Essays of Africa April 2015

ESS YS A WOMAN’S JOURNEY

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

www.essaysofafrica.com

PABI MOLOI

Reinvented www.essaysofafrica.com

SVELTE,GORGEOUS AND HAPPIER THAN EVER

GREAT IDEAS For a delicious Easter affair!

APRIL 2015 • VOL2 • NO5

FASHION A JACKET FOR EVERY OCCASION

APRIL 2015 R30.00 (VAT incl.)

Other countries: R26.27 (excl. TAX)

TANZANIAN DESIGNER SHERIA NGOWI makes his mark on the global fashion map.

Dudu Msomi WE NEED MORE FEMALE MENTORS

PLUCK, WAX or THREAD...

GET THAT PERFECT BROW!

contents EOA

Inside ESSAYS a woman’s journey

of africa

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people

32 Real Life: Psyche of a society under pressure.

34 Q&A: EOA talks to Nonhlanhla Mnisi, who has published 5 books by the age of 25.

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april 2015

66 my JOURNEY: Pretty Mhlongo tells her story of how singing has kept her reaching for the high notes in life despite having to face some of the lows.

86 Man Q&A: Taofick Okoya, the man behind the black doll that dethroned Barbie.

66 features

cover stories

54 SELF-EMPOWERMENT: Five basic tools for a better you!

22 A jacket for every occasion.

56 money: Should you consider a marriage contract before your wedding?

40 Bongi Mthembu, has her eye on amplifying the greatness of Africa.

46 Tanzanian fashion designer Sheria Ngowi makes his mark on the global fashion map with his trendsetting brand collections.

48 Pabi Moloi reinvented.

Svelte, gorgeous & happier than ever!

60 Dudu Msomi, a guiding voice on transformation, ethics and governance in South Africa.

100 Fabulous ideas for a delicious Easter affair!

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

columns 18 guest blog: Sandiso Ngubane looks at why personal style still trumps trendiness.

36 Uncovered: Introspection about a place called home.

88 #gaybestfriend: The Fools Of April.

128 The Final Word: Tumi Morake’s 21st birthday speech for her beloved South Africa.

62 RELATIONSHIPS: When money rules love. Should he still pay for everything?

64 SEX & INTIMACY: A look at what it means to be addicted to sex.

72 PARENTING: Modelling intimacy for your children.

76 news report: Zanele Mji discusses the struggle beyond SA borders.

80 Health: Mental health and the stigma surrounding it.

84 MAN FEATURE: Rise of the African metrosexual.

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beauty

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SEXY 7: Best buys this month

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FASHION NEWS

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MAIN FASHION: A jacket for all occasions

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REAL WOMAN: Mbali Mngomezulu has continental fashion flavour.

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SHOPPING: Autumn accessories to keep away the season’s chill.

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FASHION INTERVIEW: We talk to Sheria Ngowi, whose passion for design has him representing Africa on the world fashion map.

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ITEM OR OUTFIT: Choose between an expensive ring or a whole outfit for a similar price.

MAN FASHION: Enhance his personal style with a few of this season’s wardrobe musthaves.

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BEAUTY NEWS

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BEAUTY MAIN: Grooming tips for brows that wow.

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HAIR AFFAIR: Knowing your curl: 4A, 4B or 4C.

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BODY BLITZ: A little pencil help to shape those brows.

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BOOKS

100 FOOD & ENTERTAINING: Owner of In Good Company, Julie Gallagher, shows us how to style up an elegant Easter table.

106 DÉCOR STYLE FOCUS: Personalise your boudoir and make it the perfect room to pass the time.

109 TECH NEWS & APPS 110 SOCIAL SCENE: Lifebuoy Hygiene Event 113 SOCIAL SCENE: Phenomenal Women in Leadership Event 111 DÉCOR NEWS 115 MOTORING 118 MOVIES & THEATRE 120 TRAVEL: Africa’s World Heritage Sites.

124 ENTERTAINMENT Q&A: After a decade in the industry, Refiloe Mpakanyane talks about finding her feet in radio, fashion and film.

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regulars 7

EDITOR’S LETTER

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ON LOCATION

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ONLINE UPDATE

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CONTRIBUTORS

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LETTERS’ PAGE

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EOA SUBSCRIPTION

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READER’S CORNER

117 HOROSCOPES 127 STOCKISTS

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126 MUSIC

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

HAIR & MAKE-UP: PRUDENCE SEGAMI. FASHION: ROBOT TRADING. ACCESSORIES: ZURI.

fashion

SEXY 7: Best buys this month.

MAIN COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. STYLING: TUMI MDLULI.

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ESSAYS a woman’s journey

of africa

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CEO of Kwenta Media & Founding Editor of Essays of Africa

Consulting Managing Editor Deputy Managing Editor Features Writers Fashion & Beauty Editor Admin & Fashion Assistant DĂŠcor Writer Columnists Contributors Proofreader Designer Junior Designers Online Administrators Production Manager Sales Marketing/PR & Events Coordinator Operations & Finance Coordinator Advisory Board

Office Drivers Publisher Physical Address

Postal Address Websites Advertising Editorial Information & Enquiries Subscription Queries Printers Distribution

Nawaal Nolwazi Mdluli

Zama Nkosi Tracy Maher Caryn Thandi Petersen, Hayden Horner, Helen Herimbi, Melinda Ferguson Tumi Mdluli Tebatjo Manamela Rhoda Davids Ndoni Khanyile, Tumi Morake, Hayden Horner Robyn Bloch, , Sandiso Ngubane, Khosi Jiyane, Zanele Mji, Vuyiswa Mothlabane, Cheska Stark, Thina Mthembu, Hlulani Masingi, Russell Brout Nicky de Bene Lelethu Tobi Siphokazi Masele, Asanda Mazwi Shelly Mathole, Mpho Mahlo Tumi Mdluli New Business Development Team Mbalenhle Fakude Nuraan Motlekar Fazila Bizor, Lindsay Breytenbach, Lindelwa Isabelle, Ndoni Khanyile, Busisiwe Mahlaba, Sen Mdhluli, Moeketsi Mosola, Dr Salifou Siddo, Nthabe Zondo, Sonto Ndlovu Yusuf Msinyi, Gabriel Mashishi

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ED’S LETTER EOA

PICTURE: KWENTA MEDIA.

BEYOND THE MASK…

his time of the year is my favourite season, when shop window displays change from half-naked mannequins to beautifully styled outfits with many layers and textures. Just like the autumn fashions, people have many different layers to their personalities and I am intrigued by how they present themselves to the world. Some wrap themselves up tightly as if they have a secret to hide from the world, whereas others walk through life as if the free-flowing moments gently caress their bodies in a comforting embrace.

Regardless of how tightly or loosely enrobed a person is by their experiences, I enjoy seeking out their truth and learning about the diversity that

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

weaves the rich tapestry of the world around us. As we pursue our journey of authentic African experiences, it pleases me immensely to say that this is already the fifth issue of Essays Of Africa magazine. Buoyed by your support and encouragement that we are bringing you what you want to read, we have again reached out to remarkable people to step forward and share their unique stories with us.

The dynamic Pabi Moloi graces our cover this month and, more importantly, she agreed to launch our new concept of ‘Conceal and Reveal’. Under all our layers, we all have a story that we can share to inspire others, and Pabi took to ‘unveiling herself’ at our shoot and talking about reinventing herself. Not only has she undergone a physical metamorphosis to look even more beautiful than before, but she has also embraced a life change that is more than admirable.

In keeping with clothes and how they reveal parts of our soul, we salute Africa’s aggressive efforts in the transformation of the global fashion and design landscape. Meet inspirational Sheria Ngowi from Tanzania and Refiloe Mpakanyane whose passion is evident is all they do, from fashion design to radio broadcasting respectively. Taofick Okaya has produced a range of Queen of Africa dolls to trump the reign of Barbie and build the self-esteem of black children as they can finally play with dolls that are authentic to their experience.

I could go on, but I don’t want to rob you of the rich read this issue promises, save for one more very important point. We encourage you to enjoy our daily online newsletter (available by subscribing at www.essaysofafrica.com). We are acutely aware of how difficult it is to reach out at a time of need, so remember that you are not alone! You can share your story with us at secrets@essaysofafrica.com, anonymously or not. E

Nawaal 7

APRIL 2015

EOA on location

PRUDENCE SEGAME DOING PABI’S HAIR FOR HER SECOND LOOK.

THE TEAM BEHIND THE SHOOT: PRUDENCE, PABI, TUMI AND TEBATJO MANAMELA, WHO ASSISTED IN MAKING THE SHOOT A SUCCESS. THAT’S A WRAP!

PABI MOLOI

Sizzles ON CAMERA

CASTELO SHOES WITH THE BEAUTIFUL DIAMOND MASK FROM BELLAGIO USED FOR THE SHOOT WITH PABI MOLOI.

THE DRESSES, SHOES AND ACCESSORIES THAT STYLIST, TUMI MDLULI, COULD SELECT FROM TO STYLE PABI FOR THE COVER.

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CLOSE-UP OF THE BEAUTIFUL MASK THAT COSTS R600 000! THIS IS ONE OF BELLAGIO’S MOST EXPENSIVE PIECES.

PRUDENCE SEGAME APPLIES MAKE-UP TO PABI’S PERFECT FEATURES.

EssAY S of Afric a

WORDS BY: TUMI MDLULI. PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS.

The effervescent Pabi has a way about her that defies her energy. Rather than misdirected outbursts, she is centred and this calmness flows effortless over all who work with her. Synergy isn’t always hard to find behind the scenes, but when it happens, the results are simply stunning!

ONLINE UPDATE EOA

WHATSAPP SHARING! (COMING SOON)

Our news addition is WhatsApp sharing.

This button allows our visitors to quickly share an article they like with their friends in real time while still reading it! WhatsApp sharing is private and works just as if you’d sent an email to a friend. So if you’d like to compare notes about size (let’s face it, we all talk about it) or something more serious like the latest news on International Women’s Day, we have the tools for you to share the stories… privately or in groups.

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SOCIAL MEDIA GIVEAWAYS

1. We have a new tab on our website for competitions that are currently being run

by EOA. Click on it to win great prizes!

2. Stay tuned for the launch of our #IAM campaign… Something super exciting for our most faithful current and new follower across all our social platforms. Hint: who wants to win an iPhone 6?

You will need to:  Like our page: www.facebook.com/ essayofafrica  Follow us on Twitter : @EssaysOfAfrica  Follow us on Instagram : essays_of_africa

GUEST BLOGGERS

We opened a platform to allow you to share your blogging talents.

We have a special page dedicated to all upcoming bloggers. Send your blogs to editorial@essaysofafrica. com and you could be published on our website.

FRESH WEBSITE CONTENT, DAILY!

Don’t miss out on the latest in fashion news and lifestyle trends as we do the research for you to keep you looking fabulous and in the know! Register online to receive our EOA Daily newsletter to find out what’s hot and what’s, well, not!

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APRIL 2015

EOA CONTRIBUTORS

“My biggest lesson in the first quarter of 2015 has been that happiness is not found in the marvels of the world but in the relationships that God has granted me with. Going forward, I plan to value those around me, because they have contributed to the woman I am today.”

Mbalenhle Fakude – PR, Events and Marketing Coordinator

“My biggest lesson so far has been that deep breaths and baking can make everything better!

Going forward, especially with a baby on the way, I will continue with yoga, long walks, loads of deep breaths and when all that fails, I’ll bake a cake.”

Cheska Stark – Food Writer

LESSONS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER One quarter of 2015 has come and gone in what seems like a flash. We asked our contributors what this last quarter has taught them.

“I have been doing a lot of Bikram yoga this year and learning to nourish myself both physically and mentally. As I go into the rest of 2015, I hope this will help me to be less self critical and more gentle with myself, while still keeping discipline front of mind.”

Melinda Ferguson – Features Writer

“Entering the work industry has been a huge transition for me.

It’s nothing like varsity. I am slowly learning the value of time – that has been the biggest lesson for me. I have learnt that every minute has to be spent productively and it has to be planned for. I’m taking that lesson into my private life as well, making sure that I reach every goal I set for myself by planning my time properly to make sure I get time to do everything I want.”

Asanda Mazwi – Junior Designer

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EOA LETTERS

Your letters

ENCOURAGED BY EOA I bought my first issue of this magazine. I think it is the current issue with Rosie Motene on the cover page. I must say I was quite moved by the stories I read there and I was inspired.

I was on my way to a women’s function for International Women’s Day, and the issues just resonated with the realistic issues we as women face. I was due to introduce members of the panel of the Women Empowerment Programme of NHBRC, of which I am also a member, but I could not do just that. I had to encourage the women with a word or two, and I must say I did not find that hard to do. I was really moved by that magazine.

Thanks for the heads up on this, Lebo!

Busi Nzo (Pr QS) For Lakhanya Quantity Surveyors

SOCIAL MEDIA closetclique_sa Only got our hands onto this stunner of a magazine @ EssaysOfAfrica now to find out we got one awesome review on The Fashion News page #ThankYou #OverTheMoon #ClosetcliqueMedia Caryn Thandi @ThandiCaryn Profound words by @NdoniKanyile on the power of friendship in this month’s @EssaysOfAfrica. Love our sisterhood!

Ndoni Khanyile @NdoniKhanyile @PrincessRTM @EssaysOfAfrica looking radiant on this month’s cover of EOA Rosie. Beautiful cover!

Barclay&Clegg @BarclayClegg Stunning 3-page Barclay&Clegg feature in @EssaysOfAfrica magazine. All lingerie by @FreyaLingerie.

Revelation Fashion @RevelationDress @EssaysOfAfrica Thank you for our feature in the March issue! Go and get it guys!

EDUCATING THE YOUTH My name is Annette Landsberg from Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School in KwaZulu-Natal. I requested if we could still order a year’s subscription of your magazine. I bought the magazine on Sunday [28 February 2015] and read it from cover to cover and was very impressed. It is also very popular with our girls. Well done to the team!

Annette Landsberg Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School

A MAGAZINE FOR EVERYONE People will go out of their way to locate the address of Essays Of Africa, find it and read it! #WhenGraceFindsYou Nonhlanhla Mnisi

Siphokazi Kalo @SiphokaziKalo @EssaysOfAfrica Bought a magazine for the first time in 5 years. I hope it doesn’t disappoint. #EssaysOfAfrica Siphokazi Kalo @SiphokaziKalo @EssaysOfAfrica I’m impressed!

Siphokazi Kalo @SiphokaziKalo @EssaysOfAfrica I’m really glad I gave it a chance. I had given up on magazines.

Yelanda Mitchell Your March issue totally resonated with me. We need more women role models especially in the entrepreneurial world.

I have just opened up my own little business which I know will grow but there is such little support out there. I wouldn’t even know where to start. Aside from that, I am hugely independent and battle to give and take in my relationship which sometimes leaves me floating somewhere between Cinderella and Margeret Thatcher. Thank you, Essays Of Africa. I’m most certainly not alone. Let’s keep empowering women and supporting them. As much as we are strong, we are also gentle. Maybe some insight as to what support or funding there is for us out there… so many entrepreneurial ideas, so little information.

We would love to hear your views, news and especially your feedback on the magazine. Email us at letters@ essaysofafrica.com or post your comments on Facebook.com/essayofafrica, @EssaysOfAfrica or EssaysOfAfrica.

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

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APRIL 2015

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BLUE ICE WATCH, WATCH R1 999, ICE WATCH.

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LACE APPLIQUÉ SHIFT DRESS, R2 899, JIGSAW, FLAGSHIP STORES.

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BLACK CLUTCH BAG, R1 399, ZARA.

TUMI MDLULI’S SELECTIONS FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL!

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SILVER RING WITH MIDNIGHT BLUE CRYSTAL, R1 599, PANDORA.

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Ed's Pick

PEACOCK FLARE SCARF, R749, LUCKY BRAND, EDGARS & FLAGSHIP STORES.

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MULTICOLOUR SNAKE SKIN COURT, R1 449, RIVER ISLAND, FLAGSHIP STORES. ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: STOCKISTS.

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EOA FASHION

FASHION NEWS EOA

REPLAY FALL/WINTER 2014/15 COLLECTION

TWO THEMES EMERGE: biker and romantic army. The brand looks at different takes on strong design, both featuring the very finest in the textile research and material mix category. Ever true to form, denim, also known as Replay’s DNA revisits thirty-plus years of experience and know-how to define a premium essential product, edgy basics that set new standards as to quality and fit, fabrics and treatments.

WORDS: THINA MTHEMBU. SOURCES: REPLAY, BARCLAYS & CLEGG, AFRICAN FASHION HOUSE. REPLAY. PICTURES: REPLAY, AFRICAN FASHION HOUSE.

AFRICAN TRADITIONAL ATTIRE

Traditional wear in Africa represents culture, discipline and high-end fashion made with the finest African material. Although Western fashion has taken over, you can still find many celebrities, local and international, wearing traditional outfits, either on the red carpet events or by the poolside at home. Africa Fashion House (AFH) is an independent, lifestyle-clothing brand founded by Cynthia uMukoro with a sole focus on the creation of exclusive custom-fitted clothing and accessories for the modern, ambitious individual. AFH caters for both men and women and all their products are designed and made from carefully selected, high-quality African print fabric (Ankara). Located in Midrand, Johannesburg, call 011 057 5900 or 079 142 4693 or visit Africafashionhouse.com.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Barclay & Clegg comes to Nicolway

Specialist lingerie and swimwear retailers, Barclay & Clegg, opened their sixth store in Nicolway, Bryanston in March 2015.

Find your favourite, from sensual lace and embroidered lingerie to flirty and fun bras and briefs, as well as classical body-shaping products.Women will enjoy a unique shopping experience in a calm and feminine environment. Barclays & Clegg offer professional bra fittings and personalised customer orders. E

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APRIL 2015

EOA BLOGGER COLUMN SANDISO’S BESTDRESSED WOMEN IN AFRICA

As South Africans consume more information on style, their fashion sense evolves.

Sandiso Ngubane looks at how SA style is morphing and why personal style still trumps trendiness. n a conversation I recently had with designer Craig Port, we spoke about how the menswear category in fashion and grooming has changed in South Africa over the years, buoyed by increasing consumer demand as men the world over become more and more fashion conscious. We have the advent of the metrosexual culture to thank for that, but my bet is that the increased social acceptance of queer culture, with its emphasis on image, also has a role.

Beyond menswear, however, fashion is definitely the pop culture of today.

Designers realise the importance of getting a slice of red carpet action, as the New York Times recently reported.

Fashion houses are hiring pop stars as creative directors, Rihanna and Solange Knowles at Puma and Kanye West at Adidas, for example.

Blogs have also played a role in the increased awareness for style and fashion, as access to trend information is only a click away for the average consumer. Retailers and fashion industry stakeholders agree that for the continent, fast fashion is the only way to go as the average consumer demands the international trends they see on runways and street style blogs they are exposed to. Add to this the arrival of global fast fashion retailers, like Zara

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and Top Shop, and you have a cocktail of undeniable image consciousness that I believe is the driving force behind the rapidly changing state of style for the average South African in particular.

If I may go back to the influence of popular culture: when Bonang Matheba, for instance, posts an image of her look of the day on Instagram, she plays a role in influencing the taste of her 300-plus thousand followers. Still, there is plenty that many forget as they try to emulate their favourite style icons through their daily sartorial choices.

Because we are all different, so is our personal style and it is important to consider how your choices fit with yours.  Body shape influences fit; don’t buy a smaller size because you plan to lose weight.  Always buy what fits you best.  Don’t go for something trendy.

Rather have several key pieces that you can give a trend update by wearing trendy accessories. It is much easier and cheaper to stay on trend that way.  And, on your way to defining and finding your personal style, just because a bright print looks great on someone else, doesn’t mean it will on you too. Think of how the colours you wear reflect on your personality or, at least, how they emphasise the kind of image you want to project.

On and off the red carpet, Nyong’o is able to not only dress appropriately but her style exudes class reminiscent of old Hollywood, in spite of the fact that she is very new Hollywood. It’s like nouveau riche without the crassness.

Bonang Matheba: Whether it’s to hate, celebrate or emulate, which other local celebrity do we all look forward to seeing on the red carpet?

Matheba’s emphasis on image reflects awareness for her influence and her audience and that on its own is worth noting.

Tiwa Savage: Unlike most African stars, Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage often does minimalism without compromising the glamour, which is a balancing act most are simply hopeless at.

Jackie Burger: The former ELLE editor is the embodiment of fashion forwardness without compromising dignity and class. I don’t know of any other woman whose style is the envy of women (and men, like me) half her age.

Lindiwe Suttle: One way of knowing just how well dressed a celebrity is, is by looking at how their choices work sans the red carpet couture glamour and Suttle has repeatedly shown that she deserves the Style Icon accolade she received at the SA Style Awards a few years ago. E

Follow Sandiso: @sandiblouse trendsbeyondthreads. blogspot.com

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

PICTURE SUPPLIED BY SANDISO NGUBANE, TEREZA CERINKOVA, BONANG MATHEBA ENTERTAINMENT.

THE EVOLUTION OF SA FASHION

Lupita Nyong’o:

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2015 APRIL

EOA BOOKS

How To Reinvent Yourself and Stay Relevant Sonia Booth

ANNI DEWANI: A FATHER’S STORY Vinod Hindocha

As the sole proprietor of your life, you need to make sure to project a strong vital image of yourself and your personal brand by deciding who you are and what you stand for. Once you get this right, you can begin to think about your legacy.

R220, Penguin Murder victim Anni Dewani’s father, Vinod Hindocha, finally speaks in this heartbreaking book about the murder of his child and the terrible trial that followed. Hindocha gives us insight into Anni’s childhood and relates to award-winning journalist, Shekhar Bhatia, his family’s efforts to see justice done and how they’ve attempted to reconcile themselves to the court’s final and deeply disappointing verdict.

CRAFT ART IN SOUTH AFRICA:

THE FISHERMEN Chigozie Obioma

THE SACRIFICE Joyce Carol Oates

R275, Jonathan Ball Set in 1990s Nigeria, The Fishermen is a strange but enthralling debut novel by what has been called one of the best new voices in African literature. Two brothers go fishing at a forbidden river when their father leaves town on business. There they encounter a madman who says that one brother will kill the other. What follows is an epic event that is at once redemptive and tragic.

R285, Jonathan Ball Not known for pulling her punches Oates’s newest book proves this once more. When a 14-year-old girl becomes a victim of a terrible act of racial violence, the community around her in New Jersey suddenly explodes after decades of simmering tension. It’s a classic Oates novel, filled with carefully considered notions of revenge and brutality, sexual violence and what power does. E

CREATIVE INTERSECTIONS

Elbé Coetsee R450, Jonathan Ball This book showcases some of the most creative, and most overlooked craft artists working in South Africa today. These entrepreneurs work with everything from basket weaving and ceramics to metal and wirework, recycling and wood carving to produce something new and beautiful towards upliftment and employment.

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WORDS: ROBYN BLOCH. IMAGES: JONATHAN BALL, PENGUIN.

R200, Available online at Howtoreinventyourselfandstayrelevant.com Sonia Booth is a wife, a mother, a businesswoman, a philanthropist and now an author. The 2012 Best Innovation Award winner for her sports company, Sonia knows how to find that tricky balance between being successful and finding fulfilment along the way. In this book, she advocates personal brand invention, the clever use of the media, savvy networking and finding a good and healthy perspective while pursuing wealth.

One of her main points is that to make it big, you need to get yourself out there. That means creating and focusing on your online identity and making use of social media to further your visibility and help you remain relevant. Of course, with a personal brand comes brand management, or reputation management. Once you get this right, you can begin to think about your legacy. What will you leave behind? What will you give back? Will you live through the spirit of ubantu-botho? Reinvention is an ongoing process – as Sonia puts it: “The journey of self-discovery is the most rewarding.”

rEADER’S corner EOA

CONQUERING THE SOCIAL SCENE

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPH: TUMI MAKWELA.

When Tumi Makwela was daunted by the fact that she was going to invariably be asked: “What do you do?” she whipped out her copy of Essays of Africa magazine and used it as her armour.

he social scene is a tad tricky to navigate in my hometown of Johannesburg, South Africa, let alone on the rest of the African continent. Our way of socialising is dependent on one’s perceived social standing. I use the term ‘perceived social standing’ rather loosely. I recall a trip I recently went on to Ghana, where I was thrown slap-bang in the thick of things as it were.

I remember receiving an invite from friends who insisted I accompany them to a swanky soirée in Accra with the well-heeled lot from political circles. And thus was the beginning of my dilemma.

At the time I was blissfully unemployed and the awkwardness of having to explain to my dinner compatriots this fact was more than daunting.

You see to most, it matters that you answer the ubiquitous question that lingers in the air of every social scene and that is: “So what is it that you do?”

If you want to survive a night out, it would serve you well to have a more than satisfactory response at hand. Simply saying, “Err, I am between jobs or I am unemployed” won’t suffice. This is Party Speak killer number one.

You see we’re all raised to believe that in order to fit in socially, we have to be socialised in a certain way and that, my dears, is to have what most deem as gainful employment. The alternative is a destiny feared more than snakes. So, I happily set about getting primed for my trite responses and how I would respond to this question; I had this in mind – rolling

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

up my copy of a new publication called Essays of Africa, tucking it gently under my arm and letting that do the trick for me. The idea was to have that be my conversation piece, my sort of pièce de résistance, and my suit of armour if you will.

Guess what? This worked like a charm. I soon had all of them eating out of my hand and engaging gleefully with this magazine. There were very audible oooh’s and aaah’s followed by questions of who the publisher was. I proceeded to regale them about tales of why print media won’t be dying anytime soon and the very real existence of black publishers making a name for themselves back home in South Africa.

“Great conversations stem not from one’s social standing but their meaningful contribution to a conversation; what they do for a living is secondary.”

So a big shout-out to the team from Kwenta Media – you really helped a girl out when she needed to shine, impress and take over an entire social event of such magnitude. I will always remember this evening as a nice foray into the African social scene and consider this riddle solved. Great conversations stem not from one’s social standing but their meaningful contribution to a conversation; what they do for a living is secondary. E

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april 2015

CORAL CROPPED BOUCLE PEPLUM, R3 399, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK MABEL LEATHER NECK DRESS, R4 299, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO. GOLD EARRINGS, R120, ZURI. BALL MINT NECKLACE, R120, ZURI. BLUE BLAZER WITH BUTTONS, R949, TOPSHOP. BLACK VEST, R129, TOPSHOP. CANDY BAR STRIPED SKIRT, R1 799, STUTTAFORDS. PROTO NATURAL SNAKE STILETTOS, R1 299, STEVE MADDEN. BLACK HAT, R199, WOOLWORTHS. SILVER NECK DRAPE SNAKE CHAIN, R270, ZURI. WINTER WHITE SHIRT, R350, WOOLWORTHS. MARYANN MIDNIGHT PANTS, R2 399, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. MAIRA MIDNIGHT BLAZER, R4 699, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. BLUE PATENT STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO.

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FASHION main EOA

ELEGANT

Jackets

FOR ANY OCCASION

A perfectly tailored blazer goes well with blue jeans, skirts, dresses and almost everything else in your closet. Tumi Mdluli shows you how to style your blazer when the occasion calls for you to dress down or dress up.

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

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april 2015

BLACK SINGLEBREASTED BLAZER, R4 500, KAREN MILLEN. BLACK VEST, R129, TOPSHOP. BLACK & WHITE BALL NECKLACE, R120, ZURI. RED & BLACK TARTAN SKIRT, R799, GAP, STUTTAFORDS. MAROON SOCKS, R169, ALDO. GLADIATOR ANKLE BOOT, R599, CALL IT SPRING.

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EssAY S of Afric a

FASHION main EOA

BLACK SHAE PANEL BLAZER, R999, FOREVER NEW. WHITE VEST, R129, TOPSHOP. BLUE SKIRT, R899, FOREVER NEW. BRATT BLACK DRESS, R1 499, STEVE MADDEN. GOLD EARDROP EARRINGS, R120, ZURI. BRIGHT BLUE BLAZER, R2 499, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. WHITE TRAPEZE TOP, R899, GAP, STUTTAFORDS. BOYFRIEND JEANS, R799, GAP,STUTTAFORDS. BLUE PATENT STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO. RASPBERRY ROSE BLAZER, R999, FOREVER NEW. BLACK SCALLOPED EDGE TOP, R499, STUTTAFORDS. PALM TREE PARADE PRINT SHORTS, R1 399, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO. CRYSTAL PINK BRACELET, R140, ZURI.

E ss AYS of A f ri c a

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a pr il 2015

LEVIA STEP HEM BLAZER, R1 499, FOREVER NEW. ANIMAL PRINT DRESS, R1199, FOREVER NEW. BLACK/LEOPARD PRINT HIGH HEELS, R1 299, STEVE MADDEN.

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Ess AYS of A frica

FASHION main EOA

CRYSTAL CREAM FITTED BLAZER, R699, FOREVER NEW. GREY CROPPED TOP, R559, TOPSHOP. GREY PENCIL SKIRT, R499, TOPSHOP. BRACELET, R150, ZURI. TAN HIGH HEELS, R1 399, STEVE MADDEN. BLACK CHRISTINA FITTED LEATHER DRESS, R2 999, FOREVER NEW. ORANGE CURVED HEM JACKET, R2 599, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK SHOE BOOTS, R3 500, KAREN MILLEN.

E ss AYS of A f r i c a

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april 2015

GREY BLAZER, R2 299, TRENERY, WOOLWORTHS. CHARCOAL T-SHIRT, R249, WOOLWORTHS. LONG DIAMOND SILVER NECKLACE, R370, ZURI. SUPER SOFT ANKLE GRAZER, R779, TOPSHOP.

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FASHION main EOA

BLACK HAT, R199, WOOLWORTHS. SILVER NECK DRAPE SNAKE CHAIN, R270, ZURI. WINTER WHITE SHIRT, R350, WOOLWORTHS. MARYANN MIDNIGHT PANTS, R2 399, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. MAIRA MIDNIGHT BLAZER, R4 699, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. BLUE PATENT STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO.

E ss AYS of A f ri c a

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a pr il 2015

CORAL CROPPED BOUCLE PEPLUM, R3 399, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK MABEL LEATHER NECK DRESS, R4 299, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK STILETTOS, R1 499, ALDO.

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EssAY S of Afric a

FASHION main EOA

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS.

BALL MINT NECKLACE, R120, ZURI. BLUE BLAZER WITH BUTTONS, R949, TOP SHOP. BLACK VEST, R129, TOPSHOP. CANDY BAR STRIPED SKIRT, R1 799, STUTTAFORDS.

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a pr il 2015

KHOSI JIYANE

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

REal life EOA

PSYCHE OF A SOCIETY UNDER PRESSURE

WORDS: KHOSI JIYANE. PICTURES SUPPLIED BY KHOSI JIYANE.

Transpersonal clinical psychologist, Khosi Jiyane, gives her broad-brush reflections on where we are psychologically as a society.

have been privileged to work with a broad spectrum of people, from disparate backgrounds and in a variety of contexts.

So, I draw on this tapestry of experience, to offer my reflections on where we are psychologically as a society. There is, of course, nothing in what I say that applies equally to all people and situations, at all times. Therefore, I nudge you the reader not to be a passive voyeur. Instead, I invite you to actively engage in your own reflection, from both a societal collective and your own personal life, as a unit of society.

From my work experiences over time, one of the key challenges I believe we are grappling with is the quest for meaning in life, amidst overwhelming and often contradictory priorities and commitments. Learners have to make and master subject choices in a vacuum of both who they are and what contribution they can and want to make in society. With the corporate drive to extract ever-increasing profit margins, people are on a whirling treadmill of change, which exerts pressure and erodes the boundary between work and personal life. Our frantic efforts to measure up to a barrage of demands, to feather our nests and ward off the threat of job and income insecurity, are admonished for lack of work-life balance.

These challenges mirror the complexity of life that all of us face. We are spinning in a web of competing economic, political, technological, religious and socio-cultural exigencies, which are further textured by historical dynamics that have shaped the South African landscape. Like fish in water, we are shaped by this context and in turn we have to carve and captain our own ship to navigate these same murky waters.

E ssays of A f ri c a

It’s no surprise then that in the hats I wear through my work, I encounter the stark polarity of our societal dilemma.

A huge sector of our society is drowning in hopelessness and helplessness. On the other hand, on the surface of appearances, people have made it and have all the material trappings to show for it, yet on the inside they are beset by feelings of emptiness.

If I professed to have THE answer, I would be no different to the many pamphlets distributed on street corners, claiming to be the panacea to all of life’s dilemmas. However, given the urgency of a turnaround from the trajectory of these feelings of desperation, I believe this is one of the deepest societal crises of our time, with trans-generational ramifications. I am persuaded that the consciousness we embody needs to be adequate to the magnitude and complexity of challenges we confront. Otherwise, we run the risk of overwhelming challenges and we will inevitably always fall short.

We have, as a society, been lured into the shallow populism of a compensatory discourse in our drive, which has translated into a guise to redress the imbalances of our socio-political history. While this secures party-based loyalty, it incapacitates the very people it purports to benefit, lowers the collective ethic and threatens to plunge the country into a spiral of mass destruction. This is no different to parents who overindulge children in their efforts to outdo and score points, while being oblivious to the eventual detriment of those children.

We need to wake up from the euphoria of a democracy, drunk with rights and thus promoting a lopsided and impoverished understanding and application of democracy.

The Bill of Responsibilities should be equal to, simultaneous with and inseparable from the Bill of Rights. E

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apr il 2015

5 By 25!

BOOKS

Becoming a published author is not easy, which is why Nonhlanhla Mnisi’s story of publishing five books by 25 is one worth hearing.

Q How did your career as a writer start?

It all began when I was 12 years old. I had just lost my mom through an HIVrelated disease and I wrote out of pain to curse the illness. At 21 I started working and one day when we had a system shut down, I printed one of my poems out and showed it to one of my clients. She immediately suggested that I publish a book and connected me with publishers in the UK who requested to see my writing style.

After screening my work, they asked me to write more pieces and within two weeks my first book was published.

This was made extra special by the fact that it was published on my late mother’s birthday.

Q You had five books published by the time you were 25. Tell us how that happened?

After releasing my first book Life Changes in 2010 with Xlibris, I took a break for three years. In 2013 I wrote three more books and launched them in October that year, under the theme 4 Books at 24 years.

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I was fasting for a month at my church, House of Destiny Family Church, while writing the first book in that series and within eight days of the 21-day prayer journey, I had poured out my heart and finished my life story, Shades Of My Brutality, in February 2013.

That same year I visited my mentor, Bridgette Ngobese, and spent three nights with her as she shared her journey about surviving cancer. It took me another three days to work through the content I had gained from Bridgette to write and finish her book, Stained For A Season, Cleansed For Life, published in August 2013, which included a foreword from Ma Lillian Dube.

Overdue Resignation, my fourth book, was published soon after that. I wrote this after I had resigned from the corporate world without anything to fall back on. I lived without an income for about seven months until my dreams nudged me into living my purpose-filled path.

In 2014 I wrote my fifth book, A Good Woman/Man BUT Not A Great Partner. It took me two months – the longest I have taken to write a book – partly due to the contributors I

wanted to get involved in the process, as I am not a relationship expert. I was fortunate enough to get the likes of Jerry Mofokeng, Thabo Mokwele, David Molapo, Felicia Buthelezi, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Zama Mkosi to contribute and the book was launched

by Empowaworx In May 2014.

Q What qualities do you think you possess that allowed you to be able to achieve this kind of publishing feat?

I think I had the hunger for it, the type of hunger that has given you a glimpse of the output for your input.

Ecclesiastes (7:8) says: “The end of a matter is better than its beginning.”

I would therefore be so drawn to the closure of any writing project more than focusing on the toiling process of sleepless nights. I also strongly believe that the work that God has started in me, He will bring it to completion.

Dedication is another quality that I have. I’m beyond committed to my craft; it’s the kind of work I do with my heart and not my strength. Passion also drives me. I actually have my own

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

Q&A EOA

formula in life: VISION + PASSION = PURPOSE, meaning if what I’m doing is not passion-driven then I’m not living my purpose to the full!

Q Who is your audience?

Although all people have different journeys, our experiences are linked and in the uniqueness of our stories we share certain things that bring us together. So I write for people who’ve gone through loss (Shades of my Brutality), people who are looking for a new start (Overdue Resignation), or people who need a miracle in their relationships (A Good Woman/Man BUT Not A Great Partner).

Different books speak to the needs across our demographical landscape.

Q How have you overcome some of the hurdles you have faced as a young black female writer in South Africa?

Firstly, publishing funds were hard to come by. I overcame this by saving up and paying for my own craft. Secondly, getting my books into the bookshops at a good rate. This can be difficult because the writer only makes a small percentage of the money generated by sales.

Q What advice do you have for other aspiring young writers?

PHOTOGRAPHER: DOUBLE U MEDIA, INFINITEGRACE.CO.ZA

My loving sister likes saying: “Be Unstoppable” and I think those two words are a mouthful to encourage any person who aspires to be somewhere one day. People should channel their thoughts towards what they believe in, no matter who objects!

Q Do you think writers are appropriately celebrated in South Africa?

In my view people are more often acknowledged outside the country first before they are recognised in SA. I know that when I one day scoop an international award, only then will SA respond and say: “She’s one of our own.”

Q What else do you do outside of writing so many books?

I’m a freelance writer for the Arts section

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

NONHLANHLA MNISI

of the Mail and Guardian. I recently started my own company, SwitchArk Productions, which specialises in Public Relations for organisations and individuals. One of my recent projects was to work on a Princess of Africa Foundation project founded by Yvonne Chaka Chaka to promote and create awareness for her Let’s Talk Campaign. I also work as a ghostwriter for clients and I offer content to radio and TV Shows.

Q What’s next in your personal journey? Where would you like to

see yourself in the next five years?

I plan to leave SA in May 2015 to take up a year-long course in Film & TV Producing with the New York Film Academy. I was offered a partial scholarship by the academy and I am currently raising the remaining balance. Once I graduate, I intend to produce some books and specialise in documentaries, films and reality shows. In five years, I would have scooped three SAFTAs and I will be launching my 10th book by the time I turn 30. E

35

APRIL 2015

EOA UNCOVERED

BY NDONI KHANYILE

INTROSPECTION about a place called HOME

find writing about South Africa taxing and writing about this moment in our country’s social and political evolution is particularly difficult. The year 2014 marked 20 years of our democratic dispensation and an undeniable shift in our public discourse. Who would have imagined that parliament TV would be more scandalous or gripping than any daytime soap or that we would see countless public figures, rightly or wrongly, scrutinised, ridiculed or shamed via social media, open letters and opinion pieces. The year 2014 also exposed Cape Town, the city I call home, as the site for some of the most violent and hateful racial attacks in recent memory. The fault lines are evident. There is much work to be done.

Being black in Cape Town is an exercise in invisibility. This is especially true if you are a black professional navigating the overwhelmingly white spaces occupied by the middle class. I was fully aware of this dynamic when I moved from Johannesburg and having lived here as a student, I believed I was fully equipped to deal the realities of the Western Cape. What I didn't anticipate is the extent of the anger that I would come to live with every day.

Enough time spent in an environment that ignores or discounts you because of the colour of your skin, and undermines you because black excellence is seen as a threat, will gradually chip away at you.

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36

With each chip, seeds of anger are planted and nurtured until the fruit blooms inside you and gives way to cynicism and despair.

I see the effects of this cynicism in my interactions with white people. Unless you are a white person that I know (and I mean really well), I expect the worst. I expect to be disappointed. I expect my lived experience to be discounted and if the conversation even remotely veers to politics, I expect to be told to calm down because my anger doesn’t pair well with the Chenin Blanc. It’s exhausting.

I decided to not talk politics with people I didn’t know. That helped, temporarily, but did nothing to build what I wanted most. Connection.

Connection with the city I live in, connection with people with whom I share this space and connection to a broader vision that all 50 million of us can strive towards. How does one build this sense of connection? I don’t know.

What I do know is if South Africa is ever to belong to ALL who live in it, then we will have to start building more than we destroy, encouraging more than we criticise and reaching out across our lines of deeply entrenched difference. None of this is easy but our collective anger and what we do with it could be a place to start. E

Do you see a way forward, a way to connect and build a future? Write to us at letters@ essaysofafrica.com or Tweet us #letsconnect @EssaysOfAfrica.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPH: NDONI KHANYILE.

Twenty-one years after South Africa gained her independence, NDONI KHANYILE still finds that there are many issues, including anger, to work through.

Continental

REAL WOMAN EOA

fashion flavour Mother of three, Mbali Mngomezulu has travelled the African continent extensively which has influenced her style.

bali Mngomezulu is coowner of a branding and marketing solutions company that provides marketing solutions for Tourism and FMCG companies by drafting, implementing and activating on behalf of their clients. Her intrigue for the continent is inherited from her mother who also travelled extensively and as a teenager, Mbali longed to accompany her mother on her travels to the African countries she often described to her. Fulfilling a childhood ambition, Mbali has travelled to 20 countries across the continent, describing her encounters to countries ranging as close to home as Botswana and Angola to as far afield as Senegal and Ghana, as having been both exhilarating and educational opportunities where she has encountered many different people and situations. With her passion for travel being rivaled only by a love of food and fashion, and of course her three children, Mbali was thrilled to get the opportunity strike a pose for this issue of Essays Of Africa’s Real Women segment! Smile! E

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

37

GRAPHIC GODDESS DRESS, R799, CITY CHIC. TURQUOISE SHOES WITH SNAKESKIN DETAILS, R1 099, NINE WEST. GOLD EARRINGS, R120, ZURI.

AFRICAN PRINT DRESS, R850, SEGAMETSI TRIBAL WEAR. PURPLE SUEDE SHOES, R699, EUROPA ART SHOES. CRYSTAL PINK BRACELET, R140, ZURI.

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Ess AYS of A frica

REAL WOMAN EOA

PHOTOGRAPER: GARETH JACOBS. STYLIST: TUMI MDLULI. MAKE UP & HAIR: PRUDENCE SEGAME.

FLORAL JUMPSUIT, R1 100, SIES! ISABELLE. PURPLE SHOES, R699, EUROPA ART SHOES. GOLD EARRINGS, R120, ZURI.

JUNGLE BLUE PRINT DRESS WRAP, R749, CITY CHIC. SNAKESKIN SHOES, R999, NINE WEST. STATEMENT NECKLACE, R350, ZURI. BRACELET, R180, ZURI.

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

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april 2015

BONGI MTHEMBU

Creating the

SPOTLIGHT With several thriving businesses under her belt, brand marketing specialist, Bongi Mthembu, now has her eye on amplifying the greatness of the African continent.

hen it comes to getting what she wants, creative director of Amplify Africa, Bongi Mthembu, has always had tunnel vision. As a teenager growing up in Tembisa, a township in the East Rand of Johannesburg, Bongi says she pushed herself to pay her own way through a BComm degree in Marketing from the University Of South Africa. That was just the beginning of her determination. Even though her career has had a lot of highs, Bongi’s personal life wasn’t without challenges. This branding guru says she grew up with a “father who was a business person and very domineering.”

As a result, she says she suffered from identity issues. By the age of 29, Bongi had gone through a lot in her personal life. At 21 she had given birth to her first son; at 23 her mother had a stroke and passed away, and by 29, she was divorced. She cites the birth of her first son as one of “my biggest

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teachers”. The others came in the form of career twists that gave her an impressive resumé.

In 1993, Bongi started her first job at Sun Air on her 21st birthday. She couldn’t have known it at the time but three years later, she spread her wings to enter the world of airport advertising, which led her to a sales stint at Coca-Cola after which she spent some time at the Reed Elsevier publishing company. Bongi explains that Reed Elsevier helped her “to understand how the top performing businesses were doing it and how to export products into Africa.”

Shortly after that, Bongi was made a territory marketing manager at IBM where she fell in love with social entrepreneurship. It was there that Bongi worked closely with the World Vision humanitarian aid and advocacy organisation. “It was very structured,” she says of her experience.

Furthermore, she attributes being who she is today and the birth of her company, Beyondyourvision Marketing, with World Vision.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

profile EOA BEING THE BOSS

Bongi started Beyondyourvision Marketing, a strategic visual brand communications company in 2003. “I looked up to Happy Ntshingila and Peter Vundla of HerdBuoys [South Africa’s first blackowned advertising agency] and knew I was passionate about marketing brands who had a passion for Africa,” remembers Bongi. “That’s what gave me the opportunity to sit with Ringo Madlingozi and say: ‘Let’s package you.’” While she likes corporate branding, Bongi first fell in love with personality branding, which she describes as derived from knowing one’s “name, positioning statement and promise. There’s more than just image that goes into personality branding.

“We study the person. Their spirit, mind and physical entity aren’t divorced from their bigger picture. It’s about all the dynamics that allow a person to extend themselves and their values beyond their music and endorsement deals.” To date, she is proud of having helped the likes of Nhlanhla Nciza of Mafikizolo fame step out of her music group’s shadow to establish her fashion side and more. Bongi has worked with musicians such as Kwela Tebza, KB Motsilanyane and The Jaziel Brothers as well as comedian, David Kau, and legendary Zimbabwean soccer star, Benjani Mwaruwari.

to Zimbabwe for a testimonial match where 50 000 people came and the ticket was R1 000.” Bongi is referring to Mwaruwari’s 2012 efforts to bid farewell to playing internationally while acknowledging his fans and raising money for his foundation in the process.

Under the Amplify Africa umbrella is Amplify Woman, which Bongi describes as “an initiative that supports the transformation of young people and women in dynamic industries.” It is celebrated through a cocktail event where mentorship and inspiration are key. When asked what her favourite part of her job is, Bongi doesn’t hesitate to say: “I’m in an environment where I can create every day. Where I can build brands, corporations and personalities and link them to products we believe in. I’m in a thriving environment where I can showcase the best of Africa.” E

“I was always clear that I wanted to market brands and products that were making Africa better.”

WORDS: HELEN HERIMBI. PICTURES: SUPPLIED BY BONGI MTHEMBU.

NEW BEGINNINGS

Between marketing beauty brands that are set to revolutionise collagen use on the continent and installing a solar-powered learning centre at Tlamatlama Primary School in Tembisa, which costs over R1 million, Bongi has had her hands full. She beams when she talks about her “two-and-a-halfyear-old baby” which is Amplify Africa Consulting, the business she co-founded with well-known music industry executive, Anthony Morgan.

“My positioning statement for our company is this,” starts Bongi, “we’re about marketing Africa by Africa for Africans. I was always clear that I wanted to market brands and products that were making Africa better. So when I met Anthony, there was a synergy and collaboration between us because we wanted to amplify Africa through the personalities we meet.” She is especially proud of “being responsible for getting Land Rover into the black affluent market in Africa. And for bringing top affluent soccer players

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april 2015

FASHION EOA WHITE BLAZER, R1 199, MANGO.

BLACK BATWING SWEATER WITH SPIKES, R150, RAGE.

100% SILK SQUARE SCARF, R2 365, LUISA SPAGNOLI.

BLACK ANKLE BOOT, R549, RAGE.

ZIP CROSSBODY BAG, R350, WOOLWORTHS.

COUNTRY COOL IS IN

BRUSHED SCARF, R99, UTOPIA, ZANDO.

again

CONTOUR Trends making a SKINNY, R2 199, comeback this season G-STAR RAW. include batwing knitted tops and cowboy ankle boots. Add a little updated country to your style.

CONTOUR HIGH SKINNY, R2 199, G-STAR RAW.

LEBEAU COGNAC ANKLE BOOT R1499, ALDO.

SNAKEPRINT NEOPRENE CLUTCH, R1 999, TIGER OF SWEDEN.

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APRIL 2015

Shopping BLOGAN CREAM BAG, R999, STEVE MADDEN.

BLACK WAFFLE STITCH BATWING SWEATER, R2 099, JIGSAW, EDGARS.

WHITE BATWING TOP, R2 799, TIGER OF SWEDEN.

GRAND NATURAL SNAKESKIN ANKLE BOOT, R1199, STEVE MADDEN.

CHIC &

contemporary

GOLD CUFF WITH COLOURFUL STONES, R1 395, KAIKA JEWELLERY.

A woman of style needs no introduction.

MILLITARY LEGGING, R119, MRP.

PATENT BOWLER HANDBAG, R130, MRP. SUEDE ALLUM HEEL, R1 199, ALDO.

BLACK PRUCIA HAT WITH GOLD DETAIL, R399, ALDO.

ROBERTO CAVALLI PURPLE SUNGLASSES, R4 200, SDM.

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

FASHION EOA DUO SNOOD, R120, UTOPIA, ZANDO.

GREY CARDIGAN WITH HALF ZIP, R2 600, KAREN MILLEN.

DRESS WITH VELVET CONTRAST PANEL, R4 499, TIGER OF SWEDEN.

LACEY HAOWIA PEEP TOE, R599, CALL IT SPRING.

PONTI LEGGING QUILTED, R100, MRP.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

TASSLE SHOPPER BAG, R120, MRP.

RYAT BLACK NUBUCK BOOT, R1 799, STEVE MADDEN.

MAROON TRIM SHOPPER, R229, UTOPIA, ZANDO.

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APRIL 2015

Fashionably ON TIME

Sheria Ngowi’s passion for design has made him a household name in the fashion circles around the world. Find out more about this designer who is representing Africa on the world fashion map.

SHERIA NGOWI

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

FASHION INTERVIEW EOA

heria Ngowi is a name that turns heads in fashion circles across the continent and beyond. The 32-yearold Tanzanian fashion designer always had a knack for style mainly because his father did, but when he thought of following in his father’s footsteps, it wasn’t fashion that he had in mind.

Sheria studied law, like his father, but fashion kept calling and luckily for us, he answered. We interviewed him to find out exactly who Sheria Ngowi is and why the Sheria Ngowi brand is one you’ll be hearing of for many years to come.

WORDS: ZAMA NKOSI. IMAGES: HENRI H LOMBARD PHOTOGRAPHY.

Q How Did Your Career In Fashion Start?

My career began famously in 2008 when I debuted my designs for both women and men under the brand name Sheria Na Mavazi in Mysore, India. In 2009, I launched my first professional collection under my own name, Sheria Ngowi Designs. The Collection was a dedication to my late father who was the driving force behind my love for fashion. I decided to focus on one gender at a time to ensure that I put my all into each of the collections. The women’s collection is on the way.

For me fashion is an art; another way to speak to the world and convey the message: This is who I am. This is how I feel. This is what I think. It is a form of self-expression manifested through a physical style. Style speaks volumes. No words needed..“Don’t copy others – but rather tell your own story.

Q What Were The Key Elements To Building Your Brand?

Every industry has its own lingo. In the fashion industry, every successful brand has a point of view which stands as a unique perspective on who the customer is, what the customer wants, what beauty is, what makes for compelling clothes, what’s hot now, what’s classic, what’s in, what’s out – just about everything. A point of view encompasses so much of what a designer stands for or represents. My point of view is more than just a positioning statement or a tagline. It’s how my brand sees the world. Curation then becomes a function of that point of view. When my brand has a strong point of view, I can curate the content in the world, selecting, organising and displaying it in a way that tells a story, a brand story, rather than just being a jumbled mess.

Q What Do You Think About The Fashion Landscape In Africa At The Moment?

Indeed, Africa is the Future. What African designers need is exposure. Ultimately it’s about recognition. If the mainstream media gives credit to African fashion designers then it’s a good thing. But you find that whenever most foreign media are writing about ‘African print’, they never cite any African designer; it’s mostly foreign big names. It would be great to see collaborations between local and international designers for collections. Although some argue that international markets are ripping off African fashion designers, I disagree.

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Anything that keeps Africa in style is a good thing and its time for the fashion establishments to give African designers the credit and exposure they deserve. It is important that the world knows that Africa has a great fashion industry. It’s quite positive that African cultures and our way of life do influence internationally renowned design houses. The thing I’ve seen with Western designers is they get creative with the fabric. So it’s quite interesting to see the Western world kind of embrace the African print. African talent and culture is finally being appreciated all over the world and it’s about time. We have seemed to go global, making a very strong statement.

Q What Qualities Are Needed To Succeed In Fashion?

Firstly, confidence. The fashion industry is very cutthroat; it takes confidence to present your original work to your clients and marketplace. Secondly, quick thinking. I must make immediate decisions while working on new designs or products. Thirdly, being a business-minded person. I must have the ability to negotiate, manage budgets and set prices that generate profit. Lastly, but not least, being a team player and a good communicator.

Q What Tips Do You Have For People Who Want To Dress Better?

If you really like wearing something quite out there, you need to be sure you can carry it off and that it actually looks good on you. The best way to judge is to never think that you're dressing for other people; it’s not, it’s for you. You make and break your image. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. Nowadays not everyone wants total looks. You should always mix brands and seasons, new pieces with vintage ones.

Q How Can People Get Their Hands On Your Work?

My online store website is under final construction at the moment. Once completed, interested customers will be supplied with all necessary information concerning how and where they can purchase my designs. I will also be opening my flagship stores in Johannesburg (South Africa), Lusaka (Zambia) and Nairobi (Kenya). This will be done in conjunction with my fashion show, which I will be participating in this year across London, Milan, Paris, New York and South Africa. They can also find us on our website or social media pages, which I update frequently to showcase all of the things going on in the Sheria Ngowi world. E

FIND SHERIA NGOWI DESIGNS ON: Website: www.sheriangowi.com Facebook: Sheria Ngowi Twitter: SheriaNgowi Instagram: sheriangowi Blog: www.sherianamavazi.blogspot.com

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PABI Reinvented

Known for her fierce reluctance to share facts about her personal life, Pabi Moloi lowers her mask to give EOA a little insight into the awe-inspiring woman she’s become.

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ver the last decade I have probably written close to one hundred celebrity profiles. Some have been headline grabbers, with no-holdsbarred blood and gutsy details spilt, while others were PR-driven yawn marathons.

Knowing that Pabi has kept a lot about her personal pain and struggles hidden from the world for many years, I was in two minds about how our interview for this issue’s cover would proceed. When we did meet on an overcast Wednesday afternoon in Parkhurst a few weeks back, I was stunned to see a jaw-droppingly gorgeous, svelte and sexy Pabi arrive.

Although I’d been watching her physical transformation on Instagram over the last year, it was difficult to not be surprised to

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see how great she looks in the flesh. But I was soon to discover that Pabi hasn’t just been through an external overhaul… after a few minutes I sense that there is a new Pabi who’s eventually decided to open the book of her life to the world and share her story with Essays of Africa and me.

“The reason I’ve always been so private is because it’s been my sanity,” the gorgeous Pabi begins. “I’ve been in the public domain since I was four years old and privacy’s been my survival mechanism.

Also I never wanted to be labelled or seen as the poster child for addiction, but over the last year I’ve come to the understanding that part of my super power is my story. Now instead of being so afraid to say anything,” she adds, “I’m starting to speak as much as I am comfortable with.”

Over the next few hours I watch her find the words to explain her truth. It’s clear that this is really new territory and rather difficult for her, but she was resolute. “In February 2012, one of

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my best friends was murdered. The way she was killed was horrific and I am not too comfortable talking about it much, as it is really her family’s story to tell,” she says thoughtfully. “Although I had experienced death before, I’d never gone through something like this.”

There are stages of loss or grief and Pabi admits to being launched directly into the fourth stage of depression and sadness. “As hard as I tried, the grief wouldn’t go away. I would wake up in the middle of the night, my pillow soaked in tears. I’d go to gym, cap down low, sunnies on and cry on the treadmill. I’d go to work (at 94.7 Highveld Stereo) and cry during songs. On TV shoots, the make-up artist would have to retouch under my eyes, over and over. This went on for months,” she recalls.

To rub salt into this painful wound, her boyfriend at the time ended their relationship just a week after her friend’s murder, claiming that he couldn’t handle this version of the woman he was with, the one who was experiencing such intense emotions instead of partying and swinging from the chandeliers. “I don't blame him now,” Pabi says, reflecting back on the moment, “but back then it definitely felt like a double blow. I just shut down and it felt as if I was no longer present in my own life.”

A distraught Pabi began to struggle with insomnia, her anxiety making it impossible for her to sleep without any lights on. “There was a time when I slept with a block of kitchen knives under my bed, my deep-seated paranoia made me fearful of nighttime attacks,” she admits. “It has only been recently that I have been able to sleep in the dark.” As she slowly spiralled out of control, her world turning into a black tunnel with no hope of escape, Pabi was prescribed antidepressants. “Those pills made me so hungry and no matter how much I ate, I still felt starving!” Within eight months, Pabi’s weight had ballooned by 20 kilograms. “Look, I naturally love to eat,” she confesses, “so you can imagine!

But this hunger was crazy. I’d be trawling through my cupboards in the middle of the night to find food and I had no idea just how fat I was getting!”

The following year, 2012, proved to be a brutal one. An internal battle waged within her and Pabi found herself at a crossroads before the year was out. She couldn’t see any effects of the antidepressants, other than an increased

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waistline so she ceased taking them and by November – after having been a teetotaler for five years – she took her first drink in the form of champagne at a concert. There is a saying amongst addicts that “one is too many and a thousand is never enough”, and so naturally Pabi’s drinking didn’t stop at just that one glass. “I knew from the moment I had that drink that it was going to get out of hand. Soon I found myself drinking on my own just trying to get numb,” she says. “I would go to work, come home and start drinking.”

By February 2013, Pabi had reached a dark, desolate place and with the last bit of strength in her, she booked herself into rehab. “That was truly one of the best things I have ever done. I went into treatment exactly a year to the day of my friend’s murder.” Her process of recovery entailed seeking that unflinching truth. “I had always imagined honesty was all about not lying, but then I came to realise that being honest also meant not omitting any part of the truth,” she admits. “I found out that the part of the truth that I needed to deal with most was admitting that I was having a tough time and that I had no idea how to grieve loss.”

PRESSING RESET All the pressures of being a child star had conditioned Pabi to keep it together and not let the cracks show.

“I really started speaking about the loss of my friend and I was forced to face childhood issues like the loss of my grandfather when I was in Std 9 (Grade 11). He was key in making me the person I am today.” Fortunately, Pabi’s relapse detour only lasted four months – November 2012 to February 2013 – and it didn't break her entire life apart.

“It lasted just long enough for me to press the reset button and reinvent parts of my life, such as my job at 94.7 Highveld Stereo. I needed to find the courage to step out of that comfort zone and venture into something new.”

And find something new she did when, in June 2013, her dream job at Power FM was about to become a reality. “I always wanted to learn about talk radio, which is what I am doing now. It’s a new skill and I love it! I’m being challenged so much there!” she says with great excitement.

The other big catalyst for change that came after rehab was the opportunity to co-present Strictly Come Dancing with Marc Lottering in July 2013.

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“After the audition, the producer called me and asked me, very nicely, if I could lose weight before we went on air. I wasn’t hurt; in fact, I have thanked her countless times because it woke me up. She made a few recommendations for me to take injectables and go to these clinics where they pulverise your fat, but thousands of Rands later I had lost no weight.”

Finally Pabi contacted her personal trainer and found ways to drastically reduce her food intake. “But it’s really been about working out and consistency.

I trained every day. Initially I started with a leisurely 90-minute cycle, and then I built up strength and began to do more cardio. Overall I have lost around 20 kilos. I enjoy what I look like because I’ve really toned up and gained a lot of muscle.” But it’s not only the

physical benefits that Pabi notices. “I find the mental and spiritual gains so empowering. I make an appointment with myself every day and I keep it, and that’s also really helped me to overcome the negative self-talk. In the end it’s all about an act of self-love.”

By the end of our meeting, I feel lighthearted and I notice that Pabi has a glow about her too. That leads me to my next question about whether or not there is a new love in her life. She doesn’t hesitate: “I’m in a fantastic relationship; I’m really, really happy. I’ve never been happier in my life!” Her huge, beautiful eyes literally sparkle out their sockets as she acknowledges her new unnamed man. And we all know the windows to our souls never lie. Pabi is back, happier and healthier than she has ever been. E

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PRUDENCE SEGAMI. FASHION: Robot Trading. ACCESSORIES: MASK FROM BELLAGIO. ZURI.

MAIN COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. WORDS: MELINDA FERGUSON. STYLING: TUMI MDLULI. HAIR & MAKE-UP:

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5 BASIC TOOLS FOR A BETTER YOU Adult life can be so busy that you easily forget life’s basic principles that allow you to thrive.

Here are five tools to help you sparkle just a little bit more.

rom Aristotle to Shakespeare, Madiba to Oprah, powerful people through the ages have shared their wisdom in the hope of inspiring and motivating us to live our best lives. Quite what this means can differ greatly for each of us; we all have innate dreams, desires and beliefs that shape our unique destinies. Yet as disparate and varied as these may be, Maslow was right, there are certain core truths that apply to us all.

Once our basic needs of food, shelter and comfort are met, our lives become about maximising happiness.

Easier said than done! Indeed, happiness is not a matter of intensity. Rather, it’s one of balance and harmony. Leading a happier, healthier life can only come about if there’s balance between the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. These five practical tools are a common thread through many self-help books, spiritual practices and life coaching, and they serve as stepping stones towards finding more balance and control in your life. If practised daily, they can help create positive, powerful change in a short space of time.

1. ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT “If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.” – Nora Roberts Most of us aren’t mind readers. Whether you’re unhappy with a relationship, dissatisfied with a hairdresser or wanting better pay from your job, it’s up to you to make a clear, unapologetic request. Women have been conditioned and socialised to be people pleasers, so this doesn’t always come naturally. But those

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who are bold enough to take a stand and speak their truth never regret it. Practise mindfulness and become aware of your feelings and instincts. Trust yourself to know what you need.

As Maya Angelou said, “Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it!”

2. SPRING CLEAN “In the scope of a happy life, a messy desk or an overstuffed coat closet is a trivial thing, yet I find – and I hear from other people that they agree – that getting rid of clutter gives a disproportionate boost to happiness.”

– Julia Cameron Detox your mind, body and contact list. In a practical sense, this means getting rid of all the crap. Spend a weekend going through all your stuff. Do you love it? Do you use it? Would you miss it if it were gone? If the answer is no, then make your trash another person’s treasure. Donate old books to a library or school in need and that too-small dress can outfit someone for her matric dance.

Free up space in your life for more good stuff to come in and help others in the process.

Detoxing includes getting rid of the toxins polluting your life and draining your energy. Junk food and sugar may be a quick fix, but inevitably leave you feeling more tired and lethargic. You simply cannot function in high gear if you don’t get the right amount of rest, exercise and healthy food (i.e. fresh, real food, not the processed stuff). Learn to appreciate and nurture your body, making healthy choices and pampering it every once in a while.

The same rule applies to toxic people; it is either your happiness or theirs. There is no way for it to be a win-win situation. Let go of people who don’t support you and rid yourself of unnecessary negative energy. Simplify your relationships by connecting with people you truly care about and getting rid of the ones you don’t.

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WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

SELF-EMPOWERMENT EOA

3. FIND STILLNESS. OFTEN. “Be Still. Stillness reveals the secrets of eternity.” – Lao Tzu It is said that whenever there is stillness, a calm and quiet voice emerges from the whirlwind. Call it God, the universe or your own inner truth; no matter the name you give it, this is the essence of life speaking to you. Moments of meditation and silence are so rare these days, we treat it as a luxury.

But it is in these moments that we connect to our core. The need for drama, anxiety and fear dissipates. External noise is drowned out by the clarity that comes with inner peace. Get outdoors. Commune with nature. Breathe deeply and consciously.

Discover beauty in simplicity. Go for a calming walk or a relaxing massage. And heal yourself in the process.

sense of playfulness, life becomes very dull. Indeed, no matter your profession, we all have a bit of artist in us – just as we all contain an inner child longing to swing through the air and run free. There is nothing as fulfilling as being engaged entirely in a task of fantasy and pleasure.

This could involve cooking a new and exotic dish, spending an afternoon painting (even if it’s just finger paint) or playing a game for the sheer thrill of it, without any expectations of an end result.

Play keeps you vital and alive, giving you an enthusiasm for life that is irreplaceable. Without it, life just doesn’t feel good. In essence, being playful means being open to anything: exploring new tastes and adventures, being spontaneous and connecting to your creativity.

4. PLAY! “Play is the exultation of the possible.” – Martin Buber

5. ONLY CONNECT “The history of your happiness is the history of your feeling connected.” – Vironika Tugaleva

Connecting to your inner child may seem like the domain of artists, but without a

Connection is everything. Philosophers, poets, healers and leaders all come from

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a place of great connection – with lovers, friends, family and the world at large. It is a common truth that no one can know their own beauty or perceive a sense of self-worth until it has been reflected back to them in the mirror of another loving, caring human being. To be acknowledged, noticed and loved can be transformative.

Our culture of consumption leads us to eat too much, buy too much and want too much. We try to fill the gaping holes within us with material things, believing we’re hungry for status or money, when what we’re really hungry for is connection.

Whatever you’re lacking in your life, find it through connection with others.

Visit your parents and grandparents more often, if you’re lucky to still have them alive. Spend silly afternoons connecting and laughing with friends. Don’t shy away from moments of intimacy with others.

A simple phone call to your sister or best friend can instantly lift your mood. Visit someone who’s going through a difficult time; a change in perspective will do you a world of good. E

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BEFORE YOU SAY

money EOA

MARRIAGE CONTRACT OPTIONS

“Ido” The idea of vowing ‘for better or for worse’ might be appealing to you now, but have you taken the time to consider marriage contracts? It may not be romantic but it is a neccesity.

o you – fill in your name here – take your spouse to have and to hold financially responsible for their debts should your marriage fail? If that doesn’t sound familiar it’s because by the time a blushing bride walks down the aisle, the paperwork of a marriage contract is usually considered a done deal. But, most women do not know that they have more than one marriage contract option.

Babongile Bophela, an attorney at Schreuder Attorneys, advises every woman to have That Talk with her spouse sooner rather than later.

“Always choose the matrimonial property system that will suit you and your spouse’s financial needs,” she says. “If, for example, you know that your future husband is not good with finances and is always recklessly incurring debt, it would not be wise to marry in community of property because your spouse’s creditors will become the creditors of the joint estate.”

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So what are the marriage contract options available under South African law and what do they mean for your bottom line?

CONTRACT: Community of Property For The Woman Who: Chooses to share all her assets and debts with her spouse and vice versa or for the stay-at-home mom who must maintain her lifestyle should the breadwinner leave her.

Bottom Line: If you don’t conclude an antenuptial agreement before marriage, you allow the law to choose the matrimonial property regime for you. The default contract then becomes marriage in Community of Property. Bophela explains, “Generally speaking, everything you and your spouse owned before the marriage and everything you acquire thereafter and throughout the duration of the marriage forms part of the joint estate. This includes not only assets but each other’s debts as well. You may not dispose of any assets that form part of the joint estate without each other's consent.”

Positives And Negatives: If wealth is acquired within the marriage, one has an equal share of it – even in divorce. However, if a partner isn’t financially stable, one risks losing financial independence by having to part with half of her hard-earned acquisitions in debt or divorce.

CONTRACT: Out Of Community Of Property (Including The Accrual System) For The Woman Who: Wants to acquire wealth and assets with her spouse without losing control of her individually-acquired assets.

Bottom Line: This contract is regulated by an antenuptial agreement and deals specifically with assets accrued during the marriage. The couple can decide to exclude assets they acquired before the marriage from being divided if they divorce.

Usually, the individuals who choose this contract agree to be responsible for their own debts and keep control of their own assets. As Bophela clarifies, “Upon dissolution of the marriage, the value of each of the spouses’ assets or estates is calculated. The estate with the higher accrual must then pay over half the difference of the net accrual of each estate to the estate with the lesser accrual, unless otherwise provided for in the antenuptial contract.”

Positives And Negatives: Controlling one’s own assets and debts is great for financial stability in the household as neither person’s bad habits threaten to bring them both down. But, in the event of

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a divorce, it can be draining and seem unfair for a woman to have to give a portion of her hard-earned assets to a person with whom she no longer shares a life.

Furthermore, if one spouse wants to buy a house, she must get the written consent of her partner. This means that “both spouses will therefore be held liable for any debts that arise from the purchases or legal acts of either spouses.”

CONTRACT: Out Of Community Of Property (excluding

SIGNING YOUR LIFE AWAY

It would be wise for a woman’s bottom line to choose a contract that includes an antenuptial agreement as this safeguards her assets from the clutches of a third party creditor. The last two contracts also offer a peace of mind that one cannot guarantee if one is married in Community Of Property. For instance, Bophela adds, “When it comes to small purchases or legal acts which don’t require a spouse’s written consent, if a spouse represents to a third party that he or she has obtained the required consent [from their spouse] and the third party could not have reasonably known that the spouse did not in fact obtain consent from his or her spouse, it is deemed that the required consent was obtained.”

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“...entering into a marriage without being fully aware of the legal consequences thereof is setting the marriage up for failure.”

BEFORE THE WEDDING BELLS RING

While it’s extremely difficult to have a Community Of Property contract changed to another contract once the papers have been signed, Bophela says it’s not completely impossible.

She cautions, “Unfortunately, once you have chosen not to conclude an antenuptial contract before entering the marriage, there is little you can do to protect your assets or money from your spouse or from your spouse's creditors.”

As such, it’s imperative to discuss the different contract options with your future spouse before you get married – even if outsiders may think it’s bad luck to talk about what must happen should you divorce.

Bophela advises women that “entering into a marriage without being fully aware of the legal consequences thereof is setting the marriage up for failure. “In my experience, most marriages end up in divorce because of unrealistic expectations and lack of knowledge regarding the consequences of marriage, legal or otherwise.

Therefore, always seek the appropriate advice.” E

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WORDS: HELEN HERIMBI. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

the accrual system) For The Woman Who: Wants to maintain or protect her wealth and assets prior to marriage or one who has an inheritance.

Bottom Line: This contract is also regulated by an antenuptial agreement and as Bophela says, “Here, no assets are shared at all. [The contract] will not include inheritances, donations and legacies, unless specifically included. Upon dissolution of the marriage, each spouse walks off with what they have and has no claim against each other’s estates.”

Positives and Negatives: A woman is free to enjoy her individually acquired assets while being assured that her partner’s finesse with finances, or lack thereof, doesn’t affect hers.

assion – for centuries, this has been the raison d'être for artists and poets, so too for activists, world leaders and maverick thinkers. Yet so rarely does it find its way into the boardroom, even though it is within these rooms that some of the biggest and most powerful decisions are often made; decisions that can have far-reaching consequences for countless lives. Enter Dudu Msomi, a woman fired by passion to effect change in the corporate world. “I have always known that I would use my passion for thinking, strategising and making situations better,” says Dudu. “I just didn’t know what form this would take.” That was until she entered the corporate environment. “I fell in love with business, organisations and leadership.”

This love for business led Dudu to make the leap into starting her own company, Busara Leadership Partners. “One of the biggest challenges for South Africa and globally is the demand for certain skills, qualifications and experience exceeds supply. There is a dearth of leadership, strategy, communication and governance skills,” explains Dudu. Busara Leadership Partners was started to address this scarcity of skills, developing effectiveness amongst board members, management and entrepreneurs, using an integrated approach. The various insights that her all-female team brings to client challenges ensure fresh and relevant results.

“It has become a South African stereotype that white people are the teachers, are experienced and competent, while black people are politically connected and need to be ‘empowered’ and trained,” states Dudu. She is motivated by the desire to eliminate this debilitating stereotype and challenge the perception that black people can only be valued for their connections or providing ‘symbolic lustre’ to a company, rather than contributing at a strategic or operational level. Her team is inspired to influence and shape the quality of leadership in our country. Dudu says, “Busara Leadership Partners

Weaving

A POWERFUL WEB

Founder and CEO of Busara Leadership Partners, Dudu Msomi is a guiding voice on transformation, ethics and governance in South Africa. Holding several directorships on the Financial Services Board and Agricultural Research Council, she spoke about empowering women and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. a p ri l 2 0 1 5

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WOMEN’S NETWORK EOA believes that effective leaders and managers have credibility because of their technical competence and personal integrity.”

A WOMAN’S PLACE IS IN THE BOARDROOM

As the head of Integrated Governance for Busara, Dudu provides strategy development, coaching and training, as well as workshops on diversity and governance. Her masterclasses for the boardroom are particularly powerful, as she guides corporates to welcome gender diversity. “Though women are increasingly respected as professionals, very few are holding leadership roles in corporate South Africa.

Companies benefit from their fresh perspectives and by understanding their customers better, who in the majority of instances are women, as they consist of 52 percent of the population,” explains Dudu. Her passion for challenging the status quo is evident, as she simply lets the facts speak for themselves: “Research has been indisputable in the fact that companies with gender diversity on boards, outperform boards lacking women representation.”

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: DUDU MSOMI.

A PASSION FOR NETWORKING

According to Dudu, there is a view that representation of women in leadership would multiply exponentially if women were readily able and willing to collaborate and actively support each other using networking as one of the main tools. This much-echoed belief drove Dudu and her team to interrogate notions that “men are better at networking than women” and that “women in the corporate world don’t offer support to each other”.

The research conducted by Busara Leadership Partners aims to propose solutions for increasing the number of women in leadership positions, as well as provide tools for women to change their circumstances. Unsurprisingly, they found that men have the ability to compartmentalise and spend time building relationships – indulging in networking activities such as golf, game farm weekends away, long lunch meetings – without guilt, as they have supportive structures in place; whereas women often see this as a selfish activity, not a ‘nice girl’ thing to do. Trying to balance quality time for both career and domestic responsibilities remains a daunting challenge, and a burden that many women carry.

Their research also shed light on how women are often friendly at the expense of supporting each other to grow. “Being too busy to actively help each other as women, perpetuates our own alienation and makes us even more vulnerable when we occupy leadership positions,” Dudu observes. She believes that change cannot be left to chance or self-promotion, particularly as women who self-promote often receive a doublestandard backlash. “As women leaders we must not underestimate our own power in taking

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on more active roles to ensure that upcoming women are exposed to experiences and decision makers that will ensure their upward mobility,” says Dudu.

She refers to a quote from former US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright: “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.” Much of Dudu’s time is spent training women on the power of networking, stating that, “Networks are critical for individuals’ successes due to the advantages one gains through access to privy information, opportunities for collaboration, protection, visibility and upward mobility.”

“Being too busy to actively help each other as women, perpetuates our own alienation and makes us even more vulnerable when we occupy leadership positions.”

LIVING BY EXAMPLE

Dudu sets an example amongst her peers in living her words, touching many lives by mentoring others. She is adamant that to be a mentor is to be instrumental in increasing women representation on boards – not just in South Africa, but also as far as one can reach. By doing so, she strives to “increase interactions, partnerships and trade amongst women globally and to build a pipeline of female leaders who bring a balance of technical competence and ethical decision-making.”

Dudu Msomi’s ultimate vision is of a world that ceases to treat women as second-class citizens; where women are valued for their skills, knowledge and experience. Her work contributes to this vision in a most powerful and profound way, propelling women to rise up and take their rightful place in business, politics and civil society.

DUDU’S TOP LEADERSHIP TIPS n As a leader, ensure that you deserve the positions you occupy because your credibility begins with trust in your technical competence. n It is critical that as a leader you have integrity in terms of having an alignment between what you say and what you do. Thus you must live the values you espouse even when is not to your benefit. You must always have the courage to do the right thing. n Stay in school. It is said that the only competency that matters in the 21st century with its exponential rate of change is that of continuous learning. It is important that as a leader you never rest on your laurels. You must never believe you know it all or that your position shields you. E

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No Romance without finance?

No matter how far the world has come in terms of career equality and equal pay between the sexes, some women still want their men to take the lead when it comes to paying the bills. ven though my 18-month relationship held so much promise, what really ended it was when I realised that Sifiso* was never going to able to take the lead when it came to our finances. Even though he ticked a whole lot of boxes – great looks, sexy, kind, intelligent and loving, I hated it that I earned more than he did.” Town planner Reabone Dlamini (34) may sound heartless, but she is not alone in her sentiments.

In this era, women are not only scaling up the corporate ladder, many are out-earning their men. “Initially we were too in love to notice,” says Reabone, “but when I got a huge promotion I was suddenly earning double his salary as a sales manager at a clothing company. My traditional upbringing kicked in and it began to become very uncomfortable, especially

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when I wanted to go to expensive clubs and restaurants and he couldn’t afford to pay. I still believe a man should pay for a woman when out on a date.”

Although recent local stats are hard to come by, (the last official Census survey was carried out in 2011, revealing 15 percent of homes had main female breadwinners), international trends of women out-earning men are definitely on the rise.

In 2014 a staggering five million US households saw women responsible for the primary source of income and a large-scale UK government survey last year showed that as many as 25 percent of women were earning the equivalent their male partners. However, attitudes often still lag behind. In a survey by international financial website NerdWallet, 77 percent of people interviewed believed men should pay the bill on the first date, while 39 percent of women admitted that they hoped men would rather pay even when they had offered to.

Essays of A frica

RELATIONSHIPS EOA

WORDS: MELINDA FERGUSON. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

NO BROKE MEN ALLOWED Unlike most women interviewed for this story, copywriter Jabulile Ngwenya (32) believes a man’s character is far more important than what he earns. “While women are increasingly earning more than men today, what’s important is that a man is able to show a woman that he can protect her, communicate well, have strong faith in God and be a good leader, both in good times and in bad. It’s very easy for a man to feel emasculated by a successful, financially independent woman if he doesn’t know who he is at heart and where he is going,” she says.

Reabone believes her boyfriend Sifiso’s* pride took a battering when he couldn’t keep up with her bank balance.

“His insecurity began to come out sideways and a lot of anger built up, which would turn into nasty fights. In the end I was the one to call it quits. It’s a pity because we were nearly perfect for each other but I really wanted a man who could treat me like a woman, spoil me with a gift, a weekend away, pay the bill at the end of a meal. As our financial gap increased, even the sex went downhill,” she admits.

RANDS AND THE BEDROOM According to Cape Town-based relationship expert and psychiatrist, Dr Mathias de Fleuriot, the bedroom is often the first place where money problems play out, especially when it comes to women out-earning men. “I believe this is one of the main reasons why there’s been such an increase in the little blue pill (Viagra) market. Money issues often directly affect a man's sense of self-worth and his libido and performance can take a knock.” As if to corroborate Dr de Fleuriot’s opinion, a 2013 study at Washington University’s Olin Business School revealed that in relationships where women earned more than their spouses, men were 10 percent more likely to need prescription medication for erectile dysfunction (ED), insomnia and anxiety, and the greater the income gap, the more problems men had with ED. In When She Makes More: 10 Rules for Breadwinning Women (Hudson Street Press, 2014), by US financial writer Farnoosh Torabi, of 1 033 professional women surveyed, more than half who earned more than their partners reported less relationship satisfaction, while men who were totally dependent on women’s salaries, were five times more likely to cheat. Relationship counsellor, Thabile Donga, warns that looking at stats like the ones above can be misleading. “There are also stats that show that men who out-earn their women also cheat and those relationships also have problems. Money is a big part of a relationship but it’s what you make of it that affects your relationship,” she says.

Donga also warns what people say publicly can often be very different to what is their reality. “The truth is that in a lot of couples women out-earn their men, just a sign of changing times. People won’t necessarily talk about it openly because they want to manage perceptions and their men’s egos. Just because a woman says she wouldn’t date a man with less money than her doesn’t make it true. All you have to do is look around to see examples of that everywhere. Money is also a fluid thing so be careful when you choose a partner because of that, it can change

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any time and you will have to live out those consequences. He might be the breadwinner today but you might have to be the breadwinner of the future,” she says.

In order to address incumbent problems, Dr de Fleuriot advises that women approach the subject in a sensitive way. “Don't emasculate him by overly criticising and complaining about money-related issues, but don’t overcompensate just because you are earning more. People often think that earning money gives a person the right to make all the decisions – this can seriously damage the balance of power in a relationship.” Donga says she’s seen many couples that have dealt with women earning more very well. “The real issue actually lies in if you as an individual see women earning more as an issue. That will eventually show itself in your relationship. I find that even though everyone cares about money, it’s usually people who believe in traditional roles that make it more of a problem. There are many happy couples that simply don’t have those issues, so don’t believe the hype that everyone has these kinds of issues,” she adds firmly. * Not his real name.

WHAT DO WOMEN SAY?

Nonjabulo Zwane, 23, radio producer: “As independent as we may be, the bottom line is most women want providers. I’d like the man I’m with to spoil me with things I can’t afford. I think any woman who says she doesn’t like gifts is lying to herself!”

Hazel Rozani, 33, personal assistant: “It feels good to have someone put in petrol for you every once in a while. I guess that all comes from my upbringing where dads were the providers. Even if he earns less than I do, he still needs to earn something.”

Tumi Magoai, 30, content coordinator: “My first preference is definitely having a man as the breadwinner; however, I want to have full access and input in our finances. I’d like to be able to focus more on the home front, but realistically speaking I know that both of us might need to work. It doesn’t matter if I make a bit more than him, but he should be confident enough to view it as our money.”

Nonto Ngcobo, 26, personal assistant: “I find it difficult to rely financially on a partner as I believe it puts unnecessary stress on a relationship. A lot of girls have the need to be in a relationship where their partner out-earns them. Although the idea of dating a successful chocolate man is on my to-do list, it’s not for financial security but rather for balance. It encourages ‘hustling’ and building your empire together.”

Thobeka Yose, 41, product planner: “A man must take care of the bills regardless of his income. I can help here and there, but he must take the lead. I think men like to take care of us; it boosts their fragile egos. There is no financial equality in a relationship, a man should always lead financially regardless of how much he earns, even it’s less than me.” E

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rug and alcohol addiction are well known and talked about in Africa; however, the subject of sexual addiction is fairly taboo. Sexual addiction is defined as any sexually related compulsive behaviour which interferes with normal living and causes severe stress on family, friends, loved ones, and one’s work environment. “In my field we prefer to refer to it as Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB),” says sexologist, Dr Elna McIntosh. “Like most behaviours, sex can be taken to its obsessive and compulsive extremes.”

By any name, it is a compulsive behaviour that completely dominates the addict’s life. Sexual addicts make sex a priority more important than family, friends and work. Sex becomes the organising principle of addicts’ lives.

Like other addictions, people suffering from CSB are willing to sacrifice what they cherish most in order to preserve and continue their unhealthy behaviour.

when taken to an extreme, are recurrent, distressing and interfere in daily functioning.

In non-paraphilic CSB, there can be a pattern of repeated sexual relationships involving a succession of lovers who are experienced by the individual only as things to be used. Compulsive searching for multiple partners, compulsive fixation on an unattainable partner, compulsive masturbation, compulsive love relationships and compulsive sexuality in a relationship are all key indicators of addiction

UNDERSTANDING SEX ADDICTION

Sexuality is the perfect playground for disagreements because people’s feelings and beliefs around sex are so varied. From people who view sex as ‘dirty and sinful’ to those who are free of any inhibitions, what is compulsive to one person might be regular sex to another. The possibility of over-pathologising this disorder is the main criticism given by those who do not believe in the idea of compulsive sexual behaviour as a disorder, explains Dr McIntosh.

“The pathologising of sexual behaviour may be driven by anti-sexual attitudes and a failure to recognise the wide range of normal human sexual expression. This caution is important when assessing if a person is engaging in compulsive sexual behaviour. Sometimes individuals with their own restrictive values will diagnose

According to Dr McIntosh, it is helpful to know about the types of CSB. While there are many types of compulsive sexual behaviour, they can be divided into two main types: paraphilic and nonparaphilic CSB: Paraphilic CSBs are unconventional sexual behaviours which are obsessive and compulsive. They interfere with love relationships and intimacy. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) of the American Psychiatric Association has currently classified eight paraphilias including paedophilia, exhibitionism and voyeurism.

Non-paraphilic CSBs involve conventional sexual behaviours which,

“Some people will use sex as a coping mechanism similar to the use of alcohol, drugs, or eating. This pattern of sexual behaviour can be problematic.”

THE GRAY AREA OF SEXUAL ADDICTION

themselves with this disorder, creating their own distress. Therefore it is very important to distinguish between individuals who have a values conflict with their sexual behaviour and those who engage in obsessive sexual behaviours, ” she warns.

It’s also important to know that through people’s sex lives, there may be phases that are deemed problematic but don’t necessarily make them CBS. “Having sexual problems is common. Problems are often caused by a number of non-pathological factors. People can make mistakes. They can at times act impulsively,” Dr McIntosh adds. “Their behaviour can cause problems in a relationship. Some people will use sex as a coping mechanism similar to the use of alcohol, drugs, or eating. This pattern of sexual behaviour can be problematic.

Problematic sexual behaviour is often remedied by time, experience, education or brief counselling. Obsessive and compulsive behaviour, by its nature, is much more resistant to change.”

Some sexual phases are caused by a specific era. Dr McIntosh uses teenagers and new lovers as an example. According to her, adolescents can become ‘obsessed’ with sex for long periods of time. In adulthood, it is common for individuals to go through periods when sexual behaviour may take on obsessive and compulsive characteristics.

She adds, “In early stages of romance, there is a natural development period where an individual might be obsessed with their partner and compelled to seek out their company and express affection. These are normal and healthy developmental processes of sexual development and must be distinguished from CSB.”

SPOTTING CSB

For the most part, diagnosing sexual addiction should be left to the professionals, because even in their field, there are many schools of thought on it.

BLURRING SEXUAL LINES

The term ‘sex addiction’ has been bandied around considerably, but what exactly does it mean to be compulsively addicted to sex? ap ri l 2 0 1 5

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WORDS: NAWAAL NOLWAZI MDLULI, ZAMA NKOSI. IMAGE: ©ISTOCK.COM.

SEX & INTiMaCY EOA

These are some of the signs that can be a sign of CSB: 1. Acting out: a pattern of out-of-control sexual behaviour.

2. Experiencing severe consequences due to sexual behaviour, and an inability to stop despite these adverse consequences.

3. Persistent pursuit of self-destructive behaviour.

4. Ongoing desire or effort to limit sexual behaviour.

5. Sexual obsession and fantasy as a primary coping strategy.

6. Regularly increasing the amount of sexual experience because the current level of activity is no longer sufficiently satisfying.

7. Severe mood changes related to sexual activity.

8. Inordinate amounts of time spent obtaining sex, being sexual, and recovering from sexual experiences.

9. Neglect of important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of sexual behaviours.

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“Like most behaviours, sex can be taken to its obsessive and compulsive extremes.”

SEXUAL HEALING

Marvin Gaye song and jokes aside, like any other compulsive behaviours, CSB requires treatment. Most professionals agree that using a combination of therapy and medication works best. “While medications which suppress the production of male hormones (anti-androgens) are used to treat a variety of paraphilic disorders, newer antidepressants such as Prozac (R), Zoloft (R) or Paxil (R) which selectively act

on serotonin levels in the brain are also effective in reducing sexual obsessions and compulsions and their associated levels of anxiety and depression.

“These newer medications interrupt the obsessive-compulsive cycle of CSB and help patients use therapy more effectively. The advantages of these antidepressants over older antidepressants or anti-androgens are their broad efficacy and relatively few known side effects,” says Dr McIntosh. Dr McIntosh suggests doing your homework when looking for the correct health professional to help you either diagnose or treat CSB. Make sure that the person has experience in THE field, with sex therapists being the most likely to be able to help you properly. E

Do you think you have an unhealthy addiction to sex? Share your secret anonymously with us at secrets@essaysofafrica.com. Dr McIntosh can be contacted at The DISA Clinic in Sandton, which offers a range of sexual and reproductive health services for women.

Call +27 11 787 1222 or +27 11 886 2286. Visit Safersex.co.za.

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PRETTY HOPEFUL

A ROAD TRAVELLED WITH FAITH Blessed with a voice from God, Mpumalanga’s Pretty Mhlongo’s journey has had its fair share of mountains and valleys, but nothing has stopped this gospel singer from keeping her praises up. ap ri l 2 0 1 5

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MY JOURNEY EOA t’s not always easy to get a good sense of somebody in a short space of time but within five minutes of calling Nelspruit Mombelo resident, Pretty Mhlongo (36), her absolute love for her God literally radiates through the phone line.

“If there is anything that I would like people to know about me is that first and foremost I am a woman of God. I’d like to one day be remembered for the way I live my life in praise of God. When I stand on the stage and sing, something comes over me, I move out of the way and allow Him to speak through me.”

A quick search on YouTube and anyone can witness Pretty’s astounding musical talent through which she communicates a powerful ministry.

“When I sing, it is not me but God who moves through me. Walls fall down, people find salvation, strangers come to know Him. Often I cannot remember anything after I have sung because the Lord has moved and done His work through me.”

A CHALLENGING CHILDHOOD

It’s this unshakable faith that’s carried Pretty through many dark and challenging days and lifted her to the place she finds herself intoday.

Born in 1979 in the small town of Ermelo, Mpumalanga, Pretty grew up no stranger to poverty.

“I was the oldest of seven children – my grandmother took care of us and my uncle would support us with what he could give. There was only about R150 a month to take care of six of us. I remember from a young age feeling responsible for my brothers and sisters. At school I would sell peanuts to try and contribute to supporting the family. It wasn’t an easy time growing up like this, but our family was strong and we survived and supported each other.”

What did carry Pretty through the challenges of life back then, was her love of music. “I began to sing from very young age. I’m told that I was always singing and by the time I got to school I sang in the school and church choir and won quite a few awards,” she says.

But at the vulnerable age of 15 Pretty would be faced with a life-changing experience that shook her world and prematurely changed her from being an innocent child into an adult.

“I fell pregnant. It was the most shocking thing that could ever have happened to me, especially because it was after the first and only time I had slept with this someone. I was terrified. I didn’t want to even believe this was happening to me; I hid it for as long as I could. I was about six months pregnant before anyone discovered my secret. I think what really gave it away was the fact that I vomited a lot. My grandmother noticed and that’s how the family found out. Initially my mother was so, so disappointed and angry with me.“ Just 16 years old, and literally still a child herself, becoming a mother the following year, was a hard

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PRETTY AND SELBY MHLONGO

adjustment to make. But after she gave birth to her baby daughter Aaliyah (named after her hero, the singer Aaliyah who tragically died in a plane crash in 2001) instead of crumbling, Pretty rose to the challenge.

UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS

“I refused to be broken by this unexpected event that had happened in my life. I made a promise to myself to stand up and pick myself up, so I went back to school.

My grandmother looked after my daughter while I was in class and during lunch times I would walk all the way back home to breastfeed my daughter. “ While her contempories were going out partying, Pretty kept her eye focused on studying, singing, praying and taking care of her daughter.

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PRETTY, SELBY, THEIR DAUGHTERS AALIYAH, KHANYA AND SON, KHAYA

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MY JOURNEY EOA

“I am so glad I didn’t choose to have an abortion even though some of the other girls laughed and made fun of me because of my decision to keep my baby. Aaliyah was the biggest blessing to come into my life. She taught me so much about love and taking care of another human being. She has brought my family and I such joy from the day she was born. Today she is a beautiful young woman; she is studying a BComm at university and she’s made me so proud.”

One of the lessons that Pretty learned back then which she still carries with her today is: “When you make a mistake, it’s not the end of the world. All we can do is learn from our errors.”

After initially disappointing her mother badly, Pretty made a vow then that she would never ever fall pregnant again without being married.

WORDS: MELINDA FERGUSON IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY PRETTY MHLONGO

FINDING TRUE LOVE

She kept true to her promise. After meeting Selby Mhlongo, her husband to be, back in 2006 when she was 26 years old, she married him the following year and has subsequently had two more beautiful children, her daughter Khanya (5) and Khaya (3).

Although romance was not top of mind, Pretty’s future husband had plans to make her his wife from the moment he laid eyes on her when she was singing in church. But she took some convincing.

“He got my number from a friend and called me every day. I kept on putting him off. The first day we met in person he told me he loved me. I thought he was being ridiculous and I laughed him off. How could he love me, he didn’t even know me! ” But Selby’s persistence paid off. A date on Valentine’s day in 2007 was the beginning of a beautiful romance and heralded the start of seven God-purpose-filled years together. Like her love for the Lord, her passion for her husband shows in the way her voice softens and changes during our phone conversation.

“Second to God, Selby is the true love of my life.

I could not have prayed for a better husband. He is everything: my mentor, my inspiration, my teacher, my adviser, my prayer partner and producer. He plays the keyboards and there have been many mornings where he has woken me up before dawn and we have made music or prayed at 5am together. We pray a lot together as a family.”

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FUTURE FAITH

Today Pretty’s dream is to be able to one day throw herself completely into her music career fulltime but for now she believes God has His plans and she must show patience. “I am taking it step by step. I have my weekly gospel show, Bridal Worship on DSTV and by day I work as an admin manager at a civil engineering company. It’s not easy to make a living solely from music but I believe when the time is right, when I get the sign from the Lord, I will be able to quit everything to pursue my singing.

“At the moment we are preparing for the recording of my live DVD which will take place, God willing, in May. What I am really learning right now is to have faith, work hard and have patience. I believe in life, praise and patience is everything.” E

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EOA ITEM OR OUTFIT

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SILVER RING WITH CUBIC ZIRCONIA, R2 399, PANDORA.

Or 1 outfit

STUNNING OUTFIT WORTH R2 399 LONG CHUNKY EARRINGS, R199, ZARA.

BLACK ROUND SUNGLASSES, R279, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

MULTI-COLOUR NECKPIECE, R299, ZARA. RED TOTE BAG, R699, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: STOCKISTS.

V MESH BODYCON, R120, MR PRICE.

BONDAGE HIGH HEEL, R599, CALL IT SPRING.

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Modelling

INTIMACY

Teaching a child about intimacy involves more than the somewhat dreaded Birds ‘n Bees talk, as Loren Stow discovers.

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PARENTING EOA he dreaded ‘sex talk’ was a rather simplified notion – that you could teach your child about healthy and sincere intimacy in a single talk. In reality we now understand that children don’t learn from a single talk or a book, no matter how well written.

Instead they learn from observing their environment, be it their parents, who are their primary role models, and then from the messages that their unique societies and cultures send out. If we consider a typical marriage or relationship where young families are raised, it seldom happens that the pomp and ceremony of young romantic love permeates the long nights and busy days filled with the burden of responsibilities. Life becomes about survival, making it through trying times and putting everyone, except yourself and your relationship, first.

But consider for a moment what a child learns from observing their parents, who run in two different directions barely acknowledging each other in passing? Perhaps there is even a harsh word or two, as resentments gnaw at the edges of your partnership and the realities sink in. Or perhaps it’s just that you’re too busy to sit down together until after the kids are in bed. By constantly putting your children, your job and your debtors before your own needs, never mind the needs of your relationship, the picture painted for the children of what intimate love looks like is far from a healthy and balanced one. Consider for a moment what your daily life and routines teach your children about what it means to be in a committed intimate relationship with another human being.

WHY DOES INTIMACY MATTER?

A child can attend the best schools, be given the best tools, achieve top grades and enter prestigious universities that springboard them into successful careers, but what does any of this mean if they are unable to have a healthy and fulfilling intimate relationship? Human beings are social creatures who are designed to share their lives with other people and intimacy extends even further to most social contexts, where the common and basic foundations of one-on-one interaction are important for social cohesion – respect, listening to another person, taking responsibility, being accountable to another, showing empathy, reaching out, sharing and sincerely caring about another human being.

“…will you consciously teach your children possibly the most important skill in life – how to find, navigate and maintain truly loving and intimate relationships?”

INTIMACY IS LEARNED

Just as a child learns the names for shapes and the colours of the rainbow, so too do they learn about intimacy. And they will learn regardless of whether you consciously decide to teach them, or based on simply observing you, society in general and what the media throws out at them. So the question becomes, will you let them pick up pieces of information and put them together in a kind of jumbled puzzle, or will you consciously teach your children possibly the most important skill in life – how to find, navigate and maintain truly loving and intimate relationships?

SET AN EXAMPLE

Children will do as they see and not what they’re told, so if your actions contradict your words, you might as well save your breath. Become cognisant of the way in which you and your partner behave around your children. Do you run from pillar to post barely greeting each other along the way, knowing that you’ll sit down after the kids are bed and catch up? Do you argue in front of your children? Do you eat later, after your children have gone to bed? While it’s a pretty acceptable social norm these days to put children at the forefront of the family, this can be destructive if the core of the family – the love between

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EOA PARENTING

STEPS TO TEACHING INTIMACY 1. Discover Your Intimacy Values Determined by culture, religious denomination, family history or simply what you truly believe to be valuable to you, decide what your intimacy values are and why they are important. Common themes can be found in most healthy intimate relationships – such as honesty, respect, boundaries, communication, support, affection, celebration, etc.

2. Decide How You Are Going To DEMONSTRATE These Values Talk is cheap if it isn’t supported by action. Make a conscious effort to show your children every day what these values look like – with your partner as well as with them. For example, waiting until everyone is seated at the table before starting dinner may be one family’s way of showing respect, while another family might feel that serving the man of the house first is their way of showing respect. Think about how you greet your partner in the evening; is it with a peck on the cheek or a warm embrace? Do you hold hands and snuggle on the couch while watching movies? Do you tell each other you love each other often? Do you let your children see your affection towards each other? Do you apologise to each other, in front of your children? Do you talk things through and come to solutions, in front of your children? It is the action that matters.

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3. Talk, Talk, Talk Once you’ve got the demonstration part down, see every day as filled with opportunities to talk about intimacy and relationships. And no, I don’t mean about the Birds ‘n Bees. I mean the other 99 percent of healthy relationships; the parts that happen in the head and in the heart. Discuss why Tom and Jerry will likely not be good relationship material because they fight constantly; teach your children how to respect other children’s boundaries and that ‘no means no’; teach your children how to apologise, even if it was just an accident; teach your children how to make things better by finding solutions; teach your children how to finish what they started, even if it’s really difficult.

4. Be Crazy In Love!

Beyond the clear understanding of your values, demonstrating them and using everyday moments to talk about intimacy, there is something that cannot be underestimated and that is to be crazy in love. Be your partner’s soft place to fall, their cheerleader and their biggest fan despite the typical challenges of raising a young family. Show your children that you are crazy about their other parent, and you will inadvertently show them that you are crazy about them too. E

SAME SEX ROLE MODELS

A child’s most important role model is their same-sex parent. How you treat your spouse or partner will show your same sex child how to treat or be treated by the other gender! It all starts with you.

Essays of A frica

WORDS: LOREN STOW. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

two parents – is left by the wayside. The short-term effects are relationships that disintegrate, sometimes slowly smouldering in a heap of ‘maybe tomorrows’, and sometimes in the great plume of an explosion. The long-term effects are children who will repeat what they’ve learned when they become adults, effectively intimately paralysed.

A STRUGGLE BEYOND SA BORDERS

As we celebrate 21 years of democracy, Zanele Mji speaks to someone who personally knows the role other African countries played in the liberation of South Africa.

“We can’t think like Africans in Africa. It’s not some national road in Malawi.”

“South Africa can’t be like Kenya and send athletes to the Olympics to drown in the pool.”

The comments made by such influential officials as State President Jacob Zuma and Sports Minister, Fikile Mbalula, respectively, underscore a troubling attitude that influences how many South Africans see themselves in relation to our neighbours. Just as how travel throughout the continent is often framed as “going to Africa”, their statements betray an attitude of exceptionalism that has allowed us to see ourselves as different (and arguably, better) than other African countries. Western-constructed imagery of the dark continent and people has influenced this view, alongside much more grave socio-economic realities that manifest themselves as tensions between South Africans and residents from elsewhere on the continent.

The violence and discrimination that the world has witnessed South Africans wield toward Africans within our borders is an embarrassing blemish on intercontinental relations that are historically powerful. Alliances formed between 20th century African liberation organisations all fighting to overturn colonial rule became invaluable sources of support from the 1950s through the 1980s when South Africa lagged behind other regions as one of the last outposts of minority rule.

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NEWS REPORT EOA Over that period, large numbers of anti-apartheid activists and exiles moved through networks enabled by the support of countries such as Angola, Tanzania, Algeria and the frontline states that border South Africa. Certain countries allowed the ANC’s Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) and the Azanian People’s Liberation Army (APLA) to establish military camps; others were the site of logistical and organisational bases and others still offered a chance at quality education for young South Africans who had escaped Bantu Education.

A PERSONAL JOURNEY

Ntsiki Mjali* was born in the Eastern Cape. After participating in the Youth Uprising on 16 June 1976 she came to a difficult decision. “The noose of the SA Special Branch or security police was drawing closer and closer to me. I feared torture and death like so many other activists. Rather than end up a statistic in prison, I decided to escape to nearby Swaziland with a borrowed passport so as to hide my identity.”

She was part of what came to be known as the ‘June 16 detachment’ – the mass exodus of thousands of young South

Africans motivated by their experiences of the horrific day and the realisation that the Nationalist government had few limits in their savage repression of black rights and freedom. Like so many of her young compatriots who entered into military training under the ANC and the PAC (Pan-Africanist Congress), Mjali hoped to join an MK military training camp.

“But one did not choose where to go. One was was sent by the organisation’s leadership to perform certain tasks. Some were sent to Tanzania or Zambia to await scholarships, while Angola, Mozambique and Algeria were known as destinations for military training,” Mjali explains. Swaziland’s proximity to the former Natal and Transvaal provinces (now KwaZuluNatal and Gauteng respectively), as well as the Swazi Royal Family’s ANC sympathies made the country a strategic thoroughfare for many South African exiles.

By the time Mjali arrived, struggle stalwarts Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki were already in Swaziland running an ANC organisational base. Mjali was then deployed to Tanzania to help develop the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College (SOMAFCO) that offered South Africans

“We can’t think like Africans in Africa.

It’s not some national road in Malawi.”

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EOA NEWS REPORT

RELAXING BORDERS, REINFORCING RELATIONS

“Despite their independence,” Mjali says, “many African states were poorer and less developed than South Africa.” Yet they relaxed their borders and offered refuge to South Africans in a time of political unrest and social instability.

Lesotho, Botswana and Mozambique had a large number of migrant labour forces working on South African mines and industry. It was with this knowledge that the apartheid regime tailored economic policies that would be the undoing of the ANC, PAC and Black Consciousness Movement’s long-standing relationships with African governments.

Now that South Africa has moved forward under democratic leadership for the last 20 years, there has been a shift from emigration to immigration. Not only has the focus been

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education from nursery school level right through to adult education. Built on land donated to the ANC by Julius Nyerere, the first president of independent Tanzania and father of African Socialism, the SOMAFCO campus included a vocational training centre, as well as an arts and textile centre.

“He [Nyerere] was fearless of whatever the pro-West countries thought about him and openly supported the liberation movements, as did Algeria where former president Nelson Mandela received his first military training,” Mjali says. She adds, “The Algerians had been at war for their liberation from France and were emboldened by that. Nyerere granted travel documents to the ANC and PAC, while the Algerians in the early period agreed to assist the training of ANC cadres and the opening of an office.”

According to Mjali, however, the fear of the South African Defence Force (SADF) and the might of the apartheid regime was, together with the proximity to Pretoria, a determining factor as to whether or not any country would support a liberation movement.

Mjali’s assertion speaks to the great costs paid by southern African states for support offered to political organisations that had been banned in South Africa. For example, in the 1980s, targeted attacks towards activists such as parcel bombs escalated to military raids that indiscriminately claimed the lives of nonSouth Africans. on nation building, but there has also been a strong drive towards supporting and enabling our neighbours and countries further afield in Africa.

South Africa has taken on the challenge of accommodating immigrants who seek refuge or work opportunities. Unfortunately, the influx of immigrants who set up shop in the country as foreign business owners has caused insecurity in certain spheres of society and targeted attacks have become xenophobic outbreaks. It will take strong foreign and national policies on the part of South Africa that uplift its economy and ensure the citizens of their welfare to continue to encourage its people to exhibit the true spirit of uBuntu to the rest of Africa. * Not her real name.

“South Africa can’t be like Kenya and send athletes to the Olympics to drown in the pool.”

Essays of A frica

NEWS REPORT EOA

Some of the events that affected the rest of the continent in aid of SA’s freedom: 1982 Swazi-South African Secret Agreement On 17 February 1982 Swazi King Sobhuza II signed a secret agreement with South Africa. The pact bound both parties not to allow ‘any act which involves a threat or use of force against each other’s territory’ and called for ‘action individually or collectively as may be deemed necessary or expedient to eliminate this evil’.

Representatives of anti-apartheid organisations in Swaziland were targeted and expelled, and apartheid security forces took the agreement as license to deal with activists as they pleased.

1984 Nkomati Accord Seven years into the civil war, Mozambican President Samora Machel signed an agreement with South Africa vowing not to harbour hostile forces or allow attacks on each other to be launched from their respective countries.

The ANC presence in Mozambique was expelled, but the Accord collapsed when South African-backed RENAMO continued its activities against Machel’s FRELIMO.

Commonwealth Games Boycotts In 1978 Nigeria boycotted the Edmonton Games in protest of New Zealand’s continued sporting engagement with South Africa.

In 1986, thirty-two Caribbean and African countries boycotted the games because of Margaret Thatcher’s refusal to condemn sporting contact with South Africa.

1982 Maseru Raid On 9 December 1982, SADF commandos crossed the border into Lesotho to target a cluster of houses on the outskirts of Maseru, where members of the ANC were believed to be in hiding. Fortytwo people lost their lives, including 30 ANC members and two Mosotho children. E

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YOU’RE NOT ALONE Mental illness – and the stigma surrounding it – is a critical issue in South Africa. Here’s what you need to know about it.

ccording to the South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH), mental illness affects at least 16.5 percent of the population – yet most people affected by it don’t seek treatment. Indeed, millions of South Africans are dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse and a myriad of other mental illnesses. Despite this, the Department of Health spends only four percent of its annual budget to address the crisis.

STIGMA STUMBLING BLOCK

Stigma is one of the greatest obstacles to preventing and treating mental illness, as noted by the SAFMH. There are various reasons for this, but particularly in the black community, mental health isn’t something that is discussed. Ignorance,

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shame, discrimination and fear all play their part. For women, it can be seen as a sign of weakness as they suffer under the trope of the “strong black woman”, where showing vulnerability is not an option. As the World Health Organisation (WHO) found during their studies on mental illness, the suffering wrought during apartheid has contributed to a legacy of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PSTD) that affects many South Africans, yet is rarely talked about.

According to clinical psychologist, Dr Heather Jones, living inauthentically leads to suffering: “It can cause problems such as depression, mood swings, anxiety and emotional outbursts. We can become overly critical and judgemental.” She goes on to state that it is imperative to seek help if you recognise these behaviours in yourself. “Speak to a mental health professional and refuse to accept the status quo,” she advises. With mental illness being such a common reality today, there are warning signs you can look out for – in

yourself and your loved ones.

Signs and symptoms of mental illness include: n Feeling sad or down. n Excessive fears or worries, extreme feelings of guilt. n Extreme mood changes. n Withdrawal from friends and activities. n Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping. n Detachment from reality, paranoia or hallucinations. n Inability to cope with daily problems or stress. n Alcohol or drug abuse. n Major changes in eating habits or sex drive. n Excessive anger, hostility or violence.

MORE THAN PRAYER

With 23 completed suicides and 230 attempted suicides every day, South Africa is ranked amongst the top 10 countries with the highest suicide rate in the world.

EssAY S of Afric a

health EOA pray away. If not treated, the symptoms will likely get worse. “Change is difficult,” warns Dr Jones. “We want to change but are afraid of it. We have got attached to our problems and symptoms and resist giving them up, even the ones that cause us to suffer.” She notes that we should expect to fail as we try to change. All we can hope for is learning to fail a little better. “Remember to avoid the trap of perfection. It is simply a fantasy that leads to emptiness.”

“Stigma is one of the greatest obstacles to preventing and treating mental illness…”

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. PICTURE: © iSTOCK.COM.

MENTAL HEALTH CHECK

Even though we don’t discuss it much as a country, this is something to be concerned about. Ntombi Vilakazi, a counsellor who works with depression and suicide, says one of the issues that the black community struggles with is the belief that we can pray sadness and mental illness away.

“In black communities, mental health is rarely discussed unless people are calling someone crazy. Depression is often labelled as ‘being difficult’ and people with all kinds of illnesses are prayed for instead of getting professional help,’ she says.

While there is nothing wrong with praying, practical steps have to be taken when dealing with mental illness, much like physical ailments. Vilakazi encourages people to look at their own mental state and that of those among them. “I also find a lot of people that believe that living a sad life that torments you is normal. Sometimes conditions that people live under make them depressed and despondent but they don’t even recognise it as such. Mental illnesses can really decrease your quality of life, so it is worth looking at your own state and really gauging if you are in a good space,” she advises.

According to SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) early diagnosis and treatment is key. This is not something you can simply “snap out of” or

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

The journey towards mental health is one of learning to listen to yourself: to what you’re feeling, thinking and needing; as well as learning to listen to others. This is a life-long journey that is never complete.

“I define mental health as having meaning and joy in your life,” says Dr Jones. “The more self-aware we are, the more freedom we have to end behaviours that are destructive to ourselves and our loved ones.” She adds that lifestyle matters.

“Make sure you are living healthily, eating healthily, exercising, surrounding yourself with people who build you up rather than pull you down.” Being vigilant about your mental health is key. Thankfully, there are practical ways in which you can maintain good mental health.

1. Talk about your feelings. It’s part of taking charge of your wellbeing and doing what you can to stay healthy.

2. Connect with others. Develop and maintain strong relationships with people around you who will support and enrich your life.

3. Take time out for enjoyment. Set aside time for activities, hobbies and projects you enjoy. Let yourself be spontaneous and creative when the urge takes you.

4. Participate and share interests. Join a club or group of people who share your interests. This provides a sense of belonging and is good for your mental health.

5. Take a break. A change of scene or pace is good for your mental health.

It could be a five-minute pause from

cleaning your kitchen, a half-hour lunch break at work or a weekend exploring somewhere new.

6. Take care of yourself. Be active and eat well – these help maintain a healthy body. Physical and mental health is closely linked; it’s easier to feel good about life if your body feels good.

7. Contribute to your community. Give back to the community that raised you.

Volunteer your time for a cause or issue you care about. Help out a neighbour or do something nice for a friend.

8. Deal with stress. Be aware of what triggers your stress and how you react.

You may be able to avoid some of the triggers and learn to prepare for or manage others. Stress is increasingly becoming the cause of many health issues, both physical and mental.

9. Rest and refresh. Get plenty of sleep.

Go to bed at a regular time each day and practise good habits to get better sleep. Sleep restores both your mind and body.

10. Ask for help. None of us are superhuman. If things are getting too much and you feel you can’t cope, get the help you need. E

GET HELP!

There are various organisations throughout the country whose main focus is mental health. “Seeing a psychologist is also a good option for people who can afford it,” says Vilakazi. “You also don’t have to wait until something is wrong to see a psychologist; the same way you nurture your health daily, your mental health needs the same attention.”

SA Federation for Mental Health: This organisation can help you get in touch with different groups around your area that deal with mental health and have a wealth of information about mental health. Visit Safmh.org.za for more information.

SADAG: SADAG is the country’s biggest mental health and advocacy group, with a network of over 200 support groups throughout the country, including rural areas. Visit Sadag.org for more information.

SADAG Mental Health Line: 011 234 4837 Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 234 567 | SMS 31393 Lifeline National Counselling Line: 0861 322 322

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EVERYDAY STRIPE SCARF, R99, ROBERT DANIEL, ZANDO.

NEULIK T-SHIRT, R1 099, G-STAR RAW.

NO ORDINARY

Gentleman Enhance his personal style with a few of this season’s wardrobe must-haves.

REGULAR FIT MELANGE BLAZER, R2 979, CARDUCCI, ZANDO.

MELANGE CARDIGAN, R159, MRP.

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REGULAR FIT SOLID BLAZER, R2 979, CARDUCCI, ZANDO.

MODERN TAILORED MICRO STRUCTURE JACKET, R2 999, WOOLWORTHS.

VINDAL SWEATER, R1 799, G-STAR RAW.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

MAN SHOPPING EOA CHECKED SCARF, R99, ROBERT DANIEL, ZANDO

BROWN BLAZER, R1 999, ZARA.

GREY BLAZER, R1 999, ZARA.

BURGUNDY FLEECE BOMBER, R189, MRP.

MELANGE CARDIGAN, R159, MRP.

BLACK BLAZER WITH BLUE TARTAN DETAIL, R1 299, ZARA

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: STOCKISTS, ©ISTOCK.COM.

A long scarf helps to create a textured look.

BLUE STRIPED SCARF, R99, ROBERT DANIEL, ZANDO.

FABIAK CAMO SCARF, R1 299, G-STAR RAW.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

YUKEMM SWEATER, R1 299, G-STAR RAW.

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APRIL 2015

RISE OF THE AFRICAN METROSEXUAL There is a new-age African man on the scene and he cares as much, if not more, about his appearance as his female counterparts. Russell Brout discovers that the African metrosexual is alive and simply fabulous!

one are the days when fashion and beauty on the continent was the sole domain of women.

Although previously the African male routine entailed a quick shower, shave and poorly coordinated outfit, there’s been a significant upsurge in the number of men taking care not only of their basic appearance but also emulating a certain definitive style – and he is being noticed by both sexes, and loving it.

“It has nothing to do with sexuality, especially when another guy tells me I look or smell good. It’s an appreciated boost to the ego and confidence because I know I put a lot of effort into my appearance,” says former Ghanaian national, Michael Nyarko (35) a resident of Cape Town with his wife Chavonn, 31. While the term ‘metrosexual’ conjures up images of a young David Beckham, the very pretty Jared Leto or the impeccably coiffed Cristiano Ronaldo,

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African men have been preening and waxing themselves since as far back as King Shaka’s reign.

In his book, titled Travels and Adventures in Eastern Africa, (British Library, Historical Print Editions, 2011) Nathaniel Isaacs, an English adventurer who played a part in the history of Natal, speaks of his first encounter with the Shaka Zulu.

He writes: “We now expressed a wish to see him in his war dress; he immediately retired and in a short time returned attired. His dress consists of monkey skins, in three folds from his waist to the knee, from which two white cows tails are suspended as well as from each arm. Round his head is a neat band of fur stuffed, in front of which is placed a tall feather, and on each side a variegated plume. He advanced with his shield, an oval about four feet in length, and an umconto [spear], when his warriors commenced a war-song, and he began his dance maneuvers.”

Shaka loved to dress up and this in no way detracted from

EssAY S of Afric a

MAN FEATURE EOA his strategy and masculinity on the battlefield.

However, there are those, even now, who believe that a man who spends too much time in front of the mirror is of a questionable sexual persuasion.

Michael was one of these people, until he met and fell in love with Chavonn, who was a registered beautician at the time.

“She introduced me to the importance of a beauty regimen; from scrubbing to cleansing, toning and moisturising. Of course I was reluctant because this was something that African men just did not do. It was for women,” admits Michael. He said he dared not mention it to his male colleagues and friends for fear of being ridiculed, but then they started commenting on how good his skin looked. That’s when he came clean. “And now some of them do the same routine and even book appointments for facials and, my favourite, manicures and pedicures.”

WORDS: RUSSEL BROUT. IMAGE: ©ISTOCK.COM. PHOTO OF DR JAN NEL SUPPLIED.

GROOMED TO FEEL GOOD

Chavonn is all for her husband making an effort in his appearance and says it’s a reflection on her and a huge compliment when strangers appreciate the way Michael looks. “The time when men were all about wash-and-go has passed. It’s a good feeling to see my husband take care of his body, dress in labels and wear designer fragrances. It’s an indication that he wants to look good, not just for himself, but for me as well,” she says, adding how what you do to your body on the outside affects how you feel on the inside.

But just how far is Michael willing to go with his newfound appreciation for physical appearance?

When asked how he feels about the more invasive cosmetic procedures, he says it’s something he’d consider if it were affordable. It’s this type of curiosity that has encouraged aesthetic surgeons such as Dr Jan Nel, of the recently launched Gentlemen’s Health facility (Gentshealth.co.za), to specifically target the male market.

Stepping into the offices of Gentleman’s Health, in Cape Town’s Green Point, is like stepping into an episode of Nip/Tuck. From the perfectly modern and comfortable décor to the very calming handshake of the immaculately presentable Dr Nel, who looks more like a male model than a surgeon, you immediately sense this is a place of beauty.

“We are in the business of making previously unattainable aesthetic procedures more accessible to the men in a comfortable and professional environment. While botox, fillers, liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose jobs) and many other procedures were considered to be to the benefit of women, there is a definite interest from the male client. And it’s nothing to be ashamed of,” says Dr Nel.

“It has nothing to do with sexuality, especially when another guy tells me I look or smell good. It’s an appreciated boost to the ego and confidence because I know I put a lot of effort into my appearance.”

When asked if he would taking his grooming to the next level, Michael says there are definitely a few options he might go for, such as laser hair removal, which could do well for men like himself who suffer from shaving bump or rash. He also expressed an interest in the idea of pectoral (chest) or calf and thigh implants, where surgery is performed to give shape and definition to specific muscle groups.

“It’s all of the results without any of the hard work at the gym. Of course, we do advise our patients to then stick to a balanced diet and fitness programme to maintain that appearance,” adds Dr Nel. Chavonn supports Michael’s choices and says they’ve discussed anti-ageing options that include fillers and botox for sometime down the line, when age starts to show.

“However, there’s something to be said about black not cracking,” she laughs, adding that this notion is often taken too far and more black people could do well to engage in daily beauty routines on their skin. Despite his initial resistance to facials and skin care, Michael agrees that everything cracks with age, and encourages other guys to also take care of their skin and appearance. “If this makes you a metrosexual, then so be it. At least you’ll look good and feel great,” he says.

DR JAN NEL, GENTLEMEN’S HEALTH FACILITY

NIPPED AND TUCKED

Metrosexuality can be credited to either the psychological manipulation of the consumer by corporates and advertising, or it can be due to the simple inherent need for change, the need to be different from one’s predecessors. Either way, there is now a place for men to embrace that change.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

What do you think about men spending more time and money on their grooming rituals? Share your thoughts with us on Twitter. #metrosexualafricans @ EssaysOfAfrica. E

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What prompted you to create the Queens of Africa dolls?

The idea first came to me when I was in a store shopping for a birthday gift for my niece. That was the first time I realised all the dolls on the shelves were white. I thought about creating and introducing black dolls into the Nigerian market but didn’t start the process until about six months after, when my daughter asked me: “What colour am I?” When I told her she is black, she didn’t seem too happy. I was puzzled as she was just over three years old. I realised then again that all her dolls were white as were her favorite characters, and how that could be responsible for her also wanting to be white. That’s when I set about creating the Queens of Africa dolls.

The dolls are meant to “subconsciously promote African heritage”. What does that mean?

Toys are not just for play; they are tools that can help develop the mind of a child. The lessons are subliminal and thus very deeply rooted. These lessons can be either positive or negative, but are most times unchecked. The attention span of children can be short and is stimulated more through play. The impact toys have on children shouldn’t be underestimated.

I realise this and imbibe a lot of learning in the Queens of Africa project. A major attribute that can help children develop and grow is confidence. Knowing your history and heritage can help boost self-confidence.

Tell us a bit about the various cultures the dolls represent?

TAOFICK OKOYA

At the moment we have three of the numerous Nigerian tribes and cultures. There is the Yoruba Queen from the southwest region of Nigeria.

Yoruba are known for being hospitable and very traditional and also for being the most social of the other tribes. Then there is the Igbo Queen. The Igbo are very entrepreneurial, while also being very traditional. Their names are quite symbolic and very family orientated.

Finally, we have the Hausa Queen. This tribe is predominantly Muslim and is quite conservative, and family orientated.

AFRICA’S own GEPPETTO

Determined to satisfy his little niece’s desire for a black doll, Taofick Okoya set about creating one just for her. Now his Queens Of Africa dolls have officially dethroned Barbie.

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

MAN Q&A EOA Did you experience any challenges in getting started?

Yes, we encountered many challenges.

The project was self-financed, as nobody believed it was a worthwhile venture. Even after we launched, we didn’t enjoy heavy patronage because people didn’t see the need for a black doll. I had to embark on an awareness campaign on local TV, radio and magazines, talking about the importance of children having dolls in their likeness and how it can help increase their confidence and encourage them to appreciate their race and colour.

What was the public’s reaction to your dolls?

Initially it is one of rejection since it wasn’t something they were used to. Over time, though, it has improved. Every year the acceptance level keeps getting better. We are seriously working on developing the Queens of Africa into a global brand

Did you expect the dolls to become this popular and how do you feel about Barbie?

I had great dreams and hopes for the Queens of Africa but have been humbled by the general acceptance, especially outside of Nigeria. Mattel’s Barbie doll was created to cater for a specific market and I guess it’s working for them. As an African/ Nigerian I am able to relate to the needs and desires of children of African descent all over the world.

WORDS: HAYDEN HORNER. IMAGES: TAOFICK OKOYA, BEATSANDFASHION.COM.

What are your thoughts about boys playing with dolls, and are there plans for a Kings of Africa doll?

Boys have never really embraced the idea of playing with dolls. Even Mattel’s Ken doll was accepted more as a girl’s toy. Boys tend to embrace action figures rather than male dolls. We do, however, plan to have African-inspired action figures in line with storybooks, animation series, games, etc.

How many countries are the Queens dolls distributed to and is South Africa on that list?

So far, we have had small establishments as well as online stores ordering our dolls from the UK, the USA, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Abidjan. Our plan is to have major toy stores with wide national distribution in various countries, to enable us reach the many people who love and

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

QUEEN OF AFRICA DOLLS CREATED BY TAOFICK OKOYA

want to own the dolls. South Africa is definitely part of that distribution plan.

As a socially responsible organisation, what does your brand hope to achieve?

We aim to help African girls fulfill their potential and develop values they will be proud of and to stay true to their culture and heritage. Additionally, we would also like to increase the number of girls who are contributing members of society in line with goals two and three of the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals.

Over and above this, our aim is to also have African culture represented in the media through the Queens of Africa dolls,

books, comics and TV show with a full range of licensed merchandise of which of our African girls can be proud.

Where to from here for the Queens Of Africa?

Our plans are seamless and the potential is enormous! We are looking at various platforms and avenues, and are working on publishing books and comics, TV series, games, Apps, and a range of other merchandise.

We are open to mutually beneficial partnerships in various fields and have a strong message that we are determined to share with the rest of the world. E

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EOA #GAYBESTFRIEND

THE FOOLS OF APRIL ELLO AGAIN, DARLINGS

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HAYDEN HORNER

There I was, kitted out in a pair of khaki Chinos, black leather Jack Purcells, a peak cap and a Pirate’s soccer jersey made from enough polyester to have me itch like the mangy dog on the cover of J.M. Coetzee’s book Disgrace. But the only disgrace here was me having to hide my sexuality from a bunch of old fools too stuck in their ways to see I was gayer than a pink mockcrock handbag full of rainbows.

As I blew out my candles and they demanded I make a wish, I wondered if a giant comet crashing through the roof and wiping out three generations of my bloodline would be deemed a good wish. Noticing I was about to launch into a full-scale assault on these unwitting sexists, Ruth quickly French-kissed me. I was surprised, but not as surprised as my great-grandfather, who applauded and cheerfully announced in his thick Zulu accent: “Hauww! You are a beeg boy today, my gerl! Now you must make lots of babies.”

I just smiled, looked at the old man, and was reminded of a quote by American comedian Joey Adams: “Never let a fool kiss you, or a kiss fool you.” Ruth and I are no fools and we often joke about whether our kiss means we are now lesbians. E

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS AND IMAGE: HAYDEN HORNER.

Over the years I’ve come to realise one thing about Ruth – she’s one of the most courageous women I know. The other woman, of course, is my mother who bravely gave birth to all 4.8 kilos of me after almost two days of labour. Had my delivery been different, I would’ve been born on 31st March instead of on April Fool’s Day. I knew that as my relatives, rural and urban alike, descended on our family home for my 40th birthday, I’d have to butch up and do my best middle-aged heterosexual male impersonation. Oh, the agony of it all! I could already hear them querying or ‘queerying’: “When are you going to find a nice girl and get married, and give your mother some grandchildren?”

With 1 April falling on a Friday, they’d stay for the weekend. I desperately needed my GPS – not a Global Position System to help me find the quickest route out of there. I needed Ruth, or as I like to call her, my Gay Person’s Sidekick. You see, as every woman should have a reliable GBF, every gay man should have a reliable GPS. Ruth came over with some of her ex-boyfriend’s soccer jerseys, baseball caps and even something that looked like a greasy panel beater’s jumpsuit. For all my fashion fanaticism, I had no clue what crotch-grabbing, Marlboro-puffing, Carling-Black-Label-guzzling manly men considered stylish. And so my schooling began. Ruthless amazed me with how much she knew about soccer and, pretty soon, so did I – except for the offside rule.

1

QMS MOISTURIZING BALANCE, R1 480, SUTURETHIS. Provides intense moisture for dry and stressed skin.

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2

VITAMIN E EYE CRÈME, R265.00, HANNON With MOIST 24, this state-of-the-art anti-ageing eye cream creates a protective film that immediately hydrates and firms up the skin surrounding the delicate eye area.

LABORATOIRE CELLULIT VIB GEL, R1 070, ERICSON. Shake the jar and you can feel it vibrate! Like ultrasound, Cellulit VIB Gel Drain Choc activates enzyme systems to loosen the adiposities that deform the surface of the skin (cellulite).

This month’s selection offers extra hydration wherever your body needs it.

6 WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

PLACECOL DAILY PROTECTOR, R350, PLACECOL OUTLETS. Deeply nourishes the skin to help improve overall condition, restore vitality, radiance and a youthful complexion.

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DR GOBAC SPOT TX, R335, DR GOBAC COSMECEUTICALS, EDGARS, PLACECOL OUTLETS, SELECTED SALONS AND SPAS. Antibacterial clearing treatment helps regulate sebum production while reducing blemishes and calming inflammation.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

BEAUTY EOA

3

MOROCCANOIL RESTORATIVE HAIR MASK, R470, CLICKS & DIS-CHEM OUTLETS. A 5 to 7 minute revitalising treatment that quickly repairs weak, damaged or colour-treated hair.

4

CELLTONE TISSUE OIL, R149, DIS-CHEM. Celltone tissue oil is non-greasy, not sticky and easily absorbed with a pleasant aroma.

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APRIL 2015

EOA BEAUTY & HEALTH NEWS

DREADS: BLEACH BEFORE YOU DYE

Ethnic hair specialist, Brian Warfield, states that dyeing dreads can be challenging even for a hairstylist due to their thickness. Dreadlocks are usually styled using a wax to bind the hair and enable the dreads to lock. This wax coats the hair, penetrating the dreads as they are twisted.

For this reason, dreads should be bleached before they are coloured as the bleach cuts through the wax, allowing the colour to penetrate deeply into the hair strands. Warfield recommends visiting a reputable salon, which will have the correct products that will not damage your hair, but give you the long-lasting colour you are looking for! You can find Brian’s salon @ Tanaz Hair on Corlett Drive in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Do you often feel too tired to wash your make-up off at night, and sometimes even forego facial cleansing? Well, we suggest you rethink your beauty routine! By the time you flop into bed at night, your face is one of the dirtiest areas of your body… true story! The skin is exposed to pollutants and grime all day and needs a good cleansing before it can begin its restorative and rejuvenating functions while you are sound asleep. Make Celltone Facial Wash (with real snail gel) part of your cleansing regime.

The moisturising face wash, rich in vitamins E and B5 and infused with chamomile, jasmine and witchazel extracts, contains mild surfactants that cleanse and remove residue build-up on the skin. For more information, go to celltone.co.za.

BAKING SODA

beauty secrets

You probably know baking soda as the white powder you put into your cake mixture, but this secret weapon has a few beauty tricks up its sleeve…

BODY BUFFER – Mix a little of the magic stuff with some water to create a paste and rub this mild exfoliator all over your dry areas (elbows, hands and knees) to remove dead skin cells.

AFTERSUN SOOTHER – Mix 60ml of baking soda with one litre of water. Use a facecloth dipped into the solution and pat onto your burnt skin areas. This also works for regular burns.

FOOT SOAK – Dissolve three tablespoons of baking soda in a basin of warm water. Add lemon slices and soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes.

Gently rub feet and the baking soda will act as a foot and toenail scrub, for cleaner feet and brighter toenails. E

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E S S AYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: HLULANI MASINGI. SOURCES: RED MARKETING, BEAUTYSOUTHAFRICA.COM, BRIAN WARFIELD. PICTURES: RED MARKETING, @ISTOCK.COM.

NIGHTLY FACIAL CLEANSE

“I love Audrey Hepburn, early Brooke Shields, and Madonna’s eyebrows. I think it’s beautiful if women look soft and touchable instead of hard, sharp and aggressively groomed.” – Natalia Kills

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EssAY S of Afric a

main BEAUTY EOA

BROWS THAT

WOW!

Eyebrows are a prominent facial feature and how you take care of them can be the difference between chic and shabby.

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Waxing

If you have thick, coarse hair that grows back quickly, waxing is your best bet to tame your brows. Waxing also helps with the regrowth of thinner brows. This method is quite popular because it’s the quickest way to design the eyebrow shape. Eyebrows are never exactly the same as the face is not symmetrical, so one side will have more hair and grow faster than the other side. Waxing is best left to the pros and we don’t suggest trying it at home.

Threading

Threading allows for more definition on brows because you work closely with individual hairs. It is a bit painful but no more than most other beauty treatments. No pain no gain, right ladies? Threading is also good for people with sensitive skin because it targets the hairs directly as opposed to affecting the entire area of skin around the brow. Again, this is best left to professionals for precision results.

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HOW TO FILL IN YOUR BROWS

Sometimes the hair on your brows can be sparse so to create a natural-looking fill-in, use brow powder and a slanted brush to fill in and define the eyebrows. Alternately, use an eye pencil in a shade that matches your brows. It’s best to use a hard pencil so that you can draw fine hairs or fill in where there are gaps in your brows.

“Your eyebrows are the one thing you can get into shape without exercising.” Anon.

WORDS: VUYI MOTHLABANE. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

rows are one of the biggest beauty trends right now so keeping yours looking neat and groomed is going to require a little effort on your part. Unless you’re born with naturally shaped brows that never overgrow, you will need to choose one of these three popular grooming methods.

Plucking

Tweezing is the way to go if you’re looking to do your eyebrows yourself – if you are confident and capable. It’s also a great way to clean up your brows between your visits to your eyebrow specialist. If you choose to go this route, make sure you invest in a great pair of sharp tweezers. Not only will they make you work with more precision, but they will also last a while.

E ss AYS of A f r i c a

“Although a lot of pain for a little screen time; shaving legs, waxing eyebrows, high heels, trying to put on a bra, losing weight because women’s clothes are SO revealing – Ladies you have my respect.”

Lou Diamond Phillips EYEBROW DO’S & DON’TS

1. Don’t over-pluck your brows; this can leave you with gaps that may take forever to fill out.

There is also no reason for you to pluck off all your eyebrows and draw them on again!

2. Don’t use black on your brows; the darkest you should ever go is dark brown.

3. Don’t ever use razor to shape your brows.

Plucking, threading and waxing are the only methods you should try. E

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IT’S ALL IN THE

curls

If hair is a woman’s crowning glory, here are some tools to help you to reign supreme this autumn.

hen it comes to hair textures, not all curls are created equal. The different curl patterns are divided into three camps which are referred to as ‘types’. The criteria of a type is based on how dense or slinky the waves that are created by your hair strands are.

Type 2 and 3, which are broken into A, B and C subsections that denote ultra-wavy to wavy, but not coarse curls, are most commonly found in women who are not of African descent.

Type 4 hair refers to curls that are very coily, like in African women. Type 4 hair is also divided into three subsections.

TYPE 4B

A 4B pattern is tightly coiled and slightly less curved than a 4A. Here, the curl pattern resembles a Z when pulled from the scalp outwards. It’s also prone to a word that most naturalistas hate: shrinkage! So be sure to find a wash-anddeep-condition regimen that suits your pattern. Detangling creams will become your best friend. Hair styles that include a bouffant like Janelle Monae or dreadlocks like fellow 4B-er, Lauryn Hill, look great with this pattern.

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BEAUTY EOA

PROTECT THOSE CURLS

WORDS BY helen herimbi. PICTURES: © iSTOCK.COM, huffingtonpost.com, popsugar.com, themakeupgirl.net.

All these curl types can benefit from protective hairstyles such as cornrow plaits, weaves (that’s right) and box braids – think Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice. These are the styles that don’t need a lot of maintenance and protect your natural hair from breakage and other damage. It’s important to note that while these types help women in finding the products and regimens that nourish their hair and allow it to flourish, these types aren’t set in stone. Some women have even said they are a mixture of two hair types. So see a natural hair expert – which can be costly – or watch a good YouTube tutorial – which only costs you bandwidth – and you could soon feel like royalty.

TYPE 4C

This may be the most common curl type amongst African women. It doesn’t have a distinct shape to the waves and is what is sometimes referred to as the kinky cousin of the other types. This also means that it’s shrinkage – there’s that word, again! – factor is much larger than that of the other types. This is why seasoned 4C-ers never go to sleep without first twisting their hair into regular twists or bantu knots. Twists and knots can be worn as daytime hair styles too and a twist-out always looks great. The tapered Afro like the one Viola Davis wears is also en vogue.

TYPE 4A

This hair type generates more natural moisture than 4B and 4C and is thought to be easier to manage. If you pull your hair from the scalp outwards and the curl looks like an S, then you are likely to be type 4A. You can style your hair in a side or middle part like Leela James or, if you have a TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro), a quick brush around the edges like Solange Knowles will do wonders. E

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EOA BEAUTY

SUPER LINER BLACKBUSTER, R149.95, L’ORÉAL.

ULTRA BLACK MAT-MATIC SUPER LINER, R140, L’ORÉAL.

STYLIST EYEBROW PENCIL, R45, CATRICE.

An Enchanting SUPER LINER BROW ARTIST, R139.95, L’ORÉAL.

PERFECT SLIM SUPER LINER, R145, L’ORÉAL.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

KOHL KAJAL EYE LINER, R35, CATRICE.

MASTER SHAPE BROW PENCIL,, R99.95, MAYBELLINE.

Eye!

Whether you’re filling in sparse eyebrows to create flawless arches or adding a little definition to your already beautiful peepers, these eye pencils will elegantly frame the windows to your soul.

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Real women don’t fake it.

Nothing makes it easier to keep it real than Black Like Me Perm. My curls are well defined and nicely coiled. It’s the real deal for real women.

Contains silicones and glycerin to give shine, moisture and conditioning. www.facebook.com/BlackLikeMePerm

Mary Jane Africa Magazines 295mmx220mm_01.indd 1

3/17/15 10:32 AM

AN EASTER

delight

Gone are the days of soft pastels and Easter only being about children’s Easter Eggs hunts and fluffy chicks. Owner of In Good Company, Julie Gallagher, shows us how to style up an elegant Easter table for the ultimate sophisticated lunch.

aster is always marked by celebrations that lead to scrumptious long lunches and dinners with loved ones. We turned to A Year at Silwood Recipes From South Africa’s First Cookery School by Alicia and Carianna Wilkinson for the ultimate Easter spread. From traditional roast lamb to the most beautiful desserts, your Easter lunch will exceed expectations.

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FOOD & Entertaining EOA

Orange Chiffon Cake Ingredients

For the cake: 565ml cake flour, 15ml baking powder, 375ml sugar, 5ml salt, 125ml oil, 30ml orange zest, 5 egg yolks, 200ml fresh orange juice, plus extra if required, 250ml egg whites, 3ml cream of tartar For the frosting: 180g butter, 15ml orange zest, 500g icing sugar, sifted 10ml lemon juice, approximately 65ml orange juice Special equipment: Chiffon pan

INSIDE INFO

Lesley was given the recipe for chiffon cake in the 1950s, by Mrs Swing, the wife of the American consul at the time, whose son was at school with Charles. An American insurance salesman, who also moonlighted as a caterer in Hollywood, apparently devised the recipe. He kept the recipe under wraps for 20 years, eventually selling it for a fortune to General Mills. The secret to this light-as-air cake is to not grease the pan, allowing the cake to ‘climb’ up the sides as it bakes. When removed from the oven, the cake is turned upside down and left to cool, which ensures that the texture remains light and airy.

Method To prepare and bake the cake, sift together the dry ingredients three times. Mix together the oil, zest, yolks and 200ml orange juice. Add to the dry ingredients and beat until smooth, adding more orange juice, if necessary, to form a soft batter. Whisk together the egg whites and cream of tartar, until just stiff peak. Pour the yolk mixture over the whites, and fold until just blended. Pour into an ungreased chiffon pan. Bake at 160°C conventional oven for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, until set and cooked through. Remove from the oven, immediately turn over and leave to cool upside down.

To prepare the frosting, cream the butter and zest until light and fluffy then gradually add the icing sugar. Add the lemon juice and enough orange juice to create a smooth frosting.

To ice, cut the cake in half horizontally then spread the lower half with frosting. Reassemble the cake. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cake – this will trap the crumbs. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set then ice with the remaining frosting.

Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

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Roast Leg of Lamb with Spanish Rice Stuffing (Serves 6 to 8)

Ingredients

±2kg deboned leg of lamb, shank bone left in For the stuffing: 100ml rice, ½ onion, chopped, 10ml oil 1 small clove garlic, crushed, 1 small red pepper, diced 5ml paprika or smoked paprika, 1 little red chilli, chopped 4 very ripe tomatoes, 10ml tomato paste, 65ml white wine, sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, sugar For the lamb and jus: 30ml butter or olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 onions, cut into 8 wedges, 1 small head garlic, halved, 3 sprigs rosemary, bruised, 4 sprigs marjoram, bruised 1l homemade beef or lamb stock (suggested recipe found on page 263 of cookbook) 500ml port or red wine, 30ml butter Special equipment: Trussing needle and string

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Method To make the stuffing, cook the rice according to packet instructions. Sauté the onion in the oil until soft, then add the garlic, pepper, paprika and chilli. Cook for 1 minute.

Blanch and peel the tomatoes then remove the seeds and chop the flesh. Add to the onion mixture, with the tomato paste and wine, and simmer for 10 to 15 minute, until well reduced.

Season well with salt, pepper and sugar. Add the cooked rice, adjust the seasoning and allow to cool completely.

To roast, place the stuffing into the leg of lamb then sew up with a trussing needle and fine string. Brush the leg with butter or olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the onion, garlic, rosemary and marjoram into the roasting tray. Add 200ml water and cover with a trivet. Place the lamb on the trivet and roast at 200°C (180°C fan) for 20 minutes, then turn down to 180°C (160°C fan) and continue roasting for 40 to 50 minutes per kilogram (internal temperature 58°C). Keep the lamb warm, allowing the juices in the meat to settle while making the jus.

To make the jus, remove the fat from the roasting tin, then deglaze with the stock. Add the port or red wine and reduce by ¾, until flavourful. Strain, pushing down on the vegetables to extract as much flavour as possible. Just before serving, whisk in the butter.

To serve, carve the lamb and serve with the jus, roasted parsnip (page 267 of cookbook) and a mélange of greens (page 266 of cookbook).

Essays of A frica

FOOD & Entertaining EOA

Petits Fours Makes at least 36

Ingredients:

75g butter, 500g marzipan (page 260) 3 eggs, 100g flour, pinch of salt 50ml apricot jam, icing sugar, for rolling 1kg fondant icing (page 259), piped roses Special equipment: 20cm square pan

CHEF’S NOTE

Marzipan (persipan) and fondant icing can be bought at specialist baking shops, if time for making is limited. Or see our recipes on cookbook pages 259 and 260.

Method To make the cake, grease and line the base of the square pan. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter. Add 250g marzipan, a spoonful at a time, and continue beating until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the eggs. Sift the flour and salt over the mixture and fold in carefully. Pour into the prepared tin and bake at 160°C (140°C fan) for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Cool, cover and refrigerate overnight. Turn out and peel off the paper lining. Keep the underside face up and cut into 1.5cm squares.

To cover with marzipan, dust a surface with icing sugar and then roll out the remaining 250g marzipan very thinly. Heat the apricot jam then brush over the surface of the marzipan. Cover the top and sides of each cake square with marzipan.

To cover with fondant, melt the fondant in a bowl over a pot of hot water. Keep the temperature very low, about 38°C. If the fondant is too thick, thin it with a little sugar syrup. Place a marzipan-covered cake on the end of a palette knife. Spoon the fondant over the cake in one smooth movement.

Place on a cooling rack to set while covering the remaining cakes. Decorate with piped baby roses and serve each petit four in a paper case.

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French Macaroons Makes 20

Ingredients

For the macaroons: 60g egg whites, 85g icing sugar, 80g ground almond, colouring of choice, 80g granulated sugar, 50ml water, 2 drops almond extract For the ganache: 125ml cream, 360g white chocolate, finely chopped This recipe uses ganache as a filling, although butter icing, lemon curd and jam are also popular.

Special equipment: Piping bag and nozzles, food processor Method Forty-eight hours before making the macaroons, measure the egg whites and store, uncovered, in the fridge. This will remove excess moisture.

Allow to come to room temperature before using.

To make the almond mixture, in a food processor, pulse the icing sugar and ground almond to combine. Sieve into a bowl, discarding any particles that stay in the sieve. Divide the egg white into two equal 30g quantities.

Mix 1 quantity of egg white into the almond mixture to form a thick paste.

Colour as desired and set aside.

To make the Italian meringue, place the remaining 30g egg white in the bowl of an electric mixer. In a small saucepan, gently heat the sugar with the water. When the sugar has dissolved, bring to a boil and cook until it reaches 110°C on a sugar thermometer. At this point, immediately start to beat the egg white. Once the sugar syrup reaches 118°C, remove from the heat then gradually whisk into the stiffly beaten egg white. Continue whisking on high until the mixture has cooled slightly and you have a shiny, peaked meringue. The bowl should be warm, but no longer hot to the touch. Add the almond extract.

To make the macaroon mixture, fold half the meringue into the almond mixture. Continue folding in, tablespoon by tablespoon, until the mixture holds a ribbon for almost 30 seconds. It is important not to over mix or the mixture will become too thin. You may not need all the meringue. Place the mixture in a piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle.

To pipe, line 3 baking sheets with greased silicone (nonstick) baking paper.

Pipe the macaroons, each 2.5cm in diameter. Allow the mixture to stand for approximately 30 minutes to form a skin before baking. This will ensure that the macaroon forms the correct shape.

To bake, preheat the oven to 140°C (120°C fan). Bake the macaroons for 14 to 16 minutes.

Turn the oven temperature down to 110°C (90°C fan) halfway through baking if they are starting to brown. Immediately slide the silicone baking paper onto the work surface and leave to cool for a few minutes before gently peeling off with the help of a palette knife.

To prepare the ganache filling, bring the cream to the boil, remove from the heat and pour over the chocolate. Allow to stand for 5 minutes and then stir to combine. Set aside at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours, to cool and set.

To assemble, sandwich together the macaroons with the ganache.

Chef’s Note

Macaroons can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost for 10 minutes before serving.

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GOLD BUNNY (100G), R49.99, LINDT.

WORDS: CHESKA STARK. ALL PRODUCTS USED IN EASTER SHOOT AVAILABLE AT IN GOOD COMPANY. STYLING: JULIE GALLAGHER. PHOTOGRAPHY: VANESSA LEWIS, CRAIG FRASER.

EGG CUPS IN ASSORTED COLOURS,, R90 EACH, LE CREUSET.

RABBIT PEPPER GRINDER GRINDER, R289, CHEF CHEF’N AT YUPPIECHEF.

We recommend these products to help you with your Easter table!

METAL CAKE STAND AND KLOSH, R14 9.99, MR PRICE HOME.

EMBROIDERY RABBIT SCATTER, R299, WOOLWORTHS.

CERAMIC BUNNY BUNNY, R130, WOOLWORTHS.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

A YEAR AT SILWOOD R ECIPES FROM SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST COOKERY SCHOOL

BY ALICIA AND CARIANNA WILKINSON (QUIVERTREE PUBLICATIONS), R459.

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TONES OF GREY AND BEIGE ARE USED, REFERRED TO AS “GREIGE”. IT IS VERY POPULAR AS IT WORKS EXCEPTIONALLY WELL WITH MOST OTHER CONTRASTING SHADES.

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Cosy

DÉCOR STYLE EOA

UP

We spend a lot of time hibernating in our bedrooms during winter… think breakfasts in bed, weekend lie-ins, movie nights and some cuddle time.

Rhoda Davids shows you how to personalise your space and make your boudoir the perfect room to pass the time.

FOUNDATION

Colour is key especially if you want to keep the space luxurious and trendy. Neutral shades work for all seasons as they set a peaceful tone and can be accesorised to make the space appear cooler or warmer.

FURNITURE PLACEMENT

The bed is the focal point and side tables are a must to accommodate those items for your daily rituals, such as books, the TV remote control, hand lotions, etc. If you have the space, add a chaise longue or bed end at the foot of the bed. Note, this should not be higher than your mattress.

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

CENTRE STAGE

Layer your bed as you would your clothes – start with an electric blanket under your fitted sheet, a good flat sheet and then a duvet on top of that. Make your bed as enticing as possible during winter by adding fresh fleecy sheets, plush blankets, pillows and throws. For the ultimate winter bed luxury, add a quilt to cover the whole bed, or fold it down to the foot of the bed and add a velvet or faux fur throw atop that. Fluffy pillows and scatters in different sizes also add to an overall elegant look.

There’s no space more personal than a bedroom – go on and decorate! E

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EOA DÉCOR STYLE

AFRICA MAP WALL ART, R3 995, WEYLANDTS. CHANDELIER WITH RUSTIC LEAF DETAIL, R5 995, BLOCK AND CHISEL. ROXANNE BED WITH UPHOLSTERED HEAD AND FOOTBOARD, R5 995, CORICRAFT.

NEWTON BEDEND, R5 995, BLOCK AND CHISEL.

PLUSH BELFIORE CHATEAU BLANKET, R550, SPREE.CO.ZA.

BRASS LAMP SET, R179.99, MR PRICE HOME.

STRIPE KNIT THROW IN GREY AND NATURAL, R995, WEYLANDTS.

VOGUE SCATTER, R150, CORICRAFT.

CRESTHILL LAMP TABLE, R2 495, CORICRAFT.

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JACQUARD HONEYCOMB SCATTER, R119.99, MR PRICE HOME. BIRD PRINTED SCATTER, R119.99, MR PRICE HOME.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. IMAGES: BLOCKANDCHISEL, CORICRAFT, HERTEX, MRPHOME. SPREE, WEYLANDTS.

Want the perfect boudoir? Here’s what you need need…

ENTERTAINMENT EOA NEED FOR SPEED

Acer’s award-winning notebook, the Aspire S7 Ultrabook, has just been upgraded with 5th Generation Intel Core Processors and ultrafast wireless technology.

Featuring a glossy white aluminum design, the razor-thin S7 is exceptionally light, yet resilient and durable. The touchscreen display tilts back a full 180 degrees, so you can use it like a tablet. It also features Wireless Display technology to connect to your TV and TwinAir cooling, which extends battery life and keeps it cool and comfortable to use.

STICK TO THE CLASSICS! The all-new BlackBerry Classic launched in South Africa recently, with all the familiarity of BlackBerry in an easy to use package.

Although most of us eschewed our good ol’ BBs for a sexier smartphone, it seems the device is making quite a comeback. The Classic is a no-nonsense smartphone, giving you exactly what you’d expect: speed, accuracy and an actual QWERTY keyboard for those who’ve grown tired of a touch screen.

UNLOCK ENTERTAINMENT

Soon to be launched on our shores, the new Xperia smartphone is brimming with entertainment that isn’t out of reach. Wanting to offer premium features with unparalleled ease of use at a competitive price, Sony came up with the E4. With its simple setup, great screen and unrivalled two-day battery life, this is an ideal solution for on-thego entertainment.

TECH & APPS Timesaving apps

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: AMAZON.COM,US. BLACKBERRY.COM,ACER.COM

IFTTT

REMEMBER THE MILK

With millions of users worldwide, Remember the Milk is mobile task management at its finest. The app lets you organise tasks by day, priority, type (work, kids, home) and more. Instead of wasting time trying to remember your tasks and searching for places to get them done, the app does it all in one – simply look up your to-dos by proximity to where you are and check them off your list. It can also send reminders by email or text as well as integrate with your Google calendar or Siri on an iPhone.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

If you don’t know about Ifttt, then you’re missing out. Ifttt, which stands for “if this then that,” syncs your choice applications. Come up with your own ‘recipes’, or choose from Ifttt’s most popular automations. Have your iPhone photos emailed to you as soon as they’re snapped, or have your contacts instantaneously synced to a spreadsheet. Simultaneously update your Facebook and Twitter profile pictures or send out a ‘Happy New Year’ tweet as soon as the clock hits midnight. With Ifttt, the timesaving possibilities are endless.

DAILY AGENDA

POCKET

It’s easy to get distracted by web links, but Pocket lets you save them for later. Instead of bookmarking them or emailing them to your address, send them to Pocket to view them all in one place. You don’t need an Internet connection to see items, so you can view the articles and videos even during load shedding. Send an item to your friend’s Pocket for easy sharing. Links saved to the app are synced across platforms, from your smartphone to your computer. E

This amazing app syncs all your calendars to give you an instant overview of your day, how much time until your next meeting and lists your upcoming meetings.

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EOA SOCIAL SCENE

LETHABO PRIMARY SCHOOL LEARNERS WITH DR MYRIAM SIDIBE.

LEFT TO RIGHT: SHIRLEY CRAMER, YVONNE CHAKA CHAKA AND SPHE MJADU, UNILEVER PERSONAL CARE PR MANAGER.

LIFEBUOY AIMS TO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE TO THE COMMUNITIES IT SERVES!

HLULANI MASINGI FROM EOA LEARNING PROPER HYGIENE.

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n 16 February, Lifebuoy hosted a media event at the Soweto Theatre with the aim of changing the handwashing behavior of one billion people by 2020. Keynote speaker Dr Myriam Sidibe, Unilever Hygiene and Nutrition Social Mission Director for Africa, communicated Lifebuoy’s continued commitment to investing in the ‘Help a Child Reach 5’ initiative. Launched in 2012, it has become the world’s largest hygiene promotion programme to date, having reached over 183 million people globally and 5.2 million in South Africa.

In acknowledgement of Lifebuoy’s hygiene education efforts with respect to using soap and washing hands as a good measure towards disease prevention, Lifebuoy has become the first soap brand to receive the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) newest accreditation status for campaigns. Directed by South Africa’s talented Yvonne Chaka Chaka and brand ambassador for lifebuoy, the event was also attended by Mr Vuyani Mpofu, DirectorGeneral of Gauteng Education Department, Dr Barney Selebano, Acting Head of Department Gauteng Health, and Shirley Cramer, CEO of the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) in London. E

YVONNE CHAKA CHAKA ,WILLIAM VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, KATE SWAN, SHPE MJADU AND MR VUYANI MPOFU WITH THE LEARNERS FROM LETHABO PRIMARY SCHOOL.

GLOW GERM TEST

MR VUYANI MPOFU AND DR BARNEY SELEBANO, ACTING HOD GAUTENG HEALTH, ESCORTED BY ONE OF THE LETHABO PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: MBALI FAKUDE. PICTURES: SUPPLIED BY LIFEBUOY.

DEP. DIR-GEN. FOR THE GAUTENG EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MR VUYANI MPOFU.

DÉCOR NEWS EOA

HOMEGROWN FABULOUS

SLEEK IS CHIC

Clean lines and minimalist appearances are very trendy and create the illusion of more space. The design of Woodbender’s Toscana table range has ‘an openness’ under the table, which is ideal for compact living spaces. The Toscana table can be customised in 15 different finishes and retails for about R6 450. For more information, go to Woodbender.co.za.

Be bold and give your home a touch of tribal elegance with any of the prints from the Mama Africa range of fabrics from Hertex. They are bold and colourful and inspired by Shweshwe prints and a local mill prints the intricate designs. To find a showroom closest to you visit hertex.co.za.

HERTEX ZOLA SUNBURNT, R478.80 P/M, VAT INCL.

HOMEGROWN MINIMALISM MEETS Techno Trends All the latest design and décor news, updates and products you need to know about.

FIRED UP

Warming up your home has never been this stylish. The Slimfocus from Beauty Fires is the latest creation from Dominique Imbert’s design studio and is a sleek and chic addition to your living space.

This contemporary piece offers excellent heat performance and is available for wood or gas burning, as a non-pivoting version for a corner installation, with a balanced flue chimney or as a pivoting option for installation in the centre of a room. Use it day or night and even as a barbecue. For more information, visit Beautyfires.com.

PURPLE POWER

Amethyst is Le Creuset’s latest addition to its gorgeous rainbow collection.

You’ll be able to add cast-iron casseroles and a soup pot in a textured matte finish to your collection. The right colour scheme is key to creating the right mood in your kitchen, so why not pair it with stainless steel for a contemporary look. View the full range at Lecreuset.co.za.

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EOA DÉCOR NEWS

‘UP-CYCLING’ AT GRAND DESIGNS LIVE

RUSTIC REVIVAL

Add some flair to your table with ceramic tableware from Weylandts.

Each piece is handmade and inspired by the earth, shaped by water and air, and born of fire. Pieces are glazed by traditional ceramicists in a studio in Castanheira, Portugal and draw inspiration from the white sands and azure waters of Portugal.

Visit weylandts.co.za.

The most exceptional home and garden show in South Africa, Grand Designs Live showcases many top brands, designers and expert tips, as well as innovative features. This year, the impressive Interiors section boasts a beautiful Tree House, brought to you by Belgotex, while clever use of space will be demonstrated by two gorgeous room sets decorated by top interior decorators. With the theme of up-cycling, the Black+Decker DIY Build theatre created from two containers will host talented experts demonstrating the latest in DIY. The Garden Theatre will be a retreat of beautiful trees, garden benches, and the sound of trickling water from the bustling aisles. Enjoy the Chef’s Theatre brought to you by Easylife Kitchens, where much-loved celebrity foodies will be sampling, demonstrating and showcasing the perfect meal for you to replicate in your kitchens. A home-lover’s dream show!

Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, Northriding, Johannesburg Date: 29 to 31 May Times: Friday and Saturday: 10h00 to 18h00, Sunday: 10h00 to 17h00 Price: R90 (Pensioners and Students: R60, children under 12 are free) Contact: +27 (0)11 835 1565 or visit www.granddesignslive.co.za.

The Black Collector’s Forum is the only platform in South Africa that is targeting new black audiences and encouraging the development of a new generation of black art collectors with the understanding that purchasing art is a valuable investment. The collaboration between various parties under the rubric of !Kauru is a platform for showcasing art exhibitions of contemporary art from Africa. A recent showcase at the Cape Town Art Fair featured the work of Kay Hassan, a well-established artist whose work has been critically acclaimed and featured in well-respected museums and private collections. His recent exhibition at the august Jack Shainman Gallery in New York was well received and testimony of artistic trajectory spanning three decades. According to the Black Collectors Forum facilitator, Andile Magengelele, an independent art intermediary and a broker, “the BCF aims to increase the awareness of Africa’s bustling art industry, it will draw investors into the world of art investment and appreciation by presenting artworks that carry both investment and aesthetic value.” Visit kauru.co.za for more information.

SA DESIGNERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ANDILE DYALVANE

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Leaders in South African design were honoured recently in Cape Town at the third annual Southern Guild Design Foundation Awards held at the GUILD international design fair. Six designers were honoured in the ‘Future Growth’ and ‘Recognition of Excellence’ categories, showing a massive nod to emerging designers and those who have already experienced success.

The Future Growth Apprentice Award went to Cape Peninsula University of Technology design graduate Nehanda Magan, who has been offered a 12-month internship with Guideline MNF, allowing her the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and classic joinery methods.

Recognising inspirational, aspirational top-end products, the Object that Moves Award, sponsored by 100% Design South Africa, went to David Krynauw for his Haywire Chandelier. The Icon Award was awarded to Cape Town ceramicist, Andile Dyalvane. Recognised as a designer who represents South Africa on a global scale, showing worldwide at events including New York Now, Design Days Dubai, Design Miami and Design Miami Basel. Other awards went to Bonga Jwambi, Thabo Pitso (PTA), Bronze Age, and Missibaba. E

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WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. SOURCES: SPECIALISED EXHIBITIONS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED, SPECIALISED EXHIBITIONS.

COLLECT & INVEST

SOCIAL SCENE EOA

FROM THE LEFT: MINISTER GWEN MAHLANGU, DEPUTY MINISTER NOMAINDIYA MFEKETHO, MINISTER SUSAN SHABANGU, PAM YAKO (MD OF ZENANDE LEADERSHIP CONSULTING)

EQUALITY FOR WOMEN IS PROGRESS FOR ALL

LADIES FROM MQA, REDISA AND THE SAVE THE CHILDREN ORGANISATION.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

BEAUTY THERAPISTS FROM ANNIQUE

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EOA SOCIAL SCENE MRS VUYO ZITUMANE AND PAM YAKO GIVING AWAY FLORI ROBERTS GIFT PACKS FOR THE LUCKY DRAW.

KGADI (HERBALIFE EXHIBITOR)

INTERNATIONAL PANEL FROM LEFT: DR CHENE SWAART, DR PANDELANI MATHOMA, MS THANDI MARAH.

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n 6 March 2015, Zenande Leadership hosted a Phenomenal Women Conference that was attended by more than 200 women leaders. The theme of the event was ‘Equality for women is progress for all’ and the programme promised a combination of high-powered speakers, including an international panel, thematic working sessions, networking and pampering. Guest speakers included Minister of Women in the Presidency, Susan Shabangu, who also serves on the National Executive Council (NEC) of the African National Congress.

Zenande Leadership’s Women in Leadership Programme was also launched at this event and aims to encourage women to take that leap forward. It augurs very well with the UN WOMEN’s ‘Step it up’ campaign. This programme is in line with proposed action number three (3) i.e. ‘Enhance women’s leadership and participation at all levels of decision-making.’ The event was a significant achievement and the thirst expressed by the women leaders in attendance made clear the need to create further platforms for networking, dialogue and sharing of experiences. E

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: MBALI FAKUDE. IMAGES: ZENANDE LEADERSHIP.

GUGU NDEBELE (CEO SAVE THE CHILDREN) WITH EXHIBITORS.

motoring EOA

FREEDOM

Ride

pril is a blessed month for South Africa. Not only for commemorating our freedom as a nation, but also providing respite from the hectic pace of our busy lives. The Easter holidays allow us to slow down and take stock, reconnecting with loved ones in an affirmation of what really matters. In this space of deeper connection enters a car that epitomises the essence of freedom. Having been named ‘SUV of the Year’ and ‘Best Premium SUV’, the Range Rover Evoque has racked up more than 160 global awards since its launch. And no wonder, for this is one majestic beauty of an SUV.

PURE PERFECTION

The Evoque Pure heralds a major step forward in terms of technology, as it has the honour of bringing a nine-speed automatic to the market – the first SUV in the country offering a transmission of such an advanced design. This ultra-responsive transmission is immediately apparent when driving the Evoque

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

Stylish and highly responsive, the Range Rover Evoque Pure makes the world’s most desirable SUV badge more affordable than ever.

Pure, adapting to your actions behind the wheel with lightning speed. It also has lower fuel consumption, enhanced performance (especially off-road) and greater driving comfort.

If you’re anything like me, then sadly your parking skills leave a lot to be desired. So it comes as no surprise that I couldn’t get enough of the driver aids available with the Pure. Park Exit allows you to automatically exit parallel parking bays while Perpendicular Park positions the car centrally in a bay – helping me park like a pro.

Yet the most impressive feature of the Range Rover Evoque Pure is undoubtedly its affordability, allowing more people to experience its power and capability. But don’t be April fooled into thinking the lower price tag means less comfort. Quite the opposite, in fact. Its stylish cabin boasts leather upholstery, a 380-Watt Meridian sound system, cruise control which, along with the sound system, can be controlled from the leather-rimmed steering wheel, USB connectivity and Bluetooth with audio streaming. Pure models are also equipped with useful features such as keyless entry, front park distance control and front fog lamps.

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EOA MOTORING

DS FLAGSHIP

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: QUICKPIC, JOMOMAG.BLOGSPOT.COM, MOTORPRESS.CO.ZA

The new DS 5 is a vehicle of avantgarde styling, turning heads during its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show last month. Allying dynamic behaviour, refinement and attention to detail with a selection of advanced technologies, it embodies all the attributes of present and future DS vehicles. Alongside new features such as the sculpted, vertical grille with the DS logo in the centre, Xenon LED headlamps, touch-drive interface and high-performance engines, the new DS 5 maintains all the classic qualities behind its renown.

THE POWER OF DESIGN

Bringing together striking design, free-spirited performance and innovative technology, the new Lexus NX is the luxury automaker’s first foray into the ultra-competitive compact SUV segment. This is a design-driven, driverrewarding SUV, underpinned by some advanced engineering from Lexus and dynamic, efficient powertrains. Its powerful yet seductive stance makes a bold first impression and its quality features ensure your attention is kept captive. E

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HOROSCOPES EOA

TURN-AROUND TIME IN LOVE & MONEY

WORDS: STELLA NOVA.

Taurus 21 April – 21 May Love: It’s your hottest month for love this year so this could be the time to find ‘the one’ or ‘put a ring on it’.

Career: Add some flowers to your workspace to help you handle work-induced nervous energy, or try a little herbal tea.

Money: Look out for opportunities to make more money.

Aries 21 March – 20 April A New Moon in your sign makes you feel you have a new take on life. Changes are ahead with this month’s eclipse too showing you that you don’t always have to take the lead. Try it – you might just like this new way.

Love: Your love life gets a makeover this month. But if you have a partner, check with them that you’re making all the right romantic moves now too.

Career: Take a step back to see how much you’ve achieved, rather than how much there is still to do.

Money: Your cash situation is looking more stable than it has for ages, but remember to save as much as you spend.

Gemini 22 May – 21 June Love: Romance needs a rethink this month, so use your wit and genuine friendship to open romantic doors.

Career: Embrace any creative changes brought your way at work to turn your career into a labour of love.

Money: Be cautious about investing money in anything until you have all the facts.

Scorpio 24 October – 22 November Love: Love has been in short supply for too long, so enjoy one of the most romantic months of the year.

Career: Expect to be busier than ever and loving it.

Money: Once work gets moving again this month, money will start flowing in soon afterwards.

Cancer 22 June – 23 July Love: If you’re feeling depleted, encourage others to show their love by helping you out at this time.

Career: Now is the time to take a fresh approach to your work, get noticed and get ahead.

Money: Your finances finally get back on form so invest in something that will bring a good return.

Sagittarius 23 November – 22 December Love: No matter what your current relationship status is, let the fun into your life!

Career: Find creative ways to enjoy the dull things in life, like chores.

Money: Be frugal, but you are allowed to relax your strategy occasionally… like now.

Leo 24 July – 23 August Love: Working together with a friend on shared ideals could help new romance ignite or old love grow stronger.

Career: You’re the go-to gal at work this month, very popular and knowledgeable.

Money: Buy the best you can afford now when it comes to useful gadgets for communication.

Capricorn 23 December – 20 January Love: A fine romance looks like it could be a match made in heaven.

Career: You may find your work takes you in a different direction, but you love where it leads.

Money: You might have to back down financially to help things along, but it’ll be worth it.

Virgo 24 August – 23 September Love: Make tentative changes to your relationship status this month as these will result in progress.

Career: People in positions of power are ready to listen to your great ideas.

Money: This is a good time to negotiate financially and aim to earn what you’re worth.

Aquarius 21 January – 19 February Love: Someone who seemed distant, or was genuinely far away, is back on your romantic radar in a big way.

Career: Putting a new slant on old ideas is the way forward for you at work this month.

Money: Put last month’s financial lessons into practice so you can prevent future similar money mistakes.

Libra 24 September – 23 October Love: Romance, passion and friendships all flow smoothly, and for once everyone’s on your wavelength.

Career: Change your ways at work and it could change your career for the better.

Money: Allow yourself to have a secret fund for those guilty pleasures. Enjoy!

Pisces 20 February – 20 March Love: Start a new romance this month with a simple greeting, or strengthen an ongoing romance.

Career: Work is going to be busy but will open you up to learning loads of career-boosting skills as well.

Money: Swap old habits that drain your funds for new ways with money that energise them. E

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Hinterland

Set in 1899 in Kimberley, South Africa, this award-winning play tells the story of a relationship that develops between legendary colonialist and empire builder, Cecil John Rhodes, and ANC founding father Sol Plaatje. The historical gem of a play traces the course of what a fictional meeting between these men would have entailed. Despite being a period piece, Hinterland couldn’t be more relevant to the South Africa of today, particularly during the month of Freedom Day. Our history has become a battleground: a contested territory where fact, fiction and myth blur.

Opens on 7 April at the Theatre on the Square in Johannesburg.

MOVIES & THEATRE

This month’s best movie and theatre offerings, with funnyman Alan Committie’s new show are set to have you rolling in the aisles with laughter.

BLACK OR WHITE

One of few actresses to win a Critic’s Choice Award, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, BAFTA and Oscar in the same year, Octavia Spencer has truly conquered Hollywood. She brings her powerful talent to the fore in her latest film, Black or White. The stirring story revolves around a widowed grandfather, played by Kevin Costner, who is left to raise his biracial granddaughter after the deaths of his wife and daughter. When the little girl’s paternal grandmother – a straight-talking, self-made woman with a large family – decides to fight for custody, they become embroiled in a bitter battle with consequences neither could foresee.

Opens on 10 April at Ster Kinekor theatres.

Rosewater

This is the true story of the imprisonment and torture of Iranian-Canadian journalist and filmmaker Maziar Bahari, who was imprisoned for five months in Iran following an appearance on director Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show. He named his interrogator “Rosewater” because he smelled of the familiar fragrance. His satirical sketch on The Daily Show was played for him as he was accused of being a Zionist spy. Gael Garcia Bernal pulls off the role with a sensitivity that allows the story to shine through.

Opens on 2 April at Ster Kinekor theatres.

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Essays of A frica

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. PICTURES: STER-KINEKOR; IMPAWARDS.COM, THE LYRIC THEATRE; JOZIFILMFESTIVAL.CO.za.

Movies & theatre EOA

People Are Living There Of all Athol Fugard’s plays, this is likely the one taken most from real life experience. Set in the late 60s in Apartheid South Africa, the play focuses on the lives of four people living in the heart of Johannesburg. Stuck in a small apartment with little to do and nowhere to go, their stories slowly unravel as they share their inherent longings and pain. Starring Anna-Mart Van Der Merwe, the play brings to life the complexities and suffering wrought by Apartheid yet still pertinent in 2015.

Opens on 21 April at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg.

You’re Not You

Starring Hilary Swank and Emmy Rossum, this poignant drama centres on a classical pianist who has been diagnosed with ALS and the brash college student who becomes her caregiver.

Opens on 17 April at Ster Kinekor theatres. E

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A proud HERITAGE Africa’s World Heritage Sites cover a wide spectrum of natural and cultural wonders and are definitely worth a place on anyone’s travel bucket list.

frica is blessed with an enviable and diverse choice of World Heritage Sites, ranging from the pyramids and rock-hewn churches of Egypt and Ethiopia, to natural phenomena such as the great herbivore migrations across the Serengeti’s savannah, the life-giving force of Lake Malawi and living history with the Nama (Khoi-Khoi) people of the southwest. Here is an edited shortlist of sights so majestic that they should be taken in at least once in a lifetime.

FORTS AND CASTLES, GHANA

The coastline of Ghana has the highest concentration of European-built forts and castles on the African continent.

There are 29 in total, some more than 500 years old. They were built to serve the colonial powers of the day that used these structures to protect their trading interests – mainly gold and slaves. The two most prominent castles open to the public are

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at Cape Coast and Elmina; they have undergone extensive renovations and offer some excellent displays. Well-informed guides are available to explain the context of these structures and their individual histories. Elmina overlooks a busy local fishing port with colourful canoes, while Cape Coast Castle stands on the site of what was once a Swedish fort built of wood.

LAKE MALAWI, MALAWI

Lake Malawi contains the largest number of fish species of any lake in the world – 3 000 in total. Situated at the southern end of East Africa’s Great Rift Valley – formed by the fracturing of the African tectonic plate – Lake Malawi offers unique fish species, deep clear waters and varied habitats. The lake is large enough that a boat caught in bad weather would be hard-pressed to see land, as it is 580km long and 75km wide. What make the lake unique are not only the five fish species that are found only here, but also the explosiveness with which its fish species develop.

This phenomenon is rivalled only by the numerous finch species of the Galapagos Islands off Chile.

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TRAVEL EOA

THE VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE & ZAMBIA

The Victoria Falls in full flow produces the largest sheet of falling water in the world and is almost twice as high as North America’s Niagara Falls. The falls are formed by the Zambezi River that plunges over a fissure in the surrounding basalt plateau into a single gorge and then splintering off into a number of others. Romantically called ‘the Smoke that Thunders’ by the local Mosi-oaTunya people, the first European to see it was the Scottish explorer David Livingstone in 1855. The river and the falls form the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and are normally in flood from February until May, when a spectacular mist cloud surrounds the whole area. A fly-over, or sundowner river cruise is an unforgettable must-do on any traveller’s itinerary.

THE ‘SMOKE THAT THUNDERS’ – THE VICTORIA FALLS IN FULL FLOW

MEMPHIS NECROPOLIS AND THE PYRAMIDS, EGYPT

The world-famous Egyptian pyramids are the only surviving structures of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Near Saqqara – home to the world’s earliest stone monument – the ancient capital of Memphis was built in 3100BC where the Nile Delta meets the river valley, symbolically uniting Upper and Lower Egypt. Today, in the vicinity of ancient Memphis (a village now) pyramids still survive. However, four separate groups of pyramids form part of the World Heritage Site. They are spread out in the desert over 30km along the west bank of the river Nile. The pyramids at Giza with the adjacent Sphinx are instantly recognisable but further south at Abu Sir, Saqqara and Dahshur, there are a further 35 pyramids.

THE Great Sphinx of Giza

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RICHTERSVELD CULTURAL LANDSCAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

THE hot, dry DESERT OF RICHTERSVELD

In South Africa’s Northern Cape province, along the Orange River that forms the border with Namibia, lies a rugged, semi-desert area called the Richtersveld. Here living and ancient history can be observed, both in man’s activities and the botanical landscape.

Spectacular lava-formed mountains, rock art left behind by stoneage people, 30% of all South Africa’s succulent plant species and various iconic quiver trees are found here. Direct descendants of the country’s indigenous Nama people migrate through this area with their livestock, build collapsible homes with reed mats and make a living where few dare to tread. A visit to the immense Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park with its jaw-dropping Fish River Canyon that extends into Namibia is recommended.

NATURE IN PERFECT FORM, RWENZORI MOUNTAIN

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These are unique because its mountains are not lava formed.

They are steep, rugged and wet, and came about because of the earth’s crust thrusting up. What sets the park apart is its sheer visual beauty, reminiscent of an alpine landscape with high peaks, glaciers, snowfields and breathtaking lakes. The park covers most of the centre and eastern half of the Rwenzori mountain range, while the other side forms part of the DRC’s Virunga National Park.

It includes Africa’s third, fourth and fifth highest mountain peaks and protects many rare, endemic and endangered species, and the richest mountain flora in Africa – a very unusual cloud forest of giant heathers, groundsels and lobelias draped in mosses.

essays of A frica

WORDS: DENISE SLABBERT. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM; NURAAN MOTLEKAR

RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK, UGANDA

TRAVEL EOA THE ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES OF LALIBELA, ETHIOPIA

ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES OF LALIBELA IN NORTHERN ETHIOPIA DATING BACK TO THE 13TH CENTURY

The combination of man’s ingenuity and reverence produced the astonishing rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in northern Ethiopia that date back to the 13th century. Eleven churches, each one carved out of mainly solid rock, stand free in individual cavernous holes. To access these architectural wonders people descend through a steep channel cut into the rock, or pass through a tunnel from a neighbouring church. They are attributed to the 13th century King Lalibela and demonstrate an extraordinary tenacity and religious fervour plus an eye for detail, symbolism, design and decoration.

The churches function to this day and are places of pilgrimage for many Ethiopians. Within these structures, priests maintain tradition and guard ancient manuscripts and religious art.

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA

In the northeast of Tanzania where it borders Kenya, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sights occur – the annual migration of vast herds of herbivores in search of grazing, between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park with its endless plains and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Where wildebeests, zebras and antelope go, predators like lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena follow and crocodiles lie in ambush; these confrontations produce naturally occurring theatre of the most dramatic kind twice a year – from May through August and again in November. The Serengeti is home to Africa’s Big Five – rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard. Thanks to the abundance of prey, over 3 000 lion and 1 000 leopard inhabit this vast ecosystem.

THE GREAT MIGRATION OF HERDS OF WILDEBEEST ACROSS THE SERENGETTI PLAINS OF TANZANIA

STERKFONTEIN CAVES AND MAROPENG, SOUTH AFRICA

About thirty minutes northwest of the busy metropolis that is Johannesburg, near the village of Muldersdrift, lies a valley called The Cradle of Humankind, where fossil finds indicate man has been active for more than three million years. In the valley’s Sterkfontein Caves and surrounds, archaeological excavations have uncovered ancient hominid finds, among them Mrs Ples and Little Foot, indicating that this is where man’s journey began – hence the name Cradle of Humankind. Seven kilometres north of the caves, the well-equipped Maropeng Visitors Centre provides a fascinating insight into the area’s rich paleontological heritage. The nearby Cradle Game Reserve houses a dozen antelope species and rare raptors such as the martial and black eagle. E THE STERKFONTEIN CAVES, A PLACE WITH THE HISTORY OF HUMANKIND

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For more details on Africa’s unique World Heritage Sites, visit whc.unesco.org.

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f radio is the theatre of the mind then Refiloe Mpakanyane has been a stagehand, an understudy, a director and a thespian. These days, the majority of her time is taken up by her role as co-host of the popular, Touchdown 326 afternoon drive-time show, with T-Bo Touch on Metro FM. The year 2015 marks 10 years in the broadcast industry.

The 31-year-old says her foray into radio was a serendipitous one. Refiloe had majored in International Relations, Media Studies and English Literature when she received her Honours from Wits University’s Journalism School in 2004. As she was about to graduate, she and a friend were listening to Metro FM while driving on a Saturday morning. “I was telling my friend: ‘If I could get a job that would pay me to read books, I’d be the happiest person in the world.’”

With that sentence having barely left her mouth, an advert came onto the radio. SterKinekor was looking for a critic to review films on Metro FM. Five hundred entrants and a bootcamp later, Refiloe won the competition. It was no easy feat, the bootcamp included being judged by legendary film critic Barry Ronge, Idols judge Randall Abrahams and former Metro FM programme manager, Leo Manne.

So in 2005, Refiloe became Metro FM’s first film critic and she even attended the Oscars in Los Angeles. That year, she recorded features for Glen Lewis’s afternoon drive show. “The radio desk is so intimidating, it looks like a spaceship,” she laughs, “but I was looking for areas of growth and opportunity.” It’s with that mind-set that she learned how to use the Pro Tools editing software.

years of 10 EXCELLENCE With a decade in the broadcast industry under her belt, Refiloe Mpakanyane shows no signs of slowing down. She spoke to Helen Herimbi about finding her feet in radio, fashion and film.

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ENTERTAINMENT EOA DRIVEN TO CONNECT

Her interest in all things radio was already evident but teaching herself other skills afforded her the technical know-how to produce insert shows. Between 2006 and 2007, she produced inserts for Fab Happenings On The African Continent for Penny Lebyane’s show on Metro FM. She also produced Lucky Packet, Michelle Constant’s lunchtime arts, culture and lifestyle show on Radio 2000. Within her decade in broadcast journalism, Refiloe has also worked on SA FM and Radio 2000. She’s lent her scriptwriting talents to the Respect with HHP show on SABC 1 and in 2008, she hosted her own arts and culture show, La Bon Vie on Metro FM. Refiloe’s enormous passion for radio comes across with even a slight prompt. “I love radio because of its spontaneity,” she says. “You will be amazed at how people connect with radio. You don’t think anyone is even paying attention to you until a box of your favourite chocolates are delivered to the studio because someone appreciates what you do.”

WORDS: HELEN HERIMBI. IMAGES: CELEBRISHOPPE.

LOVING HER FEMININITY

Although she is a co-host who’s also in charge of delivering the news every hour and half-hour, she acknowledges that in the past, women have been relegated to sidekick roles where a man anchors a prime-slot show and the woman is just a traffic reporter or the gossip girl. “I think the sidekick thing does still happen because sometimes the station builds a team around a specific man,” she explains, “but there have been some changes. Look at how Azania (Mosaka of 702) has hosted not one but two drive-time shows. I think there are more young women who are becoming comfortable and brave enough to say they see themselves as hosts of a show because until then, it may not even occur [to the station’s powers] that you’ll actually hold it down.”

The youngest of three sisters, whom she refers to as her best friends who make for excellent teammates in a game of 30 Seconds against their husbands, Refiloe has found a way to express herself through fashion.

Recently announced as the muse of acclaimed designer, Suzaan Heyns, the pair shoot out ideas about apparel and bring them to life. “It’s about finding a designer who shares your taste in aesthetics,” she beams.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

THE ETERNAL STUDENT

A self-confessed worker bee who says “for 75% of this decade, I had three jobs at a time and was learning three times more,” Refiloe has challenged herself outside of radio. In 2010, she produced a documentary called Freedom Flyers, which interrogates what South Africa has become 20 years into democracy.

“It gave me an appreciation and made me take stock of how I’m using the resources I have at hand,” she says.

Also in 2010 and for three-anda-half years after, she became a news anchor at eNCA (eNews Channel Africa). “I wanted to get into TV news and current affairs,” she explains, “I did a tape for Debora Patta and she said ‘When can you start?’ She gave me pointers but essentially, I started out without any training.”

Refiloe has since put TV journalism on hold in favour of another role on screen: acting. In 2009, she was tasked with the role of secretary to President Nelson Mandela’s office in the film, Invictus. “My voice-over booking agent told me I should audition and I said I’m not an actress,” she recalls. “Then I heard Clint Eastwood was directing it and I thought: ‘he’s one of my favourite directors.’ I auditioned for him and inside, my heart was doing somersaults.”

That wasn’t the last time she got to display her acting chops. In 2013, she played a journalist in a film called Nothing For Mahala. “Rolie Nikiwe is a great director,” says Refiloe, “who was I to say no?” It’s her exposure to acting that has helped reinforce how she wants to approach her career in the next decade.

Refiloe says: “I’d like to do more acting jobs because being in my 30s, I’m more open to exploring and having fun with my work. I don’t think there has ever been a better time to be a young black woman in this country.” E

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EOA ENTERTAINMENT

MUSIC HERSTORY

Firebrand Simphiwe Dana Sony Music

SA’s iconic Queen of Soul impresses on this passion-infused album, which she launched in Kenya. Simphiwe Dana took two years to create this 14-track masterpiece of love. Aptly titled, the album speaks to the conviction of this powerful artist, carried through in each song and melody.

WALLFLOWER Diana Krall Universal Music

The great Diana Krall’s new studio album is a collection of songs from the late 60s to the present that inspired Krall in her early years. Produced by 16-time Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster, the album finds Krall breaking new ground with her interpretations of some of the greatest pop songs of all time. On Wallflower, her considerable gifts as a vocalist are showcased in a bold and beautiful way.

THE READ TAPE ProVerb Universal Music

Hip Hop artist Tebogo Thekiso, aka ProVerb, proves his formidable prowess once again on The Read Tape. One of the most conceptual Emcees in the game, ProVerb’s fifth album follows the other ‘books’ in his series of releases, starting with The Book of ProVerb. The talented artist aims to take his work into uncharted terrain on this powerful new album.

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NON-FICTION NE-YO Universal Music 50 SHADES OF GREY Soundtrack Universal Music

The movie may have left some unimpressed, but Shades lovers and haters all agree on one thing: the music is good. With tracks from Beyoncé to The Weeknd, Annie Lennox to Jessie Ware, this is one soundtrack you’ll be jamming to long after the movie has been forgotten.

Superstar hit-maker NE-YO returns with Non-Fiction, his first album in two years where he collaborates with some of the most talented names in music today. Juicy J is featured on the first hard-hitting single, She Knows, produced by powerhouse pop guru Dr. Luke. Other featured artists include David Guetta, Jeezy, Schoolboy Q, T.I. and Pitbull. As the title suggests, every song on the album is derived from a true story – some from NE-YO’s life and others submitted by fans.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: UNIVERSAL MUSIC, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS, SONY MUSIC, BUTAN CREATIVE COLLECTIVE.

Platinum-selling Lira needs no introduction, having conquered South Africa and much of Europe with her irresistible blend of R&B and Afro-jazz. Last year was all about conquering the American market, with the release of her debut U.S. single Feel Good as well as her latest album, Rise Again. Her soulful voice lends itself perfectly to the slinky, jazzy music we’ve all come to love. Lira has appeared on the cover of more than 20 magazines worldwide and has the largest online social media network of any female African musician. This month, Lira is taking East London by storm with the HerStory tour. The unforgettable songstress will be at Hemingways from 3 to 5 April.

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words: eoa team. picture: Gareth Jacobs.

ALDO BLOCK AND CHISEL CALL IT SPRING CASTELOS CAMELOT SPA GROUP CITY CHIC EUROPA ART SHOES CORICRAFT DIS-CHEM EDGARS ERICSON LABORATOIRE EUROPA ART SHOES FOREVER NEW G-STAR RAW GARETH JACOBS GUESS HANNON HERTEX KAIKA FASHION KAREN MILLEN LOUISA SPAGNOLI LUKS GROUP MANGO MRP PLACECOL OUTLETS PRUDENCE SEGAME ROBOT TRADING SDM EYEWEAR SEGAMETSI TRIBAL WEAR SIES! ISABELLE SPREE STEVE MADDEN STUTTAFORDS SUTURETHIS TIGER OF SWEDEN TOPSHOP WEYLANDTS WOOLWORTHS ZANDO ZARA ZURI

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april 2015