER THIS 24-YEAR-OLD BECAME OUR GOLDEN GIRL AT THE TOKYO 2020 SUMMER OLYMPICS, setting the world record in the 200m breaststroke. Her silver medal in the 100m was the ﬁrst medal achieved by a South African woman in swimming since the 2000 Olympic games. She’s also a philanthropist who recently launched the Tatjana Foundation to give back to promising young swimmers.

friends, but, unfortunately, at the moment, swimming doesn’t stop, so I’m focussing on training, which gives me less time to socialise. There’ll always be opportunities to make new friends. Besides, I love the ones I already have.

GQ : What drives you? TS: I try to fulfil God’s purpose for me. I’m blessed to be a talented swimmer. God has blessed me with an opportunity to align myself with that. I hope that, with His guidance, I’ll be able to share His love with the world through my swimming. GQ : What advice would you give to young aspiring swimmers?

TS: As humans, we tend to compare ourselves to others, but focussing on your own goals helps you achieve greatness. Everyone wants to compete in the Olympics, and it’s a fantastic achievement, but at the end of the day, medals and records fall away, so focus on becoming the best version of yourself and spread the love.

GQ : What would you tell your kids about 2020 in the future? TS: I’d show them my medal, say I was there and that I hope I can support them as my family did me. Also, I’d tell them to follow their dreams. It’s amazing when you realise your dreams.

GQCOZA

GE AR From coupés to SUVs made in Germany, Italy and

LUXURY Must-haves, all things trending, and exclusive hands-on reviews of coveted items worth the splurge

S T Y L E Up-to-the-minute fashion and runway news,

daily style upgrades and exclusive behind-the-scenes action

@GQdotcoza @GQSouthAfrica GQ South Africa

On the back page of every issue, we feature one last stylish image from our GQ cover shoot. Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, a legendary musician whose career spans 50 years, was photographed by Obakeng Molepe.

Head to

US ON

Parting shot

pg 96

For more inspiring images

P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S V E N K R I S T I A N AT H E R O C R E AT I V E M A N A G E M E N E T, C O U R T E S Y O F A N G A L A , S U P P L I E D B Y P O R S C H E

beyond, read up on the newest cars we’re obsessed with

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 25

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Wellness

Why ‘manning up’ isn’t the answer More and more men are suffering in silence with poor mental wellbeing in what’s been described as a health crisis Words by Shannon Manuel

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I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y U N I T E D N AT I O N S C O V I D - 1 9 R E S P O N S E / U N S P L A S H . C O M

IT’S BEEN DESCRIBED AS THE SILENT KILLER O F C OV I D -1 9. The South African Depression and

Anxiety Group (SADAG) states that rates of depression among men in South Africa are at an all-time high. Compared to 10 years ago, more men are visiting psychiatric hospitals due to burnout and depression. According to SADAG, men tend not to seek help unless their symptoms are serious, and although depression is ranked high on the list of chronic diseases, most men aren’t seeking treatment. Mental health issues are often viewed or considered a ‘women’s issue’ and, as such, men often feel they’re not part of it. ‘No one is safe, no matter their gender. Anyone can develop them at any point in time. Statements such as these make it hard for men who have mental health issues to consult or seek help from a professional because they believe people will think they’re weak if they do. Unfortunately, they suppress these issues and continue to suffer in silence unnecessarily,’ says Dr Daniel Letsoalo from the Department of Health. Although research suggests they affect twice as many women as men, there are findings that men may talk differently about them or, in most cases, not at all, about their symptoms. ‘One reason statistics on men are low is that they don’t seek help as women do, which creates the impression they don’t experience mental health issues. In reality, they do. ‘I believe the terms ‘crisis’ and ‘silent killer’, to a certain extent, capture the essence and describe the emerging trend or pattern of mental health issues observed during this pandemic. It’s undeniable Covid-19 brought with it many challenges that exacerbated pre-existing mental health issues,’ he says. One of the main reasons men generally don’t recognise depression and mental illness is the stigma attached to it. ‘Men tend to believe having a mental illness is considered a weakness and, in most cases, others will treat him as such. It has to do with masculine culture, whereby society expects men to behave in a certain way. For example, a man isn’t supposed to cry, as this is a sign of weakness. ‘Societal expectations (the roles a man assumes within his family), myths and masculine culture (how society expects him to behave) all discourage men from admitting there’s something wrong,’ says Dr Letsaolo. ‘Common myths include: men should be able to control their feelings, real men don’t ask for help, having mental health issues makes you a burden, talking won’t help, and, as mentioned earlier, admitting you’re depressed is a sign of weakness. All of the above are common factors that stop men from admitting they’re depressed – and to their detriment in the long term.’ In addition to these factors, Black men say African culture doesn’t regard depression as a legitimate illness. ‘I have come across this, and what’s even more interesting is that this is even a basis for why they [men] don’t consult, as they can’t do that for something their culture considers as fiction. Therefore, accessing mental health resources is perceived not only as a weakness but goes against cultural expectation,’ says Dr Letsaolo. Instead of acknowledging their feelings, asking for help, or seeking appropriate treatment, men with

depression may be more likely to develop unhealthy coping methods that lead to numberous problems. ‘Research shows men with mental health issues engage in reckless behaviour and abuse substances such as drugs and alcohol instead of seeking help,’ he says. Men are two to three times more likely than women to have an alcohol use problem, and it negatively impacts men’s health more than any form of substance abuse. Drinking excessively to cope with psychological distress results in significant mental health impacts and dependence. Data published by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2018 global status report on alcohol and health showed South Africans are among the heaviest drinkers in the world, with “59% of the drinking population consuming more than 60 grams or more of pure alcohol on at least one occasion over 30 days”. ‘Using substances gives you a false sense of control, but the abuse can fast get out of control, leading to other issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) – and that’s not all that could get you in trouble with the law while under the influence,’ he says. ‘Research has demonstrated genetics, social history and, to a certain extent, generational teachings, increase your likelihood of developing depression. It’s important to note people don’t inherit the disorder; they inherit a predisposition (vulnerability). All it might take is a stressful event (losing a loved one or a job)

to activate this, leading to depression. All these factors interplay to lead to depression.’ WHO recently published statistics on suicide rates in numerous countries, and South Africa ranked second, with more men committing suicide than women. This is concerning. According to the report, 13 774 suicides were reported in South Africa in 2019. Of these deaths, 10 861 were men while 2 913 were women. This translates to rates of 37.6 per 100 000 for men and 9.8 per 100 000 for women. South Africa recorded the thirdhighest suicide rate of all African countries in the report, at 23.5 per 100 000 population. In September 2021, SADAG reported they’d received more than 75 000 calls from suicidal South Africans since January. ‘The most common signs of depression are changes in weight,

‘We cannot give up. The best we can do is keep advocacy going’

appetite and sleeping habits, drug use, fatigue, forced happiness, less optimism, poor concentration, disinterest in activities you usually enjoy and becoming irritable or angry easily. These symptoms are usually normal, but sometimes they signal depression. I’d advise anyone experiencing these to see a healthcare professional for a thorough assessment.’ Some say developing approaches to providing support unique to each gender may help encourage more men to come forward and have said the mental health profession needs to look beyond traditional methods. ‘I think this might bring about positive change, making it easier to seek help, assured beforehand you’ll receive care in line with your way of life, thinking and beliefs without judgement,’ he says. Activism and interest in the subject have grown over the past several years. ‘As much as most men are still reluctant, with continued activism, education and easily accessible resources on the subject, I believe we’ll see a turnaround. We cannot give up. The best we can do is keep advocacy going. ‘If you’re worried about someone’s mental health, you can help them by adopting a non-judgmental attitude – people don’t choose to be sick – because this can make or break them. Assure them they’re not the only one going through this, that help is available, and that you’ll be by their side to provide them with the support they need throughout their journey.’

Words to live by

KYLE DEUTSCH MUSIC ARTIST My father is the most influential figure in my life. He raised me lovingly and purposefully. He was and still is an incredible example. He taught me to be confident and work hard for what I want in life. There are no shortcuts, you must complete tasks with precision and excellence, be joyful no matter the occasion, and present. Each of those lessons shaped the way I live my life, what I excel at, and what I do professionally. They helped me achieve all that I have and continue to push me on to better things. They’ve made me a joy-filled, hard-working, nothing-is-impossible sort of person.

Our favourite GQ men share the lessons they’ve learned from those who matter most to them Words by Shannon Manuel

THEO BALOYI ENTREPRENEUR

SHIRAZEE MUSICAL ARTIST

DEJI DADA PHOTOGRAPHER AND EDITOR My sister is the most influential figure in my life. However complex and ever-changing life gets, she’s always dedicated herself to what gives her life meaning and purpose. She taught me to consider every step of a journey a goal to learn and gain experience from. And to share what you know because being stingy doesn’t get you anywhere. You have to grow before you can let go and share what you know, be it expertise or experience. She also passed down the importance of self-criticism – it might be easier to find comfort in always being right, but there’s growth in constructive criticism, scrutiny and dialogue. Those skills and lessons bolstered the way I see, approach and value life and its challenges.

The most influential male figure in my life is my uncle Ibrahim Barre. Three things he’s passed down to me are, one, to critically think about your decisions before you act – he always does that no matter how serious the situation. I never understood it when I was younger, how he’d pause and fall back at a time when things seemed serious to everyone else. Yet, he’d come up with the best solution. I do now and try my best to follow in his footsteps. Secondly, his voracious appetite for movies is the reason I became such a movie buff. And lastly, to laugh out loud. His laughter is contagious, and he can see the funny side of pretty much every situation. Today, I have a sense of humour that parallels his. This is helpful because when life comes at you fast, you can either laugh or crash.

My dad is my most influential figure in my life because of the man he was and the values by which he lived. I watched him build and lead his family, risking everything to give us a better life. He was fearless and taught me not to have an emotional but an intellectual relationship with money. If you experience a monetary loss, you can use your intellect to regain it. He encouraged me to try to be of service in business as it breeds excellence. These lessons have instilled value, maturity and the principles of leadership.

GEMAÉN TAYLOR TV HOST I grew up without a father figure and my mom, who raised me as a single parent, was my real-life superhero. Juggling work and a family, she instilled qualities that shaped the man I am today. The life lessons my mother passed down to me, belief, faith and love, have shown me anything is possible.

Inside Info

ESSENTIALS

TEMISAN EMMANUEL MEDIA PRESENTER AND MC

MBULELO FALUTI DIGITAL CREATOR AND STYLIST

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEJI DADA, SUPPLIED

My grandfather supports me in everything I do. He inspired my creative journey and shaped the person I am today. To maintain good relationships and support those that matter most to me, he taught me honesty and communication are crucial. My grandfather believes hard work always outweighs talent. No matter how bad things get, remember being industrious can help you beat any obstacle in your life, personal or creative. I believe I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t listened to my grandfather’s advice about staying true to my identity and embracing my roots – it’s what sets you apart.

The man I’ve learned the most from is my former boss, Chude Jideonwo, co-founder of Red Media Africa, with whom I worked closely for a few years. He also influenced most of my career decisions. He provided the crash course I needed to understand the Nigerian media space and decide on my brand’s direction. Chude is one of those kids from high school popular for being a little too smart. Who wouldn’t want to be that kid? That’s why I became a sponge, soaking up most of the values that influence my current journey. He taught me about the value of hard work and intentionality. When you’re intentional, and you know what you’re about, it saves you time. I’ve used what I’ve learned to make decisions that positively affect my career.

HARMONY KATULONDI MEDIA PRESENTER The two main influences in my life have been Jesus Christ, and my father, who loved my mother and his family not only through his words but his actions, which most people take for granted. He taught me the fundamentals of how to love, seek to be excellent in everything you do and be selfconfident. He passed down his passion for reading, the wealth and beauty of knowledge. Most lessons I learned from my dad involved a heart and mindset shift, which influences your behaviour and, in turn, your habits, lifestyle and life in general.

IFAN IFEANYI MICHAEL FILMMAKER AND CREATIVE ARTIST I grew up estranged from my nuclear family, so I feel somewhat robbed of that strong paternal influence that grounds young men. For a long time, I had to rely only on myself for guidance and correction, a burden that’s eased as I’m blessed to be surrounded by friends who parent me when I need it, support my ambitions and admonish me when I need correction. My best friend, in particular, has co-piloted most of my journey and understands the work that’s gone into it. His unconditional acceptance inspires me and shows me the depth of empathy we, as men, are capable of. He taught me to enter each situation with a mindset of thankfulness.

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ESSENTIALS

Taste

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS, MAKE A COCKTAIL These tipples have the GQ team’s stamp of approval – and we know you’ll love ’em too

MOLIFE KUMONA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

GROOTMAN’S GULP How do you take the edge off amid deadlines, meetings and life admin? With this simple cognac recipe, perfect for every season and any time of day. I usually enjoy mine after work or as a party starter before hitting the streets.

INGREDIENTS: 100ml Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège 50ml ginger ale 50ml tonic water Ice

HOW TO MAKE IT: Add all ingredients to a chilled glass and stir. And there you have it: Grootman’s Gulp.

WALTER HAYWARD MANAGING AND SYNDICATION EDITOR

THE FRENCH 75 You make this with gin, champagne, lemon juice and sugar. It’s also called a 75 Cocktail or, in French, a soixantequinze. It dates back to World War I, and an early form was created in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris – which later became Harry’s New York Bar – by barman Harry MacElhone. INGREDIENTS: 30ml gin 15ml lemon juice 2 dashes of simple syrup 60ml Champagne

HOW TO MAKE IT: Combine gin, syrup and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker ﬁlled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into an iced champagne glass. Top up with Champagne. Stir gently.

30 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

SCOT TISH LEADER

DARINGLY DIFFERENT TANIA DURAND FASHION ASSISTANT

MOSCOW MULE This classic cocktail is always a winner. INGREDIENTS: 60ml Absolut vodka 180ml ginger beer 1t fresh lime juice Sprig of mint Slice of lime Ice

HOW TO MAKE IT: Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker and shake well. Serve in a tumbler.

LESLEY MATHYS GROUP MANAGING AND SYNDICATION EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALLO/GETTY IMAGES

ROBYN PRETORIUS ART DIRECTOR

THE SMOKED CINNAMON G&T

THE TEQUIL A PINE

This is my go-to DIY cocktail for entertaining at home or to enjoy on quiet solo nights.

A simple yet delicious blend of tequila, dry lemon and sweet pineapple juice.

INGREDIENTS:

1 stick cinnamon 5-6 crushed blueberries 60ml gin Lots of ice

100ml tequila 100ml Schweppes Dry Lemon 150ml Liqui Fruit Summer Pine juice Ice

HOW TO MAKE IT: Light cinnamon stick with matches (just for the smoke. Don’t burn the stick!), place in glass and cover, about one minute. Mix or shake ice, gin and crushed blueberries, pour into a glass and enjoy.

HOW TO MAKE IT: Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker or tumbler, and shake or stir vigorously. It’s a DIY cocktail, so adjust the measurements to your liking.

Scottish Leader, a whisky headed by master distiller Julieann Fernandez, is based on the philosophy that magic happens when you #SeeTheWorldDifferently. The brand’s platform showcases unique, colourful and daring ways to mix its premium Scotch whisky. It inspires people to live authentically and supports and develops South Africa’s creative talent: musicians, fashionistas, artists, foodies and writers. For Scottish Leader, there’s no incorrect way to create content. The brand’s events and experience platforms are safe, inclusive and nonprejudiced, where people feel free to be themselves and break boundaries. It recently collaborated with singer-songwriter, author and actor Nakhané, who features in its TV commercial and is an example of someone who uses his status to change

how people view the world. He helped define the whisky as one that doesn’t follow traditions. Three fans who purchased a new-look “whisky couture” bottle of Scottish Leader won a bespoke wardrobe upgrade to the value of R35 000 each, courtesy of Scottish Leader x Loin Cloth & Ashes.

SCOT TISH LEADER WHISKY PRIDE COCKTAIL This cocktail celebrates authenticity and is inspired by Harvey Milk. INGREDIENTS: 145ml Scottish Leader Clarified Milk Punch 50ml Scottish Leader Original 15ml Pressed lemon juice 15ml Luxardo Cherry Liqueur 15ml Vanilla syrup 50ml Full-fat milk 4t Jelly Tots 50ml Elderflower foam 1 Egg white 25ml Elderflower syrup 25ml Apple juice

METHOD: Mix ingredients and add to a stemmed glass with a wide rim. Top with Jelly Tots. To make the foam, shake syrup juice and egg white.

AUDI E-T RON R A NGE LEXUS LX 600 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE

New year, new car

These are just some of the many new high-end vehicles heading to South Africa in 2022

DUE

Words by Jason Woosey

2022

AU D I I S S P I C I N G U P

the electric car market in South Africa with three new battery-powered contenders. The Audi e-tron is a midsize SUV, albeit slightly smaller than the Q7. The local model range will include the e-tron 50 and e-tron 55 models. Both have a twin-motor Quattro

all-wheel-drive set-up but differ in terms of output and how far they travel when charged. The 50 Quattro boasts an output of 230kW and a claimed range of between 282km and 341km on the WLTP cycle. The 55 Quattro treats its owners to 300kW and between 369km and 440km.

32 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

The Audi e-tron Sportback, as its name suggests, boasts a sportier, coupé-inspired design. It offers the aforementioned 55 Quattro drivetrain as the base derivative, and buyers will also be able to opt for a Sportback S tri-motor performance model, with 370kW, 973Nm and a 0-100km/hr time of 5.1 seconds. The Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT models serve as the flagship sedan range and share the group’s J1 electric architecture with the Porsche Taycan. The e-tron GT boasts 350kW and 630Nm, but can momentarily produce 390kW during a launch overboost phase, allowing a 4.1 second 0-100km/hr sprint time.

AUDI E-TRON RANGE

Audi e-tron range Lexus LX 600 Jeep Grand Cherokee

GEAR

DUE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2022

T H E N E W- G E N E R AT I O N L E XUS L X takes the bare

bones of the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 but adds even more glamour and luxury. Lexus has made no compromises here in producing a VIP grade vehicle. Back seat occupants have two individual chairs they can recline up to 48 degrees, footrests, fold-away screens, sunshades, ‘shower-like’ ceiling-mounted air conditioning and reading lights. Owners can also look forward to a new-generation multimedia system with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and buyers can opt for a 25-speaker Mark

LEXUS LX 600 Levinson Surround Sound System. Some expected the new LX to debut a new twinturbo V8 engine, but all Lexus mentions, for now, are the familiar 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol and 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel motors also in the new LC 300.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AUDI MEDIACENTRE, SUPPLIED

DUE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2022 B U I LT A RO U N D A BRAND NEW

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE

architecture, the fifthgeneration Jeep Grand Cherokee brings new technologies to the fold. Inside the redesigned cabin is the flagship Uconnect 5 infotainment system that you can order with up to three 10.25-inch digital displays, including a segment-exclusive front passenger screen.

Also on offer is a new full-colour 10-inch widescreen head-up display, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and over-the-air update functionality. Passengers can also look forward to Amazon Fire TV, which allows them to stream videos and play games while on the road. But although it’s more luxurious than before, Jeep

says it’s still something of a trail master, and buyers can choose from three 4x4 systems, namely, Quadra-Trac I, QuadraTrac II and QuadraDrive II, all equipped with an active transfer case. Furthermore, the Trailhawk model comes with a SelecSpeed Control system for managing vehicle speed in a low range.

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GEAR

Porsche 911 GTS

Family fued Often seen as the middle child of the 911 family, the GTS fights hard to prove itself as the more exciting choice. Consider us knocked out

Words by Jason Woosey 34 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

H A R K I N G BAC K TO T H E 9 0 4 CA R R E R A O F 1 9 6 3 , GTS is

a brawny sounding badge that you’ll find in most Porsche model line-ups nowadays. In theory, it hits the sweet spot in its range by providing something dynamic and enticingly quick but with a somewhat lower price tag than the hardcore Turbobadged models. The formula works well in models like the Cayenne GTS, but how does it translate into Porsche’s core sportscar? We travelled to the Western Cape recently to get to know the latest Porsche 911 GTS, which

has been launched in 992 form. But before we get behind the wheel, let’s take a look at where it fits in. The 911 GTS is available in five flavours, giving you a choice between Carrera (rear-wheel drive) and Carrera 4 (all-wheel drive) formats, as well as coupé and cabriolet body styles. There’s also a Targa 4 model, which is available in all-paw guise only. The GTS is powered by a variant of the familiar 3.0-litre turbocharged flatsix engine, and it produces 353kW at 6 500rpm and 570Nm of torque between 2 300 and 5 000 revs. This means it slots above the 331kW Carrera S

and below the naturally aspirated GT3, which offers 375kW, as well as the 427kW 911 Turbo and 478kW Turbo S. Priced between R2 290 000 and R2 600 000, the Porsche 911 GTS is significantly less expensive than that aforementioned flagship, which comes in just below the R4-million mark, and it commands only a R270 000 premium over the Carrera S. There’s a lot more than just a modest bump in output separating it from the latter, however. The GTS features a unique design package, as well as a performance chassis, which borrows many components from the

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PORSCHE SOUTH AFRICA

carbon fibre-reinforced plastic seats, lightweight glass and the removal of the back seats. The package also brings rearaxle steering to the roofraising party. We drove the regular Porsche 911 GTS Carrera and Carrera 4 models on a predetermined route in the Western Cape, which took us through Helshoogte and Mitchell’s

“The throttle is ultra-responsive too, as is the dual-clutch gearbox which does its work with precision” 911 Turbo, including the helper springs at the rear. The sports chassis, which lowers the car by 10mm, also boasts Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. You won’t easily mistake this for a regular Carrera, thanks to its darkened headlight edging, distinctive taillights and

satin black trim for the front lip spoiler and the centre-lock alloy wheels, which measure 20 inches at the front and 21 at the back. If track days are your thing, you might want to specify the Lightweight Package, which cuts the curb weight by 25kg through the fitment of

Pass among other varied and sometimes twisty stretches. However, it soon became apparent that the ride quality of the GTS was on the harder side of the equation. Even with the “Normal” drive mode selected, it felt too hard and lacked the kind of compliance that we’ve experienced in

most other 911 models, and this detracts from the driving experience when you’re weaving it through bumpier sections of twisty asphalt. It’s worth noting, however, that Porsche increased the tyre pressures in our test cars to the most dynamic recommended setting, and this could have impacted the ride to a degree. Make no mistake, the 911 GTS handles brilliantly and such is the level of grip on offer here – on dry tar at least – that there’s little reason to opt for the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 model. The regular rear-driven version is just that good, although it is somewhat slower off the mark, which we’ll get to later. On a smooth road, the GTS is sublime and we don’t doubt that its talent would shine through even more exponentially on a race track. What’s more, the GTS’s engine package and eight-speed PDK

gearbox hit the sweet spot in all driving conditions. Although the outputs suggest it’s the middle child of the 911 family, the GTS feels like more than that. The excitement factor is immense. Flatten the right pedal and the GTS surges forward like a scalded cat, and the sonorous exhaust note combines with this to ensure a mood-altering experience. The throttle is ultraresponsive too, as is the dual-clutch gearbox, which does its work with precision. Powering your way out of a corner is a mesmerising experience in this car, with the drivetrain responding to your pedal inputs like a machine gun trigger. It goes without saying that the Porsche 911 GTS is quick in a straight line. The claimed 0-100 sprint time of 3.3 seconds for the Carrera 4 GTS is not as far from Turbo S territory as you might have expected.

GEAR

Volvo XC40 T4 Inscription

SWEET SPOT

Since its debut back in 2018, the Volvo XC40 has impressed us with its combination of style, comfort and practicality, and the argument in its favour grew even stronger this year with the introduction of the T4 variant

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y S I M O N A B R A N O W I C Z

Words by Jason Woosey

36 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

S LOT T I N G B E T W E E N T H E T H R E E- CY L I N D E R

T3 entry model and the sportier all-wheel-drive T5, the Volvo XC40 T4 strikes a really compelling balance between price, performance and refinement. Priced from R675 500 (or R728 300 in fancier Inscription guise, as per our test car), the T4 costs just R40 000 more than the T3, but R68 000 less than the T5. Like the former, it remains front-wheel driven through an eightspeed automatic gearbox. Well-balanced is how we’d describe the drivetrain package on offer here. With 140kW on tap, versus the T3’s 110kW output and T5’s 185kW, it offers truly effortless performance, but it’s not trying to be a trafficlight racer or a hot hatch on stilts. With 350Nm available from 1 800rpm, there’s no shortage of lowdown torque. There are four driving modes to choose from – Comfort, Eco, Off-Road and Dynamic – but unlike

‘The T4 adds that extra sense of refinement as well as an additional reserve of power in case you ever need it’

P H O T O G R A P H Y C O U R T E S Y O F V O LV O S O U T H A F R I C A

V O LV O X C 4 0 T4 I N S C R I P T I O N > > ENGINE 2.0-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol > > TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic > > DRIVE Front-wheel > > POWER 140kW at 5 000rpm > > TORQUE 300Nm at 1 7004 000rpm > > FUEL USE 7.5 litres/100km (claimed) > > MAINTENANCE PLAN 5-year/100 000km > > PRICE R728 300

many other performance cars, it doesn’t get all revvy and overbearing in the sportiest configuration, just a little sharper. Having spent a few days with the T3 version last month, the arrival of the T4 brought an opportunity to compare the two. In terms of overall performance, the T3 is perfectly adequate. It’s got enough power to overtake comfortably, and it’s unlikely that the average user is really going to need more. However, while the T3’s three-cylinder engine sounds a little thrummy at times, the T4 adds that extra sense of refinement as well as an additional reserve of power in case you ever need it. At this level, I’d say the T4 is worth the extra 40 grand. Regardless of what version of the Volvo XC40 you choose at the end of the day, the compact crossover package still offers an enticing blend of style and surprising practicality. What I really love about the XC40 is its chunky design that doesn’t quite fit the traditional ‘tryingtoo-hard’ SUV mold. It’s not too high off the ground either, which is

a bonus for road-holding. The XC40 has a really solid feel on the open road and it handles very well for a vehicle of this type. Furthermore, the ride is comfortable on most surfaces, although our car’s optional (R17 750) 19-inch alloys – which look amazing, by the way – impart a bit of firmness over large speed bumps and rougher surfaces, but it’s not uncomfortable. Speaking of rough surfaces, you won’t find any of those in the cabin. Although the overall cockpit design is starting to show its age slightly, there’s really no faulting the trims and finishes inside. It’s special touches like the Orrefors crystal glass gear selector that make the XC40 feel special inside. The driftwood dashboard trim in our Inscription model looks uber-classy, but if you want something sportier, you might want to opt for the R-Design with its cutting-edge aluminium trim. I’ve always thought R-Design would be my trim grade of choice, but I’m definitely warming to the elegant charms of this Inscription model.

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Henry Cavill’s happy to eat the same thing every day That Superman physique runs on loads of protein supplements and pre-workout – and 4am physical therapy

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 39

IT’S ONE THING TO PLAY SUPERMAN ON SCREEN, BUT IT’S ANOTHER THING ENTIRELY TO WALK AROUND LOOKING LIKE A KRYPTONIAN IN YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE. And the first thing you’ll probably notice when staring at Henry Cavill on Zoom are his shoulders – not even his Clark Kent jawline can distract from the small mountain range erupting from his humerus and clavicle. None of this is exactly news, given the multiple high-profile roles in which Cavill has transformed his body for – The DC universe, The Witcher, extremely buff Sherlock in Enola Holmes – but you cannot prepare for how mesmerising those deltoids are. Which is why Cavill’s latest role as an ambassador for the supplement company MuscleTech is perhaps the most natural line on his résumé. GQ caught up with the 38-year-old actor to find out how supplements influence his diet, his thoughts on pre-workout, and just how many meals a day you need to eat if you ever want shoulders like his.

GQ : What was your journey with using supplements like? Henry Cavill: It’s an interesting thing because I’ve been very fortunate over my career to have pros guiding me. As useful as that’s been when it comes to physical results and how my body looks when I take my shirt off on camera or whatever the case may be, it does hinder my growth in knowledge. And so, over the past couple of years, I’ve been trying to quiz my trainer Dave Rienzi more and more about the why of everything. Why is that going in? Why this rather than that? Aren’t they both carbohydrates? Why this protein versus that protein? What does it mean when you do this before or afterwards? And so, my journey is still very much in process. GQ : Once you started asking those questions, was there anything that you were surprised to learn? HC: So I have a protein shake before bed, and there’d be times when I’d go, you know what, I want to lose a couple more kilograms, so I’m just going to cut the pre-bed shake out and not tell my trainer Dave. And it’ll be fine because I’ll be losing a couple of kilograms, and then I’ll get back to showing progress photos, and people will be, like, ‘Oh, wow, look at the progress you made!’ But if I took three weeks off, when I’d send Dave a progress photo, he’d go, ‘Okay, cool. So are you still taking the pre-bed shake?’ And I go, ‘No, because I wanted to lose a couple of kilograms.’ That’s when I started asking

these questions because he then informed me that the problem with that logic is that, yes, you do have fewer kilojoules going into your body, but you also go into a catabolic state with how hard you’re training and how hard you’re working. So actually, what you’re doing is you’re losing muscularity while you sleep. So your body won’t look as good. And almost immediately when I went back to the pre-bed shake, I was, like, ‘Yeah, my body looks better already.’ And for me, that was a massive learning point and a real shock. I thought, I need to start asking more questions and stop thinking that I can pull a fast one and pull the wool over his eyes.

GQ : I love that Dave instantly knew, too. Like, ‘Hey, are you skipping that?’ But I think that’s the preconceived notion, right? Don’t eat before bed. HC: Absolutely. The protein shakes before bed are a real lifesaver for me. Especially with the amount of work, with the amount of output I have. It’s important to make sure that all the right stuff is getting in at the right time so you don’t lose anything and you’re not wasting any time at the gym.

GQ : So you’ve got the protein shake right before bed, but what does a typical day of eating look like? HC: It all depends on what we’re trying to achieve. And if we’re doing a mass-gain thing, there’s going to be more kilojoules going in. We’re sort of doing more maintenance right now. At the moment I’m in pre-production for a film. There’s going to be action in it, and so during the day, I’m doing lots of fight scenes, learning choreography, and that is obviously physical. So I sort of have to balance my cardio and gym work depending on what we’re doing each day.

But typically, when I wake up, I’ll have a protein shake. One and a half scoops of a 100% grass-fed whey protein – vanilla flavour – with a cup of oats and some berries and blend that. That’s one part of the breakfast. The other part is an omelette with a bit of ham in there, and I think it’s about 170g of beef filet. Depending on when I train, I’ll always have a post-gym shake, but then I’ll go on to meal two about

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GQ : Exactly. That’s the whole point of the workout! HC: MuscleTech has done a really good job with that. Especially with the grass-fed whey protein, which are the ones I’m taking every day. Day in, day out. They have two flavours, chocolate and vanilla. The chocolate one is genuinely amazing, even with water. And I’ll just add less water depending on how dessert-like I want it to taste. It’s got a really good sort of mint taste, which makes it taste like real chocolate rather than typical artificialprotein-shake chocolate. And the vanilla one is really, really good for when I’m having berries in my shake in the morning because a chocolate oat berry shake for breakfast before interval sprints can be a little too much.

‘The gym shouldn’t always be a gruelling, terrible slog. Life’s hard enough’ three hours later, which is chicken and white rice with a side of curry sauce because I like the flavour. Meal three is another three hours later and will be the same, but with brown rice. Then meal four will be, I think, about 110g of beef with sweet potato. I sort of like sweet potato fries because I’m not a huge fan of sweet potatoes. I have someone who preps my meals and delivers them maybe every three days – time to prep

meals would be impossible with my schedule. So I just whack those sweet potatoes in the oven to crisp them up as much as possible. And then it’s the prebed shake. Ideally, another three hours later, but if time is of the essence and I need to get to bed, then it’s okay to have it an hour and a half to two hours after.

GQ : Is your pre-bed protein shake pretty similar to the shake you start your mornings with? HC: No, it’ll just be protein. It’ll just be two scoops of protein or one and a half, depending on where we’re at. GQ : What do you mix your whey protein powder with? HC: Water. Once you’ve had milk with your protein shake, it’s really hard to go back. You’re, like, ‘Hold on a second, this doesn’t taste like dessert anymore!’

GQ : A little heavy on the stomach. HC: Yeah. So I’ll do the vanilla in the morning. Or I’ll use the vanilla sometimes just after my... I have a hamstring injury and I was doing recovery and then I had to go into a shoot we did together with MuscleTech. It was a fine line of losing weight and gaining muscle at the same time, so we had to sort of toe that line and find that balance. And so I was taking creatine as well after my workout in my protein shake. And because [the product I used has] quite a strong berry flavour, to have that with chocolate would be a bit much after a hard workout. So I used the vanilla with that and it actually blended really nicely and made quite an interesting shake. GQ : Is there a go-to supplement you can’t go without? You know, the one thing you’ll pack in a suitcase to make sure you have it with you? HC: I mean, I feel like grass-fed whey protein is too much of an easy answer because that’s my diet basically. That’s an absolute necessity. I can’t travel without it. But moving on from that, actually it’s the Shatter Elite preworkout. That stuff is really good. I’m working silly hard most of the time, getting up at the crack of dawn or way before dawn and then working all the way through

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it. Especially when you’re really, really tired, it does give you a really good pick up and kick up the ass to get into the gym. And it doesn’t just drop you off the edge after your workout where you’re, like, ‘I need to take more.’ It’s a really, really good supplement. That’s probably my go-to on-theroad supplement. And it gives you a wicked good pump, too.

GQ : I wanted to ask you about pre-workouts. When taken as intended, are you a fan of them? HC: Yes, I am. Absolutely. Especially on The Witcher when I was doing physio for my hamstring. Before work every day, I was getting up between 4am and 4:30am to do about an hour and a half, two hours, two and a half hours of physical therapy. And it finished with sprints. So before work, when you still have to go and do a 12-hour day while recovering from a fairly serious injury... I absolutely needed that boost. So I’d take that pre-workout before my sprints, and I noticed an enormous performance difference. There’d be days when I’d be saying, ‘What’s wrong with you? Today you’re just dragging your heels.’ And then I’d realise I hadn’t had any pre-workout. Okay, well, let’s take it tomorrow, and we’ll see what the difference is. And, sure enough, it was that little bit of an extra kick that made all the difference. I was getting faster and faster. My form was better, which was especially important when recovering and sprinting with a hamstring injury. GQ : Is there a training method you’ve picked up over the years that has stuck with you? HC: Find something you enjoy doing and do that. The gym shouldn’t always be a gruelling, terrible slog. Life’s hard enough. It should be our place of hard work but good feelings. – MICK ROUSE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 41

a r G vi

t Gains y

L E T ’ S S TA RT W I T H T H E BA S I C S. Your muscles can

perform one of three contractions under tension: concentric, eccentric and isometric. Now imagine you’re performing a bicep curl. A concentric contraction occurs when you pull the weight up towards your chest, shortening or pulling together muscle fibres, an eccentric contraction when you extend and lower it, lengthening muscle fibres, and an isometric contraction if you pause halfway and hold it at 90 degrees without altering the length of the muscle fibres. ‘Research has shown between four and five seconds is the ideal length of time to perform the eccentric phase, so it’s a slow, controlled movement,’ explains Strength and conditioning coach at Coach Parry Devlin Eyden (coachparry.com). ‘Spending more time lengthening a muscle under load causes microscopic tears, which induces an

We all know lifting heavy is the best way to build mass, but duration matters too. By slowing down the lowering phase of a rep, a concept known as eccentric training, you can challenge your muscles to the max. Here’s everything you need to know about its (many) perks and advice on adding it to your routine inflammatory response in your body that, with adequate recovery, forces it to build and repair stronger than before. It’s as if your body realises, hang on, I didn’t like that, so it prepares itself for the next time it has to perform that movement. This seems to benefit muscle size and strength more than concentric training.’

It also places less demand on your body, as ‘it has a slower muscle firing frequency, so it requires less oxygen uptake, meaning your breathing rate isn’t through the roof. Your heart rate isn’t high due to low cardiac output and, as a result, produces a lower lactate buildup in the muscles. Not only does moving more slowly give you better control, but it’s less tiring,

Words by Lisa Abdellah

Fitness

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which means you have the energy to lift heavier weights. Also, you can recover relatively quickly before your next training session, so it complements other sports such as swimming or cycling. If you’re trying to slim down, lifting heavier weights not only enhances muscle growth but also increases your metabolism (the conversion of kilojoules and oxygen into energy), promoting weight loss.’ When you rehab an injury, you want to improve your range of motion and continue to strength train, both of which eccentric workouts allow you to do. ‘This is because a slow, controlled movement – as opposed to the sharp, pulling action of the concentric phase – is safer to perform. This means you can

move your joints through a better range of motion and as mentioned, concentrating on the eccentric phase induces faster strength gains, so you’ll see better results over time as you return to training. As eccentric training is less taxing on your body, you can do it more often, reducing your risk of muscle atrophy (loss of mass).’

How One rep is four to five seconds long. Aim to complete four to five sets of roughly five to six reps. Take two minutes of rest between sets to decrease your chance of muscle soreness due to being under heavy resistance for an extended time, and rest for 48 hours between sessions to allow your muscles to repair. ‘Eccentric training isn’t the only form of exercise you should do,’ Eyden explains. ‘There’ll be times when you want to get stronger and eccentric movement is important, whereas explosive movement is better if you’re trying to get faster. You don’t want to be doing slow movements if you’re two weeks out from a race, as an example. ‘Then there’s frequency to consider. Three times a week is fine if you’re rehabbing an injury because chances are you’re not doing much else. But if you’re doing other exercises or activities such as swimming, cycling or running, you’ll want to limit it to twice a week. This is why you’re better off talking to an expert before jumping into it.’

02 03

Bench Press

Squat

Push-up

Lowering the bar towards your chest

Lowering your body toward the ground

Dropping your body toward the ground, arms bent

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Eyden’s hesitant to advise working at a certain percentage of your one-rep max because not many people know what that is, especially beginners who’ve never set foot in a gym. The idea is to feel you’re lifting a moderate-toheavy weight with enough force to provide resistance throughout the movement. This number depends on your training history and how competent you are at this type of movement or strength training in general. He cautions, ‘Start light and progress slowly. Don’t lift too heavy, especially if you’re new to this type of training or rehabbing an injury. You could start with resistance bands, a great option that provides constant resistance during this phase. Then, as your technique improves, go for a slightly heavier resistance band or incorporate weight – using your body weight does the trick.’ Finally, don’t go it alone. Having someone to support you, your safety net, means you’re more likely to feel confident lifting heavy and working through a better range of movement. Eyden explains, ‘They can spot and re-rack your weights, even if you’re at the bottom of a squat and you can’t get back up to your next rep because you’ve decided to lift a heavier weight with which you’re unaccustomed. Depending on their experience, they can also help correct your technique in real-time.’

04 Deadlift Squatting and lowering the barbell back toward the ground at the end of the exercise

05 Situp Lowering your torso toward the ground

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 43

SIYA’S

In this extract from Siya Kolisi’s intimate memoir, the Springbok rugby captain uses his stereotypically ‘macho’ status to educate men on breaking the cycle of gender-based violence and toxic masculinity in South Africa

STANCE

AS A MAN, I’VE REALISED T H E R E ’ S N O WAY YO U CA N CA L L YO U R S E L F A M A N I F YO U ’ R E L I F T I N G A H A N D TO A WO M A N . There’s no way you can call yourself a man if you’re putting a woman down by your words to make yourself feel good. But there’s not a lot of men standing up, and there needs to be, especially us rugby players. We’re considered macho men, hardcore men, and when we stand up and say, this isn’t right, the impact is more significant than it would be coming from other men. It’s also necessary for rugby players to speak out because, let’s be honest here: the male rugby dressing-room culture, and male sport in general, has much to do to get their house in order when it comes to ingrained attitudes towards women. Even though I’ve never hit a woman, I’ve degraded them. I was part of the problem. I used to go to strip clubs and treated women badly, so in some ways, who am I to talk? I feel guilty, but also I know I have to forgive myself. I can’t let that guilt keep me quiet. You can’t undo what you did in the past, but you can be responsible for what you do in the present and future. So now I’m learning new things, and I’m unlearning a lot of the old stuff I learned about how we treat women, even speak to them. Now I choose to respect, protect, support and hear the women in and outside my environment. I haven’t always got it right, and I’ve messed up a lot of times, but I’ve chosen to be better. I try to show respect by doing my share of what has often been considered women’s work – cooking, cleaning, ironing, tidying. When I hear my friends say they’re babysitting, I reply: ‘No, you’re parenting.’ I put cooking videos on Instagram. It’s not MasterChef. It’s about encouraging other men to be more involved at home, and chip away at strict gender roles, which construct a mindset that leads to violence. Life’s changed. We all have a responsibility. We men should do more than bring bread home. That’s what our wives do these days too. That’s what women are asking for in our country, to be equal. So we have to be good men, and we have to have other good men holding us accountable for our actions. Even on the field, the coach should say, look, this is not who we are. This is not how we treat women. I have to go around my circle of friends and take people on. I’ve got to tell them they can’t treat women this way because that’s not what I’m about. I’ve got to make clear I can’t be mates with anyone who treats women that way. It’s easier to tell people you don’t know what you think. It’s a lot harder to take on people you know. It’s always easier to walk on by. It’s much easier not to do things. But even little things make a difference if enough

Book Extract

‘FEAR, DISAPPOINTMENT AND ANXIETY DOESN’T MAKE YOU LESS OF A MAN’ normal and experiencing them doesn’t make you less of a man. For Nicholas, by way of example, I pay attention to how I treat my wife, Rachel, but also myself, letting him know it’s okay to cry and ask questions. Men need to be vulnerable, cry and tell each other they love each other. I didn’t get it when I was young, but now I’m making up for lost time. I sat around a fire with my Stormers teammate Chris van Zyl one night. I’d known him for years, but it wasn’t until that night that we spoke deeply and properly. Now I know what he stands for, and he knows what I stand for. When you get to know someone beyond just being a teammate, you draw closer to them in every way. You know what drives that person, why they do what they do; and why? is always the most important question. In understanding these things, you also hold yourself accountable for youractions and theirs. It has to be men and not just women telling boys these things, which means men must stick around and be good fathers to their children. Anyone can father a child, but to bring up that child right is a very different matter. Fathering

a child is biology, but too often in our country, that comes with abuse too: a man will have sex with a woman because he can rather than because he cares for and loves her, and when she has a baby, he won’t be around to support her and help raise their child. He’s probably done the same thing with several different women. And so his children grow up without a responsible father figure in their lives, and they see women are left alone to do the most important job in the world, raise the next generation, and they think it’s okay, and when they grow up, they do it too, and on it goes. I’m proud to be a UN Global Advocate for the Spotlight Initiative, which aims to eliminate all violence against women and girls. Women have suffered too much and for too long. Let’s be the generation of men to break this attack on women.

T H I S E X T R A C T I S TA K E N F R O M R I S E B Y S I YA K O L I S I ( R 3 2 0 , HARPER COLLINS). AVAILABLE AT A L L G O O D B O O K S T O R E S

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HARPERCOLLINS

people do them, and they’re more likely to if other people are. Without the women in my life, I wouldn’t be where I am today. If I don’t stand up and use my voice for women, I’ll not only be letting down the women in South Africa; but also those who raised me, my grandmother, aunt and mother. I don’t want to let all that stuff I’ve seen go to waste because it still drives me to make sure another kid doesn’t go through life witnessing their mum or their aunt suffer abuse. I don’t want people to go through that sort of thing. If we educate our sons, we won’t have to protect our daughters or teach them how to defend themselves. That’s not what my son’s learning, so why should my daughter have to? She should be learning how to play a sport or be a doctor. I’m talking about education at home as well as at school. Nobody told me it wasn’t right when I was younger. When I was a boy, I saw the abuse in my community, even my own home, and there was no one around to say it was fundamentally wrong. I’ve been hard on my son Nicholas about it; almost too hard, perhaps, but I want him to realise how important it is. If every man were to do that for their sons, our communities could feel better about our daughters’ safety. We need to show our sons two things. First, that women are their equals and need to be respected and protected rather than attacked. Raising boys to be good men comes down to the smallest of things. It’s about being supermindful and respectful of women and girls in every way when they interact with them. They’ve got to look at them, listen and speak to them respectfully. Second, we have to show our sons that it’s not unmanly to show your feelings; fear, disappointment and anxiety are

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 45

W E A LT H P R O F I L E

Adapt or die DJ, producer and businessman Oscar ‘Oskido’ Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa has managed to build a solid brand with cross-generational appeal. Here, he shares how he stays relevant in the entertainment industry, being a TikTok sensation, and offers advice on navigating financial challenges as an artist

Words by Thobeka Phanyeko

After almost 30 years in the game, Oscar “Oskido” Sibonginkosi continues to capture the attention of South Africans across generations. He says there’s never been a better time than now to start thinking outside the box. ‘Covid-19 has affected us all, and now’s the time to create different revenue streams. Moving with the times helps you to stay relevant as an individual, brand or business.’

GQ : What opportunities and challenges have the digital era presented, especially in the music industry? Oskido: Remember when CDs were popular, and people would buy physical copies? Times have changed, we stream music, but the numbers don’t translate to money. If your music receives over one million streams, you don’t earn a decent amount of money, whereas selling 25 000 physical copies meant real money. We should start thinking of multiple streams of income.

GQ : What’s your advice to creatives who have think beyond their craft and consider ways of capitalising on their brand to generate additional income? O: Remember, you have a creative mind, so you need to build a team of people who really understand your brain’s architecture. Identify people who’re experts in the areas you need help. Now I’m on TikTok, for example, I look for people who understand the platform. My account is already buzzing, and I’m starting to enjoy it. Think about it? If you’re in the music industry, you need to be on TikTok. Your songs need to be on there. People consume music differently, and you need to be where your fans are. Gone are the days when people would listen to the radio to hear songs. Assemble a team that’ll elevate your brand in the digital era. I can produce good music, but if I don’t have the machinery to market myself properly, my chances of success are slim. GQ : Are there other opportunities you’ve

identified in the digital era from a creative perspective? O: Smartphones are popular, so when you’re performing, get someone to capture the visuals. It helps you create assets for your essay that you can post on Instagram, some of which you can start archiving. You never know: your assets could be worth a lot in 10 years. YouTube has also grown exponentially. Someone uploads a song and it’s number one within a matter of hours. The song and dance challenge is also popular on TikTok. Because of the TikTok movement, people are now searching for songs. Capitalise on these platforms. Don’t get left behind.

GQ : Agility is necessary. What else would you attribute to your longevity? Thirty years is a long time to be killing it in the game and making boss moves. O: I dream big and, once I put my mind to something, I work on it tirelessly. Another crucial aspect is to respect the game. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking

‘People consume music differently, and you need to be where your fans are’

you’re superhuman, especially when people give you love. You post something on social media, and you get 300 likes and all of a sudden, younew think you’reis Your BMW someone special. I don’t get caught ready – are you? Visit bmw.co.za/ anywhere

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P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y A L E X A N D E R S H AT O V/ U N S P L A S H . C O M , STILLS BY TOM, GALLO/GETTY IMAGES

Oscar ‘Oskido’ Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa up in the hype. I’ve got a job to do, and being in the spotlight doesn’t make me superhuman. Being humble goes a long way.

GQ : What’s your advice to up and coming artists? O: Besides being humble, take advice from other people and network. Building a network has many benefits. You never know if the person you’re connecting with today could be a decisionmaker tomorrow. It also exposes you to different types of people, each with a unique skill set. Most importantly, remain teachable.

There’s always something to learn from people of all ages.

GQ : What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about being a businessman? O: Respect everyone, and don’t burn your bridges. I find most of my customers are people I used to play for at my DJing gigs. They come to my restaurant to support me, and it’s always amusing when they tell their kids they know me from way back, and their kids say they know me from TikTok. It’s a conversation starter!

DJ, producer and buisnessman

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KANYE WEST ADMITTED to having liposuction. The Rock admitted to a nip and tuck. In South Africa, it’s having its moment with men too. We spoke to one of the most prominent people behind these treatments in the country, Dr Brian Monaisa, about his life, career and men’s growing love for cosmetic surgery. At just 44 years old, he’s made a name for himself as a leader in the industry. He was recently appointed as the head of plastic surgery at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, where he handles cases involving reconstructive plastic surgery.

Dr Monaisa has a long list of accolades. In 2015, he won the award for Best Clinical Paper by a Registrar at the APRASSA congress for his work in limb reconstruction. He was also a runner up in the Bert Myburgh research day at WITS Medical School for research conducted in cosmetic breast surgery. Despite his long list of accomplishments, Dr Monaisa’s contribution to transforming the face of cosmetic surgery is what stands out. ‘The thing I’m proudest of in my career is the number of plastic surgeons we’ve trained in the department at WITS. Our approach isn’t racially exclusive, but we’ve contributed to transformation by

Cosmetic aesthetic Words by Sanelisiwe Maliza

Only the rich and famous used to have Brazilian butt lifts to botox and cosmetic surgery. Things have changed. GQ speaks to Dr Brian Monaisa about going under the knife

training many Black and female plastic surgeons,’ he says. The doctor started his career in medicine. ‘I worked in HIV medicine for about four years before specialising. I was blessed to have a great mentor, Professor Elias Ndobe, when I was accepted into the programme at WITS. He helped guide my approach to plastic surgery and still offers good counselling.’ Dr Monaisa also runs his own private plastic surgery business. Tucked away on the other side of Joburg at Netcare Pinehaven, Marang Aesthetics is where he nips, tucks and tightens. It was his father that inspired this journey, though. ‘My initial interest was in hand surgery. My father was assaulted in his youth

and had to learn to write with his other hand due to his disability. When I found out that a plastic surgeon could’ve prevented that, I became interested, as I knew firsthand how it had affected his quality of life. ‘The thing that gets me out of bed in the morning is knowing I’m going to have challenging surgical cases to deal with, but, if successful, I’ll be able to make the people who come to me for help very happy and more confident in themselves,’ he adds. Cosmetic surgery is all about making people feel better about themselves – and it’s not just women who visit his offices. ‘Male patients are increasingly more comfortable with improving their appearance. A popular treatment is a blepharoplasty, which rejuvenates the eye area. A lot of senior executives find that they start to look old and tired right when they’re at the peak of their corporate prowess, and rejuvenating the eye area helps them stay on top of their game.’ The increase in men turning to cosmetic surgery can be attributed to many things, from selfie culture to vanity – but it should also be celebrated. Men are taking control of how their bodies look and feel.

P H O T O G R A P H Y : N I C K B O LT O N , G A L L O / G E T T Y I M A G E S , S U P P L I E D ; S T Y L I N G : S H A L D O N K O P M A N ; M A K E U P : TA M A R Y N P R E TO R I U S . D R B R I A N M O N A I S A W E A R S C L O T H I N G N A K E D A P E & M A X H O S A

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Dr Brian Monaisa

Cosmetic Surgeon

Economist David Hamermesh, author of Beauty Pays, says attractive people are more likely to be employed, earn more and have higher-status and betterlooking partners. So it’s not surprising that many South Africans have found their way to Dr Monaisa’s offices. Sometimes, that extra sit-up doesn’t do the trick or those late nights and early mornings start showing, and that’s when cosmetic surgery can help you. ‘We also do a lot of liposuction and breast reduction for men. There’s a growing interest in genital enhancement, but I don’t really enjoy this surgery as results can be unpredictable,’ he adds. Outside of cosmetic surgery, Dr Monaisa has created an NPO to expand his reach

‘Nothing worthwhile comes without effort – from academics to music’ and help more people. His organisation, Smile Artists Africa, uses art sales to fund breast reconstruction surgery for cancer survivors. ‘I’m incredibly proud of this NPO because it consists of a collective of artists who’ve collaborated to contribute to the South African community and spread love, hope and joy. ‘Nothing worthwhile comes without effort – from academics to music. The secret is to keep pushing, through barriers and challenges, and never quit.’ Dr Monaisa has big ambitions for the future. ‘I’d

like to continue contributing to South Africa. In the public sector, this means continuing to train and develop doctors into plastic surgeons. In my private work, I am building a worldclass Medi-Spa at the Cradle Boutique Hotel. This is a luxury spa that’ll feature all the usual services but will also offer more effective rejuvenation and bridal preparation services, all situated in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. The spa will probably be the first of its kind in Africa, and we hope it’ll revolutionise spa services in South Africa.

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The Foreign Exchange If you’ve ever thought of trading in Forex, the largest financial market in the world, here are a few stepping stones to help get you started Words by Shannon Manuel

THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE

– Forex, or simply FX, sometimes called Spot FX – is where the global currencies are traded against each other. You may have seen ticker symbols of currencies such as USD/ZAR and EUR/ZAR while visiting your bank, which are the rates of the currencies from the live Forex market.

What is Forex trading? Forex trading involves buying and selling global currencies in the Forex market for making a profit on a currency’s fluctuations. Simply put, you buy a currency when you believe its value is going to appreciate (go up) against the other currency or you sell a currency when you believe its value is going to depreciate (go down) against the other currency. When you exit the trade, the difference between the trade’s entry and exit price determines your profit or loss.

What drives the trading market? Currencies trade on the open market, just like many other asset classes such as stocks, bonds or commodities. Throughout the trading day, prices on currencies will fluctuate based on supply and demand. If something “good” happens for an economy, investors will generally respond

with more buying. That, in turn, increases demand at given levels of supply, thereby increasing prices until supply and demand are roughly balanced again. Or, if something “bad” happens, investors will factor that new information in by selling the currency, which increases supply at this given price. An increase in supply would bring prices lower until buyers stepped in to add support and, again, we’d achieve equilibrium in the supply and demand for that currency at that moment in time at that specific price.

When and when not to trade Forex? Because there are so many nations and time zones involved, Forex doesn’t function as a “business day” entity like most domestic stock markets. It remains open for trade 24 hours a day, five days a week. However, trading isn’t always active during this time. Profits are made in Forex trading when traders are bidding on the prices and the market is active. So, you must know the crucial hours and days when traders are the most active. As a global market, Forex spans multiple time zones. As a result, there are three main trading sessions you should be aware of: Tokyo (or Asian) session, London (or European) session and finally New York (or American) session. The busiest

times are when these sessions overlap. Seasoned traders consider 10am (EST) the best time to trade Forex markets as during this time, traders in London and Europe are preparing to close their positions and traders are getting ready to make a move in the American session. As the focus shifts from Europe to the US, this often creates big swings in currency prices, opening up opportunities to profit. Experienced traders avoid Friday afternoons and weekends, on closing session, at Christmas, and when major economic reports and news are released.

What’s the first thing I should learn?

Currency pairs refer to any transaction in a Forex market involves buying and selling one currency for another simultaneously. For example, USD/ZAR or EUR/USD. Globally, there are over 100 currency pairs (most countries have their own currency), including seven Majors, 50+ minors & many exotic pairs. It’s imperative to learn about the currency pairs, what they are, and how they can impact your trading, and more, so that you can decide which pairs you should be trading and which ones to stay away from.

To get a better understanding of Forex trade, familiarise

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALLO/GETTY IMAGES

Do your research. The importance of educating yourself on the Forex market cannot be understated. Take the time to study currency pairs and what affects them before risking your own capital; it’s an investment that in time that could save you a fair amount of money. Have a plan. Creating a trading plan is a critical component of successful trading. It should include your profit goals, risk-

Don’t trade emotionally. “Revenge trading” rarely ends well. Don’t let emotion get in the way of your plan for successful trading. When you have a losing trade, don’t go all-in to try to make it back in one shot; it’s smarter to stick with your plan and make the loss back a little at a time than to suddenly find yourself with more than one crippling loss.

You must be consitent. All traders have lost money, but if you maintain a positive edge, you have a better chance of coming out on top. Educating yourself and creating a trading plan is good, but the real test is sticking to that plan through patience and discipline.

How do I identify trends? If you can chart currencies, known as technical analysis, you can frequently predict the future movement of a currency pair or the development of price action with accuracy. One of the things traders look for is the trend of an asset, where it can be trending upwards, downwards or sideways.

A downward trend is when the currency pair is decreasing and is characterised by lower highs and lower lows. A currency in a downward trend will make a low and display a trough, rise to a high, then go on to establish a lower low and rise to a lower low, and so on. By timing your trade to sell after a high and when the currency is establishing a new high that is lower than the previous one, you can profit from the downtrend.

What are five key steps to getting started with Forex trading?

Know when to stop. You don’t have time to sit and watch the markets every minute of every day. You can better manage your risk and protect potential profits through stop and limit orders, getting you out of the market at the price you set.

Currency conversion is a conversion rate between two currencies. The currency conversion rate fluctuates regularly for all currencies that are traded in the Forex market.

Leverage is a borrowing amount you need to invest in something. In terms of Forex trading, you usually borrow this amount from brokers. To determine the margin-based leverage, you can divide the total transaction value by the amount of margin you need to open the trade.

Spot Forex involves buying and selling actual currency. Let’s say you buy South African Rands (ZAR) and exchange it for US Dollars (USD). Typically, you’ll wait until the value of ZAR increases and exchange it again and receive more money than what you initially spent.

The difference between the account you’re trading from when you open a trade is called the Margin. While trading in Forex, you need to put a specific small amount of money to create a new position.

Know your limits. This includes knowing how much you’re willing to risk on each trade, setting your leverage ratio in accordance with your needs, and never risking more than you can afford to lose.

An upward trend is when the currency pair is increasing and is characterised by higher highs and higher lows. A currency in an upward trend will display a peak, then falling to a low and displaying a trough, then go on to establish a higher peak and fall to a higher low, and so on. By timing your trade to buy after a peak and when the currency is establishing a new low that is higher than the previous one, you can profit from the uptrend.

yourself with the following terms:

Spread represents the difference in the purchase price and the sale price of a currency pair. The trade shows profitability only when the value of the pair finally exceeds the spread.

The term Pip is used to call the base unit in the currency pair’s price, such as South African Rand (ZAR) and US Dollar (USD). If the bid price between the pair changes, the difference represents pip.

tolerance level, methodology and evaluation criteria. Once you have a plan in place, make sure each trade you consider falls within your plan’s parameters. Remember that you’re likely most rational before you place a trade and most irrational after your trade is placed.

CFD (Contract for Difference) means you don’t have to buy or sell currency to take advantage of price movements. You don’t need to have anything, physically, to trade it.

If a currency is in a horizontal trend it’s also referred to as “ranging”, since the currency it fluctuates between a range and doesn’t move upward or downward over time. Peaks and troughs still occur, but there’s no discernible pattern as there are with higher highs, higher lows or lower highs and lower lows. If you’re new to Forex, it’s best to avoid these trends altogether, as it’s uncertain which direction the currency will eventually break out.

DISCLAIMER: All information is provided as general market commentary, and doesn’t constitute investment advice. SOURCES: Forex Trading South Africa, Daily FX provided by IG, Financial Illustrated, the National Futures Association and Trade Forex South Africa

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PITCHED THE DAYS OF DRESSING DOWN ARE LONG GONE. CELEBRATE YOUR FREEDOM WITH BOLD PRINTS, EFFORTLESS TAILORING, SHARP CUTS AND UNAPOLOGETIC STYLE Produced by Simone Bronzi Photographs by Steve Harnacke

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The tailored look never went out of style despite the lockdowns. Smartleisure is the new normal. Clean and sensual. Do it in loose cuts, leisurely fabrics, sensual shirting and bold accent colours Words by Jason Alexander Basson JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 63

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SIPHO WILL Words by Sanelisiwe Maliza

NEVER Photographs by Obakeng Molepe at Red Hot Ops

BURN OUT

A music career spanning over five decades is no small feat. The legendary Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse talks to GQ about his outstanding achievements, how he’s managed to last this long, and the many ways his life has changed

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I DON’T RECALL THE FIRST TIME I HEARD SIPHO “HOTSTIX” MABUSE’S MUSIC. I imagine that one day my parents turned up the volume while one of his hit songs was playing. Maybe that was it. My life is peppered with numerous moments in which his music featured. When I was a child, ‘Burn Out’ would magically rekindle a party, somehow summoning guests to the danceﬂoor with its hypnotic beat. A traditional wedding was incomplete until guests candidly sang along as soon as the DJ played one of Mabuse’s songs.

Decade after decade, he’s created soundtracks for these moments. We visited Mabuse at his beautiful Afrocentric home in Pimville, Soweto, to chat about his good, bad and memorable moments of the past 50 years and, most importantly, to get advice on achieving ever-elusive success in our career and personal life as he did. Success is weird in that it seldom follows a formula. For some people, it takes hard work. For others, all it takes is a natural talent. Let’s not forget the ones who get it via a little nepotism sprinkled with privilege. For a Black man born in 1951, it was almost a miracle. It went against the systems and laws of Apartheid South Africa. The gods were smiling down on Mabuse’s career, which is why it comes as a surprise he never planned to work in music. ‘It happened by default,’ he admits. ‘I’d wanted to be an academic, but fate has a way of determining your life. You might think you know what you want to do, then find yourself in a space you never planned to be.’ ‘For some strange reason, music became me, and I became music.’

THE BEAT(ERS) GOES ON M A B US E H A S B E E N I N T EG R A L TO O U R L I V E S F O R M O R E T H A N 5 0 Y E A RS .

To put it into perspective, many things have happened since he began his career in 1968. The tragic Soweto uprising, Mandela’s release from prison, our first democratic elections, winning the Rugby World Cup three times, and TKZee releasing the best Kwaito album of all time. We hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup and had to stay indoors due to an unprecedented pandemic. Through it all, Mabuse hasn’t burnt out.

That’s why joining The Beaters in 1968 was the single most life-defining moment of his career. The Sowetan band – which also included guitarist Monty Ndimande, vocalist Arthur Rafapha, bassist Alec Khaoli and guitarist Selby Ntuli – met at Orlando West High School. The school was also the location of their first gig and springboard from which they launched their illustrious career. ‘After that gig, schoolchildren were very excited about us,’ Khaoli told New Frame. ‘They made out we were superheroes at school the following day. Everyone was talking about us. They told their friends at other schools in Soweto, and those students wanted to see us perform [too].’ » JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 71

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From then on, a world of opportunity opened for The Beaters. Their sound, Soweto Soul, transcended borders and seas to reach people worldwide. ‘It never occurred to me our fans would consider us a pop group, nor that we’d have such an influence on our generation,’ he says. The band members dropped out of school in 1968, and travel became Mabuse’s teacher, informing his political views in particular. ‘We were popular during Apartheid. It almost brainwashed us to believe [that way of life] was the norm until we went to Botswana. At a hall we performed at, white and Black people were dancing together. And we thought, wow! Life outside South Africa is different. The Apartheid system is false. It isn’t what real life is like.’ The Beaters recorded a handful of albums over the next couple of years: Soul-AGo-Go, Hot Dogs and Lost Memories. Their performances took them across the continent, from Zimbabwe to Malawi. ‘Music helped me attain things I never would’ve imagined. Suddenly, we were travelling overseas and dating across colour lines – that made life easier to realise.’ Their careers weren’t a constant breeze. There were hiccups. Their hit single and album, Harari, had an unexpected influence on the band following a concert gone wrong. They were on stage one day in 1975, playing to a packed Mamelodi stadium. Due to bad weather and a power cut, the concert quickly turned sour. Confused about what was happening, an angry crowd of fans began throwing beer bottles and stones at the stage. Police had to step in and stop mayhem ensuing. Due to a miscommunication, the band, unfortunately, became the face of the riot. A popular newspaper at the time, The World, blamed those “big-headed Harari guys” for what had happened. The incident lead the band to change its name to Harari since everybody was calling them that. A year later, Harari released Rufaro/ Happiness. Inspired by the political movement of the time and Pan-African travel, the band rocked a new sound and look. Rufaro/ Happiness had a greater African rock fusion identity, and wore the Dashiki [a colourful garment worn mostly in West Africa]. Then, Mabuse and his bandmates moved to the US for two years, followed by the UK,

74 GQ.CO.ZA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

where they signed their first international recording deal with A&M records. They continued to make history throughout the ’70s. In 1979, they became the first Black group to appear on SABC TV and, in 1980, a BBC documentary featured them. Despite Harari’s numerous achievements, one stands out for Mabuse. Every musician seems to have one of these moments. You know, the one they tell their grandchildren about, that makes the struggle worth it. For Mabuse, that moment was when Harari performed at the 702 Concert in the Park in 1985. ‘That [concert] was magic. It educated many South Africans,’ his tone changes as he fondly remembers. It took place at Ellis Park Stadium, the venue packed with over 12 000 fans. ‘That was a watershed moment for many South African musicians because it indicated the possibility of a united country. Through music, we were able to transcend what was then Apartheid. ‘White people were suddenly exposed to music they’d never heard.’

THE TOWNSHIP CHILD STRIKES OUT ALONE AT T H E P E A K O F T H E BA N D ' S S U C C E S S , Harari called it quits and each

member went solo. ‘Harari’s breakup on the threshold of an international breakthrough was heartbreaking for me,’ he admits. Mabuse poured that heartbreak into his music, creating his debut album as a solo artist, Rise, which sold over 100 000 copies. Interestingly, that was nothing compared to the standout success of his follow up album, Burn Out, released in 1984. It sold over 500 000 units and topped the charts on every South African radio station for weeks. Its catchy beat and memorable lyrics made it a crossover hit that appealed to audiences across races. His musical instincts and determination to create a unique sound had paid off. »

‘For some strange reason music became me, and I became music’

Jacket R58 000 and pants from R9 000 both Dolce & Gabbana; t-shirt R79.95 H&M; shoes R11 495 Versace; hat Sipho’s own; glasses R2 540 Ray-Ban at Luxottica

T-shirt R179 H&M OPPOSITE PAGE Top R3 420 and pants R3 400 both Thebe Magugu; shoes R13 495 Emporio Armani; hat Sipho’s own; sunglasses R2 810 Ray-Ban

FA S H I O N D I R E C TO R : J A S O N A L E X A N D E R B A S S O N ; FA S H I O N E D I TO R : M I R A L E I B OW I T Z ; J U N I O R FA S H I O N E D I TO R : TA N I A D U R A N D ; D I G I TA L A N D L I G H T I N G A S S I S TA N T : R I C H A R D C O O K ; S E C O N D L I G H T I N G A S S I S TA N T : V U S A N I R A N Z I B A ; G R O O M I N G : C A R O L I N E G R E E F F

BIKO MABUSE WEARS Shirt from R21 000 and trousers from R18 000 both Dolce & Gabbana; shoes R11 495 Versace

‘I’ve never allowed myself to be absorbed by trends. I’ve always believed that if you’re creative, use it overcome the urge to be popular. That’s how I’ve managed to [stay relevant],’ he says. Burn Out changed the township jive sound forever. Mabuse signed a distribution deal with Virgin Records to have the song released in the UK. The multi-platinum-selling song was also released in Germany, Japan and the US, making him a constant feature at concerts and festivals across Europe. While many may remember Mabuse for that timeless hit, it’s his political songs that stand out, particularly, ‘Chant of the Marching’. Mabuse took his role as the “reflector and commentator of the times” seriously. His songs comment on South African politics, such as ‘How Much More’, ‘Nelson Mandela’ and ‘Refugee (Come Home)’. Even today, Mabuse doesn’t shy away from expressing his opinion on the state of the nation. ‘I still believe there’s more this country needs to do for Black people. When

we talk about politics in this country, you get those people who say, “We can do things for you.” But for whom? They do things for the privileged. The people asking to be given a chance forget they’ve been poor before.’

THE REAL SIPHO MABUSE

W H E N YO U S E A RC H F O R M A B US E O N L I N E , you’ll find very little written about

him outside of his music. In most interviews, the conversation is usually about his music. He separates his personal life and career with a stark, bold line. This interview is no different; mostly, we stick to music, save for zooming in on his favourite artists at the moment, Thandiswa Mazwai, Simphiwe Dana and Nduduzo Makhathini. We talk about the many awards that decorate his home, then banter about his impeccable style, which, he says proudly, was inspired by GQ. ‘You know, I’ve always been an

‘I’d like to believe I’ve been of service to humanity through music or other great deeds’

avid reader of GQ, even before its launch in this country. It defines how men look. A Gentleman’s Quarterly, that’s what it is. When I visited the US, I’d browse magazines, and GQ would be one of those that’d inform my sense of style.’ Mabuse isn’t secretive, just selective of the information he puts out there. This is fair. Considering he’s given himself to music and country for 50 years, he deserves a few things to himself. He offers brief mentions here and there, so you can piece together fragments of his personal life. He was married to Chichi Mabuse, now Chichi Maponya, the eldest daughter of Richard Maponya. He respects her family and says they influenced how he raised his kids. Music gave him a lot and opened the world to him, but that wasn’t without sacrifices. ‘After I was married, I remember I started travelling again. When I left for my first tour, my daughter was crawling, but when I returned she ran toward me – that hit me hard. Very hard,’ he admits. These are the sacrifices you make when working in the music industry, particularly when you’re as legendary as Mabuse. So, he started travelling less to be there for his kids, creating a bond now evident when you watch him with his son Biko Mabuse. ‘We’re friends, but he’s my son and I’m his father. We can relate to each other in numerous ways. I’ve developed a relationship with each of my children. If you saw me with my daughters, you’d see we have that same bond. But they know I’m their father, strict but not to the point they can’t relate to me.’ You can see the values he’s instilled in Biko in the way he carries himself. ‘I believe, we have to teach our children the difference between right and wrong. One example is to ask them, if you can’t respect me, how are you going to respect people outside our home? We have to be respectful and humble. I also taught them to love themselves enough that they’re able to share that love with others.’ Fifty years and countless awards later, a life filled with incomparable achievements, what legacy does Mabuse want to leave behind? ‘I’d like to believe I’ve been of service to humanity, through music or other great deeds. Being good to humanity is more important to me than my achievements in music. My songs don’t necessarily define me as a human being; they’re just a small part of who I am.’ This sums up Mabuse: a kind man who’s used music to reach, entertain and inspire us all.

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Themba Mbuyisa’s 2021

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Portraits of South Africa’s hottest style experts, stars and 2021 GQ Best Dressed winners by famed modern-day contemporary photographer and visual artist Themba Mbuyisa at the most unforgettable fashion event of the year

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UARY 2022 GQ. CO.ZA 81

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Conspiracy theories remain a pervasive part of society, ranging from bizarre to extreme. We take a look at them through the ages, the psychology behind them, and one of the most significant of them all: QAnon Words by Shannon Manuel

TRUTH

IS THE

extinguished six days later, 10 of the city’s 14 districts had burned down. Legend has it that the decadent yet unpopular emperor Nero orchestrated it since, conveniently, he wasn’t there when it happened. One historian said Nero was playing the fiddle while his city went up in flames. Others say he wanted to raze the city, and build himself a new palace, further his political agenda and bring his vision of a new Rome to life. He blamed a rebellious new cult, the Christians, beginning nearly three centuries of Roman persecution against them. No primary sources about the fire exist. Instead, we rely on secondary accounts by Roman historians Tacitus, Suetonius and Cassius Dio. Tacitus, a dominant ancient source on the subject, documented his account around 60 years after the fire, as did Suetonis. Cassisus Dio left it 100 years before uttering a word about it. Their accounts differ in numerous ways, leaving the truth of the fire up for historical debate. H OW H AV E C O N S P I R ACY T H EO R I E S D E V E LO P E D OV E R T I M E? People believe

T H I N K O F A N Y M A J O R WO R L D E V E N T, A N D T H E R E ’ S A L M OS T C E RTA I N LY AT L E A S T O N E C O N S P I R ACY T H EO RY TO E X P L A I N I T . Climate change is

a hoax, 9/11 was an inside job, the Royal Family murdered Princess Diana, the pharmaceutical industry is suppressing a cure for cancer, vaccines cause autism, governments created AIDS, the Apollo moon landings were faked, JFK was assassinated by the CIA, the Holocaust never happened, 5G spreads Covid19, chemtrails, the earth is flat… oh, and also hollow. The list is seemingly endless. And that’s before we even mention the ones that litter the pop culture sphere. Celebrities, who are secretly lizard people, have covertly died and been replaced with clones. Others are members of an elite Illuminati or believe

in mythical creatures such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster and the Abominable Snowman, aliens in Roswell, and that we all live in The Matrix. Start your search, and you’ll end up spending hours venturing down a rabbit hole. Within every imaginable industry, you’ll probably find an enthusiastic conspiracist. While it may appear that within recent years we’ve been living in what could be described as an “age of conspiracism”, contrary to common assumptions, people have believed in conspiracy theories throughout history, even as far back as thousands of years ago. The famous conspiracy of the Great Fire of Rome is one example. On 18 July 64 AD, a fire broke out in Rome’s enormous Circus Maximus stadium and swept across the city. By the time it was

they first emerged in Europe during the late early modern period, with crucial precursors in ancient Greece and Rome. Then, the Europeans “exported” them to the rest of the world. From the late sixteenth until far into the twentieth century, conspiracy theories were an accepted form of knowledge elites and ordinary people believed and articulated. Thus, we haven’t always automatically considered conspiracy theories counter-narratives Often, the official explanation of events would itself be a conspiracy theory. Today, they appear to have undergone a process of stigmatisation in the second half of the twentieth century – once officially accepted as authentic, people now view them as illegitimate. Conspiracy theories are often utterly preposterous and lack credible evidence, but they’re almost impossible to disprove, at least in the minds of believers. No amount of counter-evidence can refute them, and, in fact, it often reinforces them because you could dismiss it as part of the conspiracy. Whether you’re a die hard conspiracy theorist, a confirmed anti-theorist, or somewhere in between, one thing’s for sure: conspiracy theories pervade modern culture. Thousands of films, talk shows, radio phone-ins and podcasts are built around them. They have enormous entertainment value. The reasons some take off while others vanish without a trace may seem almost random. There’s even a conspiracy theory about how conspiracy theories were invented – the CIA were allegedly involved. But hidden patterns exist in their strangeness. The latest thinking suggests a sort of natural selection filters them, which allows those that fit » JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 87

three cellphone network towers in KwaZuluNatal. Conspiracy theorists claim that Covid19 vaccines contain microchips that the government or global elites like Bill Gates can use to track citizens and (of course) that they’ll alter your DNA. People are probably endorsing these to make sense of the crisis, and the consequences are potentially harmful. In Iran, over 700 people died after drinking toxic methanol, believing it’d cure Covid-19.

‘In Iran, over 700 people died after drinking toxic methanol, believing it’d cure Covid-19’

specific requirements to spread rapidly through our societies – while others are confined to the darkest corners of the internet. What makes a conspiracy appealing to the masses? And is there anything they can teach us about the problems we face – and how to fix them? Eventually, conspiracy theories could become so popular that they enter a positive feedback loop, in which the more they’re discussed, the more legitimate they’ll seem. Conspiracy theories, believing powerful forces secretly manipulate events behind the scenes, exist in all modern societies. Over the past twenty years, their significance and popularity have been increasing steadily, particularly online. Some of them may be harmless entertainment or a sign of wellfounded scepticism, but, at times, we’ve witnessed they can be dangerous. In recent years, they’ve been tied to extremism, radical politics and terrorism. They’ve also been closely linked to prejudice and racial violence. Historically, they’ve played prominent roles in witch hunts, revolutions and genocide, and also driven people to renounce mainstream science and medicine, putting both the environment and society’s health at risk. The obvious example, in the current climate, would be Covid-19.

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AND A 21ST CENTURY PANDEMIC

By mid-February, the director-general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was warning the world about an “infodemic” as rampant speculation and active misinformation about Covid-19 had become as dangerous as the disease itself. C OV I D -1 9 C R E AT E D A P E R F EC T S TO R M F O R C O N S P I R ACY T H EO R I S TS :

a global pandemic, crashing economy, social isolation and restrictive government policies, all of which can cause feelings of extreme anxiety, powerlessness and stress, which, in turn, encourage conspiracy beliefs. 5G technology caused it. Bill Gates invented it. No, the Chinese government did, or maybe it was a pharmaceutical company. Actually, it’s all a hoax, a mass delusion the author Dean Koontz predicted in his 1981 novel The Eyes of Darkness. These are just some of the conspiracy theories that began to circulate in the early months of Covid-19. In the UK, it was reported arsonists burned down over 70 5G towers, following conspiracy theories that linked the emergence of the coronavirus to this technology. Those who believed this theory in South Africa set ablaze and destroyed the infrastructure of

IDEOLOGY AND CONSPIRACY VS FAKE NEWS

At its core, a conspiracy theory assumes nothing happens by accident, is as it seems, and that everything is connected. In other words, it claims a group of evil agents, the conspirators, are secretly orchestrating everything that happens. It usually presents the imagined conspirators as enemies of the people, thus, ﬁrmly dividing the world into good and evil, into Us vs.Them, leaving no room for doubt or complexity. It claims you need to look beneath the surface to detect the actions and intentions of the conspirators, who make considerable efforts to hide their wicked purposes. C O N S P I R I CY T H EO R I S TS S E E T H E M S E LV E S A S S U BV E RT I N G R EC E I V E D O P I N I O N . They assume if

you dig deep enough, you’ll find hidden connections between people, institutions and events that explain what’s really going on. These assumptions put their theories at odds with modern social science, which stresses the importance of coincidence, contingency and unintended consequences. They suggest historical events are the result of deliberate plotting rather than impersonal social forces and structural effects. However, conspiracy theories don’t usually spring from nowhere. Often they’re responses – albeit simplified and distorted – to genuine problems and anxieties in society. Public discussions of fake news often treat it as identical, but some posture there are differences. First, not all fake news claims a sinister plot is going on. Second, the producers of disinformation know they’re spreading lies. They do so intentionally to create confusion, mobilise their audience or smear opponents. By contrast, the vast majority of those who articulate conspiracy theories genuinely believe what they’re saying, convinced they’re helping to reveal the truth. Some people spread conspiracy theories that they don’t necessarily believe in themselves to make money and/or achieve

political goals. Especially in the age of the internet, some have profited from spreading stories they most probably don’t entirely believe. Likewise, populist politicians often use them strategically to mobilise their followers. In these cases, conspiracy theories and fake news are indeed identical. In the past, belief in conspiracy theories was often associated with paranoia and other psychological problems. And while some conspiracy theorists might well be paranoid, belief in such theories is far too widespread to be explained in terms of abnormal psychology. Psychological research, however, has found that people who feel powerless or have trouble accepting uncertainty are particularly prone to believing in them. Some studies have also found less educated people are more likely to believe them. However, research shows believers come from all ethnicities and walks of life. Most studies haven’t found any significant differences between men and women. However, male conspiracy theorists are often more visible and outspoken. The reason for this might be that they’re a way to cope with the widespread crisis of toxic masculinity in the western world.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF CONSPIRACY THINKING

A large body of research to date has concentrated on psychological factors that increase the likelihood of a person endorsing a conspiracy theory or theories. Dr Karen Douglas has conducted extensive research on why people adopt conspiracy theories and the psychological, sociological and political factors that create and inﬂuence conspiracy thinking. On what her research reveals, she explains: ‘ C O N S P I R ACY T H EO R I E S H AV E WAYS O F B E I N G W I T H US . Believing in them and

being suspicious about the actions of others is, in some ways, an adaptive thing to do. We don’t necessarily want to trust everybody and everything that’s happening around us. And so, they’ve always been with us, and to some extent, you could call everybody a conspiracy theorist at one point or another if you want to use that term. ‘As far back as we can remember, people have believed in conspiracy theories and been suspicious about the actions of hostile collectives of individuals. It’s the way we’re wired, to a degree. You can measure the extent to which people believe in them in numerous

ways. A social psychologist would ask people questions about how much they endorse a particular idea or statement. ‘You can also measure beliefs about specific issues. For example, if you want to know how much somebody believes in anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, ask them to read a bunch of statements, such as the idea pharmaceutical companies are hiding information about vaccine efficacy and safety. Then, ask them how much they believe that statement or if they agree with it. Do they think it’s plausible? ‘You can ask more general questions or for people to rate the extent to which they believe in statements, such as ones about a government hiding secrets from people to suit its agenda. You can ask them to respond via a scale from one, meaning they strongly disagree, to 10, which means they strongly agree. From your responses, you can calculate an average conspiracy belief measure or score for each individual. Then, you can look for associations between that sort of belief and various other psychological factors. ‘There are concerns these theories are on the rise, though it’s difficult for me to say whether they are or not because I don’t have supporting data. I think that, even if we can’t tell for sure, social media has changed how people access and share information. I feel that in many cases, people who do have, I guess, an underlying tendency to believe in them can more easily find information about them now more than ever. ‘These people are more likely to find this information consuming. They can only access it online, so they rely on particular sources, disregarding others that contradict their views. If anything, their attitudes about these alleged conspiracies are even more polarised, stronger than before. Even if there’s no evidence to suggest conspiracy theories have increased – only time will tell whether or not that’s true – I think people’s attitudes have changed towards them by interacting, sharing and consuming this information on social media and the internet in general. ‘I’d argue people want to satisfy three psychological motives. The first ones are epistemic, which, in a nutshell, refers to a need for knowledge, certainty and motive or desire to be informed. And when something big happens, such as a big event, they naturally want to know why it happened. They want an explanation, the truth. But they also want certainty. ‘Some psychological evidence suggests people endorse conspiracy theories when they feel uncertain, either in specific situations or in general. There are other epistemic reasons why people believe in them concerning their need for knowledge and certainty. Less-educated people tend to believe them. I wouldn’t say that’s because they aren’t intelligent, but they haven’t been allowed to have, or been given access to, tools to differentiate between

credible and unreliable sources of information. They’re looking for knowledge and certainty, just not necessarily in the right places. ‘The second set of motives are existential, which refer to a need to be or feel safe and secure, and have power or autonomy over things that happen to you. Again, when something happens, people don’t like to feel powerless or out of control. Reaching for conspiracy theories might, I guess, at least allow them to feel they have information to at least explain why they don’t have control. Research has shown people who feel powerless or disillusioned tend to gravitate more towards conspiracy theories. ‘The final set of motives, social, are based on a desire to feel good about yourself, as an individual and as part of a group. As individuals, people like to have high self-esteem. They want to feel good about themselves. Potentially, one way of doing that is to feel like you have access to information other people don’t. ‘One rhetorical tool a conspiracy theorist uses is the idea everybody else is a sheep, but they know the truth. They have the truth. Feeling that you possess information other people don’t can make you feel superior. We, and other researchers, have found that a need for uniqueness and to stand out is associated with belief in conspiracy theories. ‘This is typical in groups too. If a person thinks people don’t appreciate a group they consider significant, they may be more susceptible to conspiracy theories, especially ones about their group. In having these sorts of beliefs, you can maintain the idea that your group is good, moral and upstanding, but anyone on the periphery is evil, trying to ruin things for everybody else. ‘We argue it’s possible to summarise the psychological literature on conspiracy theories using these three motivations.’ Another suggestion made more recently by scholars is that there may be such a thing as a conspiracy mindset. This general idea stems from the most robust finding in the literature to date – that people who already believe in particular conspiracy theories are more likely to believe in others. In other words, the most reliable predictor of belief in one theory is a belief in another. In 1994, Dr »

Ted Goertzel from Rutgers University in the US argued that each conspiracy belief adopted by an individual reinforces their others and makes them more receptive to conspiracy theories they may encounter later. There aren’t necessarily any underlying belief systems involved; it’s enough that they reinforce each other. However, other researchers argue there may be an underlying belief system that ties conspiracy beliefs together.

CONSPIRACY MEDIA, COMMUNICATION AND THE INTERNET A common misconception is that the internet, and social media, in particular, is responsible for what appears to be a proliferation of conspiracy theories. But while these platforms make spreading ideas quicker and easier, some argue the internet is a tool for disseminating a human concoction. For the most part, social scientists have yet to ﬁnd evidence that conspiracy beliefs are more proliﬁc in the internet age. P EO P L E S H A R E C O N S P I R ACY T H EO R I E S W I T H OT H E RS F O R N U M E RO US R E A S O N S . Whether the

internet and social media have increased their prevalence is a complex question, so it’s unclear if they pose a threat. More of them may be spreading than before, but this doesn’t mean they’re more complex or necessarily dangerous, nor that people visit conspiracy websites simply because there are more of them (although they’re probably more accessible to those who want to read about them). Online conspiracy communities tend to be polarised. One potential danger is that someone could join one of those, and they’d be more likely to adopt a coherent conspiracy theory, their attitudes more polarised. The internet is far from the only medium on which people air conspiracies. Mainstream news exposes people to them regularly, contributing to how receptive people are. Other media include film, in which there’s a recognised genre known as conspiracy cinema, and, allegedly, music. Non-conspiracy communication tends to occur via one-way channels (e.g., government bodies passing information on to citizens), whereas conspiracy communication is more interactive and less hierarchical. Further, non-conspiracy communication tends not to engage with conspiracy theories, but conspiracy communication attacks the official account. There are many places on the

internet where closed-minded and sealed-off communities can thrive, but it also affords many opportunities to encounter dissenting views and engage in debates. The increase in the amount of information available on the internet can make it difficult for individuals to assess the origins and reliability of bogus claims. Although limited, real, implemented plots have a limited lifespan, fact-resistant rumours travel fast and far on the internet, and regional variations often blend into one another. Online social media allow individuals to build communities with shared narratives and worldviews, acting as echo chambers that reinforce biased opinions such as conspiracy beliefs. The psychological phenomenon, the confirmation bias, can help explain this. This is people’s tendency to select the information

that aligns with their system of beliefs and avoids contradictions. People, therefore, selectively expose themselves to information that supports their pre-existing opinions while ignoring alternative viewpoints.

THE RISE OF QANON

When footage of a white South African at a riot at the US Capitol in January 2021 emerged, it came as a surprise to many. Although, in 2018, local journalist Rebecca Davis had reported that QAnon had gained numerous followers in the country, appealing to existing ethnonationalist and Afrophobic attitudes and perspectives.

I N T H E 5 0 -S EC O N D R A N T, W H I C H O R I G I N A L LY A I R E D O N T H E P RO -T RU M P cable channel One

America News Network and went viral in South Africa, a man explains he’s delivering a ‘message’ from his country. In the video, he goes on to shout, ‘For every one of you senators, and every one of you congressmen out there, we [sic] watching, we’ve had enough, OK?… don’t tell us what to do anymore… all you bunch of rhino arseholes, we’re watching you today!’ Many South Africans were quick to disown him after that performance. One of the most widespread imaginations to emerge from recent internet forums was the QAnon conspiracy, which originated in the US. Amassing millions of supporters, it claimed an elite group of child-trafficking paedophiles had been ruling the world for

decades and that ex-president Donald Trump had a secret plan in place to bring this group to justice. The QAnon conspiracy began in October 2017, when an anonymous user calling themselves Q, who claimed to have high-level security clearance, posted a series of cryptic messages about the imminent arrest of Hillary Clinton on the (politically incorrect) section of the website 4chan, an anonymous imageboard with a no-rules policy associated with pranks, violence, and illegal and extremist content. The user claimed they’d covertly inform the public about then-US-president Donald Trump’s ongoing battle with the “deep state”, a blanket term used to describe those in power working against him. Over the next few years, users claiming to be Q created over 4 000 posts, known in the

community as “Q drops”, fuelling the growth of a lurid meta-conspiracy connecting a range of harmful narratives. The QAnon theory now connects anti-vaccine and -5G conspiracies, anti-Semitic and -migrant tropes, and several bizarre claims that the world is in the thrall of a group of paedophile elites set on global domination, in part aided by ritualistic child sacrifice. Although there’ve been no such “Q drops” since December 2020, the QAnon movement continues to exist. QAnon supporters have been photographed at many events, including rallies for the former US president Trump, and even at a far-right led, anti-mask protest in Berlin, Germany, in August 2020. Merchandise, including t-shirts and bumper stickers, are widely available for purchase online. In 2019, QAnon: An Invitation to the Great » JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 GQ.CO.ZA 91

is a psychedelic with benefits including antiageing properties. Due to several QAnon-inspired violent incidents among its supporters in 2019, the FBI labelled it a domestic terror threat, observing that conspiracy theories have the potential to encourage “both groups and individual extremists to carry out criminal or violent acts”. QAnon supporters were arrested for threatening politicians, breaking into the residence of the Canadian prime minister, an armed standoff near the Hoover Dam, a kidnapping plot and two kidnappings, and at least one murder. Weeks after Q’s original post, three individuals began significantly amplifying the Q drops: YouTuber Tracy Beanz (Tracy Diaz) and 4chan moderators Pamphlet Anon (Coleman Rogers), and Baruch the Scribe, whom NBC News reported was a South African tech journalist and web developer named Paul Furber, one of the instigators behind the QAnon conspiracy phenomenon. According to journalists Brandy Zadrozny and Ben Collins, Furber and two other original 4Chan contributors grew the conspiracy to generate a following for Qanon and themselves. He reportedly confirmed these accounts to the journalists in an email that read: “A bunch of us decided that the message needed to go wider, so we contacted YouTubers who’d been commenting on the Q drops”. Furber’s recent activity on the new radicalright social networking platform, Gab, indicates he’s revising and reviving former QAnon theories – particularly those that failed to come to fruition at the inauguration of Joe Biden last January, leaving many QAnon followers in disbelief and disarray. T H E DAY A F T E R P R E S I D E N T B I D E N ’ S I N AU G U R AT I O N , Furber posted a message

Awakening, a book supposedly written by 12 anonymous supporters, was at the top of several best-seller lists on the online retailer Amazon. Documentaries with high-quality production value made by QAnon supporters are readily available on YouTube. The QAnon conspiracy had several targets, and three pillars formed the top of its hierarchy, the Rothschild family, the Saudi Royal Family and George Soros. These three so-called “puppet masters” purportedly control the deep state with a vast combined wealth they use to manipulate political bodies and financial institutions worldwide, aided by collaborators and puppets. These included various Hollywood icons and political and religious figures who faced accusations of operating child-sex-trafficking rings and practising satanic rituals. Some proponents went as far as to accuse these individuals of harvesting blood from children to acquire the chemical adrenochrome, which, they claim,

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claiming that “Trump still has the nuclear football… Real Joe is either dead or in Gitmo [Guantanamo Bay detention camp]. The LARPer [live-action role player] currently playing him wasn’t sworn in legally, by definition... Stay strong, stay vigilant, stay restrained, stay faithful”. By early 2018, the QAnon community had grown to tens of thousands of subscribers on multiple platforms. The conspiracy continued to gain supporters and mainstream publicity through viral campaigns, such as its on-theground Save the Children events. In 2020, there were an estimated 4.5 million QAnon accounts on Facebook and Instagram and growing QAnon communities identified in over 20 countries. Through it all, Q and the QAnon community have weathered numerous platform disruptions, demonstrating the ability to migrate, adapt and survive. Q moved from posting on 4chan to 8chan in late 2017, then to 8kun in 2019. Since summer

2020, QAnon content has faced a new wave of bans and restrictions on social platforms, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube – especially after QAnon followers played a prominent role in the riot at Capital Hill in 2021. At its core, QAnon maintains that the world – especially the US – is controlled by a secretive, powerful group of paedophiles who worship Satan and control the Democratic Party, the media, and Hollywood. President Trump won the 2016 election to fight the cabal, the theory proposes, and faked Russian election interference to collaborate with Robert Mueller against an imminent takeover led by prominent Democratic Party officials. Relatedly, many QAnon followers also believe in Pizzagate. On 24 December 2016, 28-year-old Edgar Welch entered Comet Ping Pong pizza restaurant in Washington DC, armed with an AR-15 rifle and revolver. Welch claimed he was investigating reports of a child-sex-trafficking ring operating secretly in the restaurant’s hidden rooms. He fired several shots, and after finding no evidence of child sex trafficking, exited the restaurant and surrendered to the police. It transpired Welch was influenced by the Pizzagate conspiracy, supposedly after he’d watched YouTube videos and read online content. It alleges Hillary Clinton and other Democrats used the restaurant as a front for a child-sex-trafficking ring. It gained traction after the owner, James Alefantis, was mentioned in a hacked Clinton campaign email released by WikiLeaks earlier in 2016. The conspiracy spread across 4chan and other social media platforms, resulting in Alefantis receiving death threats. Welch was arrested and subsequently sentenced to four years in prison. Many of the themes and allegations within the QAnon conspiracy pre-date QAnon and are well-known – they’ve simply been repackaged. Conspiracies contending a secret elite cabal controlling the world for political and financial gain have surfaced in many forms throughout history. Other popular theories such as psychological warfare used on the general population, Big Pharma, 9/11, and supposed false flag attacks are all within the QAnon pantheon. WHILE THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE QA N O N C O N S P I R ACY M AY N OT H AV E M A I N S T R E A M A P P E A L , the focus on child

sex trafficking has become an emotionally charged topic popular with a broad audience. Individuals who may not consider themselves aligned with QAnon can perhaps unwittingly contribute to its promotion. Likewise, accusations of harvesting blood from children will probably lead individuals to seek more information down a path laced with anti-Semitism, as suggested by Dr Magda Teter of Fordham University in the US. Googling

SOURCES

P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y I S A A C Q U E S A D A / U N S P L A S H . C O M , J AYA N A R A S H I N T H A / UNSPLASH.COM, EDWIN HOOPER/UNSPLASH.COM, GALLO/GETTY IMAGES

“killing children for blood” results in content focused on one of the most familiar, deadly, and long-lasting anti-Semitic tropes: blood libel. This centuries-old (false) allegation posits Jews murder Christians – especially Christian children – to use their blood for rituals, such as an ingredient for baking Passover matzah (unleavened bread). It’s also sometimes called the “ritual murder charge”. The blood libel dates back to the Middle Ages and has persisted despite Jewish denials and official refusals by the Catholic Church and many secular authorities. Blood libels have frequently led to mob violence and pogroms and have occasionally led to the decimation of entire Jewish communities. Therefore, while QAnon may appear to be a new phenomenon, the foundations it stands on are long-standing tropes and conspiracies. One factor that sets it apart from many other theories is how it’s been co-opted into the mainstream via prominent social media platforms far beyond 4chan and 8kun and even seeped into the political discourse and 2020 electoral process. QA N O N F O L LOW E RS A R E AWA I T I N G T WO E V E N TS : T H E S TO R M A N D T H E G R E AT E V E N T . The community believes

mass arrests of many of the figureheads in the cabal are imminent, resulting in their imprisonment or execution, that their tyrannical grip on the world will be broken, allowing us to realise a utopian world. Support for QAnon online was often indicated using the hashtag #TheStormlsComing. The result of “The Storm” would be “The Great Awakening”, when those who didn’t believe in QAnon’s messaging would be proven wrong and awaken to the reality of the world Q was trying to expose. Since the social media ban, it’s been reported catchphrases and secret messages

related to the conspiracy theory have all but disappeared. A report published by the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensics Lab concluded that QAnon-related “chatter” surged at the beginning of the pandemic, peaked in June 2020 during the protests following George Floyd’s death, and spiked again in the lead-up to the Capitol riot. Appearances of QAnon-related content on mainstream social media platforms decreased to “a low murmur” after social media companies tightened their moderation policies relating to QAnon accounts and groups. The “prolonged silence” from the original Q poster, as well as Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss and “encouragement” from many in the Q online community to use different code language has also affected the decline in QAnon-related chatter, said the Lab. The report concluded some QAnon believers have continued their crusade by adapting their approaches and using different code language, a trend several news outlets also reported. Some followers have replaced the conspiracy theory with a “neoQAnon”, the researchers said, which exists as a “cluster of loosely connected conspiracy theory-driven movements that advocate many of the same false claims but without the hallmark linguistic stylings that defined QAnon communities during their years of growth”. Asked whether these new QAnon communities were smaller than the traditional QAnon hubs, Jared Holt, one of the researchers behind the report, told Forbes it “varies”. He also wrote, “Many QAnon communities we’re aware of have pivoted to other topics, such as vaccine conspiracies and claims about the Biden Administration. In that way, they’re plugging into broader misinformation and disinformation ecosystems online, which tend to reach more people”. Still, the researchers found these groups aren’t pushing Q-specific content in the way they did in the past.

‘He fired several shots, and after finding no evidence of child sex trafficking, exited the restaurant and surrendered to the police’

C o n s p i ra c y T h e o r i e s, Rad i c a l i s a t i o n a n d D i g i t a l M e d i a , D a n i e l A l l i n g to n , G l o b a l N e t wo r k o n E x t re m i s m & Te c h n o l o g y (G N E T ) H a n n a h A re n d t M e e t s M e e t s QA n o n : C o n s p i ra c y, I d e o l o g y, and the Collapse of Common S e n s e , D av i d L u b a n , G e o rge tow n U n i v e r s i t y L aw C e nte r W hy d o p e o p l e a d o p t c o n s p i ra c y t h e o r i e s, h ow a re t h e y c o m m u n i c a te d a n d w h a t a re t h e i r r i s ks? Pe r s p e c t i v e s f ro m p sy c h o l o g y, i n fo r m a t i o n e n g i n e e r i n g, p o l i t i c a l s c i e n c e a n d s o c i o l o g y , Ka re n Douglas et al. C o n s p i ra c y t h e o r i e s : a re- e m e rg i n g p h e n o m e n o n i n t h e C ov i d -1 9 e ra , M a rc Ro f fe y, D e p a r t m e nt o f Psy c h i a t r y a n d M e nta l Health, University of C a p e Tow n S o m e t h i n g ’s G o i n g o n H e re : Psy c h o l o g i c a l P re d i c to r s o f B e l i e f i n C o n s p i ra c y Theories, Joshua Hart and M o l l y G ra e t h e r, D e p a r t m e nt o f Psy c h o l o g y, U n i o n C o l l e ge, S c h e n e c t a d y, N ew Yo r k T h e G o s p e l A c c o rd i n g to Q : U n d e r s t a n d i n g t h e QA n o n C o n s p i ra c y f ro m t h e Pe r s p e c t i v e o f C a n o n i c a l I n fo r m a t i o n , M a x A l i a p o u l i o s et al. Beyond belief: the social p sy c h o l o g y o f c o n s p i ra c y theories and the study of i d e o l o g y , J o va n B y fo rd R h e to r i c, I d e o l o g y a n d S o c i a l Psy c h o l o g y : Ess a ys in Honour of Michael B i l l i g , ‘ E x p l o ra t i o n s i n S o c i a l Psy c h o l o g y ’, L o n d o n : Ro u t l e d ge G u i d e to c o n s p i ra c y t h e o r i e s , C O M PACT e d u c a t i o n G ro u p C o n s p i ra c y t h e o r i e s a s p a r t o f h i s to r y : T h e ro l e o f societal crisis situations, Ja n -W i l l e m va n P ro o i j e n a n d Ka re n M D o u g l a s QA n o n : F ro m F r i n ge C o n s p i ra c y to M a i n s t re a m Po l i t i c s , S i m o n W i e s e nt h a l C e nte r T h e G e n e s i s o f a C o n s p i ra c y T h e o r y, Key t re n d s i n QA n o n a c t i v i t y s i n c e 20 1 7 , A o i fe G a l l ag h e r e t a l .

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