Refined Magazine Issue 2

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food

design

home

travel

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WIN!

This exciting edition has loads of giveaways and fun competitions from Brands Africa, Maki Sushi, Axecure Sneakers! #don’tmissout

ELITE INTERIORS Sleek new decor for Delta Corporation Headquarters Executive Lounge

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ISSUE 2

Maki Sushi The Coolest Sushi Place in Arundel

Old Stables

The Market Gets A New Lease of Life

Proton Bakers Being The Best for Over 60 Years

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C ONTENT S ISSUE 2

MANAGING EDITOR Clive Mapfumo

PAGE 8 COVER ARTICLE

A SLEEK EXECUTIVE LOUNGE DESIGN BY ELITE INTERIORS PAGE 16

DUSK STUDIO For Fantastic, Fabulous Home Accessories PAGE 21

MAKI SUSHI Mouthwatering Sushi in Arundel PAGE 28

PROTON BAKERS 60 Years of History PAGE 31

BEAUTY BOX RETREAT The Luxury Spa Botique PAGE 37

SILVER CREATIONS’ Beautiful and Unique Jewellery PAGE 42

RISHI VERMA An Interview with Mr Zimbabwe PAGE 46

CURTLY GWINDI The Hardest Working Man in Showbiz PAGE 50

OLD STABLES Getting A New Wind PAGE 62

SIYADAH Premium Bathroom Solutions PAGE 66

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO Dare To Be Different

DESIGN Tamirirashe Zizhou Ireen Nyarambi Valentine Katsande MARKETING Ashley Bangamu +263 8644 275 856/ +263 775 062 088 ADMINISTRATOR Tinashe Nyakabau EDITORIAL Michael Nott Farai Chaka Patuma Salimu CONTRIBUTORS Curtly Gwindi Rishi Verma Axecure Proton PHOTOGRAPHY Michelle Fortman Noxy Hadebe Tyla Van Hoof EMAIL

PUBLISHER Structure and Design Media FIND US AT 31 Alexander Rd, Highlands, Harare

to make sure that content is accurate on and are not necessarily the views of the The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good and accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by this publication and errors and for the accuracy

Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without

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WIN 1 OF 3 HAMPERS FROM BRANDS AFRICA & SC JOHNSON Guess the most logos from the icons below: 1. Name the brands represented.

2.Use the hashtags at the end of your answer. e.g Pledge, Rally, Raid #refinedmagzim#BrandsAfricaZim Check our social media pages for more details

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We’re thrilled to present our second edition of Refined magazine – bigger, better, bolder and brighter than before! And to make it even more exciting check out our competitions with tons of prizes and giveaways for you – our lucky readers.

In our first issue we had an interview with Nikki de Wet from Elite Interiors and now we present you with one of their finished projects – the design and installation of the executive lounge and meeting room for Delta Corporation’s upmarket and stylish headquarters. Most of the furniture is designed and manufactured specifically for the project.

Staying with the world of interior design we’ve looked at Dusk Studio, part of the Dusk Home Group. Dusk Studio has an elegant and stylish range of carpets, wall art, furniture and accessories which you won’t find anywhere else.

In our fabulous food and restaurant section we’ve featured the brand new Maki Sushi restaurant and takeaway in Arundel. If you haven’t tried sushi yet a visit to their establishment will be a treat. It’s healthy, delicious and each little piece of sushi is like a tiny work of art.

Staying with food, Proton Bakers have been supplying fresh and delicious bread to the nation for over 60 years. Their bread, rolls and biscuits are a brand you’ve grown up with and probably enjoy every day.

If you’re looking to pamper yourself or a loved one Beauty Box in Rolfe Valley is the place to be. They offer a full range of massages and treatments for both men and women to help you look and feel your best.

And talking of looking good Silver Creations’ fabulous range of unique jewellery will make you feel like a Hollywood film star. It’s beautiful, timeless and surprisingly affordable too.

We also have two interviews with leading Zimbabwe personalities.

Rishi Verma, Mr Zimbabwe 2017, is a well-known actor, model, entrepreneur and a brand ambassador with degrees in Hospitality and Events Management. We also had the chance to have a chat with Curtly Toboka Gwindi, better known as Uncle Curtly a television and radio presenter, digital media producer, public relations and communication maverick, marketing and business consultant, and brand ambassador.

On the home front we’ve taken a look at Home Tech – the leading start-up company providing smart and innovative solutions for security, convenience and remotely activated utilities. It adds a touch of luxury to your lifestyle and it’s not as complicated to operate as it sounds. Still on the home front take a look at our write up on Tanium Gutters or ‘eave troughs’ to use a more technical term. They look good, improve the value of your home and protect your property from water damage and leaks.

Old Stables Market in Borrowdale is a great place for a family outing, good food and a wide variety of products you won’t find anywhere else.

For motoring and car enthusiasts we feature the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio available from Zimoco. It has superb Italian styling on the interior and exterior and outstanding performance too. And before your kids grow up and want to borrow the car make sure you send them to Dragley Driving School so they’ll learn to be safe, courteous and considerate drivers.

So, till next time, sit back, relax and enjoy!

EDITOR

ISSUE 2 2022

Harare, Zimbabwe 07

Elite Interiors Executive Lounge and Dining Room text by Michael Nott, photos by Noxy Hadebe (Imageline)

Elite Interiors has recently completed the new décor for Delta Corporations Head Quarters Executive Lounge and meeting area. The lead designer on the project was Elite’s Dennis Masangomai – otherwise known by the nickname ‘Airborne’ – probably a reference to his skills as a dancer!

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The project took around three months to complete – from October to December of 2021. The brief from the client was that they wanted the (fairly restricted) space to have a dual function and to work as either two separate rooms or one combined space.

They wanted the executive lounge area to be elegant and upmarket, in line with the image of their brand, as well as comfortable and relaxed. In the other area they wanted a space that could work as a more formal meeting area or as a dining room for special corporate events. The meeting/dining room needed to accommodate around 20 people.

different spaces although each room has a distinct identity.

The space has been cleverly divided by folding plantation shutter doors so that each room can function independently and privately, or when the doors are folded back it can work as a single integrated area. The folding doors complement the decor of both rooms – whether open or closed. The design has been carefully considered so that there’s a harmonious aesthetic between the two

Above the skirting, in both spaces, is a low, white dado rail. All the walls have been painted in a mid-grey tone below the dado and a paler grey above. The dining room has a dark grey feature wall with simple, textured wallpaper supplied and fitted by Elite’s decor team. There are two African themed paintings hung on the wall above a dark wood sideboard.

One of the ways the two spaces have been integrated is by using the same pale wood look ceramic floor tiles throughout. The tiles are both attractive and functional – in the lounge they add a warm, luxurious feel which is enhanced by a centre rug from Elite with a swirling blue/grey design. In the dining room the tiles are functional and easy to clean. Just above the floor crisp white, deep colonial skirting runs through both rooms.

refined 02 The opposite wall in the lounge has a pair of dark grey prints either side of the main entrance which echo the tones of the wallpaper.

Existing dark wooden cabinets in both rooms have been successfully incorporated in the final design.

The ceilings are consistent throughout with a molded detail around the outside.

The rooms have the same rows of down lighters and Airborne has chosen to use modern chandeliers – one in the lounge and two in the dining room. He has also selected the same window treatments – pale grey vertical blinds supplied by Elite Interiors. In the lounge they cover a small window overlooking the garden while in the dining area they cover large glass and aluminium doors which can be opened up for special events.

The furniture in the dining room is are four large round tables with dark timber tops to match the existing

table can easily accommodate six chairs and there’s still ample space were designed and manufactured by Elite Interiors and have an unusual two a very pale grey while the backs are covered with a darker grey fabric that has a quilted diamond pattern for an

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THE

Delta Executive Lounge Superior In "yle

elitezim@gmail.com

0772321581 elitezim

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102 Bond Street, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe Unit 3, 51 Steven Drive, Msasa, Harare, Zimbabwe

Elite Interiors Zimbabwe

refined 02 The furniture in the lounge is dominated by a large, curved sofa upholstered in dark blue velvet with deep buttoning for an extra of the upholstery fabric echoes the blue of backs on to the dining room so it creates pair of tan leather armchairs that are both are two circular occasional tables with The sofa, chairs and tables were specially designed and manufactured at Elite’s Because all the furniture is custom made and bespoke it’s unique to the Delta décor scheme and nothing quite the same will be

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The gold part of Delta’s corporate colours has been subtly picked up in the carefully chosen accessories – gold table lamp bases and table centres in the dining room and gold and blue scatter cushions in the lounge.

Director) to consolidate the final designs for the furniture and décor details. Then Elite Interiors team of furniture makers, painters and decorators puts it all together right down to the finest detail.

To contact Elite Interiors:

Airborne describes a little about the design process. It all starts with the client brief. Sometimes clients have their own pictures to help create a design theme, or just things that they love. After consulting with the client he puts together a mood board with pictures, fabric samples, colour swatches and samples. Once plans and drawings have been done and the design has been agreed on he works with the team at Elite (including Nikki de Wet – the owner and Design

Visit their showroom and manufacturing branch at: Unit 3, 51 Stevens Drive, Msasa Visit their new Showroom at Bond Street Shopping Centre Call +263 77 232 1581 Email: elitezim@gmail.com Website: www.elitezim.com

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2 Kitchen Island

3 Kitchen cabinetry Floating cabinetry.

LED strip lighting underneath the cabinet.

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Made of galaxy/ star black classic quartz Breakfast nook - Caldera board.

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077 389 1899 (Whatsapp) www.mokubagroup.com

How to Clean High-Gloss Kitchen Units

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igh-gloss kitchen units are a very popular choice. They have a sleek and modern look that will stand out in the room, but they can also be quite difficult to clean. In this article, we’ll explain how to properly clean your high-gloss cabinets, so you don’t have to spend hours scrubbing them with an old rag. Here’s how to clean your kitchen units with an all-natural DIY lemon juice and water solution

1. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution The first thing you should do when cleaning your high-gloss cabinets is to determine whether they’re dirty from dirt or from grease. You can tell the difference very easily. If it’s just dust, then you simply need a dry cloth and some elbow grease. If it’s grease, don’t try to clean them with water because that’ll just push the grease further into the seams.

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a little lemon juice to it.

2. Scrub the Kitchen Units Use your lemon juice and water mixture as your cleaning solution and scrub down the cabinets with a sponge. Be careful not to use too much pressure because you’ll damage the surface if you scrub too hard. Sometimes, grease is stubborn and it’ll be impossible to remove simply by using warm water and lemon juice. If you come across such areas, make a mixture of 50% vinegar and 50% water.

Apply this gently with a damp sponge to the stubborn grease areas you find on your cabinets.

Then, use the warm water and lemon juice solution to clean any excess vinegar after it has done its job. This will ensure that you don’t leave any vinegar behind

3. Clean Regularly with a Microfiber Cloth Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning 4 high-gloss cabinets because they aren’t too harsh on the surface, but they’re still very effective at removing dust and dirt.

You can buy these from any supermarket or online. Simply spray your microfiber cloth with some water and use it to wipe down the cabinets. This will remove any traces of dust and dirt that your other cleaning solutions may have missed.

4. Finish Off with a Gentle Dry Cloth After all that scrubbing, rinse each cabinet down with some lukewarm water. This is where a bucket comes in handy. If you don’t have one, just use a bowl or a sink. After rinsing them off with water, use your dry cloth to wipe down any surface moisture that’s leftover.

Make sure there aren’t any streaks or smudges left over from the cleaning solution. If there are any, get rid of them with a little lemon juice and then dry off the cabinets again.

5. Polish with a Cabinet Polish Your cabinets should now be as good as new, but if you’d like them 3 even shinier and feel to look smoother, then you can buy a special product made for that purpose at your local supermarket or online. Using a polish to add some extra protection is a good idea as it will prevent stains and dirt from sticking in the future. Apply some cabinet polish with a soft cloth and leave it on for about five minutes, then wipe down any excess and enjoy!

interior design

DUSK STUDIO

–for fantastic, fabulous, funky home accessories text by Michael Nott, photos by Refined

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Dusk Studio has branches at Borrowdale and Avondale with exclusive home décor items to die for!

Dusk Studio is part of the Dusk Home Group which was started by Hayley Mellor, fairly modestly, as Dusk Candles in 2007. In 2008 it grew into Dusk Home and then in 2016 Dusk Studio – a partnership with at Sam Levy’s opened in 2018.

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Dusk Home has a wide range of interior decor and lifestyle products including bedroom and bathroom linens, rugs and accessories, pre-made curtains, cutlery and crockery and kitchenware. Dusk Studio focuses on a more select range of carpets, wall art, smaller soft furnishings including occasional chairs, tables, pouffes and ottomans, lighting, mirrors, cushions and decor accessories like small decorative sculptures and ornaments. Both Dusk Home and Dusk Studio share a similar aesthetic that’s on-line with the most up to date, modern international trends and styles. It’s a hard to define style but it could be described as contemporary and elegant with just a touch of bling and a dusting of ethnic chic.

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Dusk Studio’s range of carpets are mostly imported directly from Belgium – the world recognised leaders in carpet design and manufacturing. The carpets are a polypropylene and wool blend making them cosy and warm as well as durable and hard wearing.

There’s a range of sizes, patterns and colours to suit any interior decor scheme from a living room statement carpet to bathroom rugs. They have Oriental runners as well as the more ethnic style jute and hessian carpets. Shaggy carpets are making a big comeback in interior design and Dusk Studio has a wide selection – perfect for intimate bedroom spaces. Apart from their luxurious deep pile carpets they have lighter more durable options, so you can have different rugs for summer and winter. The lighter rugs are also ideal to use outdoors on a patio or verandah. They even have rugs made from hardwearing plastic strips in vibrant colours which are a fun addition for kitchens and bathrooms as they’re totally waterproof.

Rugs for your living and bedroom space

CARPETS . WALLART . LIGHTING . FURNITURES . DECOR ACCESSORIES . MIRRORS

Call - +263 77 289 0971 Email - hello@duskstudio.co.zw Instagram - @duskstudiozim Facebook - Dusk Studio

www.duskstudio.co.zw

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Sushi is scrumptious…

text by Michael Nott, photos by Refined

Maki Sushi opened in Arundel in March this year. As Zimbabweans travel more and become more cosmopolitan we’re experiencing a wider variety of different cultures, lifestyles and most importantly different foods. Sushi is one of the growing number of the foodie trends that are just beginning to be explored locally. Once considered ‘foreign’ and slightly strange its now becoming much more popular as Zimbabweans become a lot more adventurous and willing to try new taste sensations.

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For those of you who haven’t tried it yet sushi is a centuries old, traditional Japanese cuisine that has been steadily growing in popularity across the world in recent years. It’s estimated that there are over 4000 sushi restaurants in the US alone. Sushi is based around a particular type of short grained rice, lightly seasoned with rice wine vinegar and sugar, served with a selection of raw or cooked fish and vegetables. It’s usually, though not always, wrapped in sheets of dried, edible seaweed called nori.

Toppings and fillings include sushi-grade raw fish, such as salmon or tuna, cooked fish or shellfish, avocado and a variety of different vegetables. Modern takes on sushi include chicken and other non-traditional ingredients. There’s even a crumbed and deep fried version which is not strictly Japanese but appeals more to Western tastes. Sushi is usually rolled into little tubes and then sliced in to bite sized pieces revealing the colourful ingredients inside. Each piece of sushi is like a miniature culinary artwork and they look especially pretty when there’s a variety of types of sushi presented on a platter.

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Sushi is usually served with soya sauce for dipping and wasabi paste for an extra kick. Wasabi is a pungent vegetable similar to horse radish or mustard. Pickled ginger is served as a palette cleanser to be tasted in between sapling different flavours and types of sushi. Sushi can be eaten with chopsticks, a fork or just with your hands. The small slices make a delicious, satisfying mouthful however you eat it.

Maki sushi is the most popular type of sushi – hence the name of the restaurant. Other styles of sushi include nigiri, temaki and the Western California roll. Although not strictly considered sushi, sashimi (no rice) is often served too.

Like many of us the owner/manager/head chef at Maki Sushi found herself out of work during the COVID lockdown. She had experience working at other restaurants in Harare but the pandemic decimated the hospitality and restaurant industries. Deciding to expand her opportunities she enrolled at one of the leading culinary schools in Cape Town and learned the art of making sushi under a Japanese trained chef. Returning to Zimbabwe she set up a small business from home in April 2021 making sushi takeaways and offering a delivery service for customers. The business soon became

very popular and then earlier this year, through a customer, she heard about newly built premises available at Arundel Village in Mount Pleasant. It was a bold decision to invest in a new business in trying times but it’s proved to be very successful.

Working together with her friend and interior designer, David Martins, she set about creating the new restaurant from a basically empty and featureless space. Blank glass walls were clad with black vinyl with circular cut outs to evoke Japanese design and provide a more contained interior space. The ceiling was painted black and the reception, bar and kitchen were installed. The restaurant decor is predominantly a dramatic black with pops of colour in the red and yellow chairs and a ‘green’ wall and bulkhead at the reception.

Potted Japanese bamboo completes the minimalist look.

As sushi preparation doesn’t need a lot of space the kitchen is quite small, by restaurant standards, and its open plan so customers can enjoy the whole process of preparing their food. Orders are prepared as per customers’ requests – except for the rice which is cooked freshly every morning. It’s fun for kids (and adults too) to look over 023 the counter and watch the whole preparation process.

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There are four chefs at Maki Sushi – two trained in South Africa at reputable sushi restaurants and two who have local, hands on training and experience.

The menu offers a wide range of options including platters of a variety of delectable sushi morsels for one to four people. There are also fashion sandwiches, roses, sushi boats, tacos (not the Mexican type), poke bowls (which contain fish, vegetables and rice or noodles), and there are calamari rings or tempura prawns available.

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For dessert, if you can fit it in, try their house cheese cake with a fresh cup of coffee, or there are a variety of pastries available which change weekly. The restaurant is fully licenced with a well-stocked bar that includes wines and spirits. Most people prefer to pair white wine with sushi although red and rose wines are available – or you can bring your own wine for a small corkage charge. Maki Sushi also offer a fantastic range of freshly made juices, supplied by local company Promega, to complement your meal. They’re delicious and healthy too and their delicate flavours perfectly enhance the taste of the sushi. And its guilt free and healthy too!

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Maki Sushi offers a sit down service as well as takeaways and deliveries. They’re also offering catering for events with platters or ‘sushi cakes’ for up to 250 diners. Each little sushi slice can be easily held in your hand, or popped in your mouth, so they make the perfect party canape food. Sushi is also considered relatively healthy as its low in fat and high in protein, vitamins and minerals. And, of course, its seductively sexy, slightly exotic and beautiful to look at.

Call Maki Sushi on 078 004 9459 to reserve your seat or place a takeaway order.

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GIVEAWAY! Name any type(s) of sushi mentioned in the article and post your pic with the answers written on this competition page (in the comments section of the Maki Sushi Post on Refined Magazine’s facebook page) and get your friends to like it - the people with the most likes win!

ANSWER HERE

PRIZES* Voucher 1 34pc platter Voucher 2 Crunch platter

> can feed 3 to 4 people $35 027

> can feed 1 person $15

Voucher 3 Weekday platter > can feed 2 people $25 Voucher 4 50pc platter

> can feed 4 to 5 people $55

Voucher 5 Collection platter > a special platter for 2 or 3 $45

* Valid for 1 month

Redeemable as a takeaway or a sit-in

Not including drinks

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BEAUTY BOX RETREAT The Luxury Spa Botique.

Relax, Revive, Rejuvenate

by Michael Nott, photos by Michelle Fortmann The founder of Beauty Box Spa Retreat,Vimbayi Gappah.

Beauty Box Spa Retreat was founded by Vimbayi Gappah about 10 years ago. For the first 8 years the spa was a single treatment room but two years ago it was extended to include the new reception area, a second treatment room and a much larger treatment room which can be used for single clients or for couples’ treatments – it’s spacious enough to accommodate two massage beds and it has its own luxurious shower and bathroom facilities. The couple could be a husband and wife, a romantic couple, a mother and daughter or two friends. There are also day beds in a secluded part of the beautiful, lush gardens for outdoor treatments or just “chilling out” before or after a treatment.

Vimbayi’s career in health and beauty started about 20 years ago when her sister treated her to a facial at a beauty salon while she was living in Switzerland. Vimbayi loved the experience so much she decided that she wanted a career in the beauty and wellness field. It’s a love and passion that’s stayed with her and grown ever since.

Vimbayi is a CIDESCO International (Comite International d’Esthetique et de Cosmetologie)

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certified beauty, wellness and spa therapist. She trained at the prestigious London School of Beauty and Make-up and she gained extensive experience

working at upmarket spas and beauty salons in and around London before returning to Zimbabwe. She initially started out working from home before setting up the Beauty Box Spa Retreat a few years later.

beauty

Beauty Box is situated within the Plant Plan Garden Centre on the corner of Rolf Avenue and Stokesay Close in Ballantyne Park, Harare. The Plant Plan complex incorporates their nursery, Sabai Thai restaurant and a number of smaller outlets including decor 032 specialists Inner Living, I-Buy Africa, Wild Vines (wine merchants) Cherubic Nail Bar and Maggs Hair Salon, among other enterprises.

There are a huge range of massage treatments on offer including Swedish massage and Deep Tissue massage – or a combination of the two. They also offer hot stone massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, Indian head massage and ‘Loving Hands’ - a type of massage originating in Hawaii. The massages are not only for relaxation and stress busting, they can also be tailored to be highly therapeutic for muscle pain, strains or minor injuries. They even have toning and

cellulite busting treatments to help you look and feel your best. It’s great for improving your circulation too. Vimbayi believes that massage and beauty therapy should be seen in a holistic light – massages are good for your body but also treat and improve your energy level, moods and emotions.

You could choose a leg and foot massage, a synchronised massage with two therapists or even a pregnancy massage for that special time in your life. They also offer a Body Exfoliation full body scrub and/or a full body Moisture Wrap, followed by a relaxing shower in their en suite private bathroom. Treatments range from 30 minutes to two hours for their signature Beauty Box massage package.

For a really luxurious treat they even offer a complete half day spa experience where they can pick you up from your home in a limousine, provide a champagne breakfast

and a full selection of massages and beauty treatments to make you feel totally pampered and indulged. Something we all need in these stressful times!

Beauty treatments include a range of cleansing and moisturising facials, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, manicures and pedicures. Vimbayi is well-known as the Queen of Waxing in Harare as she’s really quick and efficient. For ladies they offer facial, underarm, leg and arm waxing as well as bikini waxing – available in Brazilian, Hollywood or standard options.

They also offer waxing for men for chest and shoulders, full back and eyebrow waxing. Most of the wax used for treatments is locally sourced though the wax strips are imported from South Africa. Likewise the massage oils and aromatherapy oils are mostly sourced locally although some essential oils are imported.

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At present the majority of Vimbayi’s clients are women but men also book for waxing, massages, facials, pedicures and manicures.

Urban men are starting to take much better care of their appearance these days and most high powered businessmen could really do with a stress relieving massage.

Vimbayi also has a consultancy business helping other beauty spas to set up. Among recent projects she was instrumental in the launch of Timeless Beauty in Arundel and was a consultant for the Ayudar Spa at the Cresta Marang in Botswana. Other consultancies have taken her around Zimbabwe and the region.

Future plans include the launch of a local, super luxurious brand of massage oils as well as establishing training centres for people to learn about the beauty business.

Vimbayi is passionate about helping young

people to get the best possible training to international standards so they can enjoy good, rewarding jobs or even set up their own businesses.

There’s a small selection of gifts and mementos available including deluxe lint free bath towels, body lotions, liquid and hand soaps and room fragrance diffusers.

There’s even an exclusive selection of handmade ceramic bowls and cups.

But the ultimate gift for your loved ones would undoubtedly be a Beauty Box Spa Retreat Gift Voucher – the perfect gift for all occasions.

You select the amount and the lucky person receiving the voucher can choose the treatments they would most enjoy.

Visit: Beauty Box Retreat, cnr. Rolf Ave and Stokesay Close, Ballantyne Park, Harare Call: 0777 921 055

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Visit Us: Cnr Rolf Ave and Stokesay Close, Ballantyne Park, Harare Call : +263 777 921 055 / +263 782 237 239 +263782237239 +263777921055 Facebook and Instagram |: Beauty Box Retreat 20% OFF ON ALL FULL BODY MASSAGES DURING THE MONTHS OF JUNE AND JULY.

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Silver Creations offers unique and precious jewellery

Text by Michael Nott photos by Tyla Van Hoof, and Refined

Silver Creations was established around 38 years ago so they have a great deal of experience in the world of jewellery making and selling.

The company originally started out in Mount Pleasant and then relocated to Milton Park before moving to their current home at 122 Churchill Avenue in Gun Hill in 2020. Lara and Gareth Hair took over the company six years ago and it has continued to thrive and grow since then with new designs constantly being added.

Lara is a very creative person and experienced in a number of artistic and design areas – and now in jewellery design too.

Lara’s design ideas come from many diverse sources – from Pinterest, magazines, movies and photos, fashion and celebrity trends, among others. Silver Creations are equally at home with a wide range of styles from traditional and vintage designs to modern, chunky chains and pendants – from intricately worked jewellery to simple, minimalist statement pieces.

Lara Hair’s design ideas come from many diverse sources such as Pinterest, magazines, movies, photos, fashion and

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fashion accessories

‘...they are more than items of jewellery, they’re memories that will last forever...’

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Many of Silver Creations’ designs are one off, unique pieces items of jewellery, they’re memories too that will last forever. What could be more romantic than the gift of a silver ring or a necklace from a loved one? It’s something to cherish for a lifetime. Good jewellery can even be passed down through the family for generations to come and it never loses its value or its special meaning. Silver jewellery has been worn since ancient Egyptian times and valued by royalty and nobility and it has never lost its attraction through the centuries.

Designs specially made for customers are exclusive and you’ll never see anyone wearing the same piece.

Silver jewellery has been worn since ancient Egyptian times and valued by royalty and nobility and it has never lost its attraction through the centuries

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‘Many of Silver Creations’ designs are one off, unique pieces exclusively made to a customer’s specifications’ For jewellery manufactured using the moulding process customers can even buy the mould so it can never be repeated. A piece of jewellery designed and made just for you is guaranteed to make you or your loved one feel extra-special and treasured. As Elizabeth Taylor once said, “Jewellery has the power to be the one little thing that makes you feel unique.” And she should know.

But whatever the design the quality and craftsmanship of Silver Creations’ work never varies; all their jewellery is made to the same excellent standards. Lara and Gareth make many of the pieces themselves in their workshop at Churchill Avenue just behind their showroom. They also have a highly skilled and experienced team of three silversmiths in their factory. Silver Creations are experts in all the different specialised processes involved in the manufacturing of superb jewellery, including the latest laser cutting

and polishing, and engraving.

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fashion accessories

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You can also always be assured of the quality and purity of the silver used in their jewellery. Silver Creations has their own unique, registered hallmark. It’s a crescent moon set in a rectangle with rounded corners and usually followed by the number 925. Each hallmark is unique to a manufacturer so only Silver Creations can use the crescent moon, and it means that you can be assured that it’s a genuine piece made by them and not copied by anyone else.

The number 925 stamp on silver jewellery is all about the

purity of the silver. It means that for every 1000 parts of material in the jewellery piece, 925 parts are made of silver and no more than 75 parts should be a different metal. It breaks down into 92.5% silver and 7.5% an additional metal.

Silver Creations buy their silver directly from Fidelity Printers and Refinery who are the only establishment in Zimbabwe allowed by law to deal in raw, unrefined precious metals.

Silver Creations smelts the silver in their kilns and mixes it with an alloy to make the raw silver harder and more durable and to help prevent tarnishing.

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‘...whatever the design the quality and craftsmanship of Silver Creations’ work never varies; all their jewellery is made to the same excellent standards...’

Apart from custom made pieces Silver Creations has an extensive range of ready to wear items including rings, earrings, pendants, name necklaces and charms for bracelets. They have heavy handmade chains fact, Silver Creations can make just about anything in silver – sculptures and ornaments, old-school candelabras, goblets and even silver serviette and christening rings.

They also do resizing for rings and sensitive repairs to older jewellery that might be worn or have been inadvertently damaged.

If this sounds like silver is too expensive or only for wealthier customers – think again!

Silver Creations provides a huge range of fabulous jewellery with some pieces costing as little as $10.00 so you could easily start your own ‘collection’ and add to it every month or two. For bigger, heavier pieces

the only top limit is your own imagination.

The best thing about jewellery is that it only goes up in value over the years.

And it’s not just for women – Silver Creations has an elegant range for men including rings, bracelets and chains although men’s jewellery tends to be heavier and less ornate. Although it might be a bit extreme for Zimbabwean tastes, think of the current trend for American gangster rappers to wear chunky chains and huge pendants. Who knows, it might just catch on here one day and no doubt Silver Creations will be making them too!

To contact Silver Creations:

Visit their showroom and workshop at 122 Churchill Avenue in Gun Hill.

Call: 0776 613 440 Email: silvercreations2017@yahoo.com

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personality feature

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Get to know the inspiring Rishi Verma behind the scenes

by Patuma Salimu, photos supplied by Rishi Verma

hardworking young man of our time, Rishi Verma. From the interview, the most important thing to note was the fact that hard work brings in results because what started as a way to earn extra income at University is now part of his identity and has led him to win several accolades However, success is not an overnight achievement, you have to be resilient and know your worth in order to make it in life which is what Rishi has managed to do.

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RISHABH VERMA, popularly known as Rishi Verma is a 27-yearold Indian-Zimbabwean, model, actor, entrepreneur, and brand ambassador. Dedicated, humble, and a man of principle is how he describes himself which somehow falls short considering how hardworking he is. He has won several awards for being the Best Model, Best International Model and Best Male Model Zimbabwe.

Modelling wasn’t his childhood dream as he has a double major degree in International Hospitality and Events Management and an additional Master’s degree in Hospitality and Spa Management from one of the renowned universities in the world in the field of hospitality, The Swiss Hotel Management school in Switzerland.

“I chose modelling because it was another avenue for me to earn money when I was in university and then I just took it very seriously because the money was good in Europe and I had the capabilities.

So I took up modelling and yes I have come far and it was a good choice.”

Among his many talents is that he is good at most sports but his main sport is badminton and he even played at the national level for the senior team. Another interesting fact about the multitalented Rishi Verma is that he can speak six languages namely, French, Spanish, Hindi, Urdu, a little bit of Shona, and Punjabi.

When asked what he loved doing the most between acting, modelling and being a brand ambassador he chose acting because he loves the feeling of being in character. He has featured in Hollywood movies like Tidal Drift: An ever still directed by his favourite director Van AJ Kluas, where he played the role of a villain. Rishi said that being a villain was challenging because it was the opposite of his character as he is humble and kind but it was good to try something different. He has acted in international films such as Displacement Code and Sunshine City to mention but a few.

After finishing his degree, he was appointed by an agent and started doing shoots for smaller companies.

In 2017, Rishi Verma won the first-ever Mr. Zimbabwe title. It was almost like a dream as he could not believe it because that same night he had already won the Best International Model. From then onwards he hasn’t stopped working hard as he has also been a chief judge of the national pageant. What he looks for as a judge in participants is personality and character whatever type of modelling it is.

Due to his busy schedule as an entrepreneur and lately as an actor, his focus has derived from charity work but that hasn’t stopped him from helping out whenever he can. During his reign as Mr Zimbabwe, he was involved in charity works feeding the needy street kids in Ruwa. Not only that, but he has also given to the Harare Charity Children’s home and still supports them during the winter seasons.

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“With the way the economic situation is, I would like to make an impact again on those children and mothers who do not have homes and good livelihoods,” he noted.

You know you are doing something good when the world starts talking about you even if it’s in a negative way and with the way people are tech-savvy nowadays Rishi hasn’t been spared from the negative comments on social media. Like any other celebrity, he has had to deal with the bad side of social media which was very depressing. Luckily, his family helped him through the ordeals and he has managed to keep a clear head and keep growing as an individual.

Juggling different careers is no joke as it comes with ups and downs, one of them being a clash of the schedules. The only way he has managed to deal with this is by communicating and maintaining relationships. He noted that relationships are more important to him than money.

Another challenge that he faces as a brand ambassador and a model is that it’s hard to get paid what you deserve so you take whatever comes your way. The way to deal with that is to remember your worth and be stern he said.

He is selective of the roles he plays on TV because there are certain roles he wouldn’t want to do as they, “Might not suit me or tarnish a bit of my reputation as I have a family so I’m very selective of the of what actions I show to the fans,” he said.

It’s obvious judging from his busy schedule that he hardly gets any rest but when he does, that is during Sunday afternoons and evenings he spends time with his family and wife. Another thing he does for leisure is playing games. His favourite holiday destination is Switzerland and he owns two lovely poodles he describes as his “own sons.”

His advice for upcoming models, actors and brand ambassadors is that “You’ve got to remember your name is your reputation. how far or how high you go. If you can go up fast, you can come down fast too.”

personality feature

He went on to say that upcoming models and brand ambassadors should put in the work themselves by engaging with brands and having good public relations skills. This is in the sense that if you leave the work to other people some offers may be turned down and you won’t even know about it.

In the next three years, Rishi sees himself as a shareholder or an investor in a local firm in Zimbabwe.

FUN FACTS: Rishi Verma was once camera shy when he started modelling in 2014. He also watches himself on TV and laughs but at the same time he uses that as a chance to improve himself. His favourite era is the 90s; “Old school was the best,”he

chicken breast. He prefers his suits compared to casual wear.

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“You’ve got to remember your name is your reputation.”

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Name any of the featured sneakers in this photo and get a chance to win A fresh pair of your own courtesy of Axecure Sneakers!

Post your pic with the answers written on this competition page (in the comments section of the Axecure Post on Refined Magazine’s facebook page) and get your friends to like it - most likes wins!

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This competition caters for TWO different winners.

So the most likes followed by the next.

personality feature

At Only 25,

Curtly Gwindi

is the hardest working, most decorated and showbiz industry combined 046

by Farai Chaka photos supplied by Curtly Gwindi, Fotohaus

CURTLY TOBOKA GWINDI, better known as Uncle Curtly, is a multi-talented personality. Known as a Television and Radio Presenter, Digital Media Producer, Public Relations and Communication Maverick, Marketing & Business Consultant, Brand Ambassador, MC, he plays a number of different roles.

His list of achievements and the volume of brands he represents is longer than that of most media

refined 02 From his Star FM days some years ago, you might have heard him as one of the presenters on The Heat Press alongside DJ Mox and Willard Kachere and most recently, Trending with Curtly on ZBC’s Good Morning Zimbabwe. He also runs a successful consultancy, Curtly Gwindi Consultancy (CGC), set to officially launch soon - which is solely vested in discovering, nurturing and growing local talent and brands with robust strategies that connect them to their markets. CGC identifies and nurtures talent and then exposes it to different corporate spaces and platforms.

“We have the people, the networks and the social capital to push a brand to dizzying heights, we are tried and tested” he says.

On top of that, every Tuesday when the cabinet convenes, he is the one who introduces the parliament members and gives a rundown of the points made thereafter on TV, not forgetting his ability to still maintain his love for the lighter chit chat with which he does on radio every Wednesday with the Veteran Broadcaster, fellow, Witness Matema. All this at the age of twenty-five.

We visit him at his office at ZBC Pockets Hill Studios to find out from the horse’s mouth just what makes this Mazowe-bred maverick tick.

They say it’s the formative years which are very crucial in shaping our personalities.

What was your childhood like?

My childhood had a profound impact on who I am today. I grew up on a farm. It’s what created the brand I am. The human being that I am, it doesn’t get realer than waking up to a different environment to the hustle and bustle of town and also doing the activities that are associated with being there. I can’t say it slowed me in anyway it enhanced me, I was always someone who was into speaking and finding the stage, finding a platform to express myself through words and I think the best way one can express themselves is through using whatever talent God gave them. Growing up, I had a strict father who never believed I could go anywhere with this gift so he never showed up for any of my competitions. At the age of twelve, I won the Top U/13 Harare NASH CABS Public Speaking Award (1st Place) he didn’t show, and looking back, I can clearly see that everything that was happening around me was preparing me for the stage that I am at right now. It was all sort of a build up to what I was to become. Being an only son, it came with a lot of expectations and duties. I had no room to disappoint basically. I still can’t afford to. There were also a lot of fears that all this would derail me from my education and ultimate success.

At what time do you start your day – What does a typical Curtly day look like?

My alarm goes off at half past three in the morning. Every day. The first thing I do is make my bed which is really my first win of the day. Now in a tidy and clean environment, I take to reflecting and meditation. Part of my meditation process involves reading the Bible and matter of fact, I am always reading this Bible. It is always on my desk open like this.

I am a very spiritual person. I believe in a higher power directing our steps in everything we do and everywhere we go, that’s God. From the meditation that’s when I start preparing for the day ahead, taking a shower, brushing my teeth, suiting up and all. I have a show in the morning so I am usually by ZBC Pockets Hill Studios around 4:15am to get my line up and stories in check. I am scripting, scripting and scripting right until the time I go on air.

From then on, I start preparing for radio and scripting for other pre-recorded programs, like Jive Trends on Jive TV which by the way, we just launched in Bulawayo. It will be a year since the pilot of Trending With Curtly went on air and I am so excited about the upcoming anniversary.

I then tend to my core business, my foray into the realm of public relations, marketing, advertising and business consultancy. I run the Curtly Gwindi Consultancy (CGC). I also touch base with my manager and team, to check the schedule and programs/meetings for the day. It has gotten to a point where I have to work with someone to manage my affairs because I often forget about some of the work commitments because there tends to be more work than the air I breathe, ha-ha. From then on its meetings, road mapping and strategizing until it all makes sense. Then rest, because it’s important. For weekdays that’s it. On weekends I usually just hang out with friends.

How many languages do you speak?

Shona, English, Mandarin and a bit of Kalanga. The linguistics aspect of my studies helped me - as a communicator, I cut and polished my command of the English language and manner in which I relate other local languages through phonetics.

One would almost expect you to go the philosophy route after university. What motivated the switch to PR, Marketing and Media? Was it all part of the plan?

It definitely wasn’t part of the plan. I cut my teeth in the world of PR and Marketing within a year of doing my BA in Philosophy

and Linguistics at University of Zimbabwe when I was roped in by Hammer and Tongues to be their marketing strategist for one of the first ever public WIFI platforms, Poshto. That ignited my passion for public relations and marketing.

I hosted the first ever campus radio talk show in Zimbabwe, UniTalk and we hosted people from all walks of life from doctors, lawyers to media personalities and entrepreneurs. I want to give a special shout out to someone who was mentoring me at that time Tafadzwa Mukoyi, better known as Coach Taf, who was very instrumental in terms of my gateway into the industry. He took it upon himself to show me the ropes and I am forever thankful for that gesture.

Even during the formative varsity days, I was co-hosting a teen-centered show, TeenConnect alongside Joana Munengwa and Ignatius Munengwa. In all this I was getting a taste of how it felt like to have a platform on which I could express myself. It was all motivating me to change the game in the way I knew best.

Has your background in philosophy been helpful in maneuvering the media world which is more or less known for all sorts of negative things? Is it coming in handy?

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personality feature Do you think it has given you an edge over other players in the industry?

I have always been someone with an appreciation of life and philosophical matters and going on to study philosophy at tertiary level made sense. I can say I am a deep person. Not profound, but deep. My philosophy background has made me a better communicator and a listener. Immanuel Kant, a writer of articles of Pure Reason says, “Live your life as though your every act were to become a universal law.” Most broadcast journalists forget that, in fact any regular journalist won’t know this, well I live by that. It has also been helpful because I get to think twice or even thrice when making decisions which is very key when you are a media personality. It has grounded me, that’s knowledge, wisdom and my favorite, intelligence.

Have you always been a people person?

How would your family or closest friends describe your personality?

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Of course, yes, I have always been a people person. Look, people are the centrepiece of everything I’m doing. When I’m on radio or TV I’m either talking about people or interviewing people.

I love people.They would all describe me as an ever smiling bundle of joy, industrious and always up for the task and above all, even keeled and humble. Television has also made me that type of person who cares about himself exceedingly. I would not call it narcissism but it is something that comes with this stage and you could ask anyone who is in the showbiz about that. But one thing I have not forgotten to care about is people. I have found a way in which I can care so much for both myself and other people.

On average how many MCing gigs do you preside over every week? Do you at any point turn down gigs?

On the brand ambassadorial front, what do you consider before partnering with a brand? Would you partner with a controversial brand?

Events EMCeeing or TV/Radio presenting?

I would never partner with an infamous brand. I am a brand myself and I care so much about my reputation as a brand and we make sure we steer clear of any kind of controversy or scandal. Even in my consultancy practice, the PR, we make sure we represent the brands we are entrusted with in such a manner that they could never be at the centre of any controversy or scandal. That’s Protective PR. Presently, how many brands are you working with? And tell us, any accolades?

First of all, they are countless. Many brands.

North of 30 brands and all in different routes. It could be through radio, through TV or through CGC, my consultancy imprint.

All paid work?

Let’s just say there is mutually beneficial contract and agreement between all the parties involved. That’s probably the best way I can put it across.

And yes, winning since 2020! I was happy to have been recognized by the Zimbabwe Business Awards, IDCZ and MegaFest Awards for the outstanding work I am doing in P.R. In 2021 I was the Best New Age Zimbabwean and Most Inspirational Nominee for Incorporate Zim. Most recently I am nominated for the 2022 JCI Ten Outstanding Young People.

Two or three gigs on average, these vary from corporate gigs to private intimate programs like graduations and birthdays but it really depends on the season. There were times I could go for a month without a gig, it’s part of the business. The end of April and the whole of May is promising to be busy so we are expecting more gigs. I want to go from being overlooked to overbooked.

That’s a no brainer. Definitely presenting. I mean, my Events EMCeeing track record is impeccable. I was University of Zimbabwe’s first ever resident MC from my first year up until I left the institution. I presided over all the major gigs for a solid three years. I think the biggest audience I have ever hosted in front of was about five thousand people.

When it comes to presenting though, it’s something I still want to explore. It’s a craft I still want to have a hand at and master - just like I have a mastered MCing, I think.

Without a doubt one of the hardest working men in town? What do you do for leisure? Is there ever a time when you don’t have somewhere to be or something to do?

There is never a time. I have realised that time is a very fickle concept. I recently lost my niece. Quite a young girl. That’s when I realised that it’s no joke, we do not have much time on this planet. I always tell my people and teams that we have two lives, the second one begins when you realise that you only have one. Life is in your face right now and you might not live to do it again. You have to start creating time for everything worthwhile. Everything that leads to you being phenomenal and not forgotten. That’s why I’m never free, I make time.

Any rituals you perform before presenting or hosting?

I just say a simple prayer to the Lord Almighty. Everything works from there.

How did your relationship with Vista Pharmacy come about?

What would we be surprised to learn about you? Any hidden talents?

That arrangement is a perfect example of my rising through lifting others mantra. Another client whom I cannot name and I was working with saw the benefit of me working for Vista. He saw that I could add value to this enterprise that was still growing.

Vista Pharmacy has been one of our most supportive clients. One of our most stable, solid and most definitely I can vouch for their dedication to people’s health.

I am a very fast swimmer. I have an extremely intensive photographic memory.

I have helped people solve crimes. I do not respond to hate comments or speech, that’s a major talent.

Who do you look up to locally and internationally?

Internationally I’m looking at big names like Trevor Noah, Peter Ndoro and Vusi Thembekwayo. Especially Trevor Noah.

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What he does with the Daily Show is amazing. His response to Kanye West was thoughtful. He is amazing. He has mastered the art of conversation and dialogue which is perhaps the cornerstone of what I’m doing.

How do you deal with negative social media comments?

What is the best advice you have ever been given by your parents?

I do not respond. I have mastered the science of not responding. I do not give anybody that satisfaction. None of this negative content that you may have come across on social media platforms concerning me is remotely true. I know people are going to keep trying to fish a response out of me by any means.

The more we do, the bigger we get and the more they see us on TV or hear us on radio, the more they will try to knock down what we have built. That’s the beauty and the curse.

Keep it simple. That was my dad. Because of their advice I have never had to complicate or overthink things. I have always believed in simplicity. My publication founded on this advice, “A Son Who Kept It Simple”, will be out soon.

To be as stable as I can be in every dimension of my life. To build an empire that will grow and sustain itself even without me having to be involved in the day to day

What was the last show you watched?

Young Famous and African and of particular interest to me was the Andile character, Andile Ncube, who ironically, is into news casting.

running of it. I am striving for bliss, man.

The ultimate level of happiness.

What do you want to be remembered for?

A person who gave others a chance when he could. I want to be phenomenal and not forgotten, at the youngest age possible. I want to shift the narrative, upset the equilibrium, you can do anything, at any age. I often sit in meetings with people twice my age and pinch myself because I never saw this coming. I want all my peers to be on these levels, I want other people to rise through me and I would like to rise through lifting others. Wherever I go, whatever I do, I am making sure I do the most so someone else could benefit from it.

Mr. Gwindi, thank you for your time.

No thank you guys, for coming all the way to the hill.

market

OLD STABLES Get A New Lease On Life

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by Michael Nott, photos by Refined Since they opened just over two years ago the Old Stables Market at the Borrowdale Racecourse has quickly become the best place to spend a Saturday morning. You can browse the huge range of stalls offering fine foods, health and nutritional products, arts and crafts, books, carpets, antiques and collectables, cosmetics and beauty products, and so much more. While there are a number of regular stall holders there are also new ones every week so there’s always something else intriguing to capture your attention. The emphasis is on smaller, local manufacturers and suppliers – often unique products you won’t find anywhere else. The range of goods on offer is certainly miles away from what you’ll find in the usual humdrum supermarkets and shopping malls.

refined 02 There’s an ample, comfortable seating area so you can sit down and relax and enjoy eating and drinking with friends and family. It’s probably the best place in Harare today for a late breakfast, brunch, or something more substantial. Most of the foodie stalls also offer takeaways so you can grab something convenient for those weekdays – or nights - when you don’t have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen but still want something healthy and delicious. You can meet old friends there, connect with people you haven’t seen for ages, or make new friends.

Especially now, in this post-COVID recovery period, it’s great to get out and about and re-connect. It’s child friendly and pet friendly too so it’s great for families to share a day out together. There’s lots of secure parking available, although it does tend to get a bit crowded at peak times, and there’s none of the hassle with street kids and vendors you’d find in the city centre. It’s shopping, entertainment and socializing all rolled into one. Because it’s such a great place to see and be seen you’ll find loads of trendy young (and not so young) punters showing off the latest fashion trends and accessories.

The Old Stables Market was established by Vicky Bowen just as the pandemic first hit Zimbabwe. They opened and closed several times as the pandemic regulations changed although they always worked closely with the Ministry of Health and ZRP to ensure that all the relevant criteria were met. There’s still mandatory sanitising and mask wearing so you can feel safe and secure when visiting the market. The stalls are set up with wide walkways in between so it’s easy to maintain social distancing.

Vicky Bowen, who’s the brains and inspiration behind the Market, was initially looking for new premises to set up a market to promote local talent and our own unique brand of artists and artisans. Vicky has been involved in the equestrian world for many years, in the polo industry as well as breeding and racing, so she was aware of the potential offered by the old stables. As the business of horse racing in Zimbabwe declined the stables were mostly neglected or ignored and became vacant and unused. Vicky had the foresight to see the potential for development. In recent years the Borrowdale Racecourse has been exploring new income generating projects including allowing a number of other businesses to set up shop at the racecourse so the plan for the market was a win-win proposition.

Once Vicky had decided on the new venue there were a couple of months’ work involved before the market could be set up, cleaning out the old stables which had been quite neglected, doing repairs and renovations to the walls and roofs, setting up toilet facilities for the public, a children’s playground, planting lawn and generally making the premises suitable for their new function. Although the renovations were quite extensive Vicky wanted to retain the rustic feel of the stables to give the new place a unique charm and feel. There was, and still is, an emphasis on home grown food products, so it was important to keep a more natural, organic character. One of the most fun projects was getting local artists involved in painting the murals at the front entrance.

An iconic venue at the Old Stables is Pharaoh’s Trading Store, which relocated from their Chisipite branch to the Stables in 2021, so they’re founder members. Pharaoh’s is one of the only establishments – apart from Madd on Flowers – that’s open throughout the week and not just on Saturdays. Pharaoh Tsaga has been in the business of buying and selling antique and cottage furniture for many years and has established a well-deserved reputation as one of the leaders in the business, with a keen eye for collectable and vintage furniture and accessories. Because of his high turnover there’s always something new and interesting in stock so it’s worth visiting the shop on a regular basis to see what’s just come in. Apart from the necessary repairs and restoration needed for antique and collectable furniture pieces, Pharaoh has recently started making his own cottage style

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furniture using old or reclaimed timber and other quirky materials like pressed ceiling boards and vintage handles and accessories. Each piece of furniture he creates is unique and full of character and history like the old door and window frames which are fitted out with mirrors in place of the original glass to create one-off wall hangings.

Besides renovating and refurbishing furniture for the shop’s stock Pharaoh also offers a specialised service for customers that need their furniture repaired renovated, restored or updated.

Pharaoh and his team of skilled craftsmen can sensitively repair and re-finish antique furniture adding value and extending their usable lifespan. Their services include re-caning or replacing rattan panels, replacing riempie strapping, re-finishing damaged varnish, lacquer and veneers, and upholstery. They’re also adept at various paint effects for furniture including distressed and aged techniques.

Lately Pharaoh’s been including a small range of gift items, carefully curated and selected from international sources, like linens, fabrics, ceramics and rugs. If you haven’t visited Pharaohs yet you in for a treat. If you have visited before keep going back for new items stocked on a regular basis. They’re one of the most diverse and exciting decor shops in Harare today.

At Old Stables you’ll find a selection of unique goods and services that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not just a shopping experience - Vicky Bowen has focused on our local talent to empower communities and improve livelihoods – sustainable shopping with a conscience. And it’s a great deal of fun too.

market

Racecourse Stables Market Place P H A R O A H ’ S ’Borrowdale ’ ’ ’ +263 773 261 432

-T RAD I N G STORE-

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ptsaga79@gmail.com

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...food as medicine Also at the Old Stables, Lush Green offers a range of natural products specially designed and organically grown to help treat a range of chronic conditions as well as providing founder, Felicity McConville, has a family background in organic farming and plant based, holistic health solutions.

Chocolate powder used as an anti-depressant, fennel seeds for menstrual problems, hibiscus tea which and infection and promotes liver health, and her special Omega-3 seed mix and nutrients and may

Felicity believes that vibrant health starts with caring for the soil and the environment so that plants can provide the maximum nutrients, health

Felicity has worked extensively with Cancer Care Network Zimbabwe to provide natural dietary products and supplements to help in cancer treatment and palliative care.

Through many years of research and marketing Felicity has helped to re-establish some of the ancient grains and food stuffs to enhance general well-being and treat chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and depression.

Felicity has been instrumental in the renewed interest in amaranth as a super-food Other products include organically grown turmeric – renowned for it’s potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer’s and cancer – avocado stone dust to reduce cholesterol, Velvet

blood sugar levels. All of Felicity’s products are locally, organically grown either by Felicity herself or sourced from reliable producers.

‘Avocado stone dust reduces cholesterol and Velvet Chocolate powder can be used as an anti-depressant’

‘Amaranth is a super-food with great health benefits’

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health Many of Felicity’s suppliers, like for baobab powder for instance, are small scale farmers so Lush Green helps support rural economies – in particular women from disadvantaged communities. In many cases they offer more affordable and healthier alternatives to imported food supplements.

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SEED FOR LIFE

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Alternative grain & seeds - amaranth - turmeric latte - chia

FLOWERS OF LIFE

Products - muesli

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FRUITS OF LIFE

Medical herbs and spices - moringa - artemesia - turmeric

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Carry your own personal touch.

homes

Rain Gutters:

Why are They Important?

Rain gutters are the thin troughs that run along the base of a roof. They are part of a house’s water discharge system. The build is not complete if it has not guttering. For a house to be certified complete, it needs a gutter system and one that functions properly at that.

Importance of a Gutter System Your gutters are responsible for water management. During a downpour, gutters effectively channel water flow from your roof into the downspouts, and the drainage system diverts the water to appropriate areas away from your home. That way, the siding, windows, doors, walls and the foundation are protected.

A properly installed gutter system reduces the probability of 056

What’s more, gutters can facilitate rainwater harvesting. You can simply place barrels or water tanks below the downspouts of your gutter system and the water collected can be used for nondrinking purposes. The rainwater can sustain you during water shortages.

As the leading company for gutters in Harare, Tanium Gutters only wants the best for your home. That’s why we are the leading company for quality gutters that protect your structure from water damage and leakages. You can also contact us if you want your gutters cleaned or fitted with gutters guards which prevents blockages from occurring in the first place.

Did you know clutter, butter, shutter and flutter rhyme with GUTTER, but no word rhymes with eave trough? Eave trough is a more technical terminology used for rain gutters.

PURPOSE MADE GUTTERING Supply and installation nationwide Call us for all you gutter needs. We install beautiful, durable, reliable and affordable purpose made guttering on residential, commercial and industrial buildings anywhere in Zimbabwe.

Some of our Projects Include: Beitbridge Boarder Munhumutapa Building Kadoma Textiles What you get: On top of enjoying a professional, timely and worry-free service, our customers will also get a: 20 year corrosion warranty 10 year workmanship Colours: Different types of colours to suit your design, style and taste

for more information visit our website at www.taniumgutters.co.zw EMAIL: sales@taniumgutters.co.zw

CALL: +263 242762699/ 714 387 996

VISIT: 127 Nelson Mandela, Harare

HomeTech ZW’s text by Farai Chaka

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Home Tech started operating in July 2021, brainchild of a Management Accounting graduate who used to work for one of the leaders of technological innovation in Africa, Econet Wireless. Alistair had been soaking up inspiration while at Econet Wireless so when his aging grandmother complained about how she was finding it physically taxing to even switch lights on and off, he had enough knowledge and motivation to afford his grandmother the convenience and ease of doing things she wanted. The solution was in home automation technology.

Home automation or smart home technology allows for the automation and remote control of smart household features, activities and appliances. Having your home automated means that you can easily control the utilities and features of your home via an Internet or in some instances Bluetooth connection. Every device or appliance has internet connectivity which makes automation and remote control possible.

That’s when I realised that smart home technology could also bring convenience, the ease of doings things and luxury in the homes of more people other than my grandma. It enhances our lifestyle choices.

refined 02 That is when I went on to source smart devices and appliances from smart televisions, smart cameras to smart light bulbs and coffeemakers, ultimately starting this business,” he explains.

HomeTech, “The Home of Technology” is one of a few start-ups offering this cutting-edge tech service in Zimbabwe.

With less than a year in the industry, they have become the go to experts for quality yet affordable smart lighting control, smart thermostats, smart home security, wireless cameras, doorbell cameras, door locks, smart phones, smart TVs, smart watches, smart appliances and home assistance – all smart everything. “You do not have to worry about competition when your products and services are of the highest quality and yet affordable,” says HomeTech COO, Alistair.

Their smart technology devices come with a one-year warranty and in the event that new smart home innovations get offloaded on the market, which is often, every client in their database will be informed and those open to a system upgrade will be treated to it at a discount. In addition to that, HomeTech can be contacted for maintenance and repair of the systems they have installed.

Alistair says that offering customised smart home technology solutions mean that there is a solution for everyone. “We do not work with a particular segment of the market. We have both expensive and affordable smart home devices that we get from the UK, Dubai and China. It all depends on what the customer wants.”

Two of the most talked about home technology devices that you can find at HomeTech are the smart camera, vacuum cleaner and smart locks. The smart camera gives off feed of your home or office environment in real time, with the camera sending notifications when human motion is detected.

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homes A smart lock enables the locking and unlocking of doors remotely. With the tap of a button on an app or punching of a passcode, you can remotely lock or unlock the door whether you’re at home, at work or on vacation. This is smart home technology improving home security in an unimaginable way.

The smart robot vacuum on the other hand, can be scheduled to clean tiles and rugs autonomously and can also be voice commanded to do the cleaning.

“At the moment we are in the negotiation phase with Grand Homes. We want to install smart home technologies for one of their apartment complexes. We have also worked with Flutterby Interiors who wanted smart lamps. At a voice command, this kind of lamp either switches on or off.

You can just say, “Alexa or Siri, goodnight” and the lamp turns off.”

Despite sounding upscale and expensive, smart home technology actually lowers energy consumption in your house because you can now schedule your lighting, air-conditioning, thermostats, dishwashing and vacuuming thus significantly lowering your energy and water usage bills. It is a sensible investment, one which affords you luxury and convenience and saves you money.

Apart from installing smart home technology systems, HomeTech is also into electronic products retail. With Zimbabwe starting to warm up to the idea of electric cars with a few already on our roads, HomeTech has qualified personnel to set up electric car charging stations in residencies.

Asked what the future holds for him and HomeTech, Alister is beyond optimistic. He is looking at expansion of the HomeTech brand, establishing stores in nearby countries like South Africa, Botswana and Mozambique. “We want to soar to the point of having something like 060

HomeTech SA, HomeTech Botswana and so on. One thing I have taken from my journey in tech is that nothing under the sun is impossible.”

“We also want to try our hand at e-commerce. One can now place orders with Alexa voice assistant or Google Assistant in Zimbabwe,” explains Alister. This forward-thinking does not come as a surprise coming from someone who cites Elon Musk and Steve Jobs as his prime role models.

A technology institution is also on the cards. He says that he has been looking into what goes into manufacturing these smart devices and came to the conclusion that it was not that intricate. He added that with the proper relevant training and raw materials, nothing can stop Zimbabweans for being manufacturers of these products.

Reach out to HomeTech on +263776967343 and get a quotation for your genuine yet affordable smart lighting control, smart thermostats, smart home security, wireless cameras, doorbell cameras, door locks, smart phones, smart TVs, smart watches, smart appliances and Wi-Fiextenders. You can also visit their website at: www.hometechzw.company.site to view their product catalogue.

We are here to revolutionize your lifestyle with smart home technology...

Welcoming you to a future where you can interact with your home using your voice and even your smart phone from anywhere in the world using the internet.

23 Mvumba Road Msasa Park Harare

+263776967343/ +263716162550

@hometechzw

homes

Siyadah Bathroom Solutions – Superior Products At Affordable Prices Text by Patuma Salimu, Photos by Refined

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Siyadah Bathroom Solutions specialises in the supply of premium quality bathroom sanitary ware at competitive prices. Our range of products is carefully selected to help create inspirational modern bathroom designs for all our customers who include middle income and upmarket residential owners and larger commercial projects. If you have a building project Siyadah Bathroom Solutions is the one stop solution for all your exclusive bathroom needs.

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Siyadah Bathroom Solutions is situated at Westgate Mall, Shop FC5, Fountain Court.

The business started in 2021 and is set to soon open branches in Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. Our products cover a wide range of exclusive freestanding tubs that are available in different colours and designs, drop in bath tubs, freestanding faucets, vanity sets, countertop hand basins, a variety of toilet and bidet sets including wall hung toilets, shower sets, basin mixers, mirrors, a variety of high-quality bathroom accessories and much more. We believe that a bathroom should be more than just a necessity, it’s a space to unwind, relax and recharge your batteries. At SIYADAH BATHROOM SOLUTIONS we aim to create truly beautiful bathroom experiences, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized.

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Our experienced and enthusiastic sales team is made up of people who have extensive product knowledge and are responsive to our customers’ requests helping to create a friendly shopping environment. We offer a variety of platforms to communicate with our clients on social media or other channels. We also offer an after sales service for customers so you can be confident in our products.

What makes us unique is that we are the ideal local choice for modern homes, hotels and commercial buildings.

Siyadah Bathroom Solutions constantly explores and innovates to provide innovative bathroom design schemes. We offer durable, high quality products at reasonable prices without compromising on quality and exceptional service from our highly trained staff. We also have credit terms for all our clients including for commercial projects.

Siyadah currently has a sales team of five people in Harare and several brand ambassadors have been employed in other towns across Zimbabwe. Our products can be delivered to customers in the most convenient and timely manner.

BRINGING SOLUTIONS TO YOUR BATHROOM COMPLEXITIES.

Shop FC5, Fountain Court, Westgate Mall Westgate, Harare, Zimbabwe siyadahbathroomsolutions | siyadah siyadahzw | 0780253160

+263780253161

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with the

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

In life the company you keep can more or less reveal your character. Whenever my father wanted to dissuade one of my young brothers from hanging out with certain friends he would say, “show me your friends and I will tell you your character”. The company you keep moulds your future. I would go further and say show me your competition and I will tell you about character and personality.

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The Stelvio competes with potent vehicles. A quick look at the Stelvio competition will show you that this is not your ordinary SUV. The Stelvio inherits perhaps the most important quality of any Alfa Romeo: uniquely desirable styling that stands out in the SUV crowd. It competes against one of Audi’s finest: The Q5 is a top-selling SUV in the Ingolstadt-based brand’s stable and the latest version impresses as a wellfinished product that exudes refinement.

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Interestingly it is rubbing shoulders with Bavarian all-rounder: The exterior styling of the new BMW X3 may seem too evolutionary for some tastes, but the Munichbased marque’s executive SUV has been improved in many ways. As if it is not enough, it goes toe to toe with the Sinuous feline: The F-Pace which has been reinvigorated offering a more fashionable appearance. Primarily it’s the closest to matching the power and torque of the Alfa. The Stelvio refuses to be the underdog as it goes hand in hand with the award-winner: The Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d 4Matic AMG with its prestigious image, smart interior and willing performance. It takes the fight to the full-house Lexus: The top-of-the-range NX300 F-Sport, which is very well specified and, therefore, looks awesome, but perhaps it lacks the requisite star appeal in this segment. However, this is for those people who are nostalgic about top luxury but do not want to be showy about it. The Stelvio is for those who appreciate fast paced cars with a luxury interior. They have virtuous taste about comfortable fast SUV rides.

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Of late, Zimoco had stopped importing the Alfa Romeo brand. I suspect because of pricing and demand disparities.

They must be reintroducing it into the market largely to trends on the local and world market. Their able marketing team must have done enough homework on how they will promote this beautiful brand. Competition is tough in the SUV market, a situation which requires good market research to understand how best you can meet the needs of a fussy customer who wants the best at a reasonable price.

Most customers want something that will get the town talking or noticing. A research conducted by CNBC revealed that men love their cars for 4 months while women love them for 3 years from the time they buy it.

This means funds permitting men could change cars every 4 months. It would be no surprise to find men discussing cars each time they meet. Therefore it shows their attachment to cars.

Women are mostly interested in the practicality of cars.

But men want more from a car. Majority of men see their cars and trucks as sensitive beings with unique personalities and quirks and needs. This raises a question to whether a car or truck has more than a practical purpose? Absolutely! Usually when a car-loving guy looks at a special vehicle, he’ll often see the beauty and the power before he gives any thought to concerns like fuel-efficiency or the monetary value of it.

That is when you hear men saying, “I like to listen to my car.

You can hear when the turbo clicks in – that vacuum-cleaner effect. You can just feel the giddy up effect, and the sensation of power is brilliant – you can feel it through the steering wheel and the back of the seat.” There is no doubt that the new Stelvio will become part of this conversation on golf courses, pubs, work, homes, and even churches.

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When we think of seminal products for a particular brand, the Hilux would be considered one for Toyota, the Polo Vivo one for Volkswagen, but for Alfa Romeo, the product in its current portfolio that carries the most weight is certainly its Stelvio SUV. Stelvio is definitely worth a look if you are bored of the German and British establishment. It has got style and flair in spades. Locally it is cheaper than the Jaguar F -Pace.

Styling There is no getting past the sensational exterior of the Stelvio, and despite styling being an inherently subjective matter, I am certain that there are very few who would argue that this is an achingly pretty SUV, which garners attention wherever it will go.

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Interior and space As you enter the Stelvio you will be greeted with additions in the form of on-board tech, with the Drive Assistance Pack that includes Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Assist and high-beam assist, while there are also electrically adjustable front seats, the addition of rear USB ports, a wireless charging pad and a rear cargo net.

The same 8.8-inch infotainment system does duty in the centre console, and features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is reasonably good, but lagging behind some key rivals now.

From a practicality perspective, the Stelvio offers a healthy 525-litres of boot space, which extends to 1 600-litres with the rear seats folded flat, while the rear occupant space is good for the segment. For those looking to tow, there’s a 2 300kg limit, but l shudder to think of what the fuel returns would be like.

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Performance Powering the Stelvio is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 206kW and 400Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed ZFsourced torque converter automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels. Performance is more than adequate, with the 0-100km/h sprint time being dispatched in 5.7 seconds and the top speed pegged at 230km/h.

Weighing in at 1 660kg, the Stelvio is lighter than key rivals, which may explain why it feels as sprightly as it does when changing direction.

I am told the driving experience on offer from the Stelvio is surprisingly sporty when “D’ is selected on the DNA driving mode selector. It has an incredibly direct steering response and handling characteristics that make it genuinely fun to drive, which some may see as entirely pointless in an SUV, while others consider it an endearing characteristic. Leave the vehicle in its default “N” driving mode and it goes about its business in a rather fuss-free manner, offering the expected refinement, comfort and occupant satisfaction one anticipates from a car at this price point. I cannot wait to get my test drive soon from Manfred Chaniwa, the ZIMOCO Business Development Manager.

Safety The Stelvio range was crash-tested by the ANCAP assessment programme in 2017, where it achieved the maximum 5-Star rating. The rating includes 97% for adult occupant safety, 84% for child occupant safety, 71% for pedestrian safety and 60% for its safety assistance systems.

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Fuel economy The Stelvio’s perceived Achilles’ heel is its fuel consumption, which Alfa Romeo claim a fuel consumption figure of 7.0 L/100km. However, the target market for these cars is not the person who will be checking the fuel gauge every minute.

Pricing The Stelvio retails for US$110 000.00 and comes pretty much fully specified. The model comes with a 3-year/100 000km warranty. Contact Zimoco for a test drive. By the way test drives are free.

Verdict It’s one vehicle you will enjoy hoping into. I loved the sound it makes when you hit the ignition button. Its looks are mesmerizing, which is important when shopping for a premium performance SUV.

Power Max: 206 Kw Power Max rpm: 5250 r/min Torque Max: 400 Nm Torque Max rpm: 2250 r/min Engine Size: 2.0 l Cylinders: 4 Fuel Type: Petrol Engine Position / Location: Front Transmission type: Automatic Gear ratios quantity: 8 Gearshift: Automatic 0-100Kph: 5.7 s Top speed: 230 Km/h Gear shift paddles: yes All-wheel-drive: yes Turbocharger: yes andrew@muzamhindo.com

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