Refined Magazine ZW Issue 3

Editor’s Letter

Celebrating

the exciting season of the year, which is summer, we are thrilled to be issuing our bright and colourful third edition.

We believe you will love the fresh look and feel of our print and digital editions that make our content easier to explore and engage.

This issue features an assorted, power-packed bunch of stories. One of these is our own continued breast cancer awareness initiative. We are sending strength and hope to all breast cancer patients and survivors. Read about the experiences of two brave women living with breast cancer. We will continue pushing and promoting regular screening and the popular hashtag #pinkoctober all year round.

Realising that there is a new love for décor, with many appreciating and valuing their spaces, we featured Citrine Interiors, a leading brand making waves in the Zimbabwean interior design sector. Another trendsetter is deClutter, who define a very neat, clutter free cosy home or office.

From caring for your home we tackle hydration and have healthy eating all summer tips

for those who love and care for their bodies. To those who follow grooming issues, Gentleman’s Corner is a must visit barbering outlet that has since made inroads among the rich and famous of Harare.

2022 has given us the freedom we longed for during lockdown and we are progressing towards reconnecting to our usual normal routines, that include, travelling, attending events and most of all shopping- the refined aspect of life coated with style and class.

We continue to look forward to redefining lifestyle and hope to keep inspiring you with leading, edgy interior designs, trendy fashion and promise to keep an attentive eye on the most coveted lifestyle products and services in Zimbabwe.

We are proud of the exclusivity of our brand and appreciate our classy partners that range from legendary chefs, décor specialists and talented trendsetters who allow us to share their stories with you.

We hope you will like this edition; it is super exciting so, read, enjoy and be Refined!

ISSUE 3 2022

Citrine Interiors

Comfort & Elegance

Citrine is an exquisite gem stone which ranges in colour from a bright sunny yellow to more mellow amber, orange and brown. It’s the birth stone of people born in November – like its owner of Citrine Designs, Rachael Kapasura. It also reputed to stimulate creativity and imagination so it’s a doubly appropriate name for this new design consultancy service.

text by Michael Nott photos by Derrick Manyika & Fotohaus

Citrine is happy to work with customers to create their own unique design plans and are comfortable with home site visits to draw up plans.

The furniture is handmade at their factory in Willowvale and each piece is a unique, one-off creation.

Citrine started out in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, but became fully established in 2021. It initially started out as bit of a hobby for Rachael when business was slow during the lockdown. It was difficult to find exactly the right furniture for her own home so Rachael began her furniture and design journey, creating furniture solutions for herself. She started out designing interiors for friends who were impressed by her designs for her home and the business grew from there. During the pandemic lockdown there were few opportunities to import furniture so it made sense to start manufacturing locally – in addition the prices for locally made furniture were competitive and clients could have more input about the style and finishes.

Citrine design and manufacture bespoke furniture – mostly chairs and sofas, but other furniture too – to suit their clients’ individual design schemes and to fit exactly in to the required space allocation. Customers can liaise with Rachael to work out the exact size, shape, design and fabric finish that they dream about – and Citrine can accommodate all their wishes, and more.

Customers can bring in their own inspiration from magazine pictures or sketches and Rachael can work on their ideas or supply her own design ideas and suggestions. Citrine can make site visits to measure up, make suggestions and come up with an integrated design scheme. Citrine offers a full turn-key service that includes paint colours, furniture, layout, lighting and all the other details like lighting, flooring and accessories.

Furniture is handmade at their factory in Willowvale and each piece is a unique, one off creation. They have a team of experienced carpenters, upholsterers and manufacturers to create your perfect furniture pieces just for you. Initially starting out as a service for reupholstery and renovations for existing furniture they have now moved on to creating and manufacturing their own unique designs. Customers can supply their own fabric or select from Citrine’s range of fabrics, largely from the internationally recognised Hertex range, although other ranges are available too as per customers’ requests. They can also facilitate the import of furniture for customers from other international destinations like South Africa and Turkey and the Middle East.

Citrine offer a full turn-key design plan including a colour consultation for walls, custom made furniture and accessories. They also offer a project management service for new décor projects which includes designing for subcontractors and overseeing their services. They work with Pride of Africa for flooring solutions and can oversee the supply of curtains, curtain rods, blinds and other soft furnishings down

Citrine’s design style is mainly modern contemporary, yet they are still flexible enough to cater for any design style.

Citrine can make site visits to measure up, make suggestions and come up with an integrated design scheme

to the smallest detail. Citrine also works closely with Prime World, Ecolighting and other suppliers for a lighting scheme that can include your home as well as your outdoor and entertainment spaces.

Citrine can usually supply up to three drawings and renders for their interior design schemes which customers can choose from or select individual design plans which they’re comfortable with.

Citrine is happy to work with customers to create their own unique design plans and are comfortable with home site visits to draw up plans. So whether you’re renovating a single room or designing a whole new home Citrine has the design scheme to s uit your needs.

They have a fabulous showroom at 17 Phillips Avenue in Belgravia where you can see some of their bespoke furniture and complete interior design schemes. It’s well worth a visit. Rachael tends to favour quite moody and intense design schemes, thanks to her experience as a colour consultant for a leading paint supplier and many years of experience in the interior design field.

Citrine’s design style is mainly modern contemporary, yet they are still flexible enough to cater for any design style.

Rachael’s personal favourite style is Wabi Sabi - a Japanese concept embracing the art of finding beauty within the imperfections of life. It celebrates cracks, crevices, and all the other marks that time, weather and love leave behind.

PRIME WORLD SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES NEW BRANCH IN VICTORIA FALLS

text by Farai Chaka photos by Refined Magazine additional photos by Prime World

PrimeWorld made quite an impression when they officially opened their Victoria Falls outlet on 22 August. They opened their new store at a glorious event attended by the who’s who of the Victoria Falls community and beyond. This is Prime World’s fourth store in Zimbabwe having established two of them in Harare and one in Bulawayo prior. The Victoria Falls community is being treated to a range of products that are unique, deluxe, worth their value. and created using the latest designs and technology. Moreover, most of these products are imported from reputable European and Far Eastern based manufacturers which explains the elegant and quality products Prime World stocks.

Where quality & elegance meet.

Three Monkeys Restaurant and The River Brewing Co. handled the catering, having ready food and beverages for those in attendance as they immersed themselves in the grandeur of the new showroom with its variety of lighting products hanging from the rafters. The Prime World sales consultants, all of whom boast superior knowledge of the source, workings, warranty and durability of Prime World products were available to take the inquisitive on a tour.

Prime World is a privately owned company which offers the most premium of lighting products, solar power components, furniture pieces, tools and flooring solutions be it for residential, commercial or industrial purposes. The expansion drive truly started when they decided to rebrand from Lighting World to Prime World, a process which saw them bringing into their product range fold, furniture, power tools, solar power components, electricals and also flooring solutions. They

went from being exclusively known for their grand looking lighting products to offering other products which are just as important when it comes to infrastructure development, home or office improvement.

To have a variety of products at their disposal, Prime World imports from manufacturing companies in Europe and the Far East with whom Prime World has established deep trading relations with. However, they also manufacture some of their products for instance the Liege range of carpets, the Hilti range of power tools and also the household furniture.

Prime World’s lighting product range is very diverse. Their flagship showroom in Msasa alone has over 1500 different types of lighting products and accessories. They are distributors of Fumagalli, Schneider, Eglo, Luxram and Bree lighting products. The have pendant lights, down

lights, floor and wall lights perfect for general, area or task lighting. These kinds of lights could liven up every space in your house from the kitchen to the bathroom and the best thing is part is that they are both sustainable and energy efficient.

Also in the showroom were impeccable flooring solutions guaranteed to give whichever room or office some expensive character. Prime World mainly retails Traviata and Liege flooring solutions. Traviata vinyl flooring solutions are known for their being easy to install, clean and maintain, resilient waterproof, comparatively affordable and suitable for any kind of décor or environment whether it is for residential purposes or commercial. The carpets and rugs are from Liege, a Belgian luxury brand offering bespoke high-end flooring options and the quality of the offerings will leave your environment feeling as stylish, comfortable than ever.

The Victoria Falls branch also heavily stocks solar power components and electrical products. For these, Prime World rely on manufacturing companies of which they are agents of like PylonTech, Victron Energy, Solskin, Freedonwon, Must, Fronius and Blue Nova. Prime World is also into furniture manufacturing. They sell expertly designed lounge suites, ottomans, chairs, chaise benches, wine racks, dining sets and daybeds. Suppose you fail to find the exact furniture piece you desire; they would be glad to have those custom made for you.

Prime World Victoria Falls is located at 267A Adam Stander Drive and is open for trading from 8AM – 5PM Mondays to Fridays and from 8AM – 1PM on Saturdays. Be sure to visit their store “Where quality and Elegance meet.”

he furniture in your workplace is very important and it needs to be modern to meet up with morden day trends

The Zorra Set is more modern and it’s a collection that consists of four items which are the office desk, small round table, big round table and the console table Here are some of the Advantages why you must purchase your own set at Maori Furniture

It provides first good impression to your Guest.

If your place of work has frequent visitors, it is very important that your office furniture provides them with a good first impression about your business The Zorra set is eye catching and unique. When guests arrive at your workplace, perhaps for a meeting or an interview, providing them with a comfortable and st ylish office furniture that is on brand can help to create a good first impression.

Provide Your Employees with a comfortable working environment.

Creating a comfortable working environment is very important Your employees will be spending a significant amount of time in the workplace, and you want them to be able complete their tasks in the most comfortable and productive way possible The Zorra office furniture isn't just about comfort; it's also a great way to boost productivity in the office. With a modern office desk, you can give your employees the option to customise their workspace and storage space. Some employees benefit from sticky notes in a cubicle whereas some may prefer a less cluttered desk with things stored away.

Zorra set is customisable.

Modern office furniture doesn't always have to look contemporary. If your business has a more traditional brand image, you could opt for office furniture to match your brand, yet still provide many benefits of modern office furniture. You can bring your office to light by decorating your Zorra Console Tablewith lamps, flowers, decorative pieces and artwork.

From our Zorra set it is customisable according to Clients’ preferences You might choose any colour of the set that suit with your office space or logo The advantage of having a customisable Zorra Set, it gives the client to have addition or subtractions on what they want their Zorra Set to be like You are not limited on having four set of this item you can still add more furniture for instance Zorra Cabinetry or Zorra Nesting table. It only depends on your preferences.

Budget friendly ideas to make the home cozy and warm

By Joyline Zindaga

WINTER

COMES AND GOES BUT THE COLD COMES THROUGH OCCASIONALLY WHEN IT’S WINDY OR RAINING. THE ESSENCE IS TO MAKE THE HOME AS COZY AND WARM AS POSSIBLE, IN A BUDGET FRIENDLY WAY. PUTTING AN EXTRA THOUGHT INTO YOUR HOME DÉCOR CAN MAKE IT FEEL WARMER AND MORE INVITING. IMAGINE THAT COLD WINTER NIGHT BY THE FIREPLACE!!!! THAT’S THE COZY, FUZZ FEELING WE ARE GOING FOR.

Joyline Zindaga has over 10 years experience in the paint manufacturing industry and is well versed in decorative paints. She has a passion for interior decor.

1. Choose warm paint colours

Colour psychology denotes that colours close to the red spectrum are warmer ie. red, orange and yellow. These warm colors evoke emotions ranging from feelings of warmth and comfort. The key here is to avoid cool colours like blue, purple and green. W cannot always be painting hence an accent wall /feature wall can be your saving grace ie. Painting the focus wall of a room with the warm colour of choice.

2. Use softer lighting

Change your light bulbs to warm light. You can always use the cool light in summer. Lighting is a necessary part of any good decor plan because it provides an overall glow to a room. In addition to setting the tone for the space, warm lighting creates enough light for you to see and move around comfortably and safely. It creates that intimate atmosphere we are going for.

Add Lamp, Fairy lights or Candles

Soft lighting can be created with the aid of lamps, fairy lights or candles. With electricity challenges, candles have become a part of our lives so why not take the opportunity and get scented ones to create the magical ambience with their enchanting flickering glow! Adding fairy lights will brighten any space and make it look warm and welcoming.

Let’s take a look at some simple decorating tips that will help you achieve a really cozy feeling in your home!

4. Hang heavier curtains

Swap out the summer sheers for curtains in a thicker fabric. These keep out the sultry winds but gives an elegance to the space. Darker colours and patterns add the extra oomph!! to create warmth and comfort in the living areas.

3. Add wood

Wooden cladding on one wall is an ultra-modern way to add style and character to your interior and is considerably strong. Aesthetically, wooden has so many styles available. It is very versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. One of the most notable advantages of timber cladding is, of course, it’s environmentally friendly nature. As a renewable, sustainable and recyclable material, wood has become a staple for eco-homes across the world. Wood adds to the coziness of a space and this can be in its natural colour or you can add a varnish stain to it. Bringing in some of the outdoors in with decorating ideas pulled straight from nature, is a very economical way to change a space. Incorporate wood furniture and accents or plants can create a relaxing feeling.

5. Add simple things

Smaller details can make the home inviting and cozy. Elements and accessories enhance the warmth and it can be fun deciding what to put where in what form.

Add quilts to the bed

Not only are they warm, but most of them are in pattern which gives a warm and fuzzy feeling by just watching the patterns. Pile a few across your bed for extra warmth or just use them as decor.

Add a rug on the kitchen floor to keep feet warm when cooking or doing the dishes

6. Design in layers

When you’re cold and you add an extra pair of sock or jacket to your outfit can make a difference. The same difference can be felt in your home when you add rugs, throws and accessories. Remember this is to add extra warmth so be careful of creating clutter. Textiles, accessories and art featuring hues like rusty red, burnt orange, mustard yellow and olive green make gorgeous additions in the form of cushions. Be sure to balance them out with plenty of warm white to avoid a heavy look.

Add a throw blanket

Place throws over sofas, chairs, benches and beds to snuggle in when you are relaxing.. Choose blankets in seasonal patterns and colors for an accent that’s easy to swap out throughout the year.

Add layers to the bed

Switch your lightweight summertime sheets for warmer fabrics, like flannel or fleece. Cotton sheets made of cotton sheets tend to hold the cold air, but flannel sheets are the perfect option for winter because they don’t hold cold air, so you feel happy getting into bed every night! They also keep you super warm during the night. If you are fortunate to have electric blankets, those cold nights will be a thing of the past. You can pile on additional pillows or drape a decorative throw in a colour or pattern across the foot of the bed.

Bonus tip - Prep a spot for reading

Create an alternative way to spend your time by feathering a comfortable space where you can curl up with a favorite book, glossy magazine or your tablet. Add pillows, a throw and some books and a hot cup of coffee.

Decluttering is Self-Care

text by Tanyaradzwa Marabada

DeClutter Zimbabwe is slowly and surely helping many homes and offices declutter, one space at a time. After opening two shops in Newlands and Westgate, DeClutter will launch their third shop in the heart of Harare at the prestigious Village Walk, just in time for Christmas shopping, on November 20th. DeClutter is the first ever internationally accredited professional organisers’ company in Harare. The business started operating in July 2021 and has made such a great impact one year later.

The DeClutter story was conceptualised during the Covid pandemic. It was at the time when everyone was stuck at home and all daily schedules were thrown out of balance. This is when the founder Cleopatra Makoni, who’s also referred to as Minimalist-in-Chief, started working on spring cleaning her home. She discovered that for spring cleaning to be successful one needs to declutter first; editing out all items and objects in every room, deciding on what to keep, what to donate and what to get rid of because the less you own the easier it is to clean and the less things you have the more beautiful the place becomes hence the birth of the title Minimalistin-Chief.

So, one room at a time, she started decluttering and just like that, a job that usually took her at least two and half weeks to complete took her only 7 days to finish and it was at this point that she had a light-bulb moment realising that no one was offering this service . She then started developing this concept thinking about what it is that would help people sort out their houses in the best way possible, reducing clutter and looking into functionality. In that moment Declutter Zimbabwe was born to create beautiful spaces.

Thinking about decluttering your space, either the home or office, always feels like hiring yourself to do a job without a salary. However, it is important to see it through the lens of the many benefits it can bring to your life. It is the highest level of attracting healthy energy for everyone around you. A cluttered home can cause a lot of stress and makes the everyday chores in a home or office a mammoth task. Your brain will be mentally processing all the mess, making it difficult to wind down and settle your mind. Decluttering spaces is very productive, like Benjamin Franklin said “for every minute spent on organising, an hour is earned.” Some of the benefits extracted from decluttering are boosting productivity and creativity, discovering lost treasures, making spaces easier to manage, clean and tidy.

Cleopatra Makoni has grown the brand over the year and attributes her success to her employees that are reproducing her ideas to suit every client and keep the business going.

“We pride ourselves in offering unmatched consultancy in contemporary professional organisation services and space creation. We extend our client services to interior decor and refurbishment tailor-made to suit client needs, budget and style. We have successfully transformed numerous homes, offices, pantries, closets, bathrooms, garages and laundry rooms and built a very strong “brand” in just one year. We recently opened another much bigger and better branch in Westgate Mall at a very colourful and successful launch on the 20th of August 2022. We are in the process of renovating and setting up our third store which will be located at the Village Walk in Borrowdale,”

DeClutter is encouraging people to live and work in clean spaces as there are a number of benefits that come with being in organised spaces. As a business that has been working on multiple projects and sellers of storage solutions the experience gathered can really go a long way in educating people. DeClutter is on a drive to achieve a world that lives in minimalistic, organised spaces.

Some of the things you will find in the DeClutter Zimbabwe store include storage boxes, lunch boxes, standing towel stands, dry food storage containers, spice racks, wine bottle holders, canisters, cotton bud holders, wire magazine holders, baskets and some props for decorating like flower pots, vases,

decorative mirrors just to mention a few.

Cleopatra had this to say about an uncluttered home, “Having a simplified, uncluttered home or office is a form of self-care. Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. Decluttering helps with increasing the functionality of your spaces. Imagine a junk free space, where everything you use is within reach; a world where you do not have to turn the room upside down looking for a single item. You spend less time treasure hunting and more time being productive. Decluttering enhances efficiency, boosts productivity, thereby allowing our clients to channel more energy towards their individual talents, careers and hobbies.”

DeClutter Services

• Do it Yourself (DIY) Storage Solutions Package

We offer products in store that help you organise your spaces from pantries and closets all the way to your office. We offer tailor-made world-class space solutions for your DIY projects. We offer products to reduce excessive clutter (paper, books, clothing, shoes, office supplies, home decor items, food stuff, bathroom accessories etc.) in the home or in the office.

• Fix and Supply Organising Package

We consult, recommend, create and maintain organisational systems by organising clients’ pantries, closets, bathrooms and offices and teaching clients the basic principles of organisation. We also offer maintenance services.

• Home or Office Moving Services

We assist in relocations and we oversee the entire moving process. We offer preparation, packing, unpacking and organising sevices. In an office setting, as DeClutter we work closely with our clients to increase productivity by stream-lining paper-filing, electronic organisation, and employee time-management.

• Gift Registry Package

We assist our clients in communicating their desired gifts to their wedding guests. Services also extend to Baby and Bridal Showers.

Decluttering your home or office needs you to be tough on yourself. Identify all items you regularly use and all items you don’t use. Set up three boxes - to keep, to donate and to throw away and use them accordingly. Declutter according to functionality rather than emotional attachments. And remember it is a process that should be done in stages, so don’t overwhelm yourself. Hire the best professionals in the country to help you through it, DeClutter Zimbabwe.

Healthy Eating All Summer

Text by Tanyaradzwa Marabada

Eating

healthy in summer is a great plan that will protect you from dehydration, weariness and constant headaches. These problems can be reduced by emphasizing the need to eat healthily during the hottest season on the calendar. A healthy diet in summer incorporates foods that promote a cooling effect or promote hydration. There is no need to settle for boring meals when you want to enjoy a healthy summer. Just know the right foods to incorporate and enjoy the summer on a full stomach.

Nutritionists advise people to include vegetables, colourful fruits and herbs in summer. Foods that are high in vitamins, water and lean protein such as tomatoes, watermelon, zucchini, oranges, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, butternut

squash, berries, coconut water, smoothies, iced tea, fish and chicken should be your favourites in this season. Summer creates a lot of heat in the body leading to bloating and acidity but the right foods will help with hydrating the body, repairing the skin when damaged by heat, boosting the immune system and also help with seasonal allergies.

In a conversation with Chef Shawn Kasukuwere, he concurred with the notion that vegetables, fruits and cold beverages are the healthiest for summer. Here is his idea of what a summer three course meal should have. “This summer you need foods that are nourishing and refreshing and salads are an excellent option for starters. Some examples will be butternut salad, beetroot salad, green salad, and prawn cocktails just to mention a few. For the main course you want to prepare

foods that are cheeky like peri peri chicken and salsa, peri peri beef and bean salad even some hot spicy ribs. These encourage the drinking of beverages which is what people want to stay hydrated in summer, For dessert, I encourage cold desserts with examples including sorbets, panna cottas, ice cream, mousses and fruit salads.” .

The chef advised people to stay away from sodas, as too much carbonated beverages can be harmful to the body. During summer it is more nutritious to drink fruit juice, water and smoothies.

It is also important to note that Vitamin B and glucose are essential in summer because of the energy capacity they carry. Heat tends to get people exhausted so energy giving foods are a plus to carry you through the day.

Summer Healthy eating tips

1. Eat more fruits and veggies. They are many colourful fruits and vegetables to keep you healthy and full with every meal.

2. Add more greens and replace fried chicken with grilled chicken and creamy ranch dressing with light vinaigrette.

3. Always avoid overeating. There is nothing more tempting than eating as much as you want during the summer season. Don’t forget to keep everything in moderation. If you must snack choose fresh fruits and vegetables over chips and desserts.

4. Keep temptation at bay. If your environment encourages healthy eating habits, you’ll be one step closer to your goals, whether you’re trying to lose weight or get in shape. Replace high-fat foods in your cabinets with fruits, nuts and other healthy snacks.

Butternut Salad

This summer you need foods that are nourishing and refreshing...

For the tahini dressing

1. Toast sesame seeds.

2. In a food processor combine toasted sesame seeds, Dijon mustard, honey, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper and blend.

The

Chef Shawn’s way serving 5 people

Ingredients

1 head lettuce

250 grams cherry tomatoes/ Romania tomatoes

1 English cucumber

1 whole butternut 200g feta cheese

For the dressing

150 g toasted sesame seeds 200 ml olive oil 50g Dijon mustard 120 ml red wine vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste 2 tsp of honey

Methodology

1) Wash all the vegetables.

2) Peel butternut and cut into 3-5 cm cubes drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper and place in a baking tray and bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes.

3) Shred lettuce and place in the fridge.

4) Cut cherry tomatoes in halves.

5) Slice the cucumber into strips

For the plating

Assemble or construct your salad putting a colour factor into consideration and add your feta cheese, garnish with rocket leaves and serve with dressing on the side or drizzle the dressing on top of the salad.

Taking care of your health should be a priority especially in summer.

Get Into The Habit Of Drinking Enough Water This Summer

text by Martin Chemhere

Re-hydration is described as “the process of restoring lost water (dehydration) to the body tissues and fluids”. It is the process of retaining the recommended amount of water for the functioning of the body. This emphasizes the fact that water plays a significant role in human beings having healthy bodies.

The need for rehydration is more prevalent during the summer (between September and April in Zimbabwe) when it’s common to experience temperatures running into the high 30s or even low 40s. Under such excessive heat we need to rehydrate our bodies. Rehydration works to re-energize the body after it has lost most of its fluids. Some causes of dehydration include diarrhea, exposure to high temperatures and a lack of drinking water. A dehydrated body can lead to serious situations like near-death experiences or actual loss of life. We need to be aware of the importance of this subject.

It is heartening, however, to know that Zimbabweans are treating the issue of rehydration seriously. The country has begun to experience high temperatures making more people take more water daily. A casual walk in a city like Harare or Bulawayo can show that bottled or purified water is now a more common commodity. Often, people ignore the need to rehydrate until it’s too late or when they start feeling something is wrong with their bodies. Everyone should be drinking at least 2 litres of water every day and even more in summer.

Following the correct hydration procedures is central to having a healthy body, and so staying hydrated can be guaranteed by enjoying water-rich foods such as watermelon (92% water content), strawberries (91%), peaches (89%), oranges (88%), skim milk (91%), cucumber (95%), lettuce (96%), broths and soups (92%), celery (95%), plain yogurt (88%), tomatoes (94%), cauliflower (92%), cabbage (92), grapefruit (88%), coconut water (95 %) and cottage cheese (80%).

It is easy to tell if one is dehydrated. The tell-tell signs can be tiredness, dry mouth, feeling thirsty and lightheaded, passing urine after intervals longer than usual and having dark coloured, strong-smelling urine. Health experts say that dehydration can lead to fatigue, skin problems, muscle cramps, a rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure and headaches for people who ignore drinking enough water daily. Human beings drink water to keep organs functioning properly, regulate body temperature, deliver nutrients to cells, keep joints lubricated and prevent infections. They also benefit from improved sleep quality.

To prove that water is critical for our bodies, science has recorded that an infant’s body weight comprises 75% of water, while in adults, it is 55 %. Based on this fact it’s important to know that water is essential for the survival of our bodies. This means each cell, tissue, and organ in the body cannot function properly without water.

Dehydration is synonymous with hot weather conditions and does not discriminate based on age, gender or race. A major topic globally, recent data (Pan African Medical Journal, 2020) shows that it accounts for the deaths connected to diarrhea of an estimated 760, 000 children in less developed countries. In the USA, one of the best-developed countries in the world, about 75% of adults have experienced extreme dehydration. They give reasons like being too busy, forgetting and failing to track daily drinking plans. Failing to adhere to a recommended daily water intake routine may lead to hypertonic dehydration (severe dehydration).

Electrolytes are another important body requirement and when these elements are mixed with water they have a natural positive or negative electrical effect. Their role is to make the body control chemical reactions and stabilise fluids inside and outside your cells, among other things.

Electrolytes come in 5 main types such as sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Coconut water or juice (the clear liquid contained in a coconut), milk, watermelon water, electrolyte infused water, electrolyte tablets, sports drinks and smoothies, are some of the healthy beverages rich in electrolytes. What one eats or drinks gives the body electrolytes and these make it possible for chemical reactions during hydration and the balancing of fluids in and outside the cells.

If you are not drinking enough water daily the above information should be enough to change your habit and bring out the best individual health champion in you today.

An infant’s body weight comprises 75% of water, while in adults, it is 55 %

Dehydration accounts for the deaths connected to diarrhea of an estimated 760, 000 children in less developed countries

Breast Cancer:

You are never too young to be aware

text by Tanyaradzwa Marabada

Chipo

Mugiya first noticed a lump in her breast when she was only 16 years old and living in Epworth. She found solace in the lump’s painless effects. What could possibly go wrong, she thought? It was just a lump.

“I had a lump in my right breast when I was a young girl. Since I was pain-free I never felt the need to visit a hospital. Years went by and I could still feel it but it remained the same size and didn’t bother me at all. After 9 years and the birth of two children the lump began to bother me,” she said.

“As the skin around the breast began to slough off the breast began to enlarge. The pain was unbearable and shortly after the breast began leaking yellowish particles. At that point, I started looking for medical attention, had a scan, and was diagnosed with breast cancer.”

The sort of breast cancer Chipo was diagnosed with is Ductal Carcinoma which is the common type. This has abnormal cells forming inside the milk duct in the breasts and is curable through breast cancer surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy.

Breast cancer is a malignant growth that develops in the breasts, according to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe. It comes from breast tissue and is located in the lobules that feed the milk ducts or the inner lining of the ducts. Due to the fact that occurrences of this type of cancer have been increasing over time and the ages of those afflicted it is crucial for women to undergo routine breast cancer screenings. Young women are developing breast cancer and most cases are discovered too late decreasing their chances of survival.

The signs of this type of cancer are a lump in breast, swelling of the breasts, breast pain, skin irritations and discharge from the nipple. It is important to detect it early for better results.

Breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in Zimbabwe with 1848 people reporting having the disease according to a World Health Organization study from 2020. 8,7 percent of the cases died of the disease in 2020. The sooner Chipo had been screened the quicker the cancer cells could have been removed said medical authorities.

“As people are spreading the word on breast cancer awareness I have also been sharing my story with hope to get help and also tell my fellow women to be screened regularly and that there is hope when you contract this type of cancer,” Chipo said.

It is also important to work on what you eat as you await treatment.

“I have been watching what I eat over the years and it really relieves me from the pain sometimes, lots of water and fruits are what keeps me going,” Chipo told Refined. Chipo is a fighter and many people are rallying behind her giving hope for her to survive this disease.

Preaching early detection is the major objective as October is breast cancer awareness month. Treatment for breast cancer is quite successful when it has been discovered early. This is the account of Susan, a woman in her early 60s, who describes how she overcame breast cancer. Susan, who battled breast cancer at the age of 45, said, “ . My doctor encouraged me to read widely and said I could defeat it. I was terrified of the breast cancer surgery and the excruciating agony. How could I live with only one breast?”

“After the doctor cleared me, I stayed in my house. My small business suffered due to my absence; I was not looking forward to questions about the abnormality of my breast. I did not want to tell the tale of my suffering. Eventually I started accepting and this has given me a voice to

help other women going through breast cancer.”

“My experience taught me the importance of breast cancer screening regularly as this was the reason for my success story - early detection. I started going through treatment and two years after I was still battling with fatigue but watching my diet and exercising worked for me,” she said.

Susan and Chipo’s stories give hope and educate women to look out for breast cancer.

Cancer Association of Zimbabwe – a charitable organization which was started in 1961, outlined the preventative measures people can take and tips on selfexamination.

• Eat healthily concentrating on whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, poultry and fish will go a long way in keeping the body away from breast cancer.

• It is also important to exercise regularly for more than 30 minutes.

• Alcohol intake must be reduced, while tobacco smoking, snorting or chewing are to be avoided at all cost. Also avoid chemical exposure such as pesticides.

• Managing stress effectively is another important aspect in the prevention of breast cancer as well as other cancers. Getting involved in relaxation classes and stress management techniques is one way of achieving this.

• Breast feeding is a protective factor- this is a common practice in Zimbabwe and must be encouraged.

Self-examination

• You should examine your breasts monthly from the age of eighteen years onward. The best way to do this is while standing up looking into the mirror.

• Stand before the mirror, inspect both breasts for any unusual discharge, dimpling, scaling or puckering of the skin.

• Watching in the mirror, clasp your hands behind head and press your head against your hands. This helps to identify any changes in the shape or size as the muscles contract.

• Press your hands on your hips and bend towards the front or of the mirror while pulling your shoulders and elbows forward. The pulling of muscles helps to identify any abnormalities on the breasts.

Let us spread the word on breasts cancer and be a sister’s keeper.

My experience taught me the importance of breast cancer screening regularly as this was the reason for my success story

BACK TO EARTH IS AN INDIE NATURAL SKINCARE BRAND WITH A RANGE OF BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR WOMEN (AND MEN) WHICH PRODUCTS ARE FREE FROM SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES, DYES OR CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS.

WE HAD A CHAT WITH THE OWNER OF THE BACK TO EARTH BRAND WHO IS ALSO THE ONE WHO FORMULATES THESE BEAUTY PRODUCTS, BY HAND BY THE WAY, CINDY MOMMSEN, AND SHE TELLS US ABOUT HER BRAND, FORMULATION PROCESS, RANGE OF PRODUCTS, VISION AND MORE.

with Cindy Mommsen, of Back To Earth Natural Skincare

RM: Why did your call your brand Back To Earth?

CM: The name suggests a back to basics approach I employ in the process of making these beauty products. All natural ingredients and handmade products.

making of the products to the marketing and retail side of things.

RM: Is there a difference between organic skin care products and natural skin care products?

CM: Broadly speaking, as per some certification bodies, the products labelled natural should have: Ingredients that come from plants, flowers and mineral whose origins found in nature, no genetically modified (GMOs) ingredients, no parabens, sulfates or other harmful substances, no petrochemical ingredients, must have Ecocert or Cosmos approved preservatives & ingredients and above all the manufacturing process is such that it retains the integrity of the natural ingredients.

RM: When did you start this business and what prompted you to get into skincare?

CM: I started fiddling with the making of natural skincare products somewhere around 2016 and the decision was brought about by the fact I could see that more and more products (synthetic) on the market that had undesirable ingredients in them which could cause deeper problems on the skin in the long run. So, I decided to take it upon myself to formulate my own skincare products using natural ingredients and Ecocert approved preservatives, which products and manufacturing processes are not harmful to humans or the environment in any way.

RM: Sustainability must be very important to you.

CM: Absolutely. It is very important to me and is among my guiding ethos. You can also see that in my using zero waste packaging and eco-friendly glass bottles as much as possible.

RM: Do you have a background in cosmetics or something like that perhaps?

CM: I have completed 3 online courses with Formula Botanica – a renowned online school run from the UK which has been curating awardwinning organic formulation and business courses for years now. I have a Certificate in Facial Masque Therapy, Diploma in Organic Skincare Formulation and an Advanced Diploma in Organic Cosmetic Science.

“Organic” on the other hand strictly refers to products with ingredients extracted from plants that are farmed without the usage of pesticides, chemicals or artificial fertilizers and just like the natural products, the ingredients are non-GMO.

Certification is required to place the ‘organic’ or ‘natural’ label on products.

RM: How many people do you employ currently?

CM: None – I handle everything myself from the

RM: You will find that most skin care products being marketed as natural are not really natural because their ingredients and the formulation process tell another story. In what ways are your products 100% natural?

CM: My products are handmade, completely natural and I use Ecocert and Cosmos approved preservatives. The ingredients I use are thoroughly researched and wherever possible these are natural.

RM: Where do you get your ingredients from?

CM: Zimbabwe, South Africa & India

RM: Can you share with us the work that goes into making some of these products.

CM: I have my own distiller pot and formulate my own hydrosols where I can. For instance, I make a hydrosol from fresh turmeric (organically grown no chemicals) that I then put into my turmeric and neem cream. This cream is especially made for people with itchy skin problems. I also make an apple hydrosol which gently remove dead skin cells and has a soothing effect on the skin. I also macerate my own oils. This is how I would make a maceration for one of my face balms: -

I decided to take it upon myself to formulate my own skincare products using natural ingredients and Ecocert approved preservatives

• A blend of cold pressed deeply nourishing oils which includes Kalahari Melon, Baobab, Marula Nut, Ximenia, Grape seed & Mongongo and Tocopherol (Vitamin E Oil). For the next 30 days this blend of oils is then infused with botanicals using the natural heat of the sun to gently heat & extract the plant properties of Oatstraw for soothing, Bearberry to even skin tone, Lavender flowers for their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, Calendula for healing and soothing & Comfrey for its ability to boost the growth of new skin cells.

RM: What is your product range looking like?

CM: I make only 3 soaps as I like making only soaps that have a specific purpose for example Charcoal soap for treating acne, Turmeric and Neem for itchy skin (can help with eczema as well), Goat milk – a classic soap for all types of sensitive skins. I also make the old-fashioned shaving soaps (vintage shaving) and I therefore import the razors and brushes to sell along with these.

Body

Conditioners - Blonde Hair Conditioner, Dry Hair Conditioner, Normal Hair Conditioner

Face Balms - Black Cuminseed Face Balm, Raspberry & Neroli Face Cream, Apple & Aloe Face Cream, Seaberry Buckthorn Face Cream

Lip Balms- Rose Cleanser, Rose Toner, Rose Day Cream, Rose Extra Hydration Night Cream, Rose Extra Hydration Night Balm, Rose Face Mist, Shampoos - Blonde Hair Shampoo, Dry Hair Shampoo, Normal Hair Shampoo

Shaving - Baobab Shave Soap Meadowfoam Shave Soap, Turmeric Shave soap for ladies, Lavender & Roses Shave Soap. Razor Stand, Shave Brush, Venus disposable razor

RM: Do you have products for men as well?

CM: Only, shaving soaps.

creams- Whipped Body Butter, Cinnamon & Vanilla Whipped Body Butter, Oatstraw & Neroli Whipped Body Butter, Vetiver & Tangerine Whipped Body Butter.

RM: The organic or natural skin care product market is growing rapidly as of late and you will find that even those cosmetic companies that used to focus on synthetic products are starting to lean towards natural skin care products. With that in consideration, how are you making sure your products stand out from the rest on the market? What makes your products unique?

CM: My recipes are unique to my brand and a lot of research is done before jumping into anything. I also do my own macerations and tinctures and hydrosols.

RM: How would you convince someone to make the switch from synthetic to natural skin care products?

CM: I would never try to convince anyone to make a switch from what they are using (synthetic)

to natural skincare products. I would only hope they try them and would be convinced from using them and the way their skin feels after the trials to make the change. I would expect anyone to do their own trials and research on what is good for their skin.

my products bearing in mind that it is more about helping someone than making a living.

RM: How can potential customers reach you?

CM: They can WhatsApp me on 0772264470. I also have a Facebook page and an Instagram account Back to Earth. I am also at the Old Stables Market every Saturday where I would have all my products on display.

RM: How has your products been received so far?

CM: I have regular customers who are very happy with my products.

RM: What is your long-term vision for Back To Earth?

CM: Since I only sell from the markets and work a full day job, I would hope that this would expand once I retire. I don’t make a huge profit on any of

Ittakes no less than ten years of enduring focus on a craft to become a master at it and possibly afford oneself a cushy lifestyle of it they say. Overnight success comes after a ten year long night so to speak. This is all clearly apparent in the life of Mike Pabvabango who has only recently started making waves as the most sought-after barber in Harare after 17 years in the shadows, working his way up. His kind of success is the kind which is inspiring and eyeopening as it is a wonder for many how one can make it in life just off the strength of being a barber.

Mike Pabvabango Is A Stand Alone Hairstylist

text by Farai Chaka photos by Refined Magazine

His is not a portrait of a prodigious kid who had his ducks in a straight row from the jump or someone who was struck by a different kind of lightning to blaze the trail. It is rather a story of how grabbing an opportunity when its presented, no matter how small it may be, can be all one needs to make something out of themselves.

“Starting out, it was not about the money at all,” says Pabvabango who owns upmarket barbershop The Gentleman’s Corner. His career starts in Mabvuku where he was given the opportunity to try his hand at haircutting by a local barber. He never received special training or anything like that. He perfected his craft through genuine passion for the job and knowing that if he kept at it, he would be adept at this craft. Unfortunate circumstances had a role to play too.

“Growing up, it is my family who had the least in terms of material things,” he describes his upbringing. The formative years were turbulent. He was living in Shamva with his father and a stepmother. On his brother’s initiative, the two left Shamva for Harare in hopes of a better life.

Never in his life had he ever imagined himself a barber and working at a barbershop was just something he was doing out of having nothing else to do as he was unemployed at that time. Overtime he warmed up to the idea of being a haircutter and as luck would have it, the art lessons, he had received back in high school were proving handy, giving him an edge, making his craft stand out.

The 2022 Style Icon Zimbabwe Awards winner for Best Hairstylist has always been driven by the concept of continuous self-improvement. Before settling at his current joint, he had already plied his trade at other spots like Karigamombe, Meikles Hotel and penultimately at Harare Sports Club. He is a firm believer of evolving and striving for that next dimension as an individual. He is a smart entrepreneur too evidenced by his Dial A Barber idea which saw him racking $100 per visit!

On what makes a good barber who gets to retain his customer base, Mike cautions that it is not only in the high skill level but also the attitude, proper personal grooming skills, willingness to learn, creativity and being more of a listener than a talker. “No one would want their hair to be cut by a barber who talks nonstop,” he jokes

His advice for anyone who would want to get into the haircutting and styling is one you might not want to hear as you have probably heard of similar talk countless times but it is true and should serve as a subtle reminder.

“Patience and passion. That is what I want to preach to anyone wanting to take up barbering as a career. You really should have a passion for cutting hair. Ask yourself if you could do it for no monetary reward. I have seventeen years of experience and I know that if I did not have the patience and passion for this, I would have left this for something more conventional within a two-year period,” he voices.

It has been close to 7 years since he started operating The Gentleman’s Corner and the clientele keeps on increasing and diversifying. Clients of all ethnicities frequent the barbershop for haircuts as they do African, Chinese, Indian and Caucasian hair. Although its name suggests otherwise female clients are also free to come through for a haircut as a number of them are hoping on the “fade” trend more and more. However, Mike admits that his clientele tends to tilt a bit more to the business executives side.

Starting

out, it was not about the money at all

Gentleman’s Corner Barbershop has a contemporary feel to it with its shiny light brown wooden floor tiles and a white ceiling to blend. To provide a beautiful contrast to the light colours, there is black cabinetry for the barber’s appliances and tools, a decent black couch for customers awaiting their turn not forgetting the black leather barber chairs. There are also tabs on each and every station which are for entertainment or advertising. It is a modern set up which explains why it is frequented by the who’s who of the Harare community.

Mike is on an elaborate plan to have a Gentleman’s Corner franchise in Zimbabwe. He is also looking at having a similar setup in South Africa as there seems to be genuine interest from South Africans. “I get messages all the time from people in South Africa who would be asking for the directions to the barbershop. All this time they would be thinking that The Gentleman’s Corner is actually in South Africa,” he says.

For a haircut that is sure to garner a huge amount of attention, visit Gentleman’s Corner Barbershop at 41 Churchill Avenue in Alex Park. The 5 member team operates from 8am to 6pm on week days and from 8 am – 5pm on Saturdays. They are active on all social media platforms so be sure to search them up and follow them.

Call/WhatsApp: +263773274921

Facebook: The Gentleman’s Corner Barbershop Instagram: @gentlemanscorner_ barbershop Twitter: @gentscorner1

text by Tanyaradzwa Marabada

Go Bright or Go Home: It s Summer

SUMMER IS A GREAT TIME FOR FASHION. IT’S AMAZING THE EXCITEMENT PEOPLE HAVE AND THE ENERGY TO DRESS UP WHICH ALSO MOTIVATES DESIGNERS TO GO ALL OUT EVERY YEAR. EVENTS ARE COLOURFUL AND RESTAURANTS AND MOVIE THEATRES HAVE AN APPEALING VIBE. THIS IS A GREAT REMINDER THAT FASHION HAS THE ABILITY TO SHAPE LIVES THROUGH ITS PERSONAL CONNECTION TO EVERYTHING AROUND IT.

Fashion is important and should not be taken lightly. It emphasizes the need to feel comfortable in what you are wearing while being conscious of the season. It is also a reflection of culture; it is impossible to understand social trends without understanding what people are wearing. Of late culture in fashion has been paying homage to seasons. Let’s talk summer.

What is trending this summer? That’s the main question stylish people and fashion fanatics ask themselves even after going through many sessions of shopping therapy. Over the years men’s wardrobes were never a cause for concern; the normal jeans or formal trousers and shirts - nothing fashionable would beat that. Fashion has since evolved to include new colours to suit men and every year comes with the need to upgrade the wardrobe.

Women’s wardrobes have been more feminine for some time now and are proceeding in a more simple, bright and elegant way. No colour is too bright for the 2022 summer vibes.

Summer is all about light fabrics that float in the wind; cotton, silk, chiffon, lace or crotchet are the go-to materials for summer outfits. These types of fabrics are ideal for everything summer from dresses, skirts, tops and rompers. Designs should be more “flowy”, airy and revealing, more of “let the air in.” The baggy looking Maxidresses are popular now as well as flared slacks and jumpsuits in bright colours.

This year two of the most famous fashion brands, Versace and Dior, had bright coloured ranges. Mixing bold colors in an unusual way is trending, combining pinks and greens in a fashion forward statement. The summer trends are also big on neutral colour hats and bags complimenting bright outfits. Fedora and ranch-style hats have hit the market with class, looking pretty on everyone.

Coming to Zimbabwe, two pieces in bold colours and printed coords outfits dominate all the scenes in towns. Some are still running to catch up with the trends basking in revealing and colorful tops and ripped jeans.

Colourful printed co-ords have also hit the male fashion market with some made into shorts and shirts, trousers and long sleeved shirts. Chino shorts and trousers have become the bottoms to match stylish summer shirts made out of colourful prints.

Hot pink, bright red, cobalt blue, orange, yellow, green, white and nude are popping this summer and models are feasting on the trends.

The reigning Mr

believes summer fashion is all about staying cool while feeling and looking your best. “Summer fashion draws down to colours. Bright colours reflect heat better and so are suitable for summer. Bright colours also complement the flowery season and thanks to the sunny days it gives us more vibrancy and positive vibes,” said Tatenda. “I find summer fashion to have more room to explore a range of outfits, trends and even shades I have not tried before. The weather allows going out more than usual and it always feels good to look good. Summer comes with an urge to experiment with trends and as someone who doesn’t like layering much I look forward to my summer wardrobe. Before I think of what to wear my mind is already set on trends. In as much as my dressing is inspired by the mood and what is on my schedule for the day, I am always looking forward to being trendy.”

“Although bold colours are great in summer I sometimes go for a subtler look with neutral colours on some days. Overall I would say a man can never go wrong with the preppy style which simply involves a tailored pair of chinos and a slim fit flowery shirt, my favorite look being tucking in the t-shirts,” said the model

Supranational Tatenda Njanike

Concurring to the idea that summer wear gives some vibrancy and positivism is the current Miss Planet Zimbabwe, Jemima Mandemwa who said, “Summer is all about colour vibrancy and creativity. I also believe that summer fashion is a true definition of one’s character. Fashion is just mood uplifting during the sunny days. Summer fashion allows one to be more creative compared to winter. The fact that it gives more styling options is what excites me the most. And white is my go to colour because of how it pops up no matter where you will be,” said Jemima.

Summer trends boost morale and leave one feeling relaxed and stylish. Designers and models set the pace in the uptake of the summer trends and this article will show some of the summer fashion trends by local designer, Fungai Muzorora, as well as summer fashion tips.

Fungai blew the industry away with some of the most iconic designs that Tamy Moyo, Miss Red, and other celebrities have worn. Her work also proved magical when she was part of a reality show dubbed Battle of the Ankara.

Summer Fashion Tips from Fungai Muzorora

So it is summer and I know some of you are taking yourselves on some cool getaway trips! So let’s take a look at a few tips that will help you look super-hot during the hottest season.

1. As usual we start off with the obvious: “breathable fabrics”. It is summer, meaning there’s a way higher chance of sweating and accumulating a little bit of an odour and the last thing you want is for your outfit to be looking bomb but have it carry a little unpleasant scent. This is why it is important to wear breathable fabrics in the summer, “100% linens, cottons and silks are all summer safe. Other synthetic fabrics not only get hot much quicker but they also trap in a lot of moisture so each time you sweat it may take longer to dry and it will leave a slight smell and a patch or stain as well. On some days try wearing sleeveless tops, this will help a great deal!

2. In summer, dresses are a lady’s friend - a nice short loose summer dress to show of some legs and also open them up to some fresh air. Or even a nice long loose flowy maxi dress to allow for some air circulation! The idea of something not being so close to the skin when it’s boiling like this is tantalising!

3. It is time to try and wear less jeans - they are the heaviest clothing item in any wardrobe! Opt for nice alternatives like shorts or trousers, palazzos or smart chinos - you will feel way less heat! Another good summery alternative would be some loose ripped jeans or even wide legged jeans or peg legged jeans which allows for a good amount of circulation!

4. Protect that beautiful skin!

- Use sunscreen to protect your skin

- A nice big sun hat is always a good idea

- A nice pair of shades

- Drink lots of water.

5. Wear your favorite swimwear and don’t be afraid. Any type of body is swimwear friendly. Funny enough I’ve noticed bigger girls like to stay away from bikinis but they are actually a lot more flattering than a one piece. If you wear a high waist bikini bottom it cinches in at the waist making you look slightly smaller.

LOVE

1.

Best tech gadgets of 2022 that everyone should buy

Each year amazes us with its new tech developments, and 2022 is no different. Whether it’s a phone with illuminating rear strips or a super cool update to popular Sony headphones, the best tech gadgets of 2022 take innovation to the next level.

One of 2022’s most noteworthy headphones is the Sony WH-1000XM5. This exciting overhaul of the WH-1000XM3 has industry-leading audio and a very classy design.

Check out the best tech gadgets of 2022.

First on our list of the best tech gadgets of 2022 is the Apple MacBook Air with M2 processor. It has a slim, fanless design with 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Work more efficiently with the Apple MacBook Air with M2 processor, which is a powerhouse. Boasting up to 8 hours of video playback, it has a fanless design like the M1 MacBook Air to keep it from overheating. What’s more, its slim-bezeled 13.6’’ Liquid Retina display has a notch cutout for the 1080p FaceTime camera. Additionally, it has 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, a headphone jack, and an impressive 500-nit brightness. Available in 4 striking colors— Silver, Space Gray, Starlight, and Midnight Blue—this all-aluminum unibody laptop boasts style.

Get yours for $1,199.

2.

Google Pixel 6a smartphone is powered by Google Tensor for incredibly fast performance.

Enjoy an innovative, powerful smartphone for less than you’d think with the Google Pixel 6a smartphone. With its Google Tensor processor, it produces fastlaunching apps and images. And when it comes to battery life, you won’t have any issues because it lasts for over 24 hours. By learning your favorite apps and saving energy on the ones you use the least, this battery adapts to you.

Get yours now for $349.

3.

Another of the best tech gadgets of 2022 is the DJI Mini 3 Pro camera drone, which weighs less than 249g and has tri-directional obstacle sensing.

Look at the world a little closer with the DJI Mini 3 Pro camera drone. Weighing under 249g, it’s super lightweight and portable, and it doesn’t require registration in most countries. Plus, its foldable design enables you to take it virtually everywhere with ease. Moreover, this DJI lightweight camera drone includes forward, backward, and downward vision sensors, and it can avoid obstacles in complicated environments.

Get yours now for $759.

TECH AND GADGETS? THEN YOU’LL WANT TO HAVE A LOOK AT THE 10 BEST TECH GADGETS OF 2022. THESE PRODUCTS TAKE YOUR TECH ABOVE AND BEYOND.

6.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 folding smartphone has a shape-shifting design & immersive displays.

Enjoy multiple immersive displays on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 folding smartphone. With a customizable form factor, this phone boasts a shape-shifting design that includes the 7.6’’ main screen with a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate and discreet under-display camera. The large screen optimizes social media apps and streaming services—even watch shows hands-free with Flex mode.

You can get yours for $1,449.99.

8.

4.

Samsung 2022 Neo QLED Series provides up to 8K resolution & includes a 144 Hz refresh rate.

Experience powerful processing with the Samsung 2022 Neo QLED Series. Featuring 3 TVs in the collection— QN900B, QN800B, and QN95B—they have Samsung’s Neural Quantum Processor, 8K resolution delivers a 3D-like image that’s perfect for watching sports or pulse-pounding action. Meanwhile, the QN95B boasts a 4K resolution for an intensely realistic picture and immersive audio.

You can get yours for $1,999.99.

5.

Next up on this list of the best tech gadgets of 2022 is the Apple 2022 iPad Air. It offers next-level performance with Apple Silicon and the M1 chip.

Boasting Apple Silicon, the Apple 2022 iPad Air delivers the performance you need for any task. Leaping ahead of past models, it has the M1 chip and an 8-core CPU. This, paired with the 8-core GPU, delivers incredible graphics performance. More than that, though, this new iPad Air also has the 16-core Neural Engine to let you enjoy intuitive experiences.

You can get yours for $599.

7.

Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones include 8 microphones and an Auto NC Optimizer.

Hear your music in a new light with the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones. Designed with an Auto NC Optimizer, these headphones automatically adjust the sound based on your environment and wearing conditions. Moreover, the Sony WH-1000XM5 include 8 microphones—4 on each ear— with noise-canceling technology. In fact, the microphones also utilize Precise Voice Pickup technology and advanced audio signal processing.

You can get yours for $349.99.

9.

Wyze Room Sensor balances your home’s climate to eliminate hot and cold spots.

Feel comfortable in every area of your house with the Wyze Room Sensor. It’s compatible with the Wyze Thermostat to rid your home of hot and cold spots. Simply place this gadget in popular rooms and allow the compatible thermostat to balance your home’s climate. Moreover, this sensor continuously communicates with the thermostat to balance your home’s temperature.

You can get yours for $24.99.

Razer Stream Controller has a customizable touchscreen for instant access to any function.

Simplify your livestream or content creation with the Razer Steam Controller. Its touchscreen lets your creativity flow, giving you instant access to any function via customizable buttons and dials. Yes, you can go live, adjust audio, and more with this all-in-1 controller. It features 12 Haptic Switchblade Keys, whose level of tactile response you can adjust. Then, 6 Tactile Analog Dials allow you to control the media, audio, and other channels.

You can get yours for $269.99.

10.

Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 Dolby Atmos Soundbar is a connected home theater powerhouse.

Fill your home with cinematic, immersive sound from the Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 Dolby Atmos Soundbar. This sleek soundbar boasts connectivity with Amazon Alexa and draws from the brand’s decades of work with world-famous recording studios. In fact, you’ll experience movies as the director intended thanks to the 13 individual drivers.

You can get yours for $899.

https://thegadgetflow.com/blog/10-best-tech-gadgets-of2022-that-everyone-should-buy/

MAZDA HAS STARTED ACCEPTING PRE-ORDERS FOR ITS NEW CROSSOVER SUV, THE CX-60. SALES ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN SEPTEMBER.

The CX-60, which was developed by Mazda as the first of its new-generation large product line, features a vertically mounted powertrain consisting of an engine and transmission, and adopts a system that drives the rear wheels. In addition to optimizing the weight distribution between the front and rear wheels, the purpose of this is to make the most of the power of the four tires by separating the driving wheels (rear) and the steering wheels (front).

[Main specifications (XD-HYBRID Premium Sports)] Length x width x height: 4740 x 1890 x 1685mm, wheelbase 2870mm, vehicle weight 1940kg, passenger capacity 5, engine 3283cc in-line 6-cylinder DOHC diesel turbo (254ps/3750rpm, 550Nm/1500-2400rpm) + motor (12kW/153Nm), transmission 8AT, drive system 4WD, tire size 235/50R20.

The mainstay of the lineup is rear-wheel drivebased AWD (four-wheel drive), and the structure allows the four tires to fully demonstrate their performance, providing a sense of security and “driving as intended.” After knowing such a development concept, let’s take a look at the living space of the CX-60. Being an SUV with two rows of seats is the same as the “CX-5” with

a horizontal powertrain, but the overall width of the CX-5 is 1845mm, while the CX-60 is 1890mm and 45mm wider. According to the designer , this 45mm difference is the same as the difference in the width of the room (although there is no big difference in the room dimensions listed in the catalog).

In the CX-5, the powertrain from the engine to the transmission is completed in the engine room, while in the CX-60 the transmission lies between the driver’s seat and the passenger seat. The newly developed 8-speed AT (automatic transmission) is characterized by being slim (that is, thin) in the radial direction so that the pedal placement is appropriate for the driver.

It is a fact that there is a strict existence in By avoiding that transmission, the distance between the driver and passenger seats, or in technical terms, the couple distance, is wider than in the CX-5. Taking advantage of the structural characteristics of the CX-60’s vertical powertrain, the wide instrument panel makes full use of the wide width of the vehicle, the door trim uppers projecting forward and backward to express a sense of speed and structural strength, The interior space is composed of a wide center console that conveys the existence of a tough transmission.

By the way, the CX-5 and the compact “CX-30” have a structure in which the lid of the console box opens upward while sliding backward, but the CX-60 has a structure in which the lid is divided in the center and opens sideways. did. The lid of the CX-60 is long and wide, so if you make it a single piece and pull it up, the action will be large and your arm will be ungainly.

Mazda’s designers call this arm shape a “chicken wing,” but they wanted to avoid it. That’s why the CX-60’s console box lid seems to have a structure that opens one by one, which means that the movement of the arm can be kept small.

In general, when the couple distance is large, the space feels rich. The CX-60 is a tall SUV, but the driver’s seat is not in an upright position where you hold the steering wheel, but in the same position as a short passenger car, facing the steering wheel and throwing your legs forward. . The left and right rear seat occupants are seated slightly closer to the center, while their hip points are raised slightly, allowing them to see the scenery in front of them from between the front seats, making it easier to visually feel the richness of the space. The newly set large panoramic sunroof (set by grade) seems to benefit the rear seat occupants more than the front seats.

When design work began, the CX-60 was supposed to use the same steering wheel as the latest models at the time, the Mazda 3 and CX-30. However, when I tried to match the interior of the CX-60 with its large bones, it felt delicate, so I decided to develop a dedicated steering wheel. The steering wheel of the CX-60 has a slightly thicker grip to create a solid feeling that matches the image of the car, including the interior, and has a cross-sectional shape that naturally tightens the armpits when gripped.

The straight spokes at 6 o’clock on the MAZDA3 and CX-30 express strength in the V shape on the CX-60, and the connection with the rim is widened to enhance visual rigidity.

. The reason why the edge of the round horn pad is raised is to express a solid feeling. The mass (volume) of the instrument panel and the mass of the steering wheel are balanced.

https://www.gqjapan.jp/cars/article/20220622mazda-cx-60-vol1

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are we ?

Silverstar Mercedes is a vehicle ser vice workshop located at number 93 Coventr y Road, Workington in Harare. It was established in N ovember 2014. We specialise in the repair and maintenance of Mercedes-Benz and Jeep vehicles which encompasses, auto-diagnostics, major and minorser vices, engine repairs, gearbox and suspension repairs, air conditioning, and many more.

Contact D etails

(Tel) 0242 62 22 23 (Cell) +263 71 920 2695 (Email) sales@silverstarzw.com (Website) www.silverstarzw.com (Address) 93 Coventry Road Workington Harare

State of the art Mercedes B enz and Jeep S ervice

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does the Check Engine Light Mean ?

The system that controls your check engine light monitors the operations of dozens of sensors. If one of these is triggered and the check engine light illuminates, it means your vehicle’s engine is not per forming as it was intended. You ’ll need to bring your vehicle into our 93 Coventr y Road, Workington Harare ser vice center for fur ther diagnostics so we can narrow down the cause of the problem. In some rare cases, it may be determined that there is nothing wrong with your vehicle, yet the check engine light remains illuminated. If you experience this, we can help you reset the check engine light so you can go back to driving uninterrupted.

How often should I take my Mercedes Benz for regular maintenance ?

It's impor tant to schedule ser vice during routine maintenance ranges, which are ever y 10,000 kms. If you're unsure when it's time for regular maintenance, call our Ser vice Center during business hours.

How Important is Engine Oil and Oil Service ?

Oil is vital to the health of your vehicle as it minimizes friction in the engine and prevents the motor from seizing up. That’s why Silverstar Mercedes has included oil ser vice as par t of their Ser vice A* and Ser vice B* maintenance tasks. To learn more about Mercedes-Benz Ser vice A* and Ser vice B*, reach out to SilverStar Mercedes.

My tire pressure warning illuminates occasionally What does this mean ?

Whenever the tire pressure warning is visible, it's impor tant to monitor the tire pressure and add air where needed. If the warning remains visible and you are unsure as to what to do, you can just give us a call and we will assist you accordingly.

How Long do Brakes Last ?

Brake life can var y widely, with typical numbers falling anywhere between 25,000 and 35,000 kms. You ’ll want to check your owner ’s manual for the recommended ser vice schedule, but also take factors like driving habits into account. Frequent stop-and-go traf f ic and hard braking can both shor ten the life of your brakes. Signs you need immediate brake ser vice include vibrations or shaking when braking, a sof t brake pedal, squealing brakes, and of course, the brake ser vice warning light illuminated on the dash.

How do I make an appointment for service ?

At SilverStar Mercedes you can stop by the Ser vice Center to speak with a ser vice adviser to schedule an appointment. You can call our phone number at +263 71 920 2695 and make an appointment

Contact Details

(Address) 93 Coventr y Road Workington, Harare (Tel) 0242 62 22 23 (Cell) +263 71 920 2695 (Email) sales@silverstar zw.com (Website) www.silverstar zw.com

SUSTAINABILITY IS THE GOAL

text by Tanyaradzwa Marabada

It is imperative to keep your environment clean in order to lead a healthy and happy life. To reduce the adverse effects of dumping waste everywhere, you need to work on how to properly dispose of your waste. Correct waste management lowers greenhouse gas emissions while also enhancing the quality of the air, water, and soil. The disposing of garbage has great impact to the environment hence it’s critical to assign the right people for the job.

Serving 48 areas in Harare is the privately owned and funded waste management company, The Garbage Guys, which focuses on the responsible disposal of residential and commercial garbage, as well as recycling options. The business is equipped with resources and knowledge that will

greatly impact the positive outcome as far as disposing of waste is concerned. This is what is important to ensure the environment is not continuously being damaged by the dumping of waste everywhere.

For decades waste management involved simple disposal of waste materials to landfills or other designated areas which has created negative impacts on the

environment. But now waste is disposed of efficiently and many innovations that are eco-friendly are being implemented. Recycling has been the main agenda environmentalist are pushing so it is important to know that your garbage is being recycled. The Garbage Guys will take the stress away and do right with your garbage and it’s a positive step in taking care of our environment.

Recycled decorative furniture

As global warming concerns grow many concerned citizens and organisations in Zimbabwe are working to achieve a clean environment for all. Recycling waste and properly disposing of it will contribute significantly to sustaining a clean environment. Recycling of paper, plastic, glass and metals will enable the preservation of resources like fossil fuels and natural resources like trees, used in manufacturing new products like cardboard and paper. The recycling process will also reduce the amount carbon dioxide which is released into the atmosphere. Environmental benefits of proper waste management are brought into focus by the people we employ to deal with our waste. According to the Founder of The Garbage Guys, Steve Gardiner, the environmental impact of waste disposal inspired him to start his business. “The inspiration to start The Garbage Guys came from the need to help provide a cleaner and safer environment within our communities. At inception the amount of rubbish being illegally dumped was overwhelming and was having a serious impact on environmental health, so we decided to try and make a difference where we could.”

Zimbabwe faced a time where everywhere had become a dumpsite and the environment was very hazardous. The Garbage Guys initiative has since helped some areas correct the social ill of dumping waste everywhere. The Garbage Guys started in 2009 and they have weathered the storm with efficiency through fuel and spares shortages to shut downs.

“It has been an exciting rollercoaster which we have managed to work around to provide an incredibly reliable service throughout, on a weekly basis. The driving force has been to ensure we are doing our part to keep a clean environment especially for our clients,” Gardiner said.

The Garbage Guys do weekly collections of household and commercial waste where they provide recycled bin liners to all their customers at no extra charge. They also provide recycling options for their ecofriendly clients, as well as once off garden waste and building waste collections. The Garbage Guys take pride in efficiency.

“We have a proven track record of consistency and reliability as we haven’t missed a single collection day in 8 years. We are also constantly innovating and promise to keep finding new ways to satisfy our customer’s needs. We recycle paper, metal, plastic and glass,” Gardener said.

Why Proper Waste Disposal?

• One of the most significant advantages of waste management is the protection of the environment and public health.

• Recycling waste contributes to the conversion of recyclable waste into useful substances.

• By managing your waste wisely, you help conserve natural resources such as minerals, water, and wood.

• It aids in reducing resource extraction as well as pollution and energy consumption associated with the production of new materials.

• The production of harmful substances is reduced by conserving landfill space.

• The composting of waste aids in the replenishment of nutrients in the soil.

Improper waste disposal allows diseases to proliferate in the environment. Junk and waste are the perfect hosts for bacteria and it can grow if the waste is not disposed of properly. It increases the risk of disease in humans who come in contact with the trash.

The safety of the environment is everyone’s responsibility. Having companies like The Garbage Guys putting a lot of innovation in the best way of disposing waste is a plus. This can really help maintain our environment and if everyone takes part by ensuring whoever collects their garbage disposes it the right way, the road to achieving a clean environment and preserving natural resources is a step away.

Contact details

Call or text on 0772 311 616/ 0773219955 email on garbageguys2014@gmail.com Facebook : Garbage Guys Zimbabwe Instagram: garbage_guys_zimbabwe

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

• Home flooding

• Rotting and rusting of exterior elements

• Damage to landscaping

• Staining wood framing

• Soil erosion

• Foundation instability

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.

WestProp CEO Ken Sharpe and Marylin Mosha

Summer décor

Allow your spirit to shine through

text by Martin Chemhere

Each of us has, at some point in time, been to a home or office decked out in the most breathtaking décor. The décor has left a lasting impression on you, and you wonder who came up with the concept and admire the level of inspiration that came into play.

Décor incorporates the use of physical items such as furniture, art and accessories, aesthetically placing these objects; alongside room colours, ceilings, window accessories, wall hangings and flooring. Home, office or garden are the most common places to find décor. A whole range of décor items can bring life to any environment and these include, rugs, clocks, fabrics, table lamps, bed linen, carpets, indoor plants, cushions, wallpaper and clocks.

Prints or original artwork, glass sculptures, vases, ceramic vessels, mirrors, baskets, stools, trays, candle sticks, pot plant stands and more can be stylishly placed to give an energizing mood to the home, office or garden. Prints are effective and bring a sense of balance to especially large walls. Easily sourced online, if a good budget isn’t available, they work to break the monotony of the large space.

This approach has recently been used by Fusertech Technologies Pvt Limited, one of the largest distributors of ICT products and consumables in Zimbabwe, for their state-of-the-art and imposing head offices located at stand number 280 Samora Machel Avenue, Eastlea. Fusertech has several online sourced prints, dressing the extensive passageways of their second floor. The wow-factor achieved matches the tech-savvy and corporate nature of the business.

Giving homes, offices or gardens a makeover in summer can be simple if lots of materials are available.

Décor is also the art of furnishing and decorating, demanding the understanding of several elements such as the balance of colour and positioning of furniture and object. There must also be a natural and pleasant connection between the materials used and the function of the space.

For example, an object that could quickly fade due to exposure to the sun should be placed in a position where there is minimal or no sunshine. For décor in the open, like the garden, one should choose items painted in a heat-resistant finish or coating.

Attractive décor requires that the best colours and their coordination are complemented by knowledge of how these relate to the hot weather conditions. Unlike other seasons summer allows the designer and homeowner the perfect opportunity to appreciate the arrangement of the styled furnishings and objects.

Relaxing in attractive surroundings is a source of pride and honour to the owner of the home, office or garden. It also gives visitors a sense of belonging and an opportunity to indulge in a refreshing setting.

Summer décor revolves around colours, sights and sounds that come with the season. It brings pleasure and cheerfulness into the home, office and garden. As the sun shines brightly, so do the colours. The summer season brings out the best in decorated spaces with the support of natural sunlight. The summer season is a time of visual magic to enthuse and inspire. Simply, when summer shines, décor stands out.

“Summer is the best season for decor because it’s time to replace heavy and warm fabrics with fresh and light colors such as the soft greens and a light oranges that give a room a flash of elegance. It also adds a sense of excitement and brings a new energy into the space rather than the feeling of stagnant and unchanging atmosphere,” said Chipo Simika (nee Mukata), founder and owner of Chipo’s Interior Design, a mobile interior décor business based in Belvedere, Harare.

“I consider the client’s needs and wants and most of the time I have to redirect them depending on the ambience and atmosphere of the place they need decorated. We consider getting the lighting right and also choosing a statement hero piece.” She explained that the current trends in summer are adding mirrors, getting the right lighting, dressing the windows with bright colours and curtains with flowers and bright colours. This involves choosing the right artwork and different textures via accents like rugs, throws and accent cushions - all part of the summer trend.

When arranging decor one should be aware of the link between the furnishings and objects with colour, form and shape to create a striking assemblage of materials and a coherent overall outlook.

Changing décor is one thing that comes with this field, as Patsy Stone once said, “One should never be the oldest thing in one’s house”. Stone is one of the two central characters played by actress Joanna Lumley in Absolutely Fabulous, a UK-produced television sitcom. Her quote is famous for its inspirational power in the décor and design world and is particularly associated with home décor and interior design.

Constantly changing objects like small furniture, pieces of cloth, window accessories and wall hangings gives a decorative narrative that is never dull.

Change of materials is necessary where, for instance, a room like a lounge is used too much and there is rapid wear and tear of materials like seat covers. The call to action on when to do this will largely depend on the homeowner’s ability to determine a due time for a change and whether the budget is available for the job.

These are some of the reasons behind reviewing your décor in summer. Reasons that make one explore the inherent nuances and creative power in the art of giving homes a refreshing decorative twist.

It seems summer is there to let the human spirit shine through creative and relaxed expression. The idea behind décor is to create a memorable design feature. Making a quick statement is part of the overall aim of decor and this is achieved when the right furnishings and objects are well coordinated based on the position of the décor, the colours and the light.

So, start decorating your house now, and remember not to be the “oldest thing in the house” this summertime!

One should never be the oldest thing in one’s house

New Generation of Funeral Professionals Taking Over

Michael Monson of Monson Funeral Directors Is Truly Leading the

Way

-text by Farai Chaka

Not many are fortunate enough to find their purpose barely out of adolescence. Just before his 16th birthday Michael Monson started working at Doves Funeral Services as a mortuary assistant and general hand. From that young age, he was certain that his calling was in the death care industry. Over the years Michael would find himself working for a couple of funeral services, familiarising himself with all the aspects of the business through working in every department or section. This hard work, starting from the lowest, has given him the tools and resources to start his own funeral home, Monson Funeral Directors.

Michael is the founder and funeral director of Monson Funeral Directors. He had worked in senior level positions at Nyaradzo Group, Moonlight and Doves before starting his own company.

“When I turned 40 a few years ago, I felt compelled to start my own funeral home. I had been taught by amazing mentors, the best in the business, leaders that went about their work with discipline, integrity, love and care. With such a rich background, I undoubtedly have all it takes to run a leading funeral parlor in Zimbabwe. It is now my time to be the captain of the ship as my generation comes of age and take over the reins of our special and largely misunderstood profession steeped in tradition, honesty and dignity.”

Michael reiterates that not once has he been handed anything on a silver platter and has had to work extra hard to prove his competence. This has not come with its share of difficulties. Being a youth among more experienced grown-ups who regard you as a threat to their positions is not new in organisations. He recalls a point when he wanted to quit, try something else. He also has had to deal with people trying to pull him down but what kept him going is his extraordinary passion for the funeral services business and his intense lifelong dedication to helping bereaving families.

Monson credits his immediate family and couple of giants in this funeral services business like Philip Mataranyika, Ray Monson (his father), James Mushore, Russell Cocksedge, Mark Jones, Teddy Nyamurera, C.W. Hamer-nel, Paul Alichindamba and his granddad Len Monson for the success he has seen in the funeral services business. He extols them saying, “The words, the support and teachings of these great minds have shaped who I am today in a massive way, a way I could not have ever dreamed of. I am so grateful and feel tremendously blessed for that.”

Another thing he is grateful for is having competent staff members whose vision for the company aligns with his totally. The likelihood of something going sideways at a funeral parlor is very high which is why at Monson Funeral Directors they do not leave room for mistakes and aim for perfection, consistency and efficiency at all times. Michael appreciates the work being done by everyone from the embalmer (who he is thinks is arguably the best in the region), spray painters, morticians, to the drivers, the brilliant lady who does the accounting for them – basically everyone in his employ. “Our team at Monson’s is filled with generally amazing, skilled and great professionals. The corporate structure is strong and clearly marked but we still manage to run the business like a family.”

To him families coming up to him saying that they are grateful to Monson Funeral Directors’ for being compassionate and for handling of the funeral processes with the utmost care and respect may be the most rewarding aspect of his job. “It is truly a humbling experience to help and serve families and communities that call on my team and I to help and assist when we are needed,” he says.

One of Michael’s career highlights was when he won the award for Funeral Director of the Year at the EcoSure Funeral Services Awards on 27 April 2022. This a milestone considering the fact that he was competing with funeral directors from more established funeral service providers such as Moonlight, Doves, EcoSure, First Mutual Life just to mention a few. This shows that the services they are providing have become so outstanding that they cannot go unrecognised.

“My wife Raynadine, my children and family and friends are a great source of support and I am grateful to them. I have chosen the proverbial narrow path, we work long hours, and we are both physically and emotionally drained most of times. But at the end of the day, they

understand the importance of my profession and they have been backing me all the way,” he says of his much needed support system.

Over the next few years Monson Funeral Directors are going to be setting up funeral parlors in eight of the provinces in Zimbabwe. They want to make sure they provide their top-tier services to families in need not only in Harare but also in other cities nationwide as it is everyone’s wish when a loved one dies or them to be sent off in a dignified way which Monson Funeral Directors do perfectly. They are also looking at establishing regional funeral parlors once they have had their foothold cemented first in Zimbabwe.

Just recently, Monson Funeral Directors and international athlete Royal Arnold Mabika decided to team up and give back to the community. Before he was the long distance runner of note he is right now, Mabika had approached Monson for sponsorship and Michael had gladly helped him out. Now that Arnold has made it in the world of sports winning championship after championship, he and Monson Funeral Directors are going out into the rural areas like Zvimba and Mhondoro hosting sports camps. Those gifted children who would have shown the most promise will then be scouted and have their talent nurtured. This is a great way of shining the light on ultra-talented and able kids in the rural areas who gets overlooked plainly because of their geographic location.

Monson Funeral Directors is located at 19 Kay Gardens, Kensington Harare from where they offer the full range of funeral services including cremation. Easing the burden during bereavement is something they pride themselves in executing matchlessly. If ever in need of a funeral parlor that can handle the funeral process to the hilt but in a subtle and respectful manner, Monson Funeral Directors is there for you.

Scrolling through their Facebook page to get a picture of the full extent of their services would be a good place to start.

They can be contacted via email at michael@monson.co.zw or by phone on 0772685601.