Essays of Africa September 2015

A WOMAN’S JOURNEY

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

www.essaysofafrica.com

THE TRUTH

THE BLACK TAX BURDEN

About sending NUDIES Musician & Social Activist

www.essaysofafrica.com

Hello self...

HAVE WE MET? Use personal power & privilege for GOOD!

LE-ANNE Dlamini DOESN’T skip a

SEPTEMBER 2015 • VOL2 • NO10

THE SCENT OF DÉJÀ VU

beat as a woman, wife & mother

g n i r p S

FRAGRANCES TO STIR THE MEMORY

SHOW A LITTLE LEG THIS SEPTEMBER 2015 R30.00 (VAT incl.)

Other countries: R26.27 (excl. TAX)

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*Instrumental test. **450 Black females who use complexion creams; living in the major metro areas in South Africa; aged 18-45 y.o.; and falling into LSM 5-10.

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Inside ESSAYS a woman’s journey

of africa

cover stories

features

20 MAIN FASHION: Show a little leg this spring.

52 MONEY: Start saving today for your festive shopping.

42 LEANNE DLAMINI: Doesn’t skip a beat as a woman, wife and mother.

60 PARENTING: What is the perfect family size?

56 RELATIONSHIPS: Ready, steady, date.

58 SEX: The truth about sending nudes.

SEPTEMBER 2015

66 HEALTH: A look at oral health.

68 MAN FEATURE: Reasons men don’t want to marry.

62 NEWS REPORT: What in the world is black tax?

people 30 REAL LIFE: Why I chose to terminate four times.

32 PROFILE: Dr Diaho’s conscious approach to living.

54 WOMEN’S NETWORK: Lebohang Masango says its more than just a hair thing.

72 MAN Q&A: Chef Lentswe Bhengu is the master of his plate.

columns

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16 GUEST BLOG: Bronwyn Adams shares her love for the season and a few tips.

18 READER’S CORNER: Zama Bubu’s ode to women.

34 UNCOVERED: Using your personal power and privilege to make a difference.

74 #GAYBESTFRIEND: Fame in a time of Aids.

120 FINAL WORD: When spring is upon us.

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SEXY 7: The best fashion picks for the month.

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SHOPPING: Nude knowhow.

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SHOPPING: Floral escape.

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REAL WOMAN: Maxi-mum impact with Yoliswa Mqoboli.

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SHOPPING: Max out on fun this spring!

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FASHION NEWS

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SHOPPING: All-inone elegance and fun!

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ITEM OR OUTFIT: Glitteratzi.

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MAN SHOPPING: Casualwear for the laidback guy.

beauty 76

SEXY 7: The best beauty products of the month.

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MAIN BEAUTY: The scent of déjà vu.

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HAIR: Spring hair trends.

90

BEAUTY: Lip-smacking colour.

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BEAUTY NEWS

lifestyle 94

FOOD & ENTERTAINING: Light spring cuisine.

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SOCIAL SCENE: Conversations with leaders.

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DÉCOR STYLE FEATURE: Trendspotting.

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DÉCOR NEWS

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MOTORING: Fresh rides for a new season.

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TRAVEL: The charm of the Chobe.

112

ENTERTAINMENT Q&A: Pheladi Gwangwa manages talk radio.

114

BOOKS

115 TECH NEWS & APPS 116

MOVIES & THEATRE

118

MUSIC

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regulars 10

ON LOCATION

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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CONTRIBUTORS’ LIST

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ONLINE UPDATE

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LETTERS PAGE

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SUBSCRIPTIONS PAGE

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SOCIAL SCENE: The African Union Pre-Summit Gala Dinner.

HOROSCOPES STOCKISTS PAGE

117 119

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MAIN COVER: STYLING: TUMI MDLULI. PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT: BLESSING NDLOVU. HAIR: BONOLO RAMELA. MAKE-UP: ELLENOR NDLOVU.. FASHION: FOREVER NEW AND ZARA.

fashion

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

2015/08/06 2:08 PM

ESSAYS www.essaysofafrica.com

CEO of Kwenta Media & Founding Editor of Essays of Africa

Managing Editor Deputy Managing Editor Features Writers Fashion & Beauty Editor Admin & Fashion Assistant DĂŠcor Writer Columnists Contributors Online Features Writers Sub-Editors Proofreader

Nawaal Nolwazi Mdluli

Zama Nkosi Tracy Maher Caryn Thandi Petersen, Hayden Horner, Ndoni Khanyile, Thina Mthembu, Hlulani Masingi, Lebohang Masango Tumi Mdluli Tebatjo Manamela Rhoda Davids Tumi Morake, Hayden Horner Kim Garner, Bronwyn Abrahams, Eugene Yinga, Kirigo Kamore, Robyn Bloch, Zama Nkosi, Loren Stow, Zukiswa Dlamini Thina Mthembu, Hlulani Masingi, Tracy Maher, Tebatjo Manamela Tracy Maher, Nadia Goetham Nicky De Bene

Designer Junior Designers Online Administrator

Lelethu Tobi Asanda Mazwi, Siphokazi Masele Lekeke Mahlo, Nuraan Motlekar

Production Manager

Tumi Mdluli

Sales Marketing/PR & Events Coordinator Operations & Finance Manager Advisory Board

Office Drivers Publisher Physical Address

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

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 Gabriel Mashishi, Yusuf Msinyi

Kwenta Media (Pty) Ltd. Fourways View Office Park, Block C, First Floor, Cnr Sunset Ave and Sunrise Blvd, Fourways Tel: 011 467 5859, Fax: 011 467 2808 Kwenta Media, Essays of Africa: P.O. Box 4437, Dainfern, 2055 www.essaysofsafrica.com / www.kwentamedia.com advertising@essaysofafrica.com / advertising@kwentamedia.com editorial@essaysofafrica.com info@essaysofafrica.com / info@kwentamedia.com subs@essaysofafrica.com CTP Printers Cape Town RNA (Astrid Anderson) Essays Of Africa Magazine, Website and Webzine are 100% owned and published by Kwenta Media (Pty) Ltd. The editor and publisher reserve the right to alter copy and visual material as deemed necessary.

Copyright by Kwenta Media (Pty) Ltd. All rights reserved.

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september 2015

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EOA ON LOCATION

AN AFTERNOON WITH LEANNE DLAMINI

A SELECTION OF ROBOT CLOTHING TO STYLE LEANNE FOR THE SHOOT.

If she’s not singing behind a mic or writing songs, the humble LeAnne is a devoted wife and mother. She granted us four precious hours to shoot her for our cover and share a little about what is going on in her life. We were left with a huge appreciation for the lady whose talents shine both on and off camera.

ELLENOR NDLOVU ADDING THE FINISHING TOUCHES TO LEANNE’S MAKE-UP.

SEXY SHOES FROM CASTELOS.

PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. STYLIST: TUMI MDLULI. HAIR: BONOLO RAMELA. MAKE-UP: ELLENOR NDLOVU. FASHION: ROBOT TRADING, CASTELO.

BONOLO RAMELA WORKING HIS MAGIC WITH LEANNE’S LUSCIOUS LOCKS.

TUMI MDLULI KEEPING A WATCHFUL EYE ON PROCEEDINGS.

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2015/08/06 11:01 AM

ED’S LETTER EOA

Spring MUSE

PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS.

pring is finally upon us! Winter and all that it comes with it has passed and there are brighter, sunnier days to look forward to. Just as winter turns to spring, I have seen the pattern of how after tears, often comes relief and a smile. I’m emotional as I write this letter and as my eyes mist over, I wonder why it is that women are made to feel weak when they cry?

So often we are made to feel less than or ‘broken’ when we shed our tears. We are encouraged to weep in secret, pretend we don’t cry or transform our souls into steel so that we don’t bleed through tears. I especially cry when connecting with myself and syncing my essence to my Creator.

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As we enter this new season, I urge you to cry and purge your being. It’s a temporary journey we go through that can be harrowing, but the good news is that our souls remain intact. After the cleansing, allow yourself to talk about how you feel.

Your mind will be clearer, voice will be louder and your soul lighter.

In celebration of the new season, we delve into the trends you will be seeing over the next few months and take you on an olfactory journey that will have you thinking about what different fragrances mean to you. We also explore the issue of black tax, a reality many of us are living.

For those who have been single this winter, we share some tips to get you back on the dating scene – it is, after all, the season for fun.

There are various ways to mark the beginning of a new chapter and I hope this issue inspires you to do just that – start anew in areas where it is needed. After whatever winter or tearful period you may have endured, there will be something in the journeys we share on the pages of this issue that will help you to find your smile.

When clarity prevails, all I need is a bunch of beautiful flowers and the fruity, floral, Oriental fragrance of Modern Muse Le Rouge to take me to a happy place. If God could dry my tears, He can dry yours.

Winter is over; go out, show up, show off your pretty legs and change the world.

Nawaal Nawaal@kwentamedia.com

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/06 8:19 AM

EOA CONTRIBUTORS

Spring

hysteria

What excites me most? Being outside! Being stuck indoors in winter drives me crazy. In spring, I get so excited to go outside, take a walk, and breathe fresh air. My must-haves are: - A giant hat for the sun, but also for that lakeside glamour look. I love Simon and Mary hats.

- Sunscreen is imperative. Melanoma is a killer, and I’m at risk.

- Fresh flowers. Is that a cliché? I don't care. Flowers in the house make all the difference to happiness.

- Mint is the perfect spring garnish. I put it in salads and cocktails.

- Friends, because no one wants to picnic alone.

Kim Garner, Features Writer

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What I love about spring is the bloom of flowers, the return of the sun and not having to suffer through layers of clothing! My must-haves are: - Short-shorts because they’re most practical.

- A beautiful summer dress for social occasions.

- Bennett’s sunblock for babies for the best protection for my face.

- A new tattoo because that's my annual habit.

- A Chinese hand-fan to keep cool.

Lebohang Masango, Features Writer

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHS: KIM GARNER, LEBOGANG MASANGO AND EUGENE YIGA.

Spring is a great time for new beginnings, reflecting on the past, appreciating the present, and looking forward to the future.

My must-haves are: - A good book - Sunblock - Hiking boots - A positive attitude - Yoga Eugene Yiga, Features Writer

It’s the time of year that many of us look forward to. We asked EOA contributors what excites them most about the new season and to list their spring must-have items:

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ONLINE UPDATE EOA

SHARE YOUR SECRET WITH US

A secret revealed is a burden shared! Is that secret you have weighing you down, but you’re you too afraid to share with your closest friends… in case they let it out? Write to us and we’ll post anonymously on our weekly secrets section. Send us an e-mail at letters@essaysofafrica.com and we will be sure to post it on our website!

SUBSCRIBE AND GET YOUR DIGITAL COPY!

EOA is mobi-friendly, which means that you can avoid going to an overcrowded mall to get a copy! Subscribe online and save 35%! Visit www. essaysofafrica.com and follow the easy steps!

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TALK TO US ON FACEBOOK

We love to get our readers talking and the best way to interact with you is through our social media platforms. Like our Facebook Page Essay Of Africa, and follow us on Twitter @EssaysOfAfrica and Instagram @essaysofafrica!

If you want to be the first to know what’s hot and what’s not in the world of beauty, fashion and health, and the do’s and don’ts in relationships, subscribe to our daily online newsletter and we will bring the best lifestyle trends to your inbox, every day! Visit www.essaysofafrica.com for more details.

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CONTACT US! Do you want to share a story with us? Do you need to get into contact with us? Are you struggling to get a copy of Essays of Africa? Contact subscriptions@essaysofafrica.com.

SOCIAL NETWORK: Find Essays Of Africa on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

E SSAYS OF A F R I C A

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/05 4:15 PM

EOA LETTERS

Your letters SURVIVING THE STORM Oh, I love the editor’s note. It’s a letter and it is different from the other magazines I’ve read. I had actually stopped reading the editors’ notes because I feel that they always tell you what to expect in the magazine, but this one talks about you and it encourages the readers as well. Maybe this letter has touched my heart because during the second half of 2015 I find that I am going through a journey I’ve never taken, or one that I have been afraid to take. But I’m on it and facing things fearlessly now. I woke up and wrote in my journal ‘My 100 days after the storm’. Have a lovely day!

Bobo

SOCIAL MEDIA Amarinthea Darlow Moonsamy I agree with this statement [Men Don’t Give A Damn] to a certain extent; because I see myself as a strong woman, I struggle with the concept that women stay with men who abuse them.

Just leave… take a leap of faith, trust that God will provide, and leave the bastard.

Masentle Mafonyane Amarinthea, you are on point!

Nokwazi LaShongwe Ndzimandze May God continue to channel this brand and the visionary behind it to greater heights. Shalom.

Seipati Mokhua Tembo Great work!

Sikhulile Sibanyoni Thanks for the invite, my sister.

Ikeleng Goronyane Great work you are doing there… You must invite me to one of your events/gatherings.

Apostle Carol Nkambule Nelspruit is done, where to next?

SPEAKING TO THE ISSUES Yours is the best magazine available in Mzansi! I thank Kwenta Media for respecting us. You keep up with the issues! Mmata Marcella Kesiamang, Maria Lekhobo, Mbali Buthelezi and sis Nikiwe Majola, subscribe online – I promise you’ll love it!

Granny Mekgwe, you are home dear, get yourself a copy!

Masentle Mafoyane I’m an avid reader of EOA… I love your magazine! I started following this magazine in January this year and I’ve never looked back. I love how it speaks directly to the ordinary African woman. Well done!

Zamo Bubu I love your work and passion.

Bheki Ndlovu

Tsheko Mosito @TshekoMosito YES! Thank you @EssaysOfAfrica #Myhoroscope #Augustissue2015 #Girlpower #manifest Barbara Lenhard @BarbaraLenhard Beautiful editorial coverage for #DivasUnite from @ EssaysOfAfrica. Thank you to Caryn, hope to see you on the 9.8.!

Arthur Kaplan @arthurkaplan1 @EssaysOfAfrica We couldn’t agree more! Transform your look with the right pair of sunglasses & a timeless watch!

Wendy Pwincess @WPwincess @EssaysOfAfrica Thank you I really needed this information!

Boitumelo Smondo @Semondo1 @EssaysOfAfrica Yet another amazing issue with prolific features, contained sound and practical advice… love it, love it, love it #ArtByTheMousist @TheMousist @EssaysOfAfrica what a great event you guys put together, well done! #essaysinnelspruit Mpotseng_bentley (Instagram) This magazine though! I just caught the bold message on the top right hand corner about ‘loving yourself’ and I’m sold. For a change we are not told to lose 15kg, etc. but to appreciate who we are. Enkosi

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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EOA EOA BLOGGER BLOGGER COLUMN COLUMN

SPRING, IS THAT YOU? Blogger Bronwyn Abrahams is all about creativity and finding beauty in everyday living, and spring helps all of that come to life even more.

Hello happiness! I mean, Hello, Spring. Even though winter has passed at what seems like a glacial pace, I cannot wait for the days to become longer and the nights warmer. It is proven that spring/ summer increases serotonin (the happy drug in your head).

I’ve always been an avid traveller and spring evokes a sense of wanderlust in me. I want to take long road trips, eating my way through every town, indulging in every flavour ice cream I can get my hands on, shade-free from guilt-coloured glasses. One of my favourite spring pastimes involves people-watching on the beach; this includes the sun worshippers and their tanned skins starting to slightly resemble those of a leather shoe; the annoying athletes who play sports on the beach (really just to show off their muscular physiques) but actually have no aim because the ball keeps landing on your head; or my favourite, the entertaining umbrella chasers.

It’s all part of the charm of warmer days.

INDULGING THE SPARK

Being a blogger has definitely changed the way I do things. I am forced to think ahead of the times, to be more creative, to push the boundaries, and consider excellence in every part of my life.

Even the menial tasks (like packing my luggage) require a whole lot of thought. I can easily spend hours scrolling through blogs or my Instagram for ideas on what to pack for my holiday. Instagram has become a hub of inspiration for me; I have discovered beautiful locations I’d love to visit and shoot at someday.

Bloggers have become so influential that people look to them first if they just want to stay ahead of the trends. And it plays in

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our favour that the Northern Hemisphere experiences their spring/summer before we do, as it gives us a chance to check spring trends during our winter and have a good idea of what we want before it lands on our shores (this saves time and money).

While enjoying spring and the promise of summer, there are some preparations to be made and I am not only talking about the desired bikini body. There are a few essentials I cannot do without: 1. The bikini wax – it helps to be pool-party ready at all times.

2. A simple white tee, denim shorts and gladiators – basically my uniform.

3. A stylish pair of sunnies – a quick fix for any no-makeup situation.

4. A turban – because bad hair days happen to good people. E VISIT BRONWYN’S BLOG: www.queenofjozi.com Instagram: Queenofjozi Twitter: @bronny_ja Pinterest: Bronwyn Abrahams (Queenofjozi)

WORDS AND IMAGES: BRONWYN ABRAHAMS.

“When spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest. The only thing that could spoil a day was people and if you could keep from making engagements, each day had no limits.

People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself.” – Ernest Hemingway

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

2015/08/05 5:09 PM

12 seven FASHION EOA

SEXY

YNECK CHAIN, R499, EXPRESS FLAGSHIP STORES AND SELECTED EDGARS STORES.

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Be your own kind of beautiful with any of these elegant ‘best buy’ selections.

LOILITA HOOP EARRINGS, R750, KAIKA JEWELLERS.

PEPLUM DRESS WITH NETTING FRONT, R1 299, LIPSY FLAGSHIP STORES AND SELECTED EDGARS STORES.

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BLACK FLORAL IPAD FOLD CASE, R599.95, TED BAKER.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

BLUE HEEL SANDALS, R1 099, RIVER ISLAND FLAGSHIP STORES.

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DOBBLY BEIGE HANDBAG, HANDBAG R1 299.95, DUNE LONDON FLAGSHIP STORES AND SELECTED EDGARS STORES.

ROBERTO CAVALLI SUNGLASSES, FROM R4 300, SDM EYEWEAR.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/06 11:07 AM

EOA READERS’ CORNER

ODE to WOMEN

s it just me, or does every woman feel the added pressure of just being a woman on top of a mom, wife, girlfriend, sister, and even a friend? We wear prominent hats every day with a smile, grace, and perhaps sometimes with pride. However, when we get home in the evenings and find time to reflect, we feel vulnerable and occasionally even hurt because we are silently overwhelmed with the responsibilities society expects us to carry.

Whether we live by ourselves or with someone, there is always this sense of loneliness that creeps into our beings and we wish there was someone we could talk to about our innermost feelings. The problem with that, however, is that with everything else that goes on in our hectic schedules, we don’t know which ‘controversial’ topic to raise for discussion first.

Should it be rushing the kids to school in the mornings just so you can make it on time to that crucial business meeting, so that you don’t have to submit an ‘official apology’ for the agenda as to why you are late, knowing that your excuse makes you look weak in the boardroom? Mothers, stand up! I see you!

Are you trying to stay on top of your game in your work environment?

Independent women in your daily struggle, I see you!

Trying to make it to the kids’ extra-mural activities on time, or ever? Again, Mom, Godmother, Friend, Girlfriend, Aunt, whichever role you fulfill, I see you!

Or are you single and trying to figure out whether the new man in your life really is interested in you or just your body? Have you secretly fallen in love with him but are too afraid to let him know in case he heads for the hills? I can already hear someone reading this and saying, “Oh Lord, I’ve been there!”

Or are you the married woman who understands that her husband is ‘hustling’ so that he can provide for their family, but in the process of justifying

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his absence, feels the loneliness of a single woman seeping into her existence so that she leads a double life only she and her girlfriends are privy to. This life is exhilarating; it almost gives you this new glow and everyone can see your renewed confidence and admire your sexier self. Even your husband has seen this change, but you both carefully avoid the subject, knowing that any attempt to engage will start a conversation for which neither of you is prepared.

Have you encountered evidence of a cheating partner and silently blame him for the pain and confusion he has caused in your life. Slowly as time passes, you drift apart emotionally until one of you takes a stand. Only time will tell how you will survive – do you forge ahead together and become stronger, or do you part ways and start over.

With everything that life brings, most women face the day with confident radiance. They are mastering the art of coping with the pressure of life. There is someone who can relate to every scenario put forward today and I salute her. I salute you, for you are a Superwoman. It isn’t easy but you are still standing and you are still moving forward. The hats we wear every day as women connect us in our journeys and although we may have never met, it is this common experience that unites us in our purpose. E

WORDS AND IMAGE: SUPPLIED BY ZAMO BUBU.

Zamo Bubu has firsthand experience on being a mother, wife, sister and friend; her life mirrors the lives of many other women. She salutes women who endure the daily struggles of life and keep on going, no matter how hard it gets.

EssAY S of Afric a

2015/08/05 5:31 PM

Shopping

FASHION EOA

SELENA NUDE SYNTHETIC, R649, DUNE LONDON FLAGSHIP STORES. BROWN FAUX A-LINE SKIRT, R549, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS. NUDE SLING BAG, R2 350, MISSIBABA.

NUDE KNOW-HOW

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

The trick to wearing nudes is to select a few shades lighter or darker than your skin tone so as not to appear naked.

DORTICAL NUDE SYNTHETIC, R649, DUNE LONDONFLAGSHIP STORES. NECKLACE, R950, MISSIBABA.

POOL PARTY CHARCOAL SUNGLASSES, R250, DOT DASH.

JAYDAY PETAL SIDE HEELS, R1 599, VINCE CAMUTO, EDGARS.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/06 10:11 AM

SHOW A LITTLE LEG THIS

Spring!

Throw off the layers to reveal a little skin as you jazz it up with some colour.

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ESSAYS OF AFRICA

2015/08/05 5:37 PM

FASHION main EOA

E ssAY S of A f r i c a

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s eptember 2015

2015/08/05 5:37 PM

GOLD BROCADE SKIRT, R3 399, THULA SINDI. POLYSTER BLOUSE, R999, THULA SINDI. MOLARA HEELS, R499, CALL IT SPRING. TARTAN BLAZER, R2 999, CARDUCCI, STUTTAFORDS. INDIGO SMART WAXED DENIM, R1 199, FABIANI. PLAIN VAMP LACE-UP, R1 099, BARKER, STUTTAFORDS. WHITE SHIRT, R999, FABIANI.

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EEssAY ssAY S of Afric a

2015/08/05 5:37 PM

FASHION main EOA

MAROON SKIRT, R1 099, THULA SINDI. LACE TOP TWOPIECE, R2 400, ROBOT TRADING. MOLARA HEELS, R499, CALL IT SPRING.

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september 2015

2015/08/05 5:37 PM

GOLD DETAIL TOP, P.O.R., THULA SINDI. CASCADING FLORAL SKIRT, R1 199, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. BLACK YADOVEN WITH FLORAL DETAIL, R499, CALL IT SPRING.

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E ssAY S of Afric a

2015/08/05 5:38 PM

FASHION main EOA

POLKA-DOT SKIRT, R1 900, ROBOT TRADING. SEMI-FITTED TOP, R1 399, TED BAKER, STUTTAFORDS. MOGULL CORAL SUEDE SHOES, R1 199, STEVE MADDEN. CORE MONTI NAVY BLAZER, R3 499, FABIANI. POLKA-DOT LAPEL PINS, R179, FABIANI. WHITE SHIRT, R999, FABIANI. STRETCH SKINNY CHINOS, R549, TOPSHOP. BACHELOR LACE-UP BOOT, R1 999, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND, STUTTAFORDS.

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september 2015

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BLUE AND WHITE TAFETTA SKIRT AND BLOUSE, R1 960, ROBOT TRADING. BLUE TATIANA LEATHER, R1 199, NINE WEST. BLUE SKINNY BLAZER, R1 599, TOPMAN. MAROON STRETCH CHINOS, R549, TOPSHOP. WHITE SHIRT, R999, FABIANI. BLACK BACHELOR LACE-UP BOOT, R1 999, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND, STUTTAFORDS.

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FASHION main EOA

Play dress-up with the man in your life.

NAVY SKINNY BLAZER, R1 599, TOPMAN. INDIGO SMART WAXED DENIM, R1 199, FABIANI. BLACK BACHELOR LACE-UP BOOT, R1 999, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND, STUTTAFORDS. TARTAN SHIRT, R1 999, FABIANI. ALEXANDRA BALL SKIRT, R899, FOREVER NEW. CORAL SHIRT, R799, LEVI’S, STUTTAFORDS. BOW BELT, R290, ROBOT TRADING. TATIANA FABRIC HEELS, R1 199, NINE WEST.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. STYLIST: TUMI MDLULI. HAIR & MAKE-UP: LUCOH MHLONGO. MODELS: JITE, ALLY KHERY.

FASHION main EOA

PINK FLORAL SKIRT, R2 499, THULA SINDI. NEWBIE SHIRT, R699, LEVI’S, STUTTAFORDS. TATIANA FABRIC LEATHER, R1 199, NINE WEST. PINK SKINNY BLAZER, R1 599, TOPMAN. WHITE SHIRT, R999, FABIANI. REDEFINED SMART NAVY CHINO, R1 199, FABIANI. BLACK BACHELOR LACE-UP BOOT, R1 999, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND, STUTTAFORDS.

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Why I chose to TERMINATE four times Karabo* (33) has had multiple abortions and even though she says it wasn’t her first choice, she says she made the right decision for her life.

bortions are a touchy subject, even in the most liberal circles. Unless the topic is about whether or not you’re pro choice, no one really wants to talk about the details of having an abortion. I grew up in a Catholic home and didn’t even know there was such a thing as an abortion until I was in high school. Even then, it seemed like something other people had to deal with. It was very far from my reality, my thoughts and everything that my life was about. I had never even heard of anyone who had had an abortion.

In principle, I was pro choice, but I’ve since learnt that being pro choice and actually having an abortion are worlds apart.

I was 20-year-old university student when I had my first abortion and my biggest source of support was my roommate. The man whose baby it was had no interest in even having

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a conversation about it. I was terrified and knew that my parents would be devastated by the news. I thought my life was over when my roommate suggested I have an abortion before it was too late. For the first time in my life, abortion became a real thought.

The actual procedure wasn’t very traumatic, but I recall the fear that coursed through my veins the day I went into the clinic. Every horrible scenario seemed like a possibility and I had a hard time facing the nurses, who I thought could have easily been someone my parents knew. My roommate was with me throughout, and even helped me to pay the account. That day I swore it would never happen again and at the time I believed that was a promise I could keep.

WOMANLY WOES It was seven years before I had the second abortion. This time around, I fell pregnant with a man whom I had been happily seeing for a year and whom I believed would someday be the father of my children. It shouldn’t have come as a surprise that I fell pregnant, but it did. We didn’t want a child yet and so it was a mutual decision not to have the baby. I was not as afraid as the first time because I was more grown up and I knew for sure that it was what I wanted to do. I was about to move overseas

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REal life EOA to study a short course and I knew a baby would interfere with those plans.

I told myself that my boyfriend and I would have a chance at more children later in life. Whilst in Europe, I fell pregnant from a drunken one-night stand. Of all my abortions, this one was the most unnecessary and it brings me a sense of disgust. I have no excuse for it. The abortion was performed in a cold clinic, where the people didn’t care for me and there was no one to look after me when I got back to my apartment. It was the first time I felt as if I had somehow disappointed God or done something wrong. I cried for weeks after that.

NOT THE ONE

DESIRING MOTHERHOOD Despite having made a horrible decision four times, I still want to be a mother one

day. Choosing to terminate is not an easy choice, but it is one that I have to live with all the time. I try not to obsess about what age my kids would have been, but I can’t say I am unaffected by the abortions. Each one for me symbolises a bad decision I made in my life, not in the procedure itself but in the men I allowed into my life, space and body. I look at women with multiple baby daddies and sympathise with them, because I am no different to them. We just took different turns in life.

Do I regret my abortions? No, because I love the life I have now and without having had them, I couldn’t have this life.

As a Christian, I sometimes wonder if I will be punished for it, but I don’t think God works that way, at least that’s what I tell myself. I hope to one day have children that I can love with everything in me. I hope I can find a man who will be worthy of those children and I hope that I always remember that I’m not a bad person just because of the mistakes I have made. E * Name has been changed.

WORDS: ZUKISWA DLAMINI. IMAGE: ©ISTOCK.COM.

My relationship didn’t survive my European stint, and I continued with my life, with my career and friendships being top of my priority list. I met another man and fell in love. The story of unplanned pregnancies isn’t new to anyone and again

I fell pregnant. This time around, I was in my thirties and could handle having a child. When I got the results, I was actually excited and I thought that this could be something positive in my life.

My boyfriend made it clear that having the baby would not be his choice. Within weeks of telling him about the pregnancy, I could see him withdrawing. I had seen this play out with my sister and a few friends, and I knew that I would eventually become a single mother – something I didn’t want. My sister drove me to the abortion clinic this time around and when I looked around, I saw other women like me, who with sad eyes still made a choice to be here. I didn’t bother to tell him until a few weeks after I had had the abortion and he seemed relieved. And that was the end of our relationship.

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SKIN deep MORE THAN

In the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg, fewer people are committing time to monitoring their fast-paced lifestyles and health. Dr Mothomang Diaho is determined to slow us down and liven us up with a more conscious approach to living.

Beauty, health and wellness are words that we hear on a daily basis, yet we live in a world that endorses short-term solutions over longterm alternatives. Enter Spiral Aloe Lifestyle Clinic, a place that combines the calming and tranquil environment of a luxurious spa and operates with the conscientious professionalism of a medical institute, all under the auspices of the clinic’s founder, Dr Diaho and her team of lifestyle experts.

Dr Diaho’s reputation precedes her as a woman determined to bring social change with a caring heart and an indomitable spirit.

Having nurtured a growing clientele as a public health consultant, Diaho was inspired to build a clinic with an impassioned focus on preventing chronic illnesses and promoting good health. Primarily steered towards urban men and women, the clinic at Dainfern Square Shopping Centre in Johannesburg aims to provide prospective clients with more access to quality health services.

FOSTERING WEALTH IN HEALTH With success comes responsibility; a responsibility towards one’s own health

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and, consequently, the overall health of a developing society. Dr Diaho’s fundamental approach to preventing diseases is by “managing health and lifestyles.” She continues, ”If you look at how we are in [terms of] economic development, we have done well in that, and there is a lot of conversation about being economically successful. But if you don’t have your health, you are of no use. People are becoming more successful, yet they don’t balance that with their health.”

The clinic will be one that operates proactively rather than reactively, by reaching out to the community beyond the borders of the growing clinic (two to three more clinics are planned for the next three years). In this way, the clinic aims to “improve lifestyles” and engender a consciousness towards healthy living. Dr Diaho explains that through the clinic’s ancillary efforts, “I would like to further [the clinic] into having access to outreach programmes and starting really early.” The clinic will target young women in local tertiary institutions and engage them in lifestyle and leadership-based programmes. She hopes that these initiatives will develop throughout the

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PROFILE EOA

DR DIAHO AT THE SPIRAL ALOE HEALTH AND WELLNESS CLINIC

one of the few licensees for the renowned Africology brand, the clinic will provide healing, therapeutic spa treatments using the wide-ranging portfolio of Africology products. The clinic chose this brand owing to its leading, natural and ecofriendly skincare range.

Dr Diaho is proud to note that her other roles as a daughter, wife and mother of two have reinforced her objective to endorsing healthy living outside of her home, and informing society on the long-term, corollary effects of the lifestyle choices that they make on a daily basis. Dr Diaho’s mother, now 84, is a poignant figure in her life that has exemplified the very benefits that she hopes to bring to the clinic’s patients. Reflecting on her mother’s lifestyle, Dr Diaho adds, “My mother has never been to the hospital because of the way she has lived.”

There is no superficiality in the beauty and wellness that the doctors hope to inspire in her clients. Considering the importance of health in beauty the doctor concludes, “Collectively, how you look as a package is driven by your lifestyle.” For more information, visit www.spiralaloe.co.za. E

tertiary institutions and engage them in lifestyle and leadershipbased programmes. She hopes that these initiatives will develop throughout the country as the clinic grows.

Reaching out to the community is an area in which Dr Diaho has proven to be a woman of distinction. In her former position as head of the Dialogue Programme at the Nelson Mandela Foundation and her current position as the Founder and CEO of Diaho Social Technologies, a Public Health consultancy firm, Dr Diaho has used every experience as a stepping stone to enhancing society. In addition to her focus on health and comprehensive wellness, she has equal commitments to HIV/Aids care initiatives, leadership training, youth empowerment and education, which led her to co-found TEACH South Africa in 2007.

WORDS: KIRIGO KAMORE. IMAGES: ASANDA MAZWI.

WHERE TRADITION MEETS SCIENCE Spiral Aloe Health and Wellness will be one of the few result-driven institutions that combine traditional medicine with science, along with a sense of communal commitment. By siphoning the best of traditional techniques and medical science, the clinic will provide the latest treatments and programmes to adhere to each patient’s health and lifestyle goals. In addition to working with highly professional and leading service providers in the wellness sector, the clinic will also be “building networks with non-traditional medical practitioners.” Given her experience in tropical medicine, Dr Diaho is also an expert in this remedial field.

The lifestyle clinic will also offer a series of specialised aesthetic and non-invasive services, from body and facial rejuvenation, to weight management and “bio identical hormone balancing”. As

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DR DIAHO DEMONSTRATING HOW A PIECE OF EQUIPMENT WORKS IN ONE OF THE TREATMENT ROOMS

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EOA UNCOVERED

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR POWER?

here’s an article about the unlikely friendship between Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald that has been making the rounds on Facebook recently that caught my attention for a number of reasons.

The story details an incident in 1955 where Ella Fitzgerald was barred from performing at a popular Los Angeles nightclub because she was black; this was commonplace for black performers at the time.

Monroe, who was a fan of the jazz vocalist, contacted the club owner and requested that Fitzgerald be allowed to perform and used her considerable star status to seal the deal by promising to take a front row table every night for a week if her friend headlined.

Her efforts paid off and after sold-out performances and much media attention, thanks to Monroe’s attendance, Ella Fitzgerald never had to play small club venues again.

This anecdote speaks powerfully to the effect of women seeing one another not as competitors, but as allies and collaborators. It also speaks to how we choose to use whatever power or social capital we have in support of those whose voices are too often marginalised. On the one hand it is frustrating that

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the God-given ability of one of the most talented vocalists that ever lived was not enough to overcome the systemic racism entrenched in the society she lived in.

But, Marilyn Monroe understood something about how power works. 1955 was also the year she chose to remove herself from the industry that made her a superstar because she was tired of being typecast as the sexy, dumb blonde.

While she had power in her society as a wealthy and famous white woman, she was also trapped by the limited role patriarchy assigned to her within the film industry. She and Fitzgerald lived very different realities, but both experienced the restrictions their gender and race placed on them; it was through this solidarity that a powerful friendship and alliance was formed.

Fast-forward to the present day and race relations still dominate US headlines: ‘The killing of a number of black men and women at the hands of police officers, which gave rise to the social-media driven ‘Black Lives Matter’ campaign’. After nine innocent black people were killed at the hands of a young white man sporting an old South African flag, it seemed almost too much for Americans to take in. Black activists across the board took to the Internet and various social media platforms to decry the poor reporting of the story by mainstream media, but it wasn’t until Daily Show host, Jon Stewart, called them out on this that white America started talking about what he described as a ‘racial wound that will not heal’.

Is it frustrating that it takes a white man to kick-start a meaningful conversation about race in 2015? Yes. Is it necessary that whites use their privilege to initiate honest dialogue amongst white people about race? Absolutely! Both of these stories show how individuals can chose to use their clout for more than their own personal gain. While most of us are not celebrities who command world stages, we all exist within our own sphere of influence, whether in our homes, workplaces or churches. The question is how will we use our influence – will we choose to build or diminish those around us? E

What personal power do you have and how can you use it to make a difference? Join our conversation on Facebook at Essay Of Africa or on Twitter. #PersonalPower

IMAGE: pizzocipriaebouquet.com.

NDONI KHANYILE takes a look at how using your personal power and privilege can be a tool to make a difference to huge causes.

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Shopping

FASHION EOA

HAWAIIAN LONG LINE DRESS TATTOO SLEEVE VISCOSE, R2 199, DR MARTENS, EDGARS.

FLORAL ESCAPE Our prettiest floral print picks are sophisticated, with luxe fabrics, tailored shapes and mature colours.

FLORAL BODY CON DRESS R1 299, LIPSY, DRESS, EDGARS.

KERFUFFLE FLOWER FLOWER, R300, DOT DASH.

FLORAL BAG, R2 950, MISSIBABA.

FLORAL SCARF, R169, G COUTURE, ZANDO.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

FLORAL PRINT DRESS, R1 299, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

PLIMSOUL WHITE FLORAL, R300, DOT DASH.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

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EOA REAL WOMAN

‘MAXI’MUM IMPACT! PEACOCK KAFTAN DRESS, R1 250, ROBOT.

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Yoli (Yoliswa) Mqoboli demonstrates how less is more in outfits that accentuate her stunning curves.

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REAL WOMAN EOA

ESTATE BLUE SOLID MAXI DRESS, R2 779, TOMMY HILFIGER, STUTTAFORDS. EARRINGS AND WATCH, MODEL’S OWN.

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PINTUCK MAXI DRESS, R3 299, STUTTAFORDS. BLUE TATIANA LEATHER, R1 199, NINE WEST.

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SKIRT LARGA, R599, MANGO.WHITE TOP DRAPA, R499, MANGO.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. STYLIST: TUMI MDLULI. HAIR & MAKE-UP: LUCOH MHLONGO.

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WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

Shopping WHITE FLORAL MAXI DRESS, R599, G COUTURE, ZANDO.

FASHION EOA

MAX OUT ON FUN THIS SPRING!

MAXI DRESS WITH THIN STRAPS, R2 850, MAAJI.

Maxi dresses come up tops for many reasons. They are comfortable, fashionable, suit many body types, and conceal flaws.

BLACK EXCLUSIVE FRILL MAXI DRESS, R549, G COUTURE, ZANDO. BLCK SHINY DRESS, R599, G COUTURE, ZANDO.

BLUE AND BLACK PRINT DRESS, R4 999, TIGER OF SWEDEN.

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BROWN FLORAL MAXI DRESS, R2 918, MAAJI.

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EOA FASHION NEWS

Superga® in collaboration with spanish fashion blogger, Gala González, proudly present the Capsule Collection for Spring/ Summer 2015! The creator of the Amlul.com blog, gonzález is now an international style icon and one of the most photographed bloggers by the street-style press photographers. Her outfits have become the focus for women all over the world. The Superga® X Gala Gonzalez Capsule Collection will be exclusively available at Superga® concept stores nationwide. For further retail information, contact 011 608 0023 or visit www.Superga.co.za.

What’s NEW in denim

For ladies who love everything denim, G-Star has dungarees designed to flatter every woman! The dungarees come in all their ranges, from the classic 5-pocket 3301 to the nonchalant type c boyfriend jeans; they also span the high-waisted and super skinny to the looser and more relaxed. Fans of G-Star will be happy to know that every pair has the complimenting details for which the brand’s jean have become known. The G-Star Raw Spring/ Summer ’15 is available online and in stores!

YOUR ONLINE FASHION DESTINATION

Online shoppers and fashion lovers, this one is for you! Popular international brands, Vero Moda and Jack & Jones are now available exclusively at online fashion destination, Superbalist.com!

Superbalist brings you internationally coveted brands at the click of a button, so forget about trolling overcrowded malls and visit Superbalist.com.E

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WORDS: THINA MTHEMBU. SOURCES: LAMEEZ MOHD, NICITA OCTOBER, JANNA BERNIC. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM, JK PUBLIC RELATIONS, THE JUPITER DRAWING ROOM, VIVID LUXURY.

SUPERGA® X GALA GONZALEZ

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2015/08/05 6:23 PM

Shopping

FASHION EOA

ALL-IN-ONE ELEGANCE & FUN! From the playful romper to the more sophisticated jumpsuit, there is a one-piece that is perfect for your silhouette!

FLORAL JUMPSUIT, R399, LINX, ZANDO.

FLORAL PLAYSUIT, R1 299, LIPSY, EDGARS.

.STSIKCOTS YB DEILPPUS :SEGAMI .ILULDM IMUT :SDROW

WHITE PLAYSUIT, R999, LIPSY, EDGARS.

BACK CROSSOVER PLAYSUIT,, R799, RARE LONDON, ZANDO.

CROC PRINT BROGUES, R4 999, DAY BIRGER.

PLAYSUIT ABSTRACT PLAYSUIT, R999, LIPSY, EDGARS.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/06 2:07 PM

y Stylishl IN TUNE LeAnne Dlamini (30) is a mother and a wife, an awardwinning singer and a social activist who wants the world to stop and listen to her sing. EOA caught up with the ‘No Sweat’ singer to find out more about what gets her going every day.

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COVER STORY EOA

“there were hurdles but I continued to make music because that’s what I do.”

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ith two SAMAs (South African Music Award), a Metro FM award and a stint on The X-Factor UK and Strictly Come Dancing, Dlamini is not a rookie when it comes to the world of music and entertainment. It’s a cold Highveld winter’s day when we meet up for this interview but she’s bubbly, as though spring was already upon us. It’s hard to miss Dlamini when she walks into a room; her looks turn heads and she has a perfect, killer smile, but that’s paired with a down-to-earth vibe that is refreshing in the land of Egoliwood.

AROUND THE WAY GIRL

If looks are all you have to go by and with a Dlamini surname, it’s easy to misread where her roots are. “I was born and raised in Eldorado Park, in a normal middle-class family; no silver spoon in my mouth,” she explains. “I have always been passionate about whatever I am into and music has been one of the things I always lived for. I would always make my friends sing and dance when I was younger and I loved to be in school plays when I was in primary school,” recalls LeAnne.

It is easy to relate to her childhood, except for the fact that her mom found something that would expose Dlamini to music on another level.

“My mom found out about the National School of Arts (NSA) and asked me if I would like to focus on my talents there,” Dlamini says. “We set up an audition for drama and I was accepted.

In Grade 10 I switched over to doing music; the drama was a stepping-stone for me because I knew that music was what I wanted to do. I studied contemporary music and loved my time there. The school nurtures people’s gifts and you are allowed to be whomever you want to be; I learnt valuable lessons while at NSA.” It was in high school that Dlamini was officially discovered. While singing as part of the choir at Rhema Church, R&B singer Loyiso Bala and his manager Sipho Dlamini spotted her. “Loyiso asked if I would mind doing vocals in the studio and, of course, I agreed. I was part of a girl group called Cherry at the time; we were set on being South Africa’s Destiny’s Child. We then started doing back-up for Loyiso and that was my introduction to the music industry.”

MUSICAL LOVE

When she was done with school, Dlamini started working on her debut album, Simply Luvlee. One of the people with whom she was working on

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the album was Sipho Dlamini, Loyiso’s then manager. “We had always gotten along well, really well, but when we started working a lot together we developed deeper feelings for each other. We started dating in 2003, while I was working on my album, and we got married in 2006,” she says smiling.

At the same time, her music was making an impact. Simply Luvlee won best female album and things were looking up. Soon after getting married, the Dlamini’s moved to Dubai. “We left almost immediately after getting married. Sipho got a great opportunity there so that’s where we went. I loved our time there and I continued to push my passion for music,” Dlamini admits.

“I was hustling while I was there as well, but it was difficult. At the time you couldn’t just perform anywhere, you needed permission from the government, so there were hurdles but I continued to make music because that’s what I do,” she says with a shrug.

The Dlaminis relocated back to South Africa just before their firstborn daughter, Zani-Lee, was born in 2009. After adapting to her new role as a mother, Dlamini went back to her music.

“Because I left so soon after my first album, I had the hard task of rebuilding my brand in South Africa. I had to work at reminding people who I was and explain where I had disappeared to,” she confesses. “My name did take a knock while I was away, but I’m okay with that and I am determined to have the breakthrough that I am looking for.”

R&B IN AFRICA

Even though the continent is a hotbed for R&B love jams, it is true that the genre hasn’t had the same effect when it’s made locally. Dlamini has no qualms speaking about the fact that she chose a musical genre that has had a hard time in South Africa. “I know that local R&B isn’t a popular genre in South Africa; it isn’t really well accepted. If you aren’t doing hip hop, kwaito or house you are in for a ride, but I am up for the challenge and willing to do what it takes,” she states emphatically.

Her second album, The Journey, won her the second SAMA Award and she says it’s an album that rang true to who she was when she first

came back from Dubai. “That album was talking about where I was in my life at that point. I had changed as an artist and so I had to start afresh,” she explains. With a new single and video out, she is keen to see where her music takes her.

“The actual music won’t change because I make good music and people expect that of me.

I want to set a certain standard in everything that I do. No matter who you are as an artist, you want to be playing in the big leagues, and appear at the Grammys and BET Awards, so of course that is something I would want for myself.

I want to present a great product so that anyone who comes across my work knows that I take an interest in my craft.”

Even though the response to R&B is sometimes lukewarm, Dlamini says it is interesting to see how the rest of the world responds to the music. “Sometimes you will get no love at home even though you’re hustling, but then people overseas are loving it. A song from my debut album called Got Me Going Crazy was picked up in Poland and Coca-Cola wanted it for a summer campaign. 75 000 units of that were released,” she enthuses.

BEYOND THE CAMERAS

Outside her music career, Dlamini is very keen on women relations. After seeing a lot of cattiness, unnecessary hostility and mean-girl behaviour, both in her industry and on social media, Dlamini decided to start ‘Women 4 Women’, an effort to get women to be nicer to each other. “I wanted to send women and girls inspirational messages to uplift them. I picked up vibes sometimes from people in the industry, where we would follow each other on social media and interact fine there, but when we met in public there would be a weird barrier between us,” she explains, adding that even statements on social media like #youcantsitwithus were just mean. So she made a conscious effort to change these messages to be positive with #youcansitwithus.

Dlamini says she’s not naïve about the cause, but passionate, since most of the animosity is not based on anything concrete. “I’m not saying let’s all be besties, but let’s be kind and support each other. It’s hard enough to be a woman, so it

“Motherhood has made me more patient, driven and tolerant. It’s taught me to not be so uptight and that there is so much more to enjoy in life. I have more love in my heart and I want to set an example for my girls, because I am their first example of what women are like.” se p te mb e r 2 0 1 5

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helps to have support from other women.”

While the campaign started on social media, it did not end there. Dlamini asked people to nominate women they thought were doing something special. From those nominations, she narrowed it down to eight and they had breakfast with speakers who specialise in business and beauty. “The breakfasts went amazingly well,” Dlamini enthused. “We got such keen interest.

I’m planning to do the next batch later in the year. My hope is that it grows into a conference that we can have as women twice a year,” she says excitedly.

HOT MAMA

The other labels that Dlamini wears proudly are mom and wife. I ask her if she feels like she missed out on the dating scene because she married so young. “I was 22 when I got married and I have loved it. I think that when you’re with the right person, you just do it with no regrets. I love being married, I am grateful for my husband and don’t think I missed out on anything,” she says, smiling.

The mother of two girls, Zani-Lee (6) and Zaya Rose (2), says it’s a role she loves.

“Motherhood has made me more patient, driven and tolerant. It’s taught me to not be so uptight and that there is so much more to enjoy in life.

I have more love in my heart and I want to set an example for my girls, because I am their first example of what women are like.”

Dlamini says like most other working moms, she has been able to juggle everything with the help of a great team. “I am very lucky to have my mom help me with the kids. Whenever I have other things to do she steps right in. it has been a huge help,” she admits. “We also have a live-in nanny, Rosemary. She has been there since Zani was eight months old. Auntie Rose is a big part of my children’s lives and is a great source of help. It also helps that my husband is a very present father. Even though his schedule is busy, he is great with the girls and steps in all the time.”

Motherhood has made Dlamini more aware of her body. “When Zani was born, I assumed my body would take care of the baby weight.

I listened to all the advice including the tips about breastfeeding, but I wasn’t getting that baby weight off. When I saw pictures of myself

at her first birthday, I knew that I had to do something more,” she shares.

FEET FIRMLY ON THE GROUND

She started being more conscious of her eating and started doing Sweat 1000 to get her fitness levels up. Her role in Strictly Come Dancing also introduced her to dancing as an exercise form.

“I had to make the change in my head before it manifested in my life. I work out three to four times a week; I mainly run around my area, do light weights and work on my abs. I sometimes dance, which is a great way to build muscle tone.

I don’t eat carbs during the week, but treat myself on weekends. Water is a constant; I drink two to three litres a day and my diet is made up of a lot of fresh veggies, fruit, chicken and fish. When I’m on the go, I grab a HerbaLife shake and that’s it,” she shares.

When our interview session started, it was immediately clear that Dlamini is down to earth.

Later when I asked how she stays grounded in an industry that often promotes the opposite, she answered: “My parents laid a foundation for me with a life that is centred on God in all that I do. My home is centred on love and faith. I’ve been very blessed up until this point,” she says, adding, “My life has its ups and downs, but I’m in a happy marriage where two levelheaded people have a good understanding of each other.

The transition into parenthood was natural and planned. My life has turned out how I wanted it to and I am grateful for that. I have no need for airs and graces.”

Being so conscious of how she wants to live helps her to stay on track. “I sometimes have to check myself to make sure I practise what I preach,” Dlamini says. “I don’t want to wear a façade; I prefer to be authentic, open and truthful – no different to you or the next woman really.

I’m just trying to be the best LeAnne I can be.”

What’s next for Dlamini, we ask? “Definitely music and some cool side projects will be coming up. I love all things beauty-related; if I weren’t a musician, I would be a make-up artist so some interesting things may come out of that!” she says with a sparkle of enthusiasm. “I am excited to see where God takes me in this new season of my life. He has given me glimpses of good things with regard to my marriage, my children and my career, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store.” E

“I don’t want to wear a façade; I prefer to be authentic, open and truthful – no different to you or the next woman really.

I’m just trying to be the best LeAnne I can be.” se p te mb e r 2 0 1 5

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WORDS: ZAMA NKOSI. STYLIST: TUMII MDLULI. PHOTOGRAPHER: GARETH JACOBS. PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT: BLESSING NDLOVU. HAIR: BONOLO RAMELA. MAKE-UP: Ellenor Ndlovu. FASHION: FOREVER NEW AND ZARA.

COVER STORY EOA

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TASHA SLEEVELESS JACKET, R999, FOREVER NEW.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

CLUTCH WITH CHAIN DETAIL, R2 100, KAREN MILLEN.

CORAL HEELS WITH LACE, R1 499, DUNE LONDON, EDGARS.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/05 4:10 PM

Festive shopping alert!

START SAVING TODAY! Save yourself from a cash-strapped Christmas by making a few minor budget adjustments today.

ccording to financial guru, Clive Ramithebela of Clivera Inc, September is a crucial month to start planning ahead for the ‘silly season’. “The three months leading up to December are important, as this is the time people can make some small changes that will go a long way over the holiday period,” explains Ramithebela.

He points out that most people are paid their final salary of

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the year in mid-December, which has to last them until the end of January, so making these necessary adjustments now is a sound financial move.

“Many people are paid their bonuses in September,” Ramithebela says. “Instead of spending it in one go or putting it all towards that family holiday, calculate what will be needed to get you through until end of January and put that money aside now.”

He recommends a 32-day call account for this, as you won’t be able to touch the money until needed – with a 32-day notice period for withdrawals. With certain banks the interest rate increases after the first 32 days, and again after 64 days, providing

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“The three months leading up to December are important, as this is the time people can make some small changes that will go a long way over the holiday period.”

it doesn’t really fit the budget – particularly around being too busy or not having the time to cook. Whilst it may be easier, there’s no doubt that all those restaurant and take-out bills are adding up. The truth is, there are tons of super simple – not to mention healthier – recipes out there that don’t require much prep time and will save you those extra Rands for December.

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

MAKE A SHOPPING LIST If you’re not the organised type, this one can be tricky. But stick with it and you’ll see major savings over the month – plus you’ll probably be cutting out a lot of unhealthy treats that your body can do without. Supermarkets spend a fortune on getting you to buy stuff you don’t really want or need, adding up to thousands of Rands worth of groceries that eventually get thrown out. Plan ahead, make a list, and don’t get distracted!

an additional incentive to keep the funds there until December.

According to Ramithebela, banking rewards and loyalty programmes, such as FNB’s eBucks and Standard Bank’s uCount Rewards can help towards paying for a December holiday.

“If you haven’t touched those rewards points, they can add up to major savings on travel with the bank’s respective partners,” he advises. This can be particularly useful as it’s likely you’ll need more than you did last year for your planned holiday, given that prices would have increased.

Likewise, the points can also be used for gift purchases with your bank’s retail partners.

When it comes to other adjustments that you can make in order to have some extra cash for the holidays, there are numerous saving strategies that can be incorporated into your daily routine.

EAT OUT LESS Believe it or not, eating out is one of the top causes of personal debt. There are loads of excuses to justify eating out when

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HIT THE LOCAL MARKETS The proliferation of neighbourhood markets provides the perfect excuse to skip the supermarket altogether. Not only will you be saving on cash, but you’ll also be supporting locally produced and mostly organic fare. Lower overheads generally mean lower prices, so that you can get fresh fruits, vegetables, breads and cheeses for a fraction of the price.

CONSIDER OWN-BRAND GOODS As Ramithebela points out, South Africans waste a lot of money on brand loyalty. Sure, you may have grown up using only one brand of toothpaste, but that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the best.

These days, own-brand goods are just as reliable and often far more affordable.

Give it a go; some of these products may just surprise you with their efficacy.

AVOID EXPENSIVE OUTINGS With the weather warming up, there’s no reason a family outing has to consist of a trip to the movies with overpriced popcorn and drinks. South Africa has an

abundance of botanical gardens and parks, not to mention beaches if you live at the coast. Pack some snacks from home and spend a day outdoors instead, with Mother Nature providing healthier and cheaper entertainment for the whole family.

SHOP ONLINE The Internet has certainly made life a lot easier, with one of its greatest advantages being the ability to do your shopping online. Save on unnecessary purchases, fuel and parking – plus the headache of queues – and get your weekly shopping delivered straight to your door. By removing yourself from the shopping aisles in supermarkets, you’ll be forced to think carefully about what you need and not what you want.

PACK A LUNCH It may not seem that sexy to bring a packed lunch to the office, but those storebought sandwiches and salads can add up to a hefty sum over the week. By prepping ahead of time with some nutritious, delicious snacks for the day, you’ll be saving on cash and probably cutting down on calories too.

GIVE UP THE LITTLE LUXURIES Be it those daily cappuccinos and lattes or weekly manicures, we’ve all acquired some expensive habits over the years. Cutting down on these little luxuries can certainly make a difference, even if you scale back from three fancy coffees to just one a day, or invest in home care for your nails so those trips to the salon become monthly instead of weekly.

PLAN CASH WITHDRAWALS Be smart about ATM trips. If you find yourself needing to use ATMs frequently, plan each visit carefully to avoid fees.

When it’s time to take out cash, make sure you can get to your bank so you won’t be forced to hit up a non-affiliated bank and get whacked by unnecessary fees. It can also be a good idea to withdraw a set amount each week and stick to it. E

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September 2015

2015/08/05 6:03 PM

MORE THAN JUST A HAIR THING Eight intersectional feminists decided to create a space for conversations about black womanhood to thrive; the result was the Feminist Stokvel. One of the members, Lebohang Masango, shares what it’s all about.

he Feminist Stokvel (FS) is a Johannesburgbased collective, comprising intelligent, unapologetic and intersectional feminists with a shared passion for the politics of African womanhood.

Natural hair has brought them together to create safe spaces where women gather.

Danielle Bowler, our Eye Witness News columnist, points to what makes FS so special: “I think that it is rare to have a space for black women that is uniquely theirs, that deals specifically with our issues, thoughts, relationships, lives, dreams, hopes and aspirations.”

These platforms allow us to engage critically with the issues most pertinent to our daily lives; they also provide a great opportunity to bask in the brilliance of who we are, to purge the pain that this often comes with, and to be affirmed through our shared experiences. “I love that we provide a safe and understanding environment for black women to freely express themselves. We hit all the hard and difficult issues, but we also laugh and experience a lot of joy,” says hair consultant Kavuli Nyali-Binase, another eighth of the Stokvel. The rest of the group includes journalist Milisuthando Bongela, hair consultant Wisaal Anderson, Vanguard Magazine editor Panashe Chigumadzi, journalist Pontsho Pilane, author Lebo Mashile and myself, an anthropologist in the making. We are what we call ‘brown girls united for change’.

The ‘Hair Soirée’ is the FS’s monthly safe space for African women and our contribution to transforming the negative perceptions of natural, African hair in this country. From hair salons, social media and those not-so-quick trips to the bathroom as

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girlfriends, to growing up with the k-word ordinarily being used as a descriptive – myths of our afro-textured hair as difficult, ugly, and terminally bound to shortness prevail, while relaxers and weaves are still being presented as the easiest, and sometimes only way for us to have beautiful hair. Another misfortune is how avidly the media resuscitates the ‘natural hair versus weave’ debate; flogging a dead horse that only serves to create bitter divides between us as women and transforms our pain into public spectacle without any space for beneficial dialogue.

FREEDOM THROUGH EDUCATION Whether women are introspecting deeply or casually trying a new look, it certainly is a cause for celebration that so many of us are choosing to abandon the relaxer crèmes and flaunt our afros (loveable at any length), brush cuts, locs and cornrows unashamedly! How wonderful to have found a new love for yourself and the hair that you were born with, but is the world you live in ready for you? The sad answer is no, as many natural-haired women are faced with a glaring void instead of information and useful hair product aisles. Our fantastic FS community is filled with hair enthusiasts and small, black women-led businesses manufacturing organic products. Each month, our priority is to create this supportive space – where we talk, laugh, love and heal each other through our stories and supporting each other’s endeavours.

Our first Hair Soiree was dedicated to the daily, self-styling practicalities of maintaining our hair. The second one addressed the serious concern of traction alopecia (hairline damage), a condition that too many African women endure due to the lack of information and adequate styling practices. The most recent, titled ‘Texture Discrimination: The Problem with ‘K*ffir Hare’, was aimed at understanding why it is that even within the natural hair community, mixed-race hair is more valued than coily, afrotextured hair, and also to encourage women to embrace their curls regardless of the texture or length.

A CELEBRATION OF BLACK WOMANHOOD For Lebo, the FS is ‘a supportive network of smart, hard working, talented, black conscious, feminist women who want to expand possibilities, for ourselves and for others, to experience black womanhood in a positive and loving way.’ Panashe sees it as ‘a place to reimagine black womanhood outside of racism and sexism.’

As intersectional feminists, we subscribe to the notion of blackness according to Steve Biko.

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WOMEN’S NETWORK EOA

PONTSHO PILANE

‘We have different body types, skin colour and even different textured hair. I love that we represent all these different identities of black beauty,” says Pontsho. Our ethos is based upon the rejection of apartheid’s divide-and-conquer racial categories and the acknowledgewment that, as people that are structurally oppressed by what Bell Hooks terms as ‘white supremacist capitalist patriarchy’, it only makes sense to unite in dismantling that system.

Lebo explains how a young woman once stood up during a Hair Soiree and said, “Do you ever look in the mirror and feel shocked by what you see?” and she started crying, referring to the monumental decision to start wearing one’s hair naturally as a black woman, reflecting on the complexity and psychological depth of the hair issue. As African women, navigating the intersections of gender, race and class, it is clear that it is never ‘just hair’ and has a significant impact on our daily interactions, including our social, intimate and professional relationships.

SPREADING THE WORD

WORDS: LEBOHANG MASANGO. IMAGES: MILISUTHANDO BONGELA.

LEFT TO RIGHT: LEBO MASHILE, PONTSHO PILANE, KAVULI NYALI-BINASE, LEBOHANG MASANGO, PANASHE CHIGUMADZI

THE LOVELY AUDIENCE AT A FEMINIST STOKVEL EVENT LEFT TO RIGHT: PONTSHO PILANE, PANASHE CHIGUMADZI AND LEBO MASHILE

As the FS, we understand that the affirmations we share amongst ourselves become the confidence that we exude to the women and girls around us. “One day whilst gathered at a restaurant, a mother with naturally straight hair brought her very shy toddler with a head of big bouncy hair to our table and told us that her daughter had been staring at Wisaal, who had similar hair, for the last 30 minutes and could not stop talking about her. Still very shy, she sat on Wisaal's lap and in between their talk of cats and a play date she looked up at Wisaal, beaming, saying, “They love our hair.” That moment reminds me every day of the power of imagery.

Through the simple act of showing up in the world as herself, Wisaal had done so much to affirm this young girl’s self image.”

The founders of the Feminist Stokvel have big plans for their group, with a strong focus on spreading the word and keeping the conversations going. “I would love to see us travel and expand across the continent,” says Kavuli. “To see this grow into a global organisation,” adds Danielle. Pontsho states that she would like to see the group’s work spread to the television screen. “I would like FS to reach as many girls and women as possible. I would love nationwide road shows and to travel to as many communities as possible,” she adds.

“It’s encouraging that our vision of creating a movement that celebrates and honours black womanhood is actualising; we have growing support and incredible plans for our future.” E

To stay informed on what the Feminist Stokvel, follow them on Facebook: Feminist Stokvel or on Twitter: @feministstokvel.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/05 6:31 PM

READY… STEADY… DATE! Getting back into the dating market after a divorce or heartbreak can be daunting. Here’s how to do it without taking the fun out of it.

etting over a break-up or divorce can leave you feeling a bit fragile for some time and despite the dating myths, there is no set amount of time for healing.

If you feel like you’re going to allow yourself to see what’s out there this sexy spring, here are seven things to keep in mind.

to know a potential lover? Nothing!

At worst, you’ll have no chemistry and may have a hilarious story or two to share with your girls. Create memories, see what is out there and allow yourself to be entertained and educated by people you would have never gotten the chance to know if you weren’t single.

1. CASE OF THE EX

It’s good and well to have a long list of what you want in a partner and an even longer list of what you won’t accept but while you’re writing lists, don’t forget to write a list about you. Not only will it keep you realistic when it comes to what you have to offer but it also works as a great confidence booster; if you had forgotten how sexy, smart, loving and awesome you are, this list should remind you.

Every man you meet is not your ex.

We repeat, not every man you meet is like your ex. So leave the baggage at your psychologist’s office and don’t bring it on your date. So your ex was a liar but that doesn’t mean you have to second guess everything other guys say. Allow yourself to get to know new people without the lens of your past; this doesn’t mean ignoring red flags but it does mean allowing people to show you who they are without you showing them a mirror with your ex’s picture on it. Exes are best left in the past, like winter.

2. FLIRTY FUN

Allow yourself to have fun! Sometimes the pressures of adulthood strip you of the girl inside of you who knew how to have a blast but she’s still there, so find her. Dating can be so much fun when you are under no pressure. What’s so hard about dressing up and getting

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3. SELF-CHECK

4. IT’S NOT THAT SERIOUS

Some women go into dating with the focus of a brain surgeon but it’s not always that serious is it? Even if you’re looking for your next husband, not every date has to be a potential keeper. Maybe the guy is funny and teaches you new things but you don’t quite see him as your future babydaddy, that doesn’t mean you can’t see him again. Enjoy it for what it is and when you’re done with it, move on.

If you find you go on a date with a

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RELATIONSHIPS EOA guy you actually like, enjoy it to the max. Kiss him when you want, have sex when you want, text him when you want – you’re a grown woman, do whatever you want!

5. BE SWITCHED ON

Despite what some people say, sexy men are everywhere. When you’re open to dating, it helps to keep your eyes peeled. Allow yourself to feel sexy and confident round the clock and not just on Friday nights at wine bars. Who knows where your next date might come from? He might be the cutie at the counter at Woolies; make sure that when the opportunity presents itself, you’re ready.

6. UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOU

There is a tendency for people to be on their best when they are around new people but this doesn’t mean not being yourself. Just like you should be open to getting to know who your date is, allow him to get to know who you are. The beauty of dating when you’re older is self-awareness, so use it. Speak up, make your views known and block unwanted behavior before it gets the chance to develop. There’s no need to sit through a night of house music if it you hate it; leave that to people who are still figuring out who they are.

7. BEYOND A TYPE

WORDS: ZAMA NKOSI. IMAGE: ©ISTOCK.COM.

So all your exes are tall, dark and handsome but they are also all firmly lodged in the past. You would be surprised what might be out there that will tickle your fancy if you open yourself up to it. No one is saying go on a date with someone you’re really not into but sometimes that guy from the gym with the glasses is someone you could like. Sticking to a rigid type can keep you stuck; the world is full of wonderful people in all kinds of forms, why not see what they have to offer?

If you don’t like it, ditch them, that is the beauty of dating.

If you’ve been on the dating scene, share some of your dating tips with us on Facebook so that those joining the dating club can also have a good time. E

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/05 6:10 PM

THE NAKED

Truth

Sending a nude selfie to your partner can be fun and an exciting way to express your adventurous side, but if you’re planning on taking your relationship to this level, here’s what you need to know if those naughty nudes go rogue.

s a generation that is constantly switched on sharing our every thought, move and personal lives online, it’s no wonder that sending sexy nude images to a partner has become such a huge trend.

A recent study from the Pew Research Center in the United States shows that “the number of people in all age groups who say they’ve received a nude photo is now one in five, compared to 15 percent two years ago,” according to The Verge. It’s supposed to be a fun way to spice up a relationship, but there are many things to consider before you click and send that pic. Most importantly; how would you feel if those photos ended up in the

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public eye for everyone to gawk at or worse, ridicule and use in a negative way to bully or defame you?

THE RISE OF REVENGE PORN

Earlier this year, 31-year-old student Pulane Lenkoe was dating Orlando Pirates star midfielder Thandani Ntshumayelo, when her ex-boyfriend used a fake account to leak nude photos of her on Twitter. She had sent these pics to him while they were dating previously, but still faced an online lynching where she was bullied and branded a ‘whore’. Lenkoe wasn’t the first person to have her photos leaked by an ex, and she will definitely not be the last. This is an example of the revenge porn phenomenon where sexually explicit content is uploaded by an ex to websites or social media platforms without consent, and with the intention of humiliating the person depicted.

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SEX & INTiMaCY INTIMACY EOA COPYRIGHT: WHO OWNS WHAT?

We’d like to think we have the final say over our nude images.

While technically that may be the case, it’s not always that simple in this scenario. Johannesburg lawyer Benjamin Gordon says, “The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002, and the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 say that one’s personal information may not be freely distributed without that person’s prior consent.

“However, these acts mostly refer to a data collector; a company requesting and collating information of a person.”

And that doesn’t necessarily apply to a person distributing another individual’s photographs. “Once an image has been sent, we assume the sender has relaxed his/her rights to privacy,” warns Gordon.

And, let’s be honest, once these kinds of images are online, trying to get them removed can be a futile exercise. “Once a photo is out there, you will struggle to remove it. This is simply the nature of the web,” says Joburg attorney Sarah Buerger.

“You could issue a take-down order to the internet service provider, who will then remove the page. However, the person who posted it can simply publish a new page and the process of having it removed will have to be repeated.”

There’s also a chance that your arguing will actually have the opposite effect, and even more people will see it. This is called The Streisand Effect. This phenomenon happens when someone tries to hide, remove or censor a piece of information, and it has the unintended consequence of publicising the information more widely. Instead of being suppressed, the information gets even more publicity through online media extensions, such as spoof videos or memes.

Once the images are on social media, the law is very unclear over who owns them. “In South Africa, similar to Europe, we have not yet enacted statutory laws that categorise a person’s rights to virtual content (that which gets published on Facebook or Twitter),” explains Gordon. In fact, it’s widely accepted that those channels own any content uploaded to their respective sites.

WORDS: Kim Garner. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

WHAT ABOUT PRIVACY?

While you might not be able to get your nude pics back, you may be able to argue an infringement on your right to privacy.

“In South Africa privacy is protected under the law of delict and section 14 of the Constitution,” says Gordon. One could sue if someone has infringed on your reputation, dignity or privacy. “The remedy is to approach the court either on an urgent basis, or by way of action with a delictual claim against the [person who leaked your photos]. The court will consider each case on its merits,” advises Gordon.

It can be tough to argue this matter after the fact, though.

You have to think ahead. “Always disclose how the image may be used and request that it be deleted once viewed,” says Gordon. “This will strengthen your position in the eyes of the court should legal action be necessary. Also, consider the audience you’ve sent the nude picture to. The wider the audience, the harder it will be to argue an infringement of privacy or dignity.’

FACING THE BULLIES

More often than not, the blame for these images is placed in the victim’s lap; he or she will be bullied online for taking

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the photos in the first place while the person who leaked the private images seems to always get off scot-free. Since online bullying can be incredibly hurtful, it may be worth looking into the new Protection from Harassment Act 17 of 2011. This act covers mental, psychological, physical and economic harm, and allows the court to request details of the person who is bullying you, from the internet service provider or through an investigation by the police. The act allows you to issue a court order, and the court can prohibit the person from engaging in, or attempting to engage in, harassment. If the person fails to comply with the final order, they can face criminal charges.

Of course, this type of legal process can be time-consuming and very costly. In the meantime, try to steer clear of bullies online and don’t engage. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having your nude images leaked for all and sundry to see, remember the dust will settle and the online world will be ridiculing something else soon enough.

IT’S NOT ALL BAD On the flipside, if you trust the person you are doing it with, taking nudes can be a fun and sexy way to spice up an intimate relationship. If you’re keen to try it out, keep these five tips in mind to take the perfect nude.

1. NO FACES

Always cut your face out of the photo frame.

Not only is it sexy to focus on a specific body part, but it’ll also protect your identity if the photos land up in the wrong hands.

2. LIGHTING, LIGHTING, LIGHTING!

Nothing is less attractive than stark, white, change-room lighting. Go for softer lighting, or even better, light a few candles to give your pics a romantic hue.

3. BE SUGGESTIVE

Don’t zoom straight into the good bits.

Shots where you focus on the stomach, the top of thigh-high silk stockings, or the outline of a braless chest in a chiffon top, allow you to be suggestive while leaving the rest to your partner’s imagination.

4. WORK YOUR ANGLES

Any fashion photographer will tell you that angles work best in photography.

Bend a leg, put your hand on your hip, or tilt your head slightly to get your partner’s pulse racing.

5. GET IN THE BATH

A bath filled with bubbles, soapsuds and glistening water always makes the skin look great. Go on, get wet and click away. E

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2015/08/05 6:11 PM

hat are the factors couples consider when planning their family, and better yet, how do circumstances interfere with their master plan?

Perhaps you always wanted a pigeon pair (a boy and girl) and ended up with two of a kind, resulting in a third attempt at balancing the scales? Perhaps you wanted two, but your second pregnancy ended up being twins or triplets? What if you always wanted a big family, but secondary infertility rendered this dream null and void? Life can be rather unpredictable or you could be unbelievably lucky and end up with your dream realised down to the last detail.

Dr Alan Singer, author of Creating Your Perfect Family Size (Jossey-Bass), researched how couples made the important decision of how many children they’d like to raise, but as his book title hints, there is no one perfect size – only ‘your’ perfect size. It is interesting nonetheless that the common kinds of questions that couples considered when planning their family included: l Social pressures, such as giving their parents grandchildren. l Not being alone when they faced old age. l Having a second child so that the first was not alone. l Having another child to cement together a blended family. l How far apart to space pregnancies.

While statistics differ, the average number of pregnancies that are unplanned in South Africa lies just below 50 percent, so that throws Dr Singer’s advice right out the window! So to find out more, I spoke to three real-life moms with three very different families, and discovered that while hopes and plans were one thing, reality had its own agenda.

ONE SIZE FITS ALL PARENTING…

Or does it?

Is there is such a thing as the perfect family size – mom, dad and 2.4 kids?

THREE GIRLS AND A GUY – TAKING A CULTURAL STAND KZN-based Nomsa Mkhize (34) lives with her two young daughters and husband in the Midlands, and she shares that she initially wanted to have three children, but when she had her second daughter she made a conscious decision to stop as a political statement. She explains the reason for her decision: “You see, black people believe that girls are not as important as boys.

I don’t know how true this is, but my mom-in-law told me that when you give birth to a boy it means that the ancestors approve of you as a daughter-in-law according to Zulu culture.”

Mkhize underscores that she is not sure if this is entirely true, and shares that her mother-in-law is not particularly fond of her anyway, but that her husband loves his two daughters and he also doesn’t want to have another child because people will assume he’s trying for a boy. “So for my hubby and me, as much as we had originally planned and budgeted for three children, we had to change our plans. We refuse to bow

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PARENTING EOA to society’s belief that girls are inferior. I am proud of my husband for taking this stand, especially because he is a Zulu man.”

Mkhize goes on to share that her husband always wanted a baby girl, and to be blessed with two is a bonus for him. In addition, he is very cognisant of not sending the message to his daughters that they are not enough for him, so much so that he would not attempt to continue to try for a boy. “He wants both his girls to know that they are special,” Mkhize says, “and they mean the world to him. He tells them that every day.”

WORDS: LOREN STOW. IMAGES: ©I.STOCK.COM.

SUPER SEVEN – A FAMILY THAT’S BIG ON LOVE Cathrine Versfeld is a 30-something mother of five and she shares that when she and her husband married they both knew they wanted children somewhere along the line, but they thought perhaps two or three as they both came from three-children-households. “Our fourth baby was a bit of a surprise… I was on the pill and then went on a course of antibiotics. The fifth decided not to let the pill even stop her, but we are not sorry!” Although not planned this way, their children all ended up being born between 16 and 24 months apart, so they have a very busy home now with five children aged 6 months, 22 months, four, six and seven years. “And we feel like we have the complete set now!” Versfeld laughs.

As with any size family, a large family has its pros and cons. On the downside, Versfeld finds that friends without kids or fewer kids do not really understand why they have much less time and money. “As much as we plan, it is very difficult to leave home on time, and money

is a factor with school fees, clothes, buying a bigger seven-seater car, and extra-murals, which don’t come in bulk rates.” Both Versfeld and her husband have also had to put their studies on hold for a few years because they’re too exhausted to study at night.

But the pros are that her kids entertain each other and often learn from each other. “Our home is creative and inquiring because there’s always a question or a joke, or game going on. It is incredible watching each and every one of them go through the stages of growth, and it is just magical now with the fifth baby. The novelty never wears off,” she says with a smile. She adds that you realise it’s possible to love them all equally. There is no division of love, only more love to give with each new child.

However, Versfeld shares that her biggest fear when she found out she was expecting her fifth child last year was not the pregnancy itself, which she knew she could handle just fine, but the fear of what others would say! “You’d think that adults outgrow teasing each other, but they don’t, and some were pretty ruthless – comments about our prevention methods and really personal stuff that was hardly appropriate. Even now we get comments hoping that we’ve sorted things out medically so that there isn’t another ‘Oops’…” With the birth of her fifth child, the Versfelds opted for an elective C-section and sterilisation. “We’re so happy with all our children, but we’ve decided close the factory.”

SMALL BUT SWEET – ONE-ON-ONE LOVE

Amelia Erasmus (43) is a Pretoria-based single mom with one young daughter who had always dreamed of having three children. “I travelled a lot when I was younger and only married at 31. A year and a half later, my husband passed away.” Erasmus married again at 37 and fell pregnant a year later. “My pregnancy was wonderfully healthy and my daughter was born when I was 39 years old. I divorced not long after she was born and from there I knew I wouldn’t have any more children.”

For this working mom, the pros of having an only child are definitely that she can devote all her finances to her daughter.

“I can also give her my undivided attention and complete quality time, and I believe I have lower stress levels because I don’t have to deal with sibling conflicts and rivalry, and my daughter and I both get our privacy and alone time as well.” On the other side of the coin, Amelia feels that having only one child makes her a little overprotective as a parent, and she believes that her daughter struggles to share with others because she doesn’t have to at home. All in all, Erasmus feels that her little family is perfect as it is and she has experienced tremendous support from her sibling and parents on her journey as a single mother.

In all of our mother’s stories, one common message emerged – the family they wanted was not the same as the family they got – life happened and love happened, and in the end they could not imagine their families any different. Each family is unique, whether big or small, all girls or all boys. What matters most is not the size of your family, but rather what you make of your family.

DID YOU KNOW? l South African families are steadily shrinking in size from 4.5 people per household in the 1990 census to 3.4 people in the 2011 census. l The University of South Africa (UNISA) estimates that by 2021 the average household will have 2.9 people. E

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WHAT IN THE WORLD IS BLACK TAX? In African society, there is a big emphasis on community but can it be crippling when the ones who ‘make it’ have the burden of carrying everyone else in their immediate and extended families? EOA investigates.

he birth of democratic South Africa and the scrapping of oppressive apartheid laws and policies established renewed hope and a sense of belonging within the hearts and minds of all African people. The promise that every person, regardless of their race or background, could access opportunities had finally come to fruition. People could obtain better employment that in turn could pay the fees at better schools, and families could reside in better neighbourhoods, all of their own choosing. The future looked bright and the South Africa that so many had laboured and died for would, at last, begin to serve all its citizens.

However, with the freedom and optimism came an inconvenient reality that many black people continue to grapple with today. While the black middle class steadily entrenched its presence in modern suburbia, it has come with the added responsibility of what is commonly referred to as ‘black tax’. Originating in the United States, black tax refers to the perceived notion that black people have to work twice as hard/well, or go through double the strife, as their white counterparts while doing the same jobs. And in the South African context there is the added burden of the working family member who has to provide for the older and younger generations in the family, be that in the form of supplementing old-age pensions or funding a younger sibling’s tertiary studies, for example.

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The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) stated in a 2013 survey that “no progress towards income equality has been made since the end of apartheid” and 36.9 percent of 15- to 34-year-olds in South Africa are unemployed, with the majority of these people being non-white. Thus, black tax and all its perceived outcomes seem to form an enormous structural burden that frustrates the attempts to break the poverty cycle of past generations.

TAXED BY RACE… REALLY? Black tax not only indicates the seemingly mandatory duty that comes with being a successful black person, but also reveals its particularity to a social group, as it’s mostly black South Africans who struggle with the historical legacy of being forced to the bottom of the socio-economic hierarchy of the country’s racial capitalism.

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On the Business Day’s website, BD Live (25 February 2015), Zama Ndlovu, the managing director of Youth Lab (a non-profit organisation that connects young people to relevant stakeholders in economic and societal policymaking), presents black tax as “the range of experiences where… young black people find themselves having to clear ‘invisible’ hurdles to get access to certain opportunities such as jobs, promotions, information and quality education.”

Even within the realm of internships, which in part is designed to alleviate the scourge of unemployment in South Africa, it’s common for eligible candidates to encounter these hurdles when job adverts specify ‘unpaid’ or ‘must have own car’ criteria. This automatically disqualifies many black youth, as very few of them would own a vehicle, let alone take up fulltime employment without earning a salary.

Other daily hurdles, such as cumbersome public transport trips to and from work, often place black people who live in townships, historically designed to be situated far from economic hubs and suburbia, at a disadvantage.

I AM BECAUSE YOU ARE Indeed, navigating the realities of being a black person in a society with institutionalised racism and largely untransformed corporate and socioeconomic structures is quite demanding of the individual, and this feeds into another aspect of black tax – that of being indebted to one’s family. In a similar vein of the familiar proverbs, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ or izandla ziyagezana (hands wash each other), a prominent feature of the normative South African home is the emphasis on family, community and the symbiotic relationship of building the individual through the collective.

Therefore, it is an unspoken expectation that once one person enters the world of employment, the extended family can look forward to their struggles being alleviated by this new income.

Possibilities such as the renovation of the fourroomed family home in the township, a monthly contribution to groceries, and the payment of younger nieces’ school fees become concrete.

Regardless of whether or not one is able to afford to live in a double storey home, drive a luxury car, or struggle to make ends meet every month, the black tax becomes the great and unfortunate equaliser because of its demanding and inescapable nature.

ROOTED IN OPPRESSION For black tax to exist and to become as challenging as it is today, we need to acknowledge that it stems from decades of meticulously

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orchestrated segregationist legislation that had been used to minimise the life of the African individual at every level. From the pre-apartheid Natives Land Act of 1913 that systematically stole black people’s land while forcing them to inhabit only 7 percent thereof, to laws such as the Group Areas, Population Registration, Bantu Authorities, Bantu Education, Reservation of Separate Amenities and Native Resettlement acts of the 1950s that respectively controlled all areas of black people’s lives.

These laws and their specific outcomes have led to the complex interweaving of socio-economic injustices that not only oppressed black people, but also created the townships and rural areas with their endless list of infrastructure issues.

In addition, they are responsible for social ills such as chronic alcoholism, poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, drug addiction, gangsterism and the high rate of crime in South Africa.

In turn, these social ills reinforce a vicious cycle that requires multiple interventions to overcome. Enter black tax and the fact that it’s perceived to be alleviating these social ills and contributing to better and brighter futures for the next generation.

NO ONE LEFT UNAFFECTED The notion of family being carried by ‘the one who makes it out’ is not unique to South Africans or only black people for that matter. International soccer star, Emmanuel Adebayor, made headlines in May 2015 when he complained about having to take care of his extended family indefinitely. In what had become a family feud, Adebayor’s relatives had an unending list of requests including homes, cars and allowances, despite him having supported many of them for years.

“This is one of the common consequences for those who are expected to help out their families when they become successful,” says family counsellor, Thembisile Dlamini.

“Because many people have family members who are still poor with no prospects, the demands are bottomless. When you are helping people with basic needs such as food and shelter, they will be calling you weekly because those needs will never disappear.”

Dlamini says the impact this has on family dynamics can become very toxic. “If you ask most people on either side of this situation, they agree that there is resentment.

No one wants to be responsible for other adults, but these dire situations call for it. Those on the receiving end also feel resentful because they feel like they have no means of

getting out of the cycle, which also leads to entitlement,” she warns. There also seems to be a shroud of secrecy around the issue of taking care of family. While most people are familiar with the life of ‘sending money home’, they rarely have the public platform to address it.

Ayanda September (37) says she has struggled to articulate her feelings around the weight of carrying a family financially. “I take care of my mother and two of my siblings who have their own families. While I’m often relieved that I can help, it is a lot of pressure for one person to carry. My peers from well-off families are able to have freedoms and luxuries that I can’t have because I have the basic needs of three families to cover,” September admits.

“My life makes me feel like I am always on the back foot because I have so many people looking to me for salvation.

I can’t travel much despite a good salary. I can’t make my life as amazing as it should be, because how do you live extra large when you have family in the township who need food?” asks September.

Dlamini says that this feeling of always being on the back foot is what makes the effects insidiously problematic.

“It will take decades of systematic changes for this phenomenon to go away. For as long as it continues, people of colour mainly will always be behind because, not only are there legacy issues that need to be addressed, but those who are the providers will not be able to fully reach their financial goals because of family responsibility.”

It’s important that the collective black condition in Africa constantly be examined, problematised and challenged, especially in light of the continuing structural impediments to our freedoms. In her News24.com column (10 May 2015), Gugulethu Mhlungu, lifestyle editor of Sunday newspaper City Press, refutes the phrase ‘black tax’ and proposes that it rather be emphasised as ‘the costs and consequences of inequality.’

She also provides this interesting perspective: “The major issue with calling it black tax is that it makes the nature of the high cost of being part of a disadvantaged group unique to black people. Black tax quickly becomes a pathology of black people – about the way black people are or what they do, rather than an articulation of their lived experience.”

Indeed, the conversation regarding black tax is essential and opens up the possibilities for solutions when supported by critical introspection of how societal structures can be further transformed in order to break the cycle of poverty that is so pervasive within black families. E

“The major issue with calling it black tax is that it makes the nature of the high cost of being part of a disadvantaged group unique to black people.” se p te m b e r 2 0 1 5

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WORDS: LEBOHANG MASANGO AND ZAMA NKOSI. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

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DR NORMAN CAHI

A LOOK AT

Oral health

September is Oral Health Awareness Month, so we asked Dr Norman Cahi to share basic oral health tips that will take your smile and your oral hygiene to the next level.

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health EOA t seems almost childish to speak about the basics of keeping your teeth and mouth clean and healthy, but the truth is that oral hygiene is a part of our health that is often neglected.

“Good basic oral hygiene practices on a daily basis are the cornerstone to developing, and keeping, a healthy beautiful smile and great dental health,” says Dr Cahi.

THERE ARE 5 GOLDEN RULES TO KEEPING YOUR TEETH FOR LIFE: 1. Brush your teeth twice a day, after breakfast and before sleeping.

2. Floss your teeth once a day.

3.

Visit your dentist or oral hygienist every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning.

4. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.

5. Avoid a diet high in sugary/starchy foods.

“I also like to add a sixth rule, which is do not smoke,” warns Dr Cahi. “The nicotine in cigarettes acts to strangulate the blood supply to the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth, causing gum inflammation (gingivitis) and jaw bone inflammation (periodontitis).”

COMMON ORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

WORDS: DR NORMAN CAHI. IMAGES: NURAAN MOTLEKAR.

Periodontitis is the major cause of adult tooth loss.

Gingivitis the start of periodontitis and the classic signs of gum disease are: l Bleeding gums l Red, puffy or swollen gums l Sore, itchy and painful gums l Bad breath (halitosis) “Halitosis (clinical bad breath) is a huge problem and affects millions of lives personally and professionally.

The single biggest cause of halitosis is poor oral hygiene, which allows the accumulation of dental plaque to build up around the teeth, initiating the inflammatory response such as gingivitis. Plaque is teeming with millions of bacteria, many of which give off Volatile Sulphur Compounds (VSC), which are responsible for the bad smell and taste in halitosis sufferers,” say Dr Cahi. Nothing compares to halitosis as a ‘passion killer’, so it goes without saying that one should do everything possible to avoid developing this unfortunate anti-social disease.

BASIC ORAL CARE KIT l Use a fluoride-based toothpaste and a soft, nylon bristle toothbrush. l Electric toothbrushes are very helpful and the brush head should be replaced every three to four months. l The best floss to use is thin, waxed floss, or you can use an electronic air flosser. Ask your hygienist for best advice. l A good antibacterial mouthwash is always handy.

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WHITER AND BRIGHTER “Today everybody is talking about (and wanting) whiter teeth. Who doesn’t desire a whiter smile?

To many people, white teeth signify health, vitality, youth and beauty. Aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry today is based on professional teeth bleaching, but I must stress that this must only be done by a suitably experienced dental professional,” advises Dr Cahi.

It is imperative to maintain good basic oral hygiene habits throughout your life. Nothing ages you more than an unhealthy, discoloured or ugly smile. Remember, oral health is integral to your overall general systemic health. In recent years, studies have proved a direct link between oral disease and dental ill health and systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, preterm baby delivery, bad acid reflux, etc.

Recently the Surgeon General of the USA stated that a person couldn’t say that they are healthy unless they have good oral health. Ask your dentist or oral hygienist to actually show you (by demonstrating) how you should be brushing your teeth, massaging your gums, flossing in between your teeth and scraping your tongue too. E

For more info on Dr Cahi and his practice, visit www.styleyoursmile.co.za.

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Reasons men

DON’T WANT TO MARRY Fewer men are choosing to tie the knot, even after decade-long relationships. EOA questions if the act of sealing undying love with a ring is on the brink of death.

here have all the eligible husbands gone? They certainly have not gone to the altar to eagerly wait as their blushing brides walk down the aisle, according to new statistics from the Pew Research Center in the United States.

“Since 1997, the number of men who rate marriage as a top priority in

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their lives has declined from 35 percent to 29 percent,” says the American think tank that provides information on social issues, public opinion and demographic trends. They have found that the opposite happened for women, with their desire to get married having increased in the last several years.

But why are men losing their desire to tie the knot and what impact will this have on the holy institution of marriage

in years to come? Determined to get to the bottom of this unsettling trend, Dr Helen Smith, author of Men On Strike: Why Men Are Boycotting Marriage, Fatherhood And The American Dream (Encounter Books, 2014), interviewed thousands of men regarding their feelings towards marriage, love and relationships. Some of the top reasons why men flee for the hills when they hear talk of wedding bells, include:

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MAN FEATURE EOA 1. Single Life Is Better

While the value of marriage to men has declined, the quality of single life has improved. Single men are no longer passed over for promotions that previously benefitted stable family men. Being single means you can work longer hours without feeling guilt for neglecting your family.

2. The Sex Factor

Married men have more sex than single men, on average, but much less than men who are cohabiting with their partners outside of marriage, especially as time goes on. And just for interest’s sake, research even suggests that married women are more likely to gain weight than women who are cohabiting without marriage.

marriage. Instead, he is afraid of the stereotypical and skewed idea of marriage that lazy advertisers and sitcom writers promote.

WRITE YOUR OWN MARITAL SCRIPT Says Venker, “The good news is that your marriage doesn’t have to be anything like that, and putting a ring on your partner’s finger won’t turn her into a henpecking nag anymore than it will turn you into an emasculated drone. If it did, no one would ever stay married!” But she advises that just like all things in life, your marriage is only going to be as fun, sexy and fulfilling as you make it. “If you’re willing to put in the effort to make your relationship work, getting married can be the best decision you ever make… just don’t rush it until you are ready!”

3. Friends Disappear

When married, men’s ties with friends from school and work tend to fade over time. Although both men and women lose friends after marriage, it tends to affect men’s self-esteem more, perhaps because men tend to be less social in general.

4. A Need For Space

We hear a lot about men retreating to their ‘man caves’. But why do they retreat? According to the research, they do this because they’ve lost the battle for the rest of the house.

“Ultimately, men believe there’s a good chance they’ll lose their friends, their respect, their space, their sex life, their money and – if it all goes wrong – their family.”

5. Lose-Lose

Men often complain that the family court legal system is stacked against them, and this conclusion seems to be true. Women gain custody and child support the majority of the time. Lots of men were keenly aware of the dangers of divorce and worried that if they were married and it went sour, the woman might take everything, including the children. Other men were concerned that they might wind up paying child support for kids who aren’t even theirs.

“Ultimately, men believe there’s a good chance they’ll lose their friends, their respect, their space, their sex life, their money and – if it all goes wrong – their family,” says Dr Smith. She stresses that men don’t want to enter into a legal contract with someone who could effectively take half their salaries, pension and property when the honeymoon period is over. “Men aren’t wimping out by staying unmarried or being commitment phobes. They’re being smart!” she says.

WORDS: HAYDEN HORNER. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

IT’S REALLY NOT THAT BAD Suzanne Venker, author, cultural critic and founder of the news and opinion website, Women For Men, says the image of a henpecked, sex-starved man coming home to a messy house, loud kids, and a nagging wife is all too common in today’s media.

“No wonder so many men don’t want to get married.

Commercials and movies make modern marriage look about as fun as a root canal, especially for husbands,” laments Venker.

She is confident that marriage can be fun and says it can also be filled with respect, frequent and passionate sex, time spent with friends, joy, love, and deep fulfillment. Husbands aren’t the only ones who long for time with their buddies and time to enjoy self-growth.

“It’s something men and women alike need, and there is no reason why a marriage, or any relationship, can’t allow both partners time to explore and grow.” In reviewing Dr Smith’s findings, Venker says today’s man isn’t actually afraid of

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REFRESH YOUR MARRIAGE Has your marriage become humdrum? What can you do to keep the relationship fresh and exciting? l Make Time For Fun: With the hectic schedules that families follow these days, you need to remember to schedule time for fun. Declare one night of the week a date night, or carve out some time during the weekend to relax with your spouse. Mark it on your calendar, and protect that time slot with your life. l Enjoy Variety: Try something new together. Take turns choosing the activity you’ll do on your date.

When it is her turn to choose, you must do whatever she suggests. The next time you go out, you will choose the activity. That’s fair, right? l Befriend Other Couples: Often, the friendships you bring into your marriage are ones you’ve had with single friends. Although there’s nothing wrong with this, single friends often don’t share your marriage mentality or interests, and could inadvertently pull you away from your spouse. Make the effort to form friendships with other married couples, so you can share activities and a mutual understanding of what married life entails. l Loan Out Your Kids: Another advantage of developing friendships with other couples, especially if you both have children, is that when you and your spouse do want a night alone, you can turn to your friends for your babysitting needs. Then, when they want a night out, you can offer to do the same for them. Perhaps the kids would also enjoy a night away from mom and dad. E

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BRONSON SLIM CHINO, R1 599, G-STAR RAW.

GALEN SHIRT, R1 299, CALVIN KLEIN, EDGARS.

LIGHT-BROWN LEATHER BELT, R279, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

CASUALWEAR FOR THE LAIDBACK GUY NAVY GORDEN FELT TRILBY, R699, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND.

LONG GREY SOCKS WITH BLACK AND BABY-BLUE STRIPES, R249, CR7, EDGARS.

Warmer weather means its braai time with friends and family. Dress your man in one of these great casual looks.

BLACK, ROUND GLASSES, R299, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS. METRO BACKPACK, R2 199, CALVIN KLEIN, EDGARS.

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MAN SHOPPING EOA

LEATHER CONTRAST CAP, R329, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

TERRY TOWELLING GOLFER, R1 995, ORLEBAR BROWN, CLOTH & LABEL.

BROWN LEOPARD-PRINT SQUARE AVIATOR SUNGLASSES, R399, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS, PINTEREST.COM.

BLACK LEATHER ZIP BELT, R329, RIVER ISLAND, EDGARS.

CROTCH SPORTS SHORTS, R1 399, G-STAR RAW.

BLACK SAMSON SANDAL, R1 399, PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND.

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ASHER FLAT CROSSOVER BAG, R1 599, CALVIN KLEIN, EDGARS.

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MAN Q&A EOA

Master of his PLATE Lentswe Bhengu took a leap to follow his dreams of being a chef.

It paid off and he now presents a cooking series on US network, The African Channel, among other things. EOA caught up with him.

HOW DID YOUR CAREER AS A CHEF START? It’s funny because I’d been cooking on the sly since I was about 9 or 10. And even while I was doing my B.Comm and working at investment finance companies, like Old Mutual and Allan Gray, for five years, I’d been attending open days at culinary schools.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO APPLY FOR CULINARY SCHOOL? My father told me that if you ever need to sort out your life, just sit down and have a meeting with yourself. And if ever you find yourself doing something you’re not happy with, stop it right there and then.

Otherwise it will carry on being that way until you’re 40 or 50 or 60. He said, “I should have been an artist.” Meanwhile you’re stuck behind a desk. So I decided to stop the job I was doing and enrol at The Culinary Academy.

WORDS: EUGENE YIGA. IMAGE: FIRESTAR PR..

WHAT WAS IT LIKE WHEN YOU SWITCHED FROM CORPORATE TO CULINARY SCHOOL? Of course there were challenges. I was 25 and my mindset was very much: ‘I’m an adult, I’m an adult, I’m an adult.’ But I was sitting in class with 18-year-olds who’d just finished school, so there was that attitudinal adjustment I had to make.

EXPLAIN HOW IT FELT WHEN YOU BEGAN WORKING IN YOUR CHOSEN INDUSTRY? You arrive long before everyone else and you work until the last guest leaves. I was clocking in 16 hours as a chef, standing up and working with my hands. You also don’t get paid a lot and are a server behind the servers in the restaurant, because no one ever gets to see you. But I love the freedom to express myself on the plate and I got excited when I started to develop my art. It’s a passion, not just a job, that gives you immediate results.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LESSONS THAT YOU LEARNED ALONG THE WAY? You have to love cooking to pursue it as a professional career. It’s not always glamorous, but if you pursue it hard enough and you put enough passion into it, you can find the glamour. You also don’t get paid a lot, but there are ways to be awesome and make money, while keeping true to your heart.

AS THE SOUTH AFRICAN AMBASSADOR FOR THE CHEFS WHO SHARE THE YOUNG CHEF AWARD, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THE FINALISTS? Because chefs are creatives, we think we know what we want because it comes from inside. But it’s a learning process. In finance, they suggest you stick to one job to build credibility and experience. But as a chef you are only as good as how many people have taught you. If you stick with one chef, you’ll only learn what that chef has taught you. By changing chefs, you will increase your skill levels as well.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING CHEFS? Don’t do it so that people will say, “OMG! You’re a chef! That’s so cool!” because it’s not that cool. You leave work dirty, you

smell weird, and you always get to the party after everyone else has already left. So you’re not the coolest person around. But you know you’re cool because everyone else is happy, because you served them great food. You have to have more passion than skill, because skill you learn along the way, but you can’t teach passion. And it’s your passion that will get you through the long hours. You can be the most skilled chef out there, but if you don’t have the passion for long hours, you’ll never survive.

You’ll become disgruntled and you’ll leave it for the wrong reasons.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? I enjoy writing and one day I will write a book. I keep on saying that. Before I became I chef I used to say, “One day I’m going to become a chef.” It took me 25 years to get to that ‘one day’.

IS THERE ANY CHANCE OF YOU OPENING UP YOUR OWN RESTAURANT? At the moment I’m sitting on six years of professional experience in the kitchen, but I feel like I need to explore and learn more before I can say, “Here’s my plate. And the reason I’m charging X is because of A, B, and C.” At the moment I only have A. I’m going out to look for B and C.

“But I love the freedom to express myself on the plate and I got excited when I started to develop my art. It’s a passion, not just a job, that gives you immediate results.”

The third annual ‘Chefs Who Share’, which has raised R4m since it began in 2013, takes place at Cape Town City Hall on 10 September 2015, presented by Mercedes-Benz and associate sponsors Deutsche Bank, Swiss International Air Lines, and Bulgari. Proceeds from ticket sales, as well as an art auction, go to MAD Leadership Foundation and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. Learn more at www.chefswhoshare.com. E

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Fame in a time of

AIDS

South African celebrities have the power to influence public perception about almost anything. HAYDEN HORNER questions why, then, they remain silent about HIV, even when they test positive. research on the nature and influence of celebrity disclosure of HIV. A summary of the research, in the US Journal of Sex Research, found that after his announcement, the level of accurate knowledge about HIV increased, as did the number of persons tested for the virus and the desire to obtain more information about it.

Although I believe that by keeping their own HIV status under wraps, South

African celebrities are not doing enough to address HIV and Aids, I also feel they should not have to shoulder the burden themselves. The general public also has a responsibility. Maybe we should all work together to curb the spread of this disease by following Criselda Kananda’s proposal that AIDS should be an acronym for ‘Am I Doing Something?’ E Your #Gay Best Friend

WORDS AND IMAGE: HAYDEN HORNER.

ot enough attention has been given to the power that celebrities could exercise in disclosing personal information about health issue such HIV/AIDS. This is all too evident in the slow emergence of high-profile HIV disclosures in South Africa, not counting Koyo Bala of the musical group 3Sum, the now-deceased Lesego Motsepe of Isidingo fame, and radio and TV personality, Criselda Kananda.

Having just finished reading a book on the life of the late Fana ‘Khabzela’ Khaba, a hugely popular DJ at a local radio station, I realised that while everybody loves a hero, fame forces celebrities to lie. Khabzela, although hailed by most as a hero for disclosing his status, was a coward who waited until his final moments to step up. While his story does ultimately serve as a reminder about the importance of early HIV testing and antiretroviral treatment, why should we be expected to applaud the tenor just for clearing his throat?

With the impact of AIDS on South Africa, and the shroud of secrecy that still covers the issue of being positive, we could definitely use more prominent people in our ongoing battle against the disease, however delayed they might be in stepping up to the plate.

I remember during my teens, when I first saw the headline: ‘FREDDY MERCURY DIES OF AIDS!’ how disappointed I felt that my hero could keep his infection secret. After all, did he not have a moral obligation to say something to prevent many of his fans from meeting the same fate?

Disappointment aside, I took my cue from my idol to curb my enthusiasm when it came to multiple sex partners and unprotected sexual intercourse – not an easy task for a 17-year-old struggling with sexual identity and raging hormones.

Freddy’s death, I would imagine, was proof of the impact of celebrities on the public’s perception of HIV prevention and treatment. But don’t take my word for it.

An example of the positive effect of celebrity disclosure is that of Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson’s (one of the best players in US basketball history) announcement that he was HIV-positive in 1991, when little was known about this disease.

His disclosure encouraged a body of

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2015/08/06 8:25 AM

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DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT MOISTURIZING LOTION+, R195, CLINIQUE. Strengthens skin’s own moisture barrier by 54 percent. Retains moisture, leaving skin soft and elastic, with a glow.

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QMS MEDICOSMETICS HYDRO FOAM MASK, R700, FUTURE THIS CONSULTANCY. Intensely hydrating foam mask soaks into the skin within minutes. The silk proteins restore the skin’s moisture balancing, making fine lines disappear. Hyaluronic acid leaves skin soft and silky, while the antiinflammatory Jojoba oil calms skin.

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JOHNSON’S HYDRATION ESSENTIALS 2-IN1 GEL, R64.95, RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE. An ultra-light moisturising cream with a refreshing gel formula acts as both a daily moisturiser and twiceweekly mask to leave skin feeling full of vitality.

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NEUTROGENA VISIBLY EVEN FOAMING CLEANSOR, R89.95, RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE. A combination of essential soy, a natural skin brightener, gentle exfoliators, and Vitamin C removes dead skin cells, dirt and oil. It helps even out skin tone and improves radiance.

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The scent of

DÉJÀ VU Every fragrance or aroma stirs a memory, be it good or bad, perhaps of a summer romance or love once lost. Spring brings bursts of blossoms in bloom and is the perfect time to change your fragrance from the heady woody aroma of your winter perfume to a more playful, flowery scent for the season.

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MAIN BEAUTY EOA s spring approaches, our senses become more alive. The sense of smell is one that is often neglected, yet it is so powerful. Sharon Bouchier, perfume enthusiast and owner of Essentials Perfumery at Cedar Square, Fourways, says, “Spring is the awakening of sensory pleasures, an emergence from heavy covers and closed doors. And you can wear it, in a new perfume scent.”

Like fashion, perfume trends change and this year is no different.

“It is my opinion that 2015 has locked in on woody, floral aromas more dominantly. This is a surprising and alluring combination in various forms that embody the woman of this age; we can’t be pegged,” Bouchier emphasises.

“The intrigue of these woody, floral scents allows the woman to be exactly who she wants to be – a trailblazer who is whimsical, sensual, cheeky and compelling.” Bouchier admits that she is pleased to see a little restraint on the citrus fresh combinations which normally flood the markets at this time, but will definitely be welcomed for the summer months.

TYPES OF SCENTS Fragrance connoisseur, Tebogo Mosifane, explains the two types of scents found in perfume:  Oriental/Woody Traditional Oriental ingredients are rich with woody accords of drier notes.

Some ingredients are known to have been generated a thousand years ago, where they are also known to be more expensive than gold.  Fresh and Floral Fresh/floral are the beauty shortcuts to feeling super summer. This largest fragrance family encompasses numerous versions of compositions with a floral heart, freshly picked flowers, and flowers with aquatic, green or powdery nuances.

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SOME OF THE SEASON FAVOURITES FROM ESSENTIAL PERFUMERY:  Versace Eros Pour Femme  Dolce by Dolce & Gabbana  Black Opium Yves St Lauren  Hugo Boss Woman  Cartier la Panthere  Burberry Brit Rhythm  Roberto Cavalli – Paradiso  Thierry Mugler Alien Eau Extraordinaire  Carolina Herrera 212 VIP Rosé  Miss Dior Cherie by Dior

HOW TO WEAR A SCENT Coco Chanel famously said: “A woman should wear perfume wherever she wants to be kissed”, but in reality, the rules are a bit different. One of the important things to keep in mind when choosing a scent is that just because it works for your sister, it does not mean it will work for you. When applying your perfume of choice, experts suggest that you put it on your pulse points as these places emanate heat, which allows the fragrance to spread to the air around you. Dab:  Your inner wrists  The base of the throat  Behind ear lobes  In the cleavage  Behind knees  The inner elbows HOW TO APPLY The rules are simple:  Spray it or dab it onto your skin.

Remember not to rub your wrists together because, contrary to what some people think, the action crushes the scent and it does not spread it.  Some women like to walk through a perfume mist. There’s nothing wrong with that, but most of it will be wasted in the air around you.  Putting a bit of perfume on your hair also allows the scent to last a bit longer, as does layering of products from the same fragrance (body wash, lotion and perfume).

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EOA interviewed 12 women about their favourite fragrances, why they chose those particular ones and if they have a certain perfume that reminds them of a special someone or moment.

1. UNATHI BATYASHE-FILLIS

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have always loved luxurious and edgy female fragrances that flirt with masculinity. My favourite perfume is Black Orchid by visionary designer, Tom Ford.

I started wearing it around 2009 and it became my daily fragrance in 2010.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds

you of something special?

Tom Ford’s Eau De Parfum Patchouli Absolu for men and women reminds me of my father, who was the epitome of strength and success.

He died when I was very young, but I remember how he would take me on motorbike rides every Sunday. If he wasn’t hosting family braais at our favourite campsite overlooking the river, he would take us on long road trips where we got to take in the beautiful South African scenery. He loved life and the outdoors. He left behind a legacy and I guess fragrances do tell a story more often than not. When I wear my Patchouli Absolu, my story is rooted in my childhood.

2. PRUDENCE MTETWA

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

My favorite fragrance is Spellbound by Estée Lauder and I’ve used it for almost 12 years.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

Elie Saab Le Parfum reminds me of my daughter, who placed second in The Star newspaper’s DesignAn-Ad competition last year. Her poster was printed in the newspaper as part of celebrating 20 years of democracy in South Africa and her prize included goodies from the competition’s sponsors. She gave the perfume to me as a gift and whenever I wear it, I am overwhelmed with pride for my daughter.

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MAIN BEAUTY EOA 3. WENDILE GUMEDE

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

My favourite fragrance is Chanel No5 Eau Première, which I have been using for approximately for six years. I have always loved Chanel fragrances, especially the green Chanel Chance.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

I believe in wearing perfume every day. I bought Amarige by Givenchy with my first salary in 1994 and it was my signature fragrance for years. People could always find me by following the scent.

4. MBALI NKAMBULE

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have used Valentino Valentina for six years.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

When I turned 30, I wanted a fragrance that would reflect my maturity and show off the classy woman I believed I had become. My hubby bought Valentino Valentina for me, which is classic yet modern. It brought about my audacious beauty from within and I fell in love with it.

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5. CECILEE PHATUDI

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have worn Elie Saab’s The Resort Collection for three months now.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

White Diamonds by Elizabeth Taylor was my grandmother's favourite perfume when I was a child. She would wear it when she was going to special occasions and teach me about how a lady carries herself. She would say that a lady’s beautiful outfit was not complete until she sprayed on an expensive perfume for the occasion. For her, White Diamonds crowned a lady and brought out her beauty. Every time I see or smell that perfume, I remember those special moments with my grandmother.

6. MANESI RADEBE

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have used Allure Sensuelle by Chanel since 2006.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

A dear friend bought this fragrance for me as a gift and I just fell in love with it. I find that it leaves me feeling fresh the whole day.

It’s so easy on the nose and it is such a great feeling to have people tell you how nice you smell!

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MAIN BEAUTY EOA 7. DAPHNEY MAKHUBELA

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have worn Love Story

by Chloé since it was released in 2014. Its floral composition and orange citrus smell energises me, and is a representation of love. I love fragrances from Paris – I find them very calming.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

A good business partner introduced me to La Petite Robe Noire, loosely translated as ‘Little Black Dress’, by Guerlain in 2012. She taught me a lot about business and when I wear this fragrance, not only do I smell great, but I feel ready to conquer the world!

8. TSHEGO MONYAMANE

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have worn Elizabeth Arden’s Red Door for about five years.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

My husband bought Red Door as a present for me when we exchanged our wedding vows – it was also my 30th birthday gift! He hid it beneath his driver’s seat and only gave it to me when we arrived at our honeymoon destination at Ukhahlamba in the Drakensberg.

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9. THULI SITHOLE

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

My favourite fragrance is Estée Lauder’s White Linen, which I have been wearing since I turned 16. I am a little old-fashioned!

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

I have received and worn other fragrances from ‘lovers’, but after the relationships end, I stop wearing those perfumes because the emotions can be too overwhelming sometimes.

I revert to safe ground, which is the first perfume I ever knew and one that is associated with the honest love of my mother, which is White Linen.

10. SALEM DYAFTA

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have worn JJ Schoeman Parfum for three years.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

A few years ago, a man I had a crush on bought Gucci by Gucci for me.

Unfortunately, he friend-zoned me and nothing serious ever happened between us. After I finished the bottle of Gucci, I went back to my favourite JJ Schoeman.

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MAIN BEAUTY EOA 11. KISSMEA CHARLES

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

I have worn Chanel No5 for 20 years.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

My first love, Dereck, and the late father of my only daughter, gave me Joy by Jean Patou when I was only 18 years old. I was young and in love, and had never owned an expensive bottle of perfume. I lived in the township of Bonteheuwel in Cape Town at the time and I remember how horrified I was when my mother got hold of my fancy perfume and sprayed it all over herself!

12. NATASHA THORP

WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

Q What is your favourite fragrance and for how long have you used it?

It is nice to chop and change, and wear a different fragrance every day. I try to spoil myself with a new fragrance every few months. For the last three months I have been enjoying the new Miss Dior, Blooming Bouquet, with its soft and feminine, sparkly, floral notes. I am also thoroughly enjoying the new Bvlgari fragrance, which is a twist on the original, as it has an energising fruity spunk.

Q Is there a particular fragrance that reminds you of something special?

My mother’s favourite perfume is Estée Lauder’s Private Collection 3, which she has worn for as long as I can remember. Every time I smell its rich, sultry fragrance, I think of her. Do yourself a favour and try it – it is luxury in a bottle! E

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SPRING Hair trends EOA BEAUTY

With sunny days finally here, you might be considering switching up your hairdo. Go for it! This season is all about change and loving your hair!

HIGHLIGHTS AND SHADES

The ombrĂŠ highlight is a hair trend that is here to stay, enhancing the texture of your natural curly style. If you have gone for a natural style, ash-blonde and ashbrown shades will look fabulous on your hair! For this season, a mixture of two or three highlights on your curly hair is a great way to add that contemporary sophistication.

SHORT HAIR

TINTED SIDE-SWEEP The side-swept hairstyle is perfect for any face shape and occasion. If you want to elevate your look, add a pop of colour on a section of the head towards the forehead. This look is ideal for medium to slightly short length.

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If you’re thinking about cutting your hair to get rid of those damaged ends, or you just want to go natural, now is definitely the right time to do it. Natural hair is going to be a very long-term trend, so you can show off your individual style by adding on hair accessories for your unique touch.

ESSAYS OF AFRICA

2015/08/06 8:40 AM

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EOA BEAUTY

SLEEK FRENCH ROLL COLOURFUL BOX BRAIDS Spice up your box braids by choosing colourful extensions – add vibrancy with blue, purple or red shades. If you’re a little more daring, opt for grey box braids.

This very chic hairstyle that is ideal for a sophisticated evening out. This hairstyle draws attention to facial features, so if you have long, straight hair, this sleek look is for you! Use styling hair products that provide hold, but also allow flexibility.

The biggest trend in the weave section is the medium-length cut, to just above the shoulders. Try a weave with a centre parting or with the trendy straight-across fringe and fashionable wavy sides and back. Royal Kulakade, a sales consultant for Long & Lasting in KwaZulu-Natal, says, “Weaves are still the style to have, whether it is Virgin Brazilian hair for the fashion leader, a boy cut or a layered bob for manageability.”

Steven Turpin, the creative design team educator from Moroccanoil says, “When it comes to a natural hair weave, it should be treated with more care than you would with your own hair, because it tends to tangle more easily and doesn’t receive the beneficial natural oils from the scalp.” E

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WORDS: THINA MTHEMBU. SOURCES: MARISA LOUW; STEVEN TURPIN; ROYAL KULAKADE. IMAGES: ©ISTOCK.COM.

WEAVES

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2015/08/06 8:40 AM

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EOA BEAUTY

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NAIL ENAMEL FOR SENSITIVE SKIN, R185, CLINIQUE, RED SQUARE.

LIPSMACKING COLOUR

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WORDS: TUMI MDLULI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

Experiment with lipstick and nail polish colours for a glamorous effect.

PINK LIP GLOSS, R315, LANCOME, RED SQUARE.

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HOT SINGLES EYE SHADOW, R99.95, NYX, CLICKS.

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2015/08/06 10:48 AM

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EOA BEAUTY & HEALTH NEWS Registered biokineticist and personal trainer, Letshego Zulu, knows that many time-strapped corporate individuals don’t realise how office furniture can be turned into the perfect gym equipment. She explains how your chairs (one without wheels, please, to prevent injury) can be used for a full body workout. Try these exercises that target thighs, arms, abs and calves: 1. Chair Single Leg Squats – you can hold onto your table for balance until you gain confidence.

2. Chair Triceps Dips 3. Chair Seated Crunch 4. Single Leg Standing Calf Raises – you can hold onto the back of your chair for balance.

Exercise Tips  Start with 10 repetitions of each exercise every 30 minutes and see how you manage throughout the day.  If you feel you can do more, double the amount the next day but remember, the aim is not to sweat in the office!  If you have stairs at your office, add them as a warm-up before exercising.  Avoid beverages with a high sugar content. Rather keep a one-litre bottle of water next to you on your desk.  Aim to finish the bottle by lunch time and refill it. Finish the second litre by the time you head for home. For more info, visit Labello.co.za.

GIVE YOUR FACE A NEW DIMENSION

Do you sometimes wish you could add a little lift to your cheeks and jawline?

Estée Lauder invites you to transform and define your appearance with New Dimension, a transformative collection that will help change your perspective on how you see yourself.

The New Dimension Shape + Fill Expert Serum and Expert Liquid Tape will work on every level of your skin’s surface to create a more visibly defined shape, adding volume to flatter and reflect your skin’s best features. Look forward to a multi-faceted transformation with revolutionary New Dimension. For more info, visit Estéelauder.co.za.

WORDS: HLULANI MASINGI. SOURCES AND IMAGES: EST E LAUDER, SYMBIOTIC COMMUNICATIONS, TYNAGO COMMUNICATIONS, EST E LAUDER, LABELLO.

OFFICE WORKOUT

SCENT OF A MODERN FEMME

Every woman likes to leave a lasting impression and there is no better way to do so than with a trace of her signature scent. The new Modern Muse Le Rouge by Estée Lauder is inspired by the glamorous and more provocative side of a modern muse, and reflects the woman who carries herself with confidence. The colour red is her signature and it embodies her stule, attitude and undeniable power, while her sexiness never goes unnoticed. The Le Rouge Muse dares to inspire the woman who demands attention with her boldness and timeless glamour and enviable confidence. For more info, visit Estéelauder.co.za.

BFFs TO TAKE EVERYWHERE YOU GO!

There are very few beauty staples that a woman can take with her absolutely everywhere and Labello Lip Butters is one of them! These are your BBFs – your Best Beauty Friends – and they ensure that you always look at your best. Your handbag ‘must-haves’, they keep your lips feeling soft and silky, and they taste and smell delicious too because they come in Rasberry Rose, Vanilla & Macadamia and Original. With just the touch of a finger, you will feel the rich formula melt onto your lips and restore suppleness, while adding a silky gloss. For more info, visit Labello.co.za. E

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LIGHT Spring CUISINE Turn over a new leaf this season with these delicious and healthy recipes created especially for you by Woolworths nutritionist, Alida Ryder.

BEEF & BROCCOLI STIR-FRY Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Serves 4 Ingredients

2 x 300g free-range sirloin steaks ½ onion, finely chopped 2 tsp. ginger, crushed 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced 1 red chilli, finely chopped 250g brown mushrooms, sliced 1 small head broccoli, florets cut off and stems sliced if young and tender 4 tbsp. Tamari Soy Sauce 1 fresh lime, juiced Salt and pepper 3 tbsp. coconut oil, for frying

Method

Heat a large wok over high heat. Add the coconut oil and allow it to melt.

Add the steak and stir-fry until golden brown. Remove from the wok and set aside. Fry the onion, garlic, ginger and chilli until fragrant, then add the mushrooms and broccoli and stir-fry for 5 to 10 minutes until the vegetables are cooked to your preference. Return steak to the wok, add the tamari and lime juice and season to taste. Serve with cauli-rice (optional) and steamed bok choy.

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FOOD & Entertaining EOA

SHREDDED CHICKEN SALAD Serves 4 Ingredients

2 roasted chicken breast fillets, chopped into cubes 1 large red pepper, deseeded and sliced 100g roasted cashew nuts 1 handful coriander leaves, rinsed For the dressing: 1 tbsp. coconut oil 2 tbsp. Tamari Soy Sauce 1 tbsp. Xylitol 1 fresh lime, juiced ½ cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp. fresh chilli, crushed Salt to taste

Method

Combine all the salad ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the salad dressing ingredients.

Pour the salad dressing over the salad, toss well and serve.

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BAKED PRAWNS WITH LEMON & GARLIC Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Serves 2

Ingredients 500g prawns, shells and heads removed and deveined 2 lemons, juiced and zested 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed 1 tsp. smoked paprika 100g soft butter Salt and pepper to taste Fresh chilli to serve

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 200째C. Place the prawns in a bowl and add all the other ingredients. Mix well. Tip the prawns onto a baking sheet and bake until the prawns are pale pink and cooked through. Remove from the oven and serve.

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FOOD & Entertaining EOA

VENISON STEAK TACOS WITH APRICOT-HABANERO CREAM Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Serves 4

Ingredients

¼ cup dried apricots, finely chopped 1 seeded habanero chilli 4 tbsp. crème fraiche 1 tbsp. lemon juice Sea salt and pepper to taste 500g venison steak 2 tbsp. olive oil, divided ½ cup balsamic vinegar Pinch of sea salt 1 tsp. cracked black pepper 6 soft flour tortillas wraps 2 baby cabbage, finely shredded 1 avocado, halved, pitted and sliced

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Fresh lemons, quartered Fresh coriander, chopped

Method

To make the apricot-habanero cream: Place the diced apricots and chillies into a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Allow to stand for 10 minutes to soften. When the apricots are soft, drain and blend with the crème fraiche, lemon juice, salt and pepper with a hand blender. Set aside.

To prepare the venison steaks: Heat a griddle pan over high heat.

Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the steaks, then season to taste with the salt and pepper. Grill the steaks for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the steaks are medium rare. Remove from the grill and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

To make the tacos: Season the cabbage and avocado with fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper. To assemble the tacos, heat/toast the tacos over an open flame then top with the shredded cabbage, avocado slices, steak strips and finally the apricot-habanero cream.

Serve immediately.

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EOA FOOD & Entertaining

CHIA VANILLA PUDDING WITH FRESH RASPBERRIES

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (Allow chia seeds to soak overnight)

Serves 4 To 6 Ingredients

½ cup chia seeds 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 500 ml almond milk 2 tbsp. wild blossom honey 200g fresh raspberries Whipped cream

Combine the chia seeds, vanilla extract, almond milk and honey in a bowl and stir well. Cover with cling wrap and place in the fridge to allow the chia seeds to soak and swell overnight.

When the chia seeds have absorbed all the liquid, transfer to serving dishes and top with whipped cream and fresh raspberries. Serve. E

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RECIPES AND IMAGES: ALIDA RYDER.

Method

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WORDS: KGOMOTSO MMALEGAE. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF WOMEN.

SOCIAL SCENE EOA

MINISTER SHABANGU USHERING DR DLAMINI-ZUMA

ST MONICA’S MARIMBA BAND PERFORMERS THE MAHOTELLA QUEENS

LEFT TO RIGHT: MOTSHABI TYELELE, MINISTER LINDIWE ZULU (DEPT. FOR SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT) AND MS STAFF SITHOLE (TECHNO GIRLS PROGRAMME, UWESO CEO)

The African Union Pre-Summit Gala Dinner MS SOUTH AFRICA 2015, LIESL LAURIE

LEFT TO RIGHT: NAWAAL NOLWAZI MDLULI, EDITOR OF ESSAYS OF AFRICA MAGAZINE, MS LILLIAN RAMPHELE AND PASTOR JULIA MASHEL

LEFT TO RIGHT: MS MMABATHO RAMAGOSHI WITH DELEGATES

MS JENNY SCHREINER (DIRECTOR-GENERAL, DEPT. OF WOMEN, RSA) AND PERMANENT SECRETARY, MALAWI

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The African Union (AU) pre-summit gala dinner for 2015, themed by the AU Heads of State as ‘The Year of Women’s Empowerment and Development Towards Africa’s Gender 2063’, was held at Sandton International Convention Centre and hosted by Susan Shabangu, the Minister in the Presidency Responsible For Women.

Opened to the sound of a marimba band, among the attendees were guests from high-ranking African women in public and private sectors, including the Minister of Gender Affairs, women scholars, researchers, academia, media personalities, young women and gender experts. Entertainment included the South African female group, The Mahotella Queens, and the gala dinner marked the closing of the Second African Union High Level Panel on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, which was held in June 2015 at the margins of the 25th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly, under the Theme: ‘Make it Happen Through the Financial Inclusion of Women in the Agribusiness Sector’. E

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EOA DÉCOR feature his season, décor is all about transforming and transitioning, and merging opposites and blending styles in an innovative way.

This can be seen in four distinct looks – Past meets Present; Soft Pop; EcoConscious and Into the Blue. All these trends will show up in different looks and will be named in a variety of ways, but the colours, textures and blending will be defined and consistent.

PAST MEETS PRESENT This is a fresh take on the ‘Old meets new’ concept that has been popular for a couple of years now. It’s the idea of taking your new items and mixing them up with those heritage pieces from mom or gran.

However, this time around the look is all about blending the classics with touches of history and cultural elements to enrich your space. It’s almost opulent, but in a very subtle way with tone-on-tone layering. Materials are embossed, mixed and matched, with raised surfaces bringing neutrals to life. Prints as artwork is popular, and wood furniture carved and chiseled also makes a comeback. The colour palette is subtle and features buttermilk, soft orange touches, warm neutrals, some grey and hints of metallic.

TRENDSPOTTING

Whether you’re into all things delicate and feminine or love a bit of opulence, this Spring/Summer you’ll be sure to find just the right trend to decorate your home the way you like it.

SOFT POP Think pink candyfloss and sorbet – playful pastels are always a firm favourite in the summer months, but this time it takes on a sophisticated appeal and crosses gender barriers. These happy shades softly emulate comfort, are delicate and feminine, so make soft pop can work for your home by adding some fringes, ribbons, bows and beads, as well as floral, and contrast with geometric modular structures. Fabrics are fur-like and velvety (yes, even in summer) while furniture is plush and comfy, ideal for cocooning. Pink and pearl grey is a winning combination, with this powdery pair working well in furniture and home ware. The colour palette is pretty and soft with pink, coral, peppermint and skin tones like blush offset with powder pink, custard yellow, teal and even black.

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DÉCOR feature EOA INTO THE BLUE Nothing says summer quite like the seaside, which is why blue and white is timeless. This twist on deep summer, however, explores the depths of the ocean – it’s about nature and its mysteriousness.

It is liquid and weightless with glowing colours piercing the dark. This trend is all about creating a calming environment with tone-on-tone blues, chic coral-like textures, which can be used on tiles and other surfaces. Furniture is floating, with the use of Perspex being quite popular, and pearlised finishes add to the glowing effect. The colour palette is varied with muted neutrals and metallic accents, while white offsets aquatic shades with strong blue-black backgrounds – these are the core colours of the ocean.

There are also indigoes and electric teals paired with bright greens. E

WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

ECO-CONSCIOUS With more people becoming environmentally aware, this trend is more about a lifestyle movement, which gains momentum each year. More communities across the globe are activists for resourceful design and this time around, natural and manmade blend with the reinvention of natural materials. Wood is a very important material and new fabrics in the form of woven textiles from bark, pressed straw and cactus are also making an appearance. The look is grittier with organic textures such as aged leather surfaces and weathered pottery. There is also a focus on greening the home – bring the tropical feel indoors. Green living walls were popular last year and will continue to be so. There is a need to have a primal connection to the earth. Furniture in bamboo, animal skins and sculpted wood are a must, while geographically inspired shapes come to the fore. The colour palette is bright and earthy – think terracotta and clay offset with true bright primary colours, while the other side of the spectrum sees swamp green with browns and white as a foundation.

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EOA DÉCOR FEATURE CREAM RUG, R1 495 FROM WEYLANDTS.

SOFT POP

SWAN CHAIR IN ECOLEATHER, R4 999 FROM ROBERT-THOMSON.COM

EGG CHAIR IN ECO-LEATHER, R10 773 FROM ROBERT-THOMSON.COM. CUBES RUG BY PAUL SMITH IN HAND-KNOTTED TIBETAN WOOL, 2.74M X 1.83M, R104 275 OR R20,796/M2 FROM THE RUG COMPANY.

ECO SHOPPING JADE LAMP TABLE, R1 495 FROM CORICRAFT.

PALERMO LEATHER SOFA, R19 995 FROM WEYLANDTS.

MARBLE BY RODARTE RUG IN HAND-KNOTTED TIBETAN WOOL AND SILK 2.74M X 1.83M, R137 522 OR R27 426/ M2 FROM THE RUG COMPANY.

PAST MEETS PRESENT

VOGUE SCATTER IN FLORAL, FROM R150 FROM CORICRAFT.

COPPERHEAD STANDING LAMP, R1 995 FROM CORICRAFT (EXCLUSIVE TO THE KRAMERVILLE STORE).

VOGUE SCATTER IN IKAAT PRINT, FROM R150 FROM CORICRAFT.

INTO THE BLUE

HERITAGE MIX TILE IS AVAILABLE IN A 331.5 X 331.5 SIZE, R398 EACH FROM WOMAG (IDEAL FOR FLOORS AND WALLS).

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WIDE WONKY BOTTLE, R395 FROM CORICRAFT.

MARRAKESH CUBE, R399.99 FROM MR PRICE HOME.

ARGO PATTERN BACK CHAIR, R4 499 FROM @HOME.

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WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY STOCKISTS.

BERGEN SOFA (TWO-SEATER), R4 995 FROM CORICRAFT

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SOCIAL SCENE EOA

LEFT TO RIGHT: STACY ADRIANS, SHAHEEDA SMITH AND IVY MEYER

KEYNOTE SPEAKER, SIHAAM SALIE-ABRAHAMS

LEFT TO RIGHT: SAUDIQA YASIN, KISSMEA CHARLES AND JUSTINE SCHAEFER

WORDS: KISSMEA CHARLES. PHOTOGRAPHS: RIZQAH DOWLIE HOUSE.

A CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS Kissmea Charles, CEO and Founder of P.O.W.E.R. (Propagation of Women’s Empowerment Resources, www. womenempowerment.org.za) together with her team, hosted another fun and successful evening that brought together leaders and women at The intimate ‘Conversations with Leaders’ event at the African Pride 15 on Orange in Cape Town.

Women were mentored, and interacted with and had the opportunity to network with leaders in a comfortable, intimate setting, while enjoying a scrumptious three-course meal.

The keynote speaker, Sihaam SalieAbrahams (Director at Grant Thornton Accounting) was warmly welcomed as she spoke on various topics, most notably about the fact that women only own a mere one percent of land on the African continent. She also highlighted the importance of women in positions of power and influence to join forces and work together across all boundaries, especially to empower younger, promising women to succeed in life.

Among the leaders were Manie Regal, Executive Dir. Finance, Innovation, Operations and Infrastructure for the University of the Western Cape; Martine Solomon, MD at Mzansi Risk Advisors; Adv. Hishaam Mohammed, Regional Head of Justice and Constitutional Development for the Western Cape, and André Charles, CEO at The Charles Group. A special thanks to our sponsors, Cape Cobra Leathercraft, HAIR CAIR Distributor, La Luna Events and Essays of Africa magazine. E

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LINDA LANDU

ADV. HISHAAM MOHOMED, MARTINE SOLOMON

SIHAAM SALIE-ABRAHAMS, ANDREA CHARLES AND MANIE REGAL

LEFT TO RIGHT: SHAANAZ PARKER, KISSMEA CHARLES AND LEE OPPEL

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION SESSION GUESTS

LFTF TO RIGHT: HAMEEDA POPHLONKER, SHANAAZ PARKER, FATIMA RAZZAK, ANDREA CHARLES AND ZUBAIDA GAFFOOR

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2015/08/06 11:02 AM

BLOK PARTY

We’ve all heard the saying ‘try before you buy’, but now even potential homeowners can do this thanks to off-plan developers, Blok. They are the first property developers to launch a space allowing future homeowners to experience their space ahead of time. You’re able to touch and feel your future home at the new space in Regent Road, Sea Point. Jacques van Embden, MD and Co-Founder of Blok, says, “As a brand we are looking to create new opportunities to showcase our offering. Our architectural team designs buildings that are currently shared as high quality renders. However, we have seen the need to give our future homeowners the opportunity to touch and feel the warmth and exquisite design of a Blok apartment. This is what this exhibition space offers.”

The purpose of the space is multi-functional, with the first floor designed to showcase elements that a Blok apartment will feature, including the kitchen, bathroom, lounge and deck, while the second floor is completely white. The secondary function of the space is to encourage company experimentation and also to use as a studio, gallery and events location. For more information, go to blok.co.za.

bold and retro are in!

This month we take a look at retro trends, modern lamps and paints that will make all the difference when it come to shack fires.

CELEBRATING CULINARY ROYALTY

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL Ground your living space with bold squares – the square root kelim from Hertex is multicoloured, vibrant and playful, yet structured and precise in pattern. This rug will work well in an eclectic or modern space and, with the neutral base, can work with most colour schemes. Square root rugs are available at Hertex Fabrics. Go to hertex.co.za for more.

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Le Creuset celebrates its 90th anniversary and maintains its reputation as being one of the world’s most cherished cookware brands. From the original enamelled cast-iron cookware to stoneware, stainless, silicone and more, Le Creuset has grown to offer products across a range of materials and categories that guarantees the right tool for the right job. Since 1925 (during its nine-decade history), the brand has manufactured over 300 million products for more than 70 countries. Their first colour was a bright ‘Flame’ orange, inspired by the vibrant tones of molten cast iron. Since then, Le Creuset has grown into offering a full collection of premium cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, wine tools and kitchen accessories. View products at lecreuset.co.za.

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DÉCOR NEWS EOA

Paint it safe

EFFORTLESSNESS BATHROOM TREND Masculine bathroom design is in. Linear forms and sharp edges complemented by authentic materials add to the minimalist and casual feel of the new bathroom. This look is functional yet boasts simple design in muted shades.

Comfort and relaxation are important for a man’s bathroom and instead of emphasising the wellness experience, the focus is on discreet furnishings and elegance without sacrificing masculine style. An example of this is the Duravit bathtub Paiova 5 by EOOS, with its sculptural design able to accommodate two people. Clean concrete and exposed brick add to the ambience of creating the perfect space. For more go to duravit.com.

Considering the devastation caused by shack fires, Khusela ikhaya Project was launched, spearheaded by Transception, who has, in collaboration with reputable paint manufacturers, created an intumescent/fire-retardant paint. This paint forms an expanding heat shield capable of sufficiently slowing down the rapid transmission of fire from one dwelling to the next.

Nomzamo (between Strand and Somerset West, just outside of Cape Town) was the first area tackled by the Khusela Ikhaya (protecting homes).

According to the Transception team, the aim is to paint all tightly knit informal dwellings throughout South Africa by the year 2020. Whilst uplifting townships with colour, this project aims to extend specific colour to the rooftops to form (conceptual or even cultural) imagery that is visible from the air. If you’re interested in getting involved go to transception.co.za or e-mail info@ transception.co.za.

WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED.

RETRO REVIVAL

A little of old and a touch of the new is a trend that’s here to stay. Whether it’s using your gran’s silk curtain to create beautiful scatters or simply adding a retroinspired sideboard to your mostly modern lounge, the creative possibilities are endless when it comes to giving your favourite space a new lease on life, albeit with an old-school feel. Coricraft’s latest range is inspired by ‘Scandi-chic’ – in its light shades and, specifically designed for more compact spaces, it offers fabulous retro flair. The Bergen sofa (as seen on page 102) paired with the Wilson console will undoubtedly add some character to your living space. “With a growing trend towards apartment style living, this new collection will give our younger customers an affordable yet stylish solution when it comes to furnishing their homes,” explains Megan Morgan, Coricraft’s furniture buyer.

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SHED SOME LIGHT

RobertThomson.com has just launched a contemporary range of floor lamps that are stylish, elegant pieces of art, which will enhance any space. To view the full range, go to robert-thomson.com or call 0861 744 627. E

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FRESH RIDES FOR A

new season Slide into spring with the hottest fresh-air rides.

riving along South Africa’s magnificent coastlines always takes one’s breath away.

Be it the Atlantic Seaboard, Durban’s beachfront or Algoa Bay, there can be no greater feeling than cruising through the spectacular scenery. When spring sets into bloom and nights spent wrapped in blankets give way to balmy evenings, open-top driving beckons. So go on, revel in the sunshine and take in the fresh air in these cars.

MERCEDES-BENZ SLK

Redolent of the glamour and sophistication of the French Riviera or, more aptly, Camps Bay’s golden Victoria Drive, the 2015 SLK is luscious, luxurious and oh-so-sexy. Boasting powerful new engines and transmissions, the sports car allows you to feel entirely in tune with your surroundings as it glides

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seamlessly through nature. Combining passion with good sense, the innovative Mercedes-Benz vario-roof continues to offer driving pleasure with uncompromised comfort in poor weather. With its unique Magic Sky Control, the panoramic glass roof is lightened or darkened at the touch of a button, providing an open-air feeling at any time, as well as welcome shade from the hot sun.

The sporty two-seater features an ECO start/stop function, LED daytime running lamps as well as an LTE-capable aerial, which gives a major boost to the slick COMAND Online multimedia system, with extremely fast internet access and intuitive operation. The classic strengths of the SLK are in abundance here, particularly with its well-designed boot, which at 335 litres has easily the highest capacity in the segment – something you’ll definitely appreciate when driving a drop-top.

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MOTORING EOA CITROEN DS3 CABRIO

The iconic Citroen DS19, with its avantgarde styling and advanced technology, was launched in 1955, and six decades later it still serves as the inspiration for the DS brand. Coinciding with the celebration of this 60-year heritage, Citroen has launched a revitalised DS3 line-up for 2015. Featuring upgraded interiors with sports seats and high standard equipment levels, the updated range brings with it an exciting addition: the DS3 Cabrio. With its striking shape, the threedoor retains the evocative design of the DS3. Despite its compact size, the hatchback boasts an intelligently packaged interior, giving more space and comfort to front and backseat passengers than you’d expect, with its wide-opening doors ensuring easy access to the stylish, contemporary cabin.

The Cabrio’s black canvas top is electrically raised and lowered at the push of a button, and can be matched with a choice of seven eye-catching exterior colours. The DS3 Cabrio Style, with stop/start technology, nips from standstill to 100 km/h in a frisky 10.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 190 km/h. Thankfully, it’s still a frugal fuel sipper, with a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 104 g/km.

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: QUICKPIC, XXX

BMW 2 SERIES CONVERTIBLE

Turning heads at every corner, the elegant 2 Series Convertible is the very embodiment of pleasure. Bringing a fresh edge to open-air driving, the sporty BMW offers an intense motoring experience, with dynamic handling, athletic proportions and powerful engine technology. The compact four-seater is undeniably agile, making it a dream to drive. Its newly developed, electrically powered fabric top comes with additional insulation to protect you from the roaring wind. It opens and closes in twenty seconds at the push of a button, even while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h – which comes in handy when the skies unexpectedly open for a spring shower.

As gorgeous as it looks from the outside, the interior is even more of a lush fantasy, ensconcing you in plush comfort. Standard equipment includes a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation, Bluetooth telephony and a selection of driving modes. When the roof is open, the automatic climate control adjusts onboard temperature according to the speed you’re driving, making for an always-pleasant ride. E

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The charm OF THE

Chobe

Can you remember the last time you woke up not knowing what day it was? Yes, it is possible to experience this rarity when you’re tucked away on the banks of the Chobe River in Botswana, writes RHODA DAVIDS.

Ever since I watched the scene where Robert Redford poured water over Meryl Streep’s locks in the movie Out Of Africa – with the beautiful river in its lush surroundings as the backdrop – I’ve been in love with the idea of exploring the abundance of natural beauty on our continent. On a recent trip to Botswana, all of that nostalgia came flooding back as soon as I laid eyes on the sprawling plains beneath me as the plane came in for landing.

Going through passport control at the small Kasane Airport was a breeze and in less than 30 minutes I was on my way to Ngoma Safari Lodge on the outskirts of Kasane, a small town in the north of Botswana within the Chobe Forest Reserve bordering the western edge of the Chobe National Park. About 50 minutes later a warm welcome waited at the lodge and it becomes obvious why it has maintained its charm. It’s truly a

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hidden gem; a pocket of luxury nestled in an enclave where time seems to stand still.

HOW TO GET THERE SA Airlink flies direct to Kasane Airport daily. The flight is only 1 hour and 50 minutes from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International. For more info, visit Flyairlink.com/. For detailed rates and packages, and to book, visit Africaalbidatourism.com.

LOST IN LUXURY AND SILENCE Operated by Africa Albida Tourism, the intimate Ngoma Safari Lodge is a partnership with the Chobe Enclave Conservation Trust (CECT), and runs a number of social responsibility programmes that work closely with the locals, with almost all of the friendly, professional staff coming from the nearby communities.

This is perfect for guests who are able to get firsthand information from the

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TRAVEL EOA

knowledgeable team.

This five-star rustic bush lodge boasts eight river-facing suites – all with spacious and luxurious internal and external spaces – fitted in exactly the same way with the same panoramic views and Namibia in sight, literally across the river. Suites are decorated in earthy shades with an understated contemporary colonial style, and laid out so you can enjoy the view from your bed, which is perfect if you want to lie in and watch the sun rise. With the billowing sheer white nets surrounding your bed, you’d be hard-pressed to leave the cosy confines of your plush pillows, and being temporarily technologically ‘disabled’ makes this very easy.

I’d say make the effort to disconnect – you may choose to switch to international roaming but not having your mobile buzz all the time was quite refreshing for me. The lodge is equipped with Wi-Fi, but connection is intermittent. The suites

have no television sets, but remarkably this isn’t even missed, as the days are jampacked with outdoor activities. In addition, each suite has all the regular facilities one would expect at a five-star establishment, including a spacious bathtub and large walk-in shower. But it is the splash pool and the outdoor shower that gives these suites the edge, allowing you to soak up the sun in private.

TRAVEL FACTS lS outh African citizens do not need a visa to travel to Botswana. lM alaria medication was not needed for this trip but if you’d prefer to take precautions, consult the nearest travel clinic and administer medication at least one week before departure.

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EOA TRAVEL

SPLENDOUR OF THE OUTDOORS

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MUST-PACK BASICS l Pairs of walking boots, sandals, and heels (boots for the safari; sandals for other activities, and heels for dinner time) l Comfy stretch pants or jeans l T-shirts and shorts (it gets hot during the day) l A dress or two for dinner time (yes, guests make an effort at night) l A classic white shirt (dress it up or down) l A jacket for the morning and evening (to beat the chill) l A hat to protect you from the sun.

PS: Don’t pack red clothing, as the animals don’t react well to the colour.

WORDS: RHODA DAVIDS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY NGOMA LODGE. WILDLIFE IMAGES: ARTHUR COLLET.

With baobabs adorning the landscape, there’s natural beauty as far as the eye can see. You literally have to stand still every so often to take it all in and appreciate the sound of the silence. And to truly experience this wonderment, I advise you to go on an all-day safari, yes… all day!

The Chobe is known for being home to the world’s biggest elephant herds and to see them in their natural habitat leaves you in awe. The game experience is unique as the region is also home to more than 400 types of bird species, and the boat trips on the river enable you to take in the splendour from all angles. The lodge allows you to tailor your safari experience to suit your mood and your pace, but let your guide offer you the best options to make the most of your time there.

Our guide for the day, Kenneth, is a local expert whose patience with the guests and knowledge of the subject at hand is phenomenal. With his expertise we managed to get up close and watch the playfulness of the monkeys, the graceful sway of the giraffes, and the might of the elephants as we slowly made our way along the river front.

Thereafter it was on to our boat ride, where we spent two hours cruising the Chobe, while having a light lunch and keeping a watchful eye on the crocodiles and hippos. With a completely different view of the wildlife, quietly watching from a distance, it is here that you really feel like you’re in Africa. After a long day on the road and river, it’s time to head back to the lodge. Firstly, to take in a breathtaking Chobe sunset, then for a relaxing candlelit dinner in the dining area and time around the fire pit on the viewing deck. At night the stars shine brighter here, the sliver of the new moon glowing, and the silence is as deafening as it is beautiful. It’s truly peaceful.

City slickers, take note that there’s more to life than the nineto-five grind that we’ve been sucked into. Spoil yourself and hop on a plane for a short flight north to take some time out in the breathtaking Chobe. E

essays of A frica

2015/08/06 9:09 AM

Share In The Stories Of the Continent

• Essays Of Africa print and digital magazine is alive with the bold stories of women who are blazing trails throughout the continent, uplifting not only themselves but their communities, and living the message of hope and liberation. • Essays Of Africa is available anytime, anywhere with instant online access to our digital and social media platforms.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

2015/08/06 11:27 AM

Her career started out in law but for the last decade, Pheladi Gwangwa has been in the world of broadcasting as the station manager for 702, a talk radio station based in Gauteng. EOA spoke to her to get a sense of what it takes to be at the helm of such a big broadcaster.

Managing TALK RADIO

WHY DID YOU MAKE THE CAREER CHANGE AND HOW DID YOU FIND THE ADJUSTMENT? I have a Masters degree in Communications Law, so it isn’t as big a leap as it initially sounds. I started off working for the Independent Broadcasting Authority, regulating broadcasters. I then moved to Primedia as regulatory lawyer and became interested in operations.

In 2005 I was appointed as the station manager, where I practise law daily. On a daily basis, I deal with balancing freedom of speech versus acting responsibly and ethically (we can be sued for defamation, for example), and so I advise the newsroom and different shows on how to handle handle these potential legal issues. This job is a mixture of law and operations, which is why I love it so much.

702 IS STILL VIEWED BY SOME AS A PREDOMINANTLY WHITE RADIO STATION. HAVE YOU HAD ANY CHALLENGES WITH THAT? That perception isn’t correct. If you look at our numbers and listen to the callers that engage with us daily, the majority of our listeners are black, 45 percent in fact, 19 percent are coloured and indian, while the white listeners make up 36 percent of our listenership. The notion that it is a white station is historical, which does present a challenge. We need to work a lot harder to show people that we reflect the South African demographic, and that we are a South African radio station that cares about South African issues.

HOW HAS THE CHANGE IN THE WAY PEOPLE CONSUME THEIR MEDIA OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS AFFECTED YOUR MEDIUM? We have embraced social media because radio is actually the earliest social media platform. As things evolve, we have moved on with the times. We started off by asking people to comment via SMS and then evolved to embrace Twitter – the platforms are seamless for us.

We extend conversations to beyond the three hours we have on the radio for a show and that has enhanced our product.

WHICH OF YOUR PERSONAL QUALITIES DO YOU FEEL HAVE CONTRIBUTED TOWARDS YOUR SUCCESS AS A STATION MANAGER? Humility is important for me. I work with big personalities and if you don’t humble yourself, it ends up being two bulls fighting in a kraal. I’ve learnt how to manage people according to their different personalities. I get criticism from friends about my level of modesty, but I always start on the premise of: let me seek to understand you before I give you the lay of the land. If we both work from a common understanding, we gain success. Other qualities that have worked

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well for me are tenacity and boldness, because often the people that are the subject matter of discussions on air can try to muzzle you.

You have to be self-assured to continue, even with that criticism.

The most important thing is to consider it and assess whether or not it is well founded.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE GROUP ‘FUTURE OF THE AFRICAN DAUGHTER’?

It’s a programme started by friends of mine that came from conversations about the fact that there is still talk about ‘the first black woman doing this and that’. We should be at a place where being black and female should be part of the lexicon in all spheres of business. I’m a patron of the organisation, so I am a mentor to the girls and help raise money for the group. We are unashamedly black and female because black women still have the worst lot in life and are still being ‘produced’ to be domestic workers. We believe the daughters of domestic workers should not have to grow up to be domestic workers; they can be doctors or whatever else they dream of.

At Future of the African Daughter, we pick girls with potential in math and science between the ages of 12 and 19, and we give them math, science, computer and leadership lessons every Saturday during school terms. This helps them to improve their marks and it enables them to get into universities. We are so proud of this project. I’m not just clever or a superwoman. Had it not been for other people taking an interest in me and guiding me along, I am not sure that I would be where I am today. It is for that reason that I am passionate about the Future of the African Daughter programme.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR DEMANDING CAREER WITH THE REST OF YOUR LIFE? It can be challenging, but I believe that you should make up your mind about the sacrifices you are prepared to make, no matter what the reward is at the end of the line. One of the promises I made to myself was that I wanted to be home before my daughter goes to sleep so that I could read to her because I wanted her to love books.

So I made that happen. You have to set boundaries for yourself and then work around those to create the life you most desire.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE STATION? I would like us to continue to make a difference in our communities; that really matters to us at 702. I would also like for us to grow more so that we can engage with more listeners and help to build a better country for us all. E

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WORDS: ZAMA NKOSI. IMAGES: SUPPLIED BY PHELADI GWANGWA.

ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEW EOA

PHELADI GWANGWA

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EOA BOOKS

Louis de Bernières R285, Random House UK From the author of the unforgettable Captain Corelli’s Mandolin comes a new tale of romance in wartime, this time set in the English countryside in the early 1900s. Four sisters do what they must to get on with their lives as their soldier loves’ interests are scattered along the front.

The Confidence Code Katty Kay and Claire Shipman R235, HarperCollins Being comfortable in your skin comes so easy to some, but many of us struggle to feel confident in any given situation. The Confidence Code seeks to decode its roots. Is it genetics? Positive thinking?

Worrying less about other people? Or is it simply by being authentic? Find out and never look back.

The Seed Thief

Off the Page Jodi Picoult and Samantha van Leer R280, Hodder & Stoughton Prince Charming quite literally comes to life thanks to Delilah, the girl who wishes him into being.

Naturally, the real world has sharper learning curves than fairy-tales, and if everyone is to live happily ever after, Prince Oliver will have to take a crash course in the nuts and bolts of life. Light-hearted fantasy-romance at its best.

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Yoga Girl Rachel Brathen R365, Hodder & Stoughton The Swedish adventurer and contortionist with more than a million Instagram followers shares her journey of self-discovery through this inspirational memoir that tracks her journey, from her rebellious teenage years to her emergence as a modern-day self-help guru and advocate of sucking the marrow out of each beautiful new day.

Jacqui L’Ange R220, Umuzi Maddy Bellani is a botanist living in Cape Town who is tasked with travelling to Brazil to track down rare seeds that could hold the key to curing cancer. She’s a Brazilian national, but a return to her home country hardly enthrals her because of the prospect of having to visit her estranged father. On her journey, Maddy has to use her wiles to stay out of the way of a neoimperialist pharmaceuticals industry bent on monopolising the source of its products. The Seed Thief is a rich tale that is part quest narrative, part story of self-discovery and awakening; it’s about confronting the past honestly and with the courage to do justice to the present, and claim a space in the world despite the overwhelming sense of dislocation between the foothills of Table Mountain and the Brazilian Amazon. It’s a novel that feels like a dream you can remember for only an instant upon waking, and then floats away into the ephemeral, leaving behind only a warm glow and a desire for more. The Seed Thief is the culmination of the author’s MA in creative writing at the University of Cape Town, and we eagerly await her next instalment. E

Words: Robyn Bloch. IMAGES: HarperCollins, Hodder & Stoughton, Random House UK, Umuzi.

The Dust that Falls from Dreams

EssAY S of Afric a

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SPRING CLEANING APPS

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: iTunes, google play store, Henn-na Hotel, sony mobile, Solar Impulse.

SPRINGCLEAN YOUR LIFE

tech EOA

SOLAR-POWER SOARING

With climate change being an undeniable and terrifying reality, solar-powered technology is becoming a necessity.

Some of the latest developments in the industry are heralding exciting innovations, such as the world’s first solar-powered plane to circumnavigate the globe. The Solar Impulse 2 took off on its 20 000-mile mission earlier in the year, shattering records on its journey. The plane is powered by more than 17 000 solar cells on its wings to recharge its batteries.

THE SMARTPHONE TAKEOVER

According to the latest annual Mobility Report from Ericsson, there will be 6.1 billion smartphone users globally by 2020, overtaking basic fixed phone subscriptions. That works out to about 70 percent of the world’s population using smartphones in five years’ time, a measure of just how central these devices are becoming to our lives. Ericsson predicts that regions like Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa will account for a staggering 80 percent of all new subscriptions in the next five years.

The age of the robots has arrived. Leading hotels around the world are phasing out humans in place of robots as staff, with Starwood Hotels soon to launch their digitised butlers delivering housekeeping items to your room. Japan has taken it even further, with Nagasaki’s upmarket new Henn-na Hotel featuring ten robotic, but startlingly human-like, members of staff. The robots will check you in, take your bags and escort you to your room. The metal-andsilicone employees speak and understand English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean. Other high-tech innovations include facial-recognition locks and automatic room temperature adjustment in accordance with body heat.

CLEANING CHECKLIST

This super simple app helps you organise and manage household cleaning tasks and activities. Pick a room, select the tasks you want to complete and check off when they’re done. It even shows you what percentage of the room is clean, so you can quickly see which rooms still need some attention. Completely customisable, it allows you to add photos and sounds, as well as choose background colours.

HOMEROUTINES

CLOSET SPACE

De-clutter your closet with this stylish app. Closet Space lets you create a virtual wardrobe so that you can easily view all the items you have and plan outfits without having to take your clothes off the hanger. It’s your one-stop-shop for outfit organisation, inspiration and personalised recommendations.

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WELCOME TO THE FUTURE

This feature-packed checklist app rewards your accomplishments with gold stars. You can set the recurrence structure of your tasks anywhere from daily to seasonally, or just use the integrated to-do list for once-off tasks. There’s also a timer for fun speed cleaning challenges, as well as a ‘Focus Zones’ section, which includes detailed cleaning lists based on areas of the home. E

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EOA MOVIES & THEATRE

FRESH ENTERTAINMENT ON THE STAGE & SCREEN ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER The world’s leading contemporary dance company is in town this month, set to dazzle audiences with their edgy, breathtaking moves. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater grew from a nowfabled performance in March 1958 at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. Led by Alvin Ailey and a group of young AfricanAmerican modern dancers, that performance changed forever the perception of American dance. The Ailey company has gone on to perform for an estimated 25 million people at theaters in 48 states and 71 countries on six continents – as well as millions more through television broadcasts.

At the Teatro in Montecasino from 3 to 13 September and the Artscape Opera House from 16 to 20 September THE PERFECT GUY Starring Sanaa Lathan, Michael Ealy and Morris Chestnut, this dark thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat.

After a painful breakup, a successful lobbyist jumps into a passionate relationship with a charming stranger.

It seems she’s met the perfect guy. But when her ex-boyfriend resurfaces in her life, she has to figure out who to trust – and who to fear. E Opens at Ster Kinekor theatres on 18 September

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CINCINNATI The revolutionary classic by Barney Simon comes to life in 2015, under the creative direction of Clive Mathibe. The riveting play explores the lives of nine culturally diverse characters with one thing in common: Club Sin Sin. Based on the true stories and experiences of the original cast of 1979, the passion for Club Sin Sin shapes the production. Fueled by a desperate need for a place of free expression under apartheid, it was one of the few clubs in the disco days of the 70s where people of all races could party together during the height of oppression. E Cincinnati runs at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg until 13 September

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: THE State THEATRE. Alvin Ailey Ameircan Dance Theater's Akua Noni Parker and Jamar Roberts in Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain Pas de Deux. Photo by Paul Kolnik, market theatre.

ARTS ALIVE FESTIVAL Jozi welcomes spring with a bang, hosting its annual Arts Alive Festival at venues throughout the city. Dozens of happenings are planned for the programme this year, with 36 events featuring top international and local artists billed to rock Joburg. More than 16 international artists and 20 South African performers will take audiences on a journey through the city, mixing dance, visual art, poetry and music. Theatre highlights include The Blue Iris, Delirium, Bopha and The Mother of all Eating, along with not-to-be-missed dance productions, such as Stepping Stones, Be Still, Skwatta and Dada Masilo’s Swan Lake.

Runs for the month of September

UHAMBO: THE JOURNEY Uhambo: The Journey tells the bittersweet tale of a young boy, Mzano, growing up in South Africa during the 1950s. The play opens on the auspicious occasion of Nelson Mandela’s inauguration; whilst far away from the ceremony, Mzano listens to the proceedings on his radio. As Mandela delivers his keynote speech, the old man begins to reminisce about his life. He takes the audience back to the 50’s when he was 14 and embarking on a journey to find his parents in the City of Gold, which ultimately becomes his journey into manhood.

At the SA State Theatre in Pretoria from 2 to 25 September

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HOROSCOPES EOA

WORDS: STELLA NOVA. IMAGE: WWW.DIAMONDWAVE.COM..

TAURUS 21 April – 21 May This month helps to clear away indecisiveness so that you’re back on familiar, go-getting territory. Your love-life benefits first, closely followed by your home. Even a so-so approach to wellbeing gets a refit now.

Think big, but think clearly, then act on it.

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NT H

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LIBRA 24 September – SCORPIO 23 October 24 October – You might feel dazed 22 November and confused now, but The way you work and under the surface your how you look after your wits and wisdom are sharpening up. You get to health are under scrutiny now. Something’s got see the light with close to change because both relationships and realise have been erratic lately. there’s more value in friendships than in power Getting in with the right people helps your career players. As finances now, with the bonus of stabilise, so does moving forward in all home life. areas of your life that seem stuck.

S TAR S E

MO

GEMINI 22 May – 21 June Dispense with bad habits or bad influences this month.

Whatever or whoever distracts you from your true purpose in life needs to get booted out of your line of sight. Your home life gets super organised and with love, focus on what you need, not just on what you want.

VIRGO 24 August – 23 September You’re driven to make a name for yourself now like never before. Your word is the final word on anything, especially at home, and you have the upper hand in love and at work now too. You may need time to process this mind-blowing turn of events.

Your birthstone is a sapphire!

Y OU R

CANCER 22 June – 23 July Which needs your attention most, career or home? In fact, it’s your relationships that are the real issue now. Get those right, at work and at home, and all kinds of things will work out.

Some tough love and straight talking could make this month a real eye-opener.

LEO 24 July – 23 August Make your own needs central this month.

Act on any impulses to try out new looks and new ideas, and fine-tune them until you get things right.

You, your home and the way you connect and work will all improve, in the name of self-care, rather than to seek attention.

ARIES 21 March – 20 April Your recent erratic behaviour gets a shake-up this month, bringing a desire to do things the right way rather than the fast way. This could have an amazing effect on your career, as well as with health goals.

Playing by the rules also gets good results with love now.

PISCES 20 February – 20 March You’ve a busy month ahead. Your current cash flow and your values could do with a review that may set you off on a more serious career path.

Money may be the main motivator, but love is part of the equation too. Setting new boundaries now could change everything.

AQUARIUS 21 January – 19 February Recent relationship confusions begin to settle, leaving you time to consider other life options that open up.

This month is about doing things right, and the right connections, the right kind of love, the right ideas and the right things to say will all become obvious.

SAGITTARIUS 23 November – 22 December Saturn returns to your sign now, bringing back the more sensible feel of earlier in the year. If you’ve spent the past two months getting re-acquainted with pleasure, friends might try to hold you back, but you’re being given a huge opportunity now to mature and grow.

CAPRICORN 23 December – 20 January Slowly but surely, things are changing for the better. A career concern could be the catalyst that makes you realise it’s time to take more calculated risks.

Get planning, because what you start now will have a big impact on where and who you are in two years time.

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EOA MUSIC

SPRING INTO THESE TUNES JOY OF JAZZ 2015

HOUSE AFRIKA UNMIXED VOLUME 3

LATE NIGHT MOODS

(Universal Music) With its 41-strong arsenal of current and classic tracks, Late Night Moods rekindles some of pop’s finest proclamations.

Robbie Williams sets the mood with the opening track – an epic cover of Jeff Walker’s 1968 hit, Mr. Bojangles. Sam Smith’s I’m Not the Only One brings a contemporary flavour to the mix, before Birdy’s rendition of People Help the People plays beautifully into more cover material, including Diana Krall’s retelling of The Look of Love, Jamie Cullum’s interpretation of What a Difference a Day Made and Ellie Goulding’s take on Elton John’s smash hit Your Song. Closing credits come from the likes of Etta James with At Last, Gladys Knight & the Pips’ Midnight Train to Georgia and Ella Fitzgerald’s Misty Blue.

(Sony Music) House Afrika Records sets the tone for spring with their deep and soulful mix featuring stalwarts of the Kasi scene.

Frenchman Rocco weighs in with two fresh cuts – a remix of Dario D’Attis and one from Lars Behrenroth, whilst other familiar names include Chymamusique, De Montuh, Nutty Nys, Kaylow, ZuluMafia, and Nastee Nev. A few new names also make their mark on the two-disc compilation, such as Beebar, Mobi Dixon, Blactism, Chronicles, Oral Deep and Kek’star. Celebrating all that’s hot in the house music scene, Unmixed Volume 3 sets the bar high for some easy-going grooves.

MOUNTAINS

EMOTIONALLY UNAVAILABLE

Justine Skye (Warner Music) Acclaimed R&B star Justine Skye has some extraordinary tracks on her new EP including Anticipation featuring Kranium, I’m Yours featuring Vic Mensa and her new smash hit Bandit. Produced by the Insomniaks, Bandit has already earned rave reviews for its moody, fresh sound. Beloved by her many fans as ‘The Purple Unicorn’, Skye blew up on the Internet at just 16 with a hugely popular Tumblr page showcasing her unique personality, style and soulful voice. The Brooklyn-born artist soon joined Atlantic Records and released Everyday Living in 2013, praised for its simmering, lovelorn tracks.

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Majozi (Universal Music) Durban export Majozi has been steadily climbing the SA music ladder, having opened for top artists such as Mango Groove and The Lumineers. Building on the outstanding success of his previous hit single Fire, Majozi’s latest EP is brimming with heartfelt, evocative songs – most notably his new hit single, Darling. Perfect for a balmy spring evening, this album will make you relish all things romantic and lovely. E

WORDS: CARYN THANDI PETERSEN. IMAGES: SONY MUSIC, uNIVERSAL MUSIC, WARNER MUSIC.

South Africa’s oldest jazz festival harnesses the raw emotion and passion of jazz like nothing else, with exciting performances by the finest international and local jazz heavyweights.

With 35 performances on four stages across three days, this year’s lineup features top artists Marcus Miller, Larry Carlton, Jimmy Dludlu, Peabo Bryson, Dwight Trible and Simphiwe Dana. Musical genres include everything from avant-garde and acid jazz to kwela and neosoul. Don’t miss the special collaboration between two giants of song, Hugh Masekela and Oliver Mtukudzi, as they blend musical styles from South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz takes place from 24 to 26 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.

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Photographer: Gareth Jacobs. STYLIST: TUMI MDLULI. HAIR: BONOLO RAMELA. Make-Up: ELLENOR NDLOVU. FASHION: FOREVER NEW AND ZARA.

@HOME CALL IT SPRING CASTELO CLICKS STORES CORICRAFT DIS-CHEM STORES EDGARS ESSIE FABIANI FOREVER NEW FOSCHINI GOODLIGHT STUDIOS KAIKA JEWELLERY MANGO MISSIBABA Mr Price Home MRP MR PRICE HOME NINE WEST PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND RED SQUARE ROBERT THOMPSON SPREE STEVE MADDEN STUTTAFORDS THE RUG COMPANY TRUWORTHS WEYLANDTS WOOLWORTHS WORLD OF MARBLE AND GRANITE ZANDO ZARA

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pring skips in, whistling a cheerful tune and we begin to prep ourselves. We all know, it’s the last stop over before our sexiest time of year: summer. Woohoo!

Sadly, my more fuller-figured counterparts (and women with body image issues) will not be quite as cheerful because their open season would have come to an end. Winter was that wonderful time when we could hide all our gemors under the layers. The playing field is evened, as everyone looks bulky; it is only upon unwrapping their ladies that the guys will find out whether the girl was packing or merely packaged. There was no need to ask anyone to turn off the lights because Eskom had you covered. You just had to ‘accidentally’ breathe over the candle and get it on. Now that spring is here, alas, comfort food and comfort zones are out the window.

Everyone gets into spring-cleaning mode – all the heavy jackets are heaved back into spare wardrobes, and those sexy knee-high boots are boxed nicely for next winter. Our heavy minks are taken home to that aunty you pay a few hundred bucks to wash them for you – or if you are lucky – to your mom who is more than happy to baby you. You will join the long queue of pedicures and waxes. The bush of long-sleeved tops and the claws of thick stockings are pulled, cut, waxed and polished. You will panel-beat that body back into spring shape – the official foreplay to summer. Time to let the skin breathe and take in that sweet, yet shy, spring sun.

Many gym regimes will begin now, as we realise, much to our horror, that hair and claws aren’t the only things in need of trimming. Gym membership will reach highs that rival January, which is when women declare their task of getting that beach body. All I ask is that you specify which beach, because if I go by SA beaches I am good and ready for the beach. I have seen enough jiggle and wobble to know that there is no authority in charge of regulating the beach body. I will watch, amused, as my friends declare war on their muffin tops and cellulite. Green juice will become an actual topic of conversation, and hours at work will be extended by time working out in the company gym. I for one am yet to see a woman who doesn’t ALREADY have a bikini body say she is working on her bikini body. As for me, I will also working on my full costume body and I’d say I’m doing OK. It will package nicely in my one piece.

While we all go back to our vain selves and stress about how we will look as we wear less and less and can only hide so little of our shameful winter indulgence, remember there are those with bigger problems. I am talking about those cute women showing off their winter bumps, which are now beginning to plump up nicely from winter activity. Their winter indulgence will be advertised in all its glory. Think of them as those that enjoyed that baby-making weather and took the title too seriously. You, you lucky chicken, after a long, cold, lonely winter of comfort food and your eiderdown, can join the madness of Sweat 1000 and those Instagram gym bunnies who are #winningthisspring! E

WHEN SPRING Springs UPON US Spring has become one of the most anticipated arrivals this year – not because it is extra special but because it will bring much needed relief. It brings with it the promise of a better-behaved appetite and the display of more skin.

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