Sowetan S Magazine March 2020 Issue by SundayTimesZA

MAR CH 2 020 www.sowetanlive.co.za

BIG BOSS ENERGY

NADIA NAKAI

from the

EDITOR

S DRES

Aluta Continua

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Aluta Shakina sunglasses, R600, alutasunglasses.co.za

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What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker by Damon Young, Harper Collins, R295

Dress, R1 499, Country Road

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hrimp, R ajun S 190 nC ri

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“What do you want?” Four simple words that tend to leave most of us stumped. What. Do. You. Want. Recently, after I’d failed to give someone a concise answer, it came to me that, often, it is not that we don’t know what we want but rather that we are sometimes afraid to put it out into the universe. Of course, here I am not talking about decisions that relate to what meal to eat and what drink to select — but rather more life-defining decisions. Often, as women, we are afraid to state what it is that we want because society has led us to believe that we should want things, not for ourselves, but more for the betterment of others as part of our “reponsibility to nurture”. Slogans like “wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo” and “bekezela” have also perpetuated the idea that we always have to be strong and

Viceroy 10-Year-Old, 750ml, R269

put others first. But the truth is, you cannot pour from BIG NADIA NAKAI an empty cup. To truly be of value to those around BOSS ENERGY us, whether in our roles as a daughter, sister, wife or mother, we must have something left over to give. So Bralet, R999, Superdry; top, skirt, don’t only ask yourself, but also answer with your truth: both price on request, “What do you want?” Then go forth and conquer the Rich Mnisi; earrings, true desires of your heart. R650, The Bam Collective; multiOne woman who keeps showing us that putting chain necklace, R150, yourself first even in industries that expect us to be Foschini; rings, wallflowers, is rapper Nadia Nakai (page 12). Nadia’s R1 220 each, Swatch; bangles, R150 each, trajectory in the rap game and beyond has been Foschini; boots, inspiring to watch. She is real Boss Babe goals, never R1 899, Steve Madden shying away from expressing herself, either sartorially or through her music. Nadia stays doing the most, like our S Man cover star, Siphesihle Vazi, who is also quickly rising to the top. The TV presenter and actor, who, it turns out, also has sporting talents, shares his story with us on page 32. Check out the latest in men’s fashion with our take on one of the season’s biggest trends, maximalism (page 30). We also make it easier to take care of your skin after a gym session with our feature, Gym Skin Goals (page 34). As we face one of the biggest pandemics in our lifetime, the need to look after ourselves has never been more marked. As communities, we must not only protect ourselves with the necessary measures as advised by healthcare professionals, but also act responsibly as we try to curb the spread of the disease. Remember to also look after the more vulnerable members of our society like the elderly and poor. Stay safe, wash your hands, and be blessed.

EDITOR’S PHOTOGRAPH MANELISI DABATA

MARCH 2020 www.sowetanlive.co.za

N O K L A W Adidas EQT Gazelle sneakers, R1 899, Shelflife

MAR SIPHESIHLE VAZI: NOT YOUR TYPICAL TV PRESENTER

Interview

Mesh top, R1 500; kimono blazer R7 500; kilt, R2 500; trousers, R3 500; all David Tlale; sneakers, R899, Country Road

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF THEMBALETHU ZULU (SMAG@SOWETAN.CO.ZA) CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANNA LINEVELDT MANAGING EDITOR MATTHEW MCCLURE 011 280 5605 (MCCLUREM@ARENA.AFRICA) FASHION DIRECTOR SHARON ARMSTRONG FASHION EDITOR SAHIL HARILAL BEAUTY EDITOR NOKUBONGA THUSI SUBEDITOR BENAZIR CASSIM JUNIOR DESIGNERS CARIKE DE JAGER and MANELISI DABATA FASHION INTERN NOMBUSO KUMALO DÉCOR DIRECTOR LEANA SCHOEMAN FINAL EYE ELIZABETH SLEITH SOWETAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NWABISA MAKUNGA PUBLISHER ASPASIA KARRAS HEAD: ADVERTISING SALES EBEN GEWERS MANAGING DIRECTOR ANDREW GILL BUSINESS MANAGER Yvonne Shaff 082 903 5641 shaffy@arena.africa ACCOUNT MANAGER Johannesburg: Letitia Louw louwl@arena.africa.co.za 083 454 1137 ACCOUNT MANAGER Cape Town: Samantha Pienaar pienaars@arena.africa 082 889 0366 ACCOUNT MANAGER Durban: Gina van de Wall 083 500 5325 vdwallg@arena.africa S Mag is available with all copies of Sowetan newspaper, on a quarterly basis. PRINTED by Paarl Media for Arena Holdings, Hill on Empire, 16 Empire Road (cnr Empire and Hillside roads), Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193

8 Beauty DIY self-care rituals 12 Interview Nadia Nakai: doing the most 18 Health Demystifying menstrual health 20 Conversations Mental health: you can’t pour from an empty cup 23 Finance The costs to think about when planning for a baby S.MAN 34 Stay fresh before and after a workout with our tips 38 Spirit Six of the best share their secrets for success 40 Ekhoneni Vuyo Dabula is our fitness inspiration

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FRONT ROW

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PHOTOGRAPHY PIETRO D’APRANO/GETTY IMAGES AND SUPPLIED

Techno Queen 9

ICEBERG

Rooted in a heritage of irony and fun, Iceberg’s 2020 collection showed a mixture of airy sportswear in softened neons with shimmery neutrals and metallic accents compiled by SAHIL HARILAL 1. Hoodie, R4 999, Diesel 2. Sunglasses, R249, Edgars 3. Necklace, R3 999, Sterns 4. Obaku watch, R1 495, Sterns 5. New Balance sneakers, R1 699, Sportscene 6. New Balance parka, R1 499, Shelflife 7. Cap, R400, Vans 8. Puma sweatpants, R1 099, Sportscene 9. Trousers, R580, Zara 10. Pringle of Scotland x H&M t-shirt, R249, H&M 11. Puma tracktop, R1 299, Sportscene 12. Tank top, R1 399, Diesel 13. Adidas Originals moon bag, R329, Superbalist 14. Adidas bodysuit, R699, Sportscene Stockists Diesel 011 783 0882, Edgars edgars.co.za, H&M hm.com/za, Shelflife shelflife.co.za, Sportscene sportscene.co.za, Sterns sterns.co.za, Superbalist superbalist.com Vans 011 883 1092, Zara zara.com/za

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

BEAUTY

This is the year to put yourself first. Read our guide to self-care to help you fully commit to Meghan Markling every chance you get

PHOTOGRAPHY ROSDIANA CIARAVOLO/GETTY IMAGES, MAYBELLINE AND SUPPLIED

PHILIPP PLEIN

text NOKUBONGA THUSI

I Love Myself AT-HOME SANCTUARY ESSENTIALS

ith the conversation around mental health becoming more mainstream and the Covid-19 threat looming, people are learning to inject a bit of self-care into their lives, which goes a long way if you want to navigate this decade semi-sane.e. Thankfully, the booming wellness industry is coming to our aid with an abundance of self-care tools. From sensorial skincare to at-home hair treatments, the art of self-care is becoming more holistic so that every avenue of your lifestyle feeds into an overall sense of wellbeing.

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

1. Glov Microfibre Hair Wrap, R329, takealot.com 2. Soft Silk Aromatic Diffuser, R220, Woolworths 3. Suki Suki Naturals Whipped Shea Crème, 200g, R235, Woolworths 4. Cotton Gown, R399, Woolworths 5. L’Occitane Harmony Candle, R415, za.loccitane.com

EXPERT WEIGH-IN: “I'm a firm believer in health and wellness. On the corner of my street there is a huge organic market where I get Chinese and Eastern herbs and medicine — essentially I'm taking powders and dried mushrooms that have been used for over 2 000 years. This is to preserve not just my skin, but also my overall health and wellbeing. I think this is no longer a trend and it is something that we’ll see in terms of a traditional outlook to life. Dark, leafy greens impact your complexion and help with circulation — that’s just one of the things I do for my overall wellbeing and a great look at the end of the day.” — Sir John, international celebrity makeup artist

SPORTMAX

How to pick a good sheet mask

hoosing a sheet mask involves a bit of trial and error but it’s important to find one that won’t cause discomfort or disturb your me-time. Not all sheet masks are the same — if you know exactly what to look for while testing them out, you will find the perfect one for you. 1. The Fit: Sheet masks usually have a one-size-fits-all approach in terms of the facial cut-outs in the mask, but it’s important to check that the fit around the eyes, mouth and nose is comfortable. You should be able to line up your features easily into the holes and not feel like you cannot move your mouth or eyes with ease. 2. The Material: Some may neglect this aspect but the type of material used to make the sheet mask is vital as it determines how snugly it fits around the contours of the face such as the jawline, forehead, and nose. 3. The Serum: Of course, the formula is important for the efficacy of the mask, but you don’t want the mask to be too drenched. It ends up sliding off your face because your skin is saturated and cannot absorb any further. You want the material to feel drenched but still have a slight grip to it.

Clockwise from left: Simply When Future Fresh Smooth Out Mask, R70; Glamglow BubbleSheet Oxygenating Deep Cleanse Mask, R125; Sorbet Mineral Hydrogel Mask, R69

HOW TO BUILD AN AT-HOME SANCTUARY here do you start to flip the script on your lifestyle in order W to accommodate a more me-first mindset? Begin in your home and create a haven of calm

1. A sensorial experience starts when all senses are stimulated. Ensure the right ambience is created: play soft music, light fragranced candles, pour a refreshing drink, breathe deeply, and relax. 2. Use body and facial oils consisting of a heavenly blend of essential oils, rich face masks, luxurious body masks, or glorious body or facial scrubs and exfoliants. Apply each product slowly, using long, fluid strokes in order to enjoy the different textures. 3. Use the oils to perform a massage on stressed, tired areas like hands and feet, neck and shoulders, temples, and gently around the eyes.

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MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

BEAUTY

Hair

FOUR WAYS TO ELEVATE WASH DAY Wash days don’t have to be all dull: elevate your experience with these self-care rituals.

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

BEST HAIR TREATMENTS AND MASKS 1. Inoar Virgin Coconut Oil, 200ml, R450 2. Kadus Professional Velvet Oil Treatment, 200ml, R231 3. CHI Deep Brilliance Deep Protein Masque, 237ml, R395 4. Soil Treemendus Organic Tea Tree Shampoo, 200ml, R70 5. CHI Argan Oil Rejuvenating Masque, 260ml, R450

ALIÉTTE

1. Always start with a pre-poo: Performing a pre-poo treatment helps make detangling hair easier and allows you to really get to know your coils. In the palm of your hand, mix your creamy conditioner or detangling butter and a bit of natural hair oil like avocado or jojoba. Section hair into four parts, lightly dampen with water using a spray bottle, and apply the mixture. Once applied evenly throughout the hair, cover with a shower cap to prevent moisture loss. After five to 10 minutes, rinse the mixture out with lukewarm water and shampoo. 2. Turn basing your scalp into a massage: When it comes to basing the scalp, it can seem very businesslike — get in, apply the product to the scalp, get out. But it can be a very relaxing process if you make the time. Try massaging the product in slow, circular motions, starting at the crown and working your way to the temples. Not only does this feel great on the scalp but it also helps to stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles and promote hair growth. 3. Make your own hair mask or treatment: You can always buy a hair treatment but making one from scratch adds a little something extra: you will know exactly what is going onto your hair, and it’s a more affordable option. A coconut-honey mask is simple to make at home and helps to hydrate and strengthen the hair strands. Mix two tablespoons of coconut oil with four tablespoons of honey and heat in the microwave until melter. Apply and leave on the hair for 20-30 minutes and then rinse hair thoroughly until it is free of oil residue. 4. Introduce a hair detox into your routine: Doing a hair detox is not always part of a standard haircare routine, but it can help remove product build-up, dandruff, and chemicals from the hair shaft. Mix together half a cup of bentonite clay, half a cup of apple cider vinegar and a quarter cup of aloe vera gel. Apply and leave on the hair for 20-30 minutes. Rinse out once with water, then with apple cider vinegar, and once more with water. It takes time, but you’re worth it. Expert weigh-in: “On your wash days, add a few drops of olive oil to your favourite hair mask. I love the Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Mask or the Botanic Moisture & Replenish Pre-wash Detangling Butter because it replenishes moisture, and vitamin E helps to repair damaged hair.” — Ursula Stephen, Tresemmé celebrity hairstylist

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FACE ROLL LIKE A BEAUTY EDITOR Jade rollers may seem like an Instagram gimmick but there are many benefits to using a facial roller that everyone will love. I have added this tool to my skincare routine and it is the most pampering feeling ever. Taken from Korean beauty trends, facial rollers are great for stimulating blood circulation and getting rid of any puffiness, especially in the morning. Using gentle upward rolling movements, about three rolls per area of the face, the roller can help to tighten and lift the contours of the face as well as help product absorb more effectively, giving the face a brighter, more luminous complexion. Plus, it feels good, like a little massage for your face muscles.

“It is the most pampering feeling ever”

FIVE OF THE BEST: MASSAGE TOOLS 1. Jade Derma Roller, R295, takealot.com 2. Bellabaci Body Cup Set, R450, bellabaci.com 3. Soil Organic Argan Carrier Oil, 30ml, R115, soil.co.za 4. Kiskanu CBD Skin Rub, 7g, R310, kushkushonline.com 5. Bellabaci The Genie Hello Body Mechanic, 120ml, R430, bellabaci.com

PARTNERSHIP

Ready, Set, Glow Step 1:

ALL ABOUT THE BASE

Don’t let your skin’s glow go into hibernation. Double down on maintaining a sunkissed, dewy complexion all year round with these Sorbet essentials

You can’t succeed in the glow-up game without a solid base, so give your skin a smooth, blemish-free foundation for a luminous, fresh-faced look. Use a lightweight foundation that glides on, contains SPF for all-year protection, and has a moisturising formula to create all that dewiness. Try: Face First SPF15 Anti-Ageing Foundation + Serum, 30ml, R220 Benefits: SPF15, anti-ageing Try: Cover & Go SPF6 Foundation + Concealer, R300 Benefits: Vitamin-enriched, highly pigmented, SPF6

Face First SPF15 Anti-Ageing Foundation + Serum

Step 2:

TURN ON THE HIGHLIGHT

Although achieving a naturally luminous complexion is first prize, no one ever said no to some extra help from highlighter. The key to a natural-looking glow is applying highlighter to the facial points that are naturally light-reflective and blending away all hard edges. Use a blending sponge or your finger to apply liquid highlighter to these points: your cheekbones, bridge of nose, brow bone, and the inner corners of your eyes.

Cover & Go SPF 6 Foundation + Concealer

Glow & Tell Liquid Highlighter in Golden Bronze

Try: Glow & Tell Liquid Highlighter in Golden Bronze, R150 Benefits: Contains silicone and mica for a smooth, shimmer effect Shimmer & Glow Shimmer Bronzer in Bronzed Beauty, R200 Benefits: Contains illuminating particles

Step 3:

ALL ABOUT THE EYES

Let your eyes do all the talking by keeping them light and natural with just a touch of shimmer as the perfect complement to glowing skin. Pick neutral eyeshadow shades that complement your skin tone, eye colour, and eyebrows and finish off by running a pigmented black or soft-brown liner along the lower lash line to define. Try: Underline It Kajal Eyeliner Pencil, R80 Benefits: Highly pigmented, contains vitamin E

Shimmer Bronzer in Bronzed Beauty

Underline It Kajal Eyeliner Pencil

INTERVIEW

production SAHIL HARILAL photography STEVE TANCHEL

BRAGGA STYLE 12

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

With sharp detail and fast, rap-like pace, musician Nadia Nakai shares how sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s become one of the top female forces in the industry

Mesh dress, R1 200; corset, R2 800, both David Tlale; skirt, R1 200, Pringle of Scotland; hat, R2 750, Crystal Birch; necklaces, from top, chain necklace, R160, Woolworths; multi-strand pearl choker, R150; multi-chain necklace, R150, both Foschini; bangles, worn throughout, R150 each, Foschini; rings, worn throughout, R1 220 each, Swatch; Karl Lagerfeld bag, R4 999, Preview Opposite Page: Bralet, R899, Calvin Klein Jeans; jacket, R3 999; skirt, R3 499, both Diesel; hair clips, R229 a set, Aldo; earrings, R150, part of set, Woolworths; necklaces, from top, chain necklace, R160, Woolworths; multi-strand pearl choker, R150, Foschini; single-strand pearl necklaces, R299 each, Woolworths; multi-chain necklace, R150, Foschini; gloves, R800, The Bam Collective; bag, R6 000, Nao Serati; boots, R1 899, Steve Madden

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

Suit jacket, R1 800; mesh top, R900; suit trousers, R1 500, all Nao Serati; hat, R1 450, Crystal Birch; necklaces from top, multistone necklace, R150; multi-strand pearl choker, R150, both Foschini; single-strand pearl necklace, R299, Woolworths; multi-chain necklace, R150, Foschini

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The industry tries to pit us against each otherâ&#x20AC;?

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

“E

verybody just knew me as the girl who wants to rap,” says Mzansi’s rap favourite, Nadia Nakai Kandava. Decked out in an all-black Reebok outfit and her signature statement shades, Nadia exudes a warm, yet boss-like energy. Whether you listen to her music or not, it’s clear that she has found her voice in a difficult industry. Over the past seven years, Nadia has caught the ear of her fans with tracks that balance hard rap and memorable, melodic bars. She equally considers beats, lyrics, and instrumentation inspired by the likes of Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Jamiroquai and Sade — artists she says she listened to when she was young. Her musical repertoire is varied but resonates with audiences because it speaks to who she is and echoes real-life experiences. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has meant Nadia has had to work twice as hard to get where she is today, but her hard work is paying off. The Zimbabwean rapper has levelled up in the local rap scene by working alongside industry heavyweights like Cassper Nyovest and gracing the same stages as Meek Mill and Chance The Rapper. With the much-anticipated release of her album, Nadia Naked, last year, and years of hit singles before that, Nadia stands out as one of the few female rappers pushing the culture forward. “It’s so hard for us to get recognised for the things we do the same way as our male counterparts. We can do the same and more in one year, but they’ll still be ranked above us. They’ll literally do nothing the whole year and we’ll do magazine covers, shoots, and sold-out shows. We’re doing the most, we’re doing backflips, you know what I mean?” she says.

While studying marketing, media studies and communications at the then-Monash University, Nadia would record in makeshift studios in her classmates’ res rooms between classes. In the afternoons, she would dash from school to record with Ganja Beats without her mother’s knowledge. Her big break came when she caught the attention of DJ C-Live, who hosted Hot 99 on YFM at the time. “I remember selling my cellphone to get studio time because I needed to record a professional-sounding song to submit to C-Live so he could play it on radio. That was the first time I heard myself on radio,” says Nadia with a smile. She quit her day job in advertising when the opportunity of a lifetime came knocking: Cassper Nyovest wanted her to sign to his recording label, Family Tree. “I felt like if I was going to do music and do advertising, I wouldn’t have succeeded in either. So, it was either I don’t rap and I focus on advertising, or I quit advertising and I focus on music. Music is what I love, it’s my passion. I just had so much faith in myself,” she says. Nadia has been in the game for years. Since she dropped “Like Me” in 2013, she has been honing her craft and carving out her unique place in the industry. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, learning, and growing and now she’s really come into her own. “When I did ‘Like Me’, I allowed a lot of people to tell me what was dope, what was good, and what I should look like. Now that I have worked on the album — which took me about two years to complete — I’ve gotten very comfortable in myself and making music. I know that I’m good at what I do, that it’s okay to express myself, and that I don’t have to be perfect as soon as I get to the mic,” she says.

text NOTHEMBA MKHONDO

“Doing the most” — as Nadia puts it, is exactly what she is doing. There’s much more to Nadia than her music: the rapper is also leaving her mark on the fashion scene with her hands-on collaborations with Sportscene and, more recently, Reebok. Nadia means business and she has her eyes set on the beauty industry next. “It’s so exciting that Reebok is looking at me and seeing me as a person who’s an apparel leader because of what we’ve done with Sportscene. I’m extremely involved and I like the fact that people can see it’s not just my name that’s on the clothing; they can see I’m really involved in the designs, the concepts, and the marketing,” she says. Before the fame and endorsements, Nadia felt like she didn’t quite fit in as a Shona girl who couldn’t speak South African languages. Born in South Africa, with Zimbabwean roots, she pegs her confidence and growing success to her time spent in Kenya. It was while she was finishing high school in Nairobi that Nadia fell in love with rap, thanks to a nudge from female rapper Nazizi — who is widely known as the first lady of rap in Kenya. From then on, rap music became the steady beat in the soundtrack of Nadia’s life. “I don’t think I would have been as confident as I am now, or even thought about pursuing music if I hadn’t moved to Kenya. I started rapping in high school. I used to record in IT class, then my mom got an old Mac desktop and I used to make beats on GarageBand. From there, I used to record demo CDs and give them out at school and I’d also perform at the cultural days,” she reminisces. When she returned to South Africa, rap music followed her.

“Now when I hear a beat and I record on it, a lot goes into it. I used to write a verse before I even went into the studio. Now I don’t even write first, I mumble on songs to get a flow and then I write according to that melody. It’s not just about rapping on a beat; it’s about merging your voice and your whole essence into a song. And that is something I could only learn as I continued to grow as an artist,” she says. Nadia has worked hard to turn her passion into a flourishing career and, subsequently, she has garnered much respect from her industry peers and fans. One thing that has helped her grow is not pandering to the beef culture that is inherent in the already-divided rap industry — one that is perceived as being entertaining when it’s between men, and petty when it’s between women. “The industry tries to pit us against each other because they know how women are — women are extremely territorial. Women are not okay with having two girls running it, they want to be the only one. They want to be the only one who’s getting the deals, the only one who’s on the songs, the only one who’s on the line-ups,” says Nadia. “I did it when I started; I was very competitive and combative. But I’m no longer interested in having the number-one song. Obviously, I’d love to be number one but it’s not about that anymore because I’m talking about different levels of business,” she says. She frequently refers to how much she has grown — both as a woman and as an artist. If Nadia Nakai’s vision and journey are proof of anything, it’s that nothing beats staying and slaying in your own lane.

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

Kimono, R16 500, David Tlale; bodysuit, R179, H&M; sunglasses, R220, Woolworths; earrings, R40, MRP; chain necklaces, R160 each, Woolworths; belt, R2 299, Diesel

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY STEVE TANCHEL/RED HOT OPS PHOTOGRAPHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ASSISTANT BLESSING NDLOVU MAKEUP LIZ VAN DER MERWE/RED HOP OPS HAIR SAADIQUE RYKLIEF/LAMPOST USING BALMAIN HAIR COUTURE FASHION INTERN NOMBUSO KUMALO

Blouse, R2 000, The Bam Collective; bodysuit, R80, headband, R50; both MRP; boots, R3 899, Steve Madden

Stockists Aldo aldoshoes.co.za Calvin Klein Jeans 087 822 3470 Crystal Birch therealcrystalbirch.com David Tlale davidtlale.com Diesel 011 783 0882 Foschini Foschini.co.za H&M hm.com/za MRP mrp.com Nao Serati naoserati.com Preview 011 884 0401 Pringle of Scotland 011 444 2270 Rich Mnisi richmnisi.com Steve Madden stevemadden.co.za Superdry 011 784 0496 Swatch swatch.com/en_za The Bam Collective thebamcollective.com Woolworths woolworths.co.za

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

HEALTH

GO WITH THE FLOW text SANET OBERHOLZER

very day 300-million people around the world menstruate. Yet, despite the fact that menstruation affects approximately half of the female population — or 26% of the world’s population — it remains a taboo topic. Sharon Gordon is the CEO of Dignity Dreams, a non-governmental organisation that manufactures and distributes washable, reusable sanitary pads and educates people on menstrual and reproductive health. Gordon says menstrual health is the very first barrier to gender equality. “There is still a big deal about talking about it openly and honestly. It’s still cloaked in this enormous amount of shame.” The problem with our unwillingness to talk about menstruation is that when it comes to menstrual health — or the way women manage and understand their menstruation in terms of health and wellbeing — knowledge is key. Poor practices not only pose the risk of finding yourself in an awkward social situation (no one likes to experience a leak, as normal as it may be), but it can also pose major health risks. In the spirit of education, Gordon answered some of our most pressing questions.

PERIOD-TRACKING APPS 18

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

P eriod-tracking apps allow you to input information related to your cycle each month and use that information to predict the start of your next period. Depending on which app you

Q&A:

How regularly should I be changing my tampon or pad? Every four hours, unless you’re a heavy bleeder. Then, as often as you feel uncomfortable. What is toxic shock syndrome? Toxic shock syndrome is normally caused by tampons that you keep in for too long, like for two days. What happens is your body goes into shock because you’ve abused it. You’re essentially poisoning your body through the chemicals in the tampon and the bacteria that is now growing on the blood. What is pad rash? Pad rash is normally caused by wearing a pad for too long or due to an allergy to something in the pad. Is it good for me to have a douche when I’m on my period? No, you should never douche, not even on your period. Your vagina is self-cleaning and the minute you put anything foreign into your body, you’re destroying the pH balance. The chance of you then getting thrush is very high. Should I be cleaning my vagina in any other way when I am on my period? No, just soap and water on the outside. I understand that there’s a market for vaginal products but all those products are made to shame us. Nobody has ever developed a wipe for a man’s genitals. Sometimes they smell worse than our vaginas but nobody shames them. Is it safe to use more than one menstrual product, for example a tampon and a pad together? If you are a very heavy bleeder it is actually recommended that you use a tampon and a pad together. As long as you’re changing them at least every four hours, you should be fine. My recommendation is a menstrual cup or a washable pad because they’re sustainable. Can I fall pregnant when I’m on my period? Yes you can, absolutely. It’s unlikely but it is possible because it depends on where that egg is sitting. The other thing is that sperm are clever and they stick around. If you’re going to have sex, be protected. I smell down there. What should I do? It’s likely bacteria so just wash more often and make sure that you are changing your pad. The smell of your vagina is a very good indicator of your health. If it starts smelling really terrible you might have an infection, particularly if it’s itching. If this is the case, go to the doctor and get that sorted out. Why is it important to use menstrual products and not something I can find in my house? I don’t believe that you have to use menstrual products. If you’ve got t-shirt material that you’ve cut you can use this as well. As long as it’s been washed and is bacteria-free you can use it — but it has to be sterilised.

use, you can track a variety of things such as your symptoms, weight, and physical activity. Some apps also send reminders to prepare for your period and tips to help you manage PMS

CHEAPER, ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO DISPOSABLE SANITARY PRODUCTS

1 Menstrual cups are flexible, funnel-shaped cups made of rubber or silicone that you insert into your vagina to collect menstrual blood. Not only are they re-usable (and cheaper in the long run), they also hold more fluid. If you’re comfortable using tampons, you should have little problem using a menstrual cup. To clean, just wash it out each time you remove it, and after your period ends, steam it to clean it properly. You can either boil it in water on the stove or steam it in a microwave.

2 Reusable sanitary pads are made of cloth, which means you can wash and re-use them. To clean, use green Sunlight soap or something similar and wash it, either by hand or in your washing machine. Wash it until it’s clean and then soak it in water with salt — about a teaspoon of salt to a cup of water. Salt has antibacterial and softening properties. And if you hang it in the sun, that’s another antibacterial. Don’t use anything else, such as fabric softener or similar products — the chemicals will give you an infection.

symptoms. Period Calendar, Clue, and My Calendar are period-tracking apps that come highly recommended by users and are free to download on iOS and Android.

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

CONVERSATIONS CONVERSATIONS

Burnt out and feeling down? Make your mental health a priority in 2020

text PAULA ANDROPOULOS

“M

ental health”: it’s a term nay-sayers have come to associate with millennials and pill-pushers, but few of us actually spend enough time thinking about what it means in relation to our own lives until things are already falling apart. More often than not, until we find ourselves unable to cope with the contingencies of everyday life – until we have already resorted to substance abuse, or reverted to more innocuous bad habits – we won’t introduce changes for the benefit of our psychological stability. Why is the maxim that prevention trumps cure so hard to take to heart where our own wellbeing is concerned? In part, it’s because it can be hard to recognise that one isn’t doing well before the 11th hour, especially when you are responsible for taking care of family members and loved ones. As such, attending to your psychological wellbeing is particularly important for women, who are typically juggling familial obligations as well as contending with professional and financial stress. The average adult woman has little time left over for herself.

CHECK IN WITH YOURSELF It’s also so easy to overlook the first indications that your responsibilities are taking a toll on your mind (and on your body, by extension). Loss of appetite, excessive hunger, sleeplessness, oversleeping, relentless anxiety — any of these symptoms can be dismissed as par for the course, but combined and compounded over time, they should be taken seriously.

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

Indeed, a huge part of supporting and safeguarding your mental health is simply a function of taking yourself seriously: don’t be dismissive of your own suffering, however “normal” it may seem to you. A good rule of thumb: if the distress in question is something that would concern you if it were affecting your friend, your child, your partner, or your parent, then you should accord yourself the same care you would them. If it gets to the point where you can no longer take care of yourself, then it stands to reason that you won’t be able to take care of the people who are relying on you. Where your mental health is concerned, your first resolution should be to familiarise yourself with your stressors and the reactions they provoke. Try keeping a mood diary and “checking in” with yourself a few times a day, either at pre-designated intervals, or when you catch yourself in the midst of a maladaptive coping mechanism, such as smoking, or, even better: in the midst of an unhappy moment. This seemingly mundane practice will nurture

a state of emotional self-awareness, which will in turn empower you to modify your reactions to negative stimuli. If you would prefer a 21stcentury alternative to a pen-and-paper mood map, experiment with apps such as Daylio, which uses videos and images to help you identify your moods; or MoodKit, which is modelled on cognitive behavioural therapy and records your activities, your thoughts, and your moods, as well as filing journal entries.

TALK ABOUT IT Consider initiating conversations about your mental health with your friends and family more regularly this year. Even though it goes against the grain of conservative cultural socialisation, encouraging a culture of emotional transparency will make it easier to ask for help when you need it, as well as providing both you and your loved ones with a healthy outlet for your emotions. Communicating your feelings to the people closest to you — and encouraging them to do the same — is likely to avert conflict, as you will have greater insight into the factors motivating other people’s behaviour. As a result, instead of reacting poorly to your friends’ or family’s moods or attributing them to a shortcoming on your part, you might be able to offer constructive advice. You will probably also find that if you engage in meaningful conversations about your experiences and the effects they are having on your emotions, you won’t feel the same compunction to escape as regularly. This will diminish your reliance on digital media, which, as we are often reminded (but are all too rarely in the mood to acknowledge) is itself detrimental to your overall mental wellbeing.

DIGITAL DETOX In that vein, do your utmost to disconnect from your devices in 2020. Often, this is a function of setting boundaries: unless your personal or professional circumstances absolutely mandate uninterrupted connectivity, limit your personal availability. Make it known that you will not answer work-related emails or phone calls after a pre-established point in the day. The fact that we are working longer hours (for lower pay) seems to be taking a quantifiable toll on our bodies. According to a recent report by Blue Cross Blue Shield (a US federation of health insurance providers), we are ageing faster than our parents did, and might even die comparatively young. Silence the kinds of notifications that aren’t necessary to your role as a caretaker — your family and close friends should be able to

MENTAL ILLNESS: SIGNS THAT SOMEONE MIGHT BE IN DISTRESS

f you’re concerned that someone in your life is struggling with mental-health problems, it may help to establish whether or not they are behaving in a manner consistent with a suicidal mind frame. Here are some common indicators that a person might be planning suicide. 1. They feel like a burden and are embarrassed to reach out for support. They have intimated that they are a source of irritation and stress for their loved ones. 2. They have made mention of suicide recently, and have even expressed a desire to end their life, though perhaps only in passing or as a joke. 3. They have stopped taking an interest in the things that used to bring them joy and comfort. They are despondent and lethargic. 4. They are having mood swings — from being manic and hysterical to being catatonic and/or apathetic. They are not responding in a typical manner to ordinary stimuli. 5. They have isolated themselves from their friends and loved ones. 6. They are drinking and/or using drugs more aggressively than they have done in the past. 7. They have attempted suicide in the recent past, and still seem to be waiting for an opportunity to present itself. 8. They have access to a weapon or they have been looking for a weapon. 9. They seem to be making plans in preparation for their death: selling their things, getting in touch with their lawyers, reaching out to say goodbye. 10. They have communicated their belief that the pain they are in cannot be treated. They feel exhausted and utterly hopeless.

reach you in an emergency, but you don’t need to be notified every time someone views your LinkedIn page or double taps on your latest Instagram offering. So much of the anxiety that seems to saturate our communities nowadays is inexorably related to our relationships with computers, phones, tablets, and televisions: we are chronically over-stimulated. Exercising self-discipline where your electronic media is concerned will almost unquestionably improve the quality of your sleep, which is essential to your mental health.Try to reintroduce some of the recreational activities you used to enjoy in your downtime. Read, draw, hike, run — and include your friends on a regular basis. Not only are we sleepless and overwrought, but recent studies have shown that we are also heartrendingly lonely.

BACK TO BASICS Small, sometimes strange things are warranted to make you feel good. Our main mentalhealth objective in 2020 should be to generate endorphins without compromising our physical wellbeing, or derailing the pursuit of our goals. If you live in an urban area that is relatively bereft of greenery, invest in a houseplant — strangely enough, watering and tending to shrubbery also seems to make humans happy. Otherwise, cook. Learn something new. Move your body. Be creative. But most importantly, don’t ignore the signs that things aren’t going well within. If your financial situation is not conducive to contracting an independent healthcare practitioner, start by finding out what kinds of psychological resources your place of employment offers its employees — you might be surprised by how many companies are taking steps to introduce mental health support into their existing infrastructure. If you are at a South African university, you should also be able to access affordable counselling services: contact the administrative staff and they will put you in touch with the relevant faculty. Otherwise, you can contact Sadag (the South African Depression and Anxiety Group), the Destiny Helpline for Youth & Students, or LifeLine (Gauteng or Western Cape) for rapid, cost-free assistance. New apps like BetterHelp and Talkspace Online also enable users to connect to a therapist over text or video call, which alleviates the need to seek out and travel to a psychologist. Apps of this kind also empower prospective clients to maintain a degree of anonymity. If you’re struggling, you can get help: SADAG 0800 456 789 Whatsapp 076 88 22 775 Emergency 0800 567 567; LifeLine: 0861 322 322

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

LEADERSHIP

How did you get into figure skating? I got into figure skating purely by chance. I was walking at Northgate Mall and I saw people skating on the ice rink. It looked interesting and I decided then and there to go in and try it out. I kept coming back. I also researched it and did it more often. This one time, a coach from the Central Gauteng Figure Skating Association saw me. She told me I was good. When I told her that I did this as a hobby, she told me to do it professionally. I did and never looked back. That was five years ago. I believe I was born to do it. What goes into becoming a Gauteng champion? I have been training at the Kempton Park ice rink as part of the Central Gauteng Figure Skating Association’s school. When you join the school you become eligible to enter ice-skating competitions. To climb the figureskating ladder, you have to enter into competitions to progress further, hold a title, and qualify for the nationals. What are the skills and requirements of being a good figure skater? You have to be super flexible. Most professionals complement skating with ballet, yoga and/or Pilates. You have to have strength.

You need stamina, so your lungs need to be functioning really well. You also need discipline and patience because you can try a single move a thousand times before you get it right. Is it a costly sport? It is extremely expensive. Unlike Europe, South Africa only has ice rinks in malls for both professionals and the public. We pay R365 per day to train securely between 3am and 6am, which is our only designated training time as professionals. Skates are costly. You have to have a chiropractor because there are many injuries involved. You have to eat well and have a gym membership for off-ice training. You started skating as an adult. What has that taught you? It’s taught me never to allow anyone to tell me that I can’t do anything. When I started figure skating I was a new mom — tired, overweight, stressed out. People used to look at me funny, making me feel bad and like I was doing something wrong. But I’m a voluptuous woman doing it and I love it! Where do you see yourself going with the sport? I want to win a gold medal for South Africa and the continent. I would also like to create a local ice show similar to the likes of international ones like Peter Pan on Ice, but with a South African feel.

DUDU PHELE FIGURE SKATER

At 34, Dudu Phele is the current Gauteng champion in adult figure skating and the only woman of her age to qualify for the nationals. She chats to us about disrupting the status quo of the sport and her ambitions to represent South Africa internationally text KGOMOTSO MONCHO-MARIPANE photography LESEDI MOTHOAGAE

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

FINANCE text DINEO TSAMELA

1. MEDICAL COSTS PRE- AND POSTBABY: Whether you’re on medical

aid or not, you need to think about the cost of prenatal check-ups as these are important to monitor baby’s development. Clinics can offer lowerpriced or free services. You also need to think about vaccinations and checkups (for both mother and baby) once baby has arrived. 2. THE COST OF GIVING BIRTH:

This cost depends on whether you have medical aid or not. If you do, go through the conditions with a finetooth comb. Compare costs between a vaginal birth and a C-section. You’ll need to do thorough research so you’re not caught unawares by big hospital bills. 3. PRAM, STROLLER, BABY CARRIER, AND CAR SEAT: When shopping

around for these items, look for longterm value. You want something that you can use beyond baby’s first six months. However, some items are sensitive to baby’s size, so ask about safety before you jump to purchase. 4. COT, ROCKER, AND BED LINEN:

If you’re planning for the baby to sleep independently from the get-go, then you need to budget for a good baby bed. There are also cots that can transform into baby beds. When shopping around, whether it’s for a rocker chair or a play mat, try to find something that is adequate for both the baby’s developmental stages and your budget. 5. BOTTLES AND DUMMIES: You will need feeding paraphernalia, from bottles to utensils to high chairs. The options are wide and varied, which can be overwhelming, so just outline your basics and work from there.

The decision to have your first baby can be both exciting and daunting. But the costs associated with being responsible for a small person can be overwhelming — especially if you are on a tight budget. Here are some basic budget considerations for parents-to-be

for baby’s development. You don’t need to buy an entire toy store, but you need to provide the little one with age-appropriate stimulation and keep it within your budget. 7. TOILETRIES: You can be smart about

these and bulk buy before baby arrives. Staples such as soap, shampoo, and lotion can be bought in advance, and remember you’ll probably need to replace your nappy bag at least once during baby’s first 18 months. 8. NAPPIES AND RELATED COSTS:

Disposable nappies are costly so you might want to opt for cloth nappies. You don’t have to go completely oldschool with those towel nappies and the “waterproofs” that come with them. Nowadays there are machinewashable, leak-proof cloth nappies that are suitable from birth up to pottytraining age. Don’t forget the baby wipes and baby bum creams! 9. FEEDING: If you decide to go the formula route, you’ll have to factor in the monthly costs. Formula prices range from R50 to R500 and you’ll go through several tins per month. 10. CLOTHING: It’s tempting to go

all out with the adorable clothing, but it’s important to note that your baby’s weight will double in the first six months. Avoid going overboard by sticking to the very basic needs and committing to more regular laundry days. While it’s tempting to have baby grows in every colour under the sun, baby may outgrow some of the clothes and only get to wear them once. BONUS: Not everything needs to be

bought brand new. Items like toys, car seats, cots, and clothes have been handed down in our families for generations. Get in touch with relatives whose babies have outgrown all their shiny new stuff, or look for secondhand items online.

10 expenses to consider when having a baby

6. TOYS: Some might argue that toys are unnecessary but they’re essential

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

WEDDING text THEMBALETHU ZULU

THE MEETING: Cathrine: “We met at a nightclub in Durban in early 2014. We were introduced by a mutual friend. Funnily enough, we’d both recently gone through a break-up, and were pretty set on not dating for a while. He was based in Johannesburg at the time, and I in Durban. We did a lot of commuting between the two cities for about a year.”

From long-distance to “I do”, Bryce and Cathrine Dambuza found their way to forever

THE LIGHTBULB MOMENT Bryce: “I pretty much knew she was the one six months into what we had going on. I shared this with my best friend and simply told him, ‘This girl is going to be my wife.’ She realised 18 months into the relationship, when I’d decided to make my move back to Durban. The commuting wasn’t good enough anymore, and we knew we needed to be in the same city for our relationship to grow from strength to strength.” THE PROPOSAL Bryce: “We travelled to Hong Kong for her 25th birthday, and as per Murphy’s Law, all that could go wrong, went wrong. When we arrived at our hotel, I realised my suitcase’s code had reset itself and I couldn’t open it. Yes, the ring was in there. Luckily, we had the best concierge on hand and he agreed to break into my suitcase for me (this may not sound like a big deal but it is against the law in HK, punishable by a fine or time in prison). Nerves got the better of me and I ended up proposing at 7am in our hotel room, as we stumbled in from a night out with friends. She was surprised, to say the least, and cried for a full five minutes before I got my answer. She fell asleep afterwards, and woke up after 10 minutes to ask me if I was sure.” THE WEDDING DAY: Cathrine: “We wanted a certain feel to the day rather than a whole theme. We went for a rusticmeets-modern feel, through geometric and wooden accents on our table settings and pastel

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

#HAPPILYEVER AFTER

flower arrangements. We had the venue’s deck set up to feel properly rustic; wheelbarrows as ice baths, hay bales and wooden stumps for seating, and a photobooth fully kitted with a gramophone, oldschool suitcases, and our very own #happilyeverdambuza signage.” TOP TIPS FOR THE BRIDE Cathrine: “Get an early start on the day, regardless of what time the ceremony starts. The time slips through your fingers like melting butter. Take it all in during the ceremony. If it means sharing a meal in private before the programme starts, do so!”

TOP TIPS FOR THE GROOM: Bryce: “Delegate tasks to your groomsmen on time. I was very hands-on during the reception. I didn’t spend nearly as much time as I’d wanted to with my bride.” THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK Make up: Nontobeko Mathenjwa (close friend) Hair: Carolyn Ogle (close friend) Dress: Viola Chan Suit: EuroSuit Venue: Haycroft Farm, Howick Wedding planner: Mlaba Marketing Rings: American Swiss (hers); Bryanston Jewellers (his) Photography: Ant-Eye (Nhlonipho Zondi)

GIFT REGISTRY Every day becomes a celebration when you have the right appliances, dinner ware, d ĂŠ c o r, b e d d i n g a n d m o r e from @home. Open your G i f t R e g i s t r y t o d a y.

w w w. h o m e . c o . z a

DÉCOR compiled by SAHIL HARILAL

IMAGES @HOME AND SUPPLIED

4 6 5

9 8 10 7

Creature Comforts Authenticity is 2020’s prevailing design trend. Look for highly crafted pieces in warm, earthy tones and unusual fabrics and designs 1. Mirror, R4 490, Design Store 2. Pedestal, R3 099, @home 3. Vase, R4 495, Weylandts 4. Vase, R495, Weylandts 5. Paint in Pincushion Red, Habitat Colour Collection, Duram Paints 6. Chair, R20 000, @home 7. Cushion, R200, MRP Home 8. Throw, R400, Woolworths 9. Cushion, R230, MRP Home 10. Shelf, R8 499, @home 11. Table, R2 699, @home 12. Vase, R225, Weylandts 13. Table, R1 800, Woolworths 14. Lamp, R2 995, Weylandts Stockists: @home home.co.za Design Store designstore.co.za Duram Paints duram.co.za MRP Home mrphome.com Weylandts weylandts.co.za Woolworths woolworths.co.za

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

GBR/24230/S

LITTLE KAROO 13 |

KING MACKEREL 60 |

CORAL TREE 74 |

Paint so smart, you’ll style your life around it. Introducing Duram’s new Habitat Colour Collection, a curated palette for the contemporary home. Featuring 90 beautiful designer colours from subtle earthbound neutrals to dark inky hues, choosing the perfect colour for your living space couldn’t be simpler. Inspiration comes easily with Duram’s richly pigmented interior and exterior paints that provide exceptional depth of colour, luxurious ﬁnishes and superior long-lasting results that always look smart. Ask for Duram at your local hardware store. The paint that’s made smart to look smart. Each colour is available for purchase in convenient and affordable 90ml Colour Samples at select stores. Dry paint colour and sheen may vary from colours shown.

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ON THE UP SIPHESIHLE VAZI

Golf shirt, R1 499, Tommy Hilfiger; knit, R1 450, Ephymol; trousers, R499, Markham;

FRONT ROW

4 5 1

6 9

PHOTOGRAPHY ESTROP/GETTY IMAGES AND SUPPLIED

Hypercolour Euphoria 10

ICEBERG

15 13

Icebergâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2020 menswear show took a clever maximalist approach to modern-day punk, showing pop-art motifs and acid brights next to chain detailing and oversized knitwear compiled by SAHIL HARILAL 1. Patta golf shirt, R899, Shelflife 2. Scarf, R299, Country Road 3. Bag, R330, Zara 4. Shorts, from R1 899, Scotch & Soda 5. Bracelet, R499, Sterns 6. Champion sweater, R749, Sportscene 7. Fossil watch, R2 499 Sterns 8. Jacket, R5 499, Diesel 9. Jeans, R6 999, Diesel 10. Belt, R229, Sportscene 11. Jacket, R5 999, Diesel 12. Sunglasses, R60, MRP 13. Backpack, R800, Vans 14. Sneakers, R4 599, Diesel 15. Hoodie, R579, Zara Stockists Country Road, woolworths.co.za, Diesel 011 783 0882, MRP mrp.com, Scotch & Soda 011 784 3233, Shelflife shelflife.co.za, Sportscene sportscene.co.za, Sterns sterns.co.za, Vans 011 883 1092, Zara zara.com/za

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

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INTERVIEW

There’s more to Siphesihle Vazi

iphesihle Vazi can see himself floating above the car that is rushing him to hospital. In the backseat of a teacher’s car, he is barely clinging on to life as his chest closes in from a near-fatal asthma attack. The seven-year-old is trying to keep his eyes open at the behest of his teacher when he starts to float above the car. Luckily, he makes it to the hospital in time to be nebulised, and breathes life back into his body. Today, the 27-year-old actor and TV presenter is the picture of health as he attempts to perform a trick on a skateboard for the perfect shot on our set. “Vazi”, as he is popularly known, arrives right on time for his shoot, a sign of the professionalism that has seen him grow into prominence on the South African media scene. The Madadeni, KwaZulu-Natal, native describes his near-death experience to me a few days later when we meet for his interview. He is drinking a cappuccino that he later upgrades to a cider, a hint of one of his nine tattoos evident from under his black t-shirt. His first-ever ink was the phrase “stay humble” which he got “when I started making my own money” as a bartender at a popular establishment in Auckland Park. “That’s always been my motto, regardless of whatever happens,” he says. Another is an inscription of the words “Duku Duku” on his right inner forearm. It’s a simple homage to the legendary show, Selimathunzi, which gave him his big break back in 2015. He was initially just meant to do a segment, but the producers liked his work so much that he ultimately landed a full-time gig, which he still enjoys. On the surface, Vazi appears to be the stereotypical TV presenter: good looks, great physique, and a megawatt smile. But the more he regales me with tales about his life, the more apparent it becomes that there is more to him than has previously been seen. Fans are getting a glimpse of his big personality on the current season of Tropika Island of Treasure. The primetime show, which is currently airing on SABC3, sees celebrities paired up with a fan, and tasked to undertake a series of physical and mental challenges in order to stand a chance of winning R1-million. “I’ve always wanted to be on Tropika Island,” he says excitedly. “This season has a couple of twists, so much so that it shocked us contestants,” he says. One half of team “MangoPeach”, he says this season comes with a lot of drama, “which is pretty dope”. On the show, Vazi’s athleticism is evident, although he says he is not too intense with his workouts. “I don’t set body goals per se because I know how to feed my body. I’ve been doing gym and training, and knowing how to take care of my body since I was 15.” His competitive streak is also revealed on the show, something he has been honing since school when he played rugby. At an Afrikaans-medium high school in Ermelo, which he attended through a rugby scholarship, he shone on the field as a star winger, ultimately making the first team in Grade 11. A devastating injury to his left knee ended his career and almost left him unable to walk properly. While making a huge tackle, he collided with the opposition player, splitting his kneecap into three. He was unable to walk for months. “So once I got on my feet, I could only bend my knee at 15 degrees. I was told that I would never walk again,” he recalls. But his tenacity (he has a tattoo of a lion on his chest, a reminder that he has the heart of a lion), saw him eventually gain full mobility. Always seeking to push himself, Vazi recently added actor to his accolades, starring

text THEMBALETHU ZULU

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

production SAHIL HARILAL

PHOTOGRAPHY STEVE TANCHEL/RED HOT OPS PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT BLESSING NDLOVU GROOMING LIZ VAN DER MERWE/RED HOP OPS FASHION INTERN NOMBUSO KUMALO

than meets the eye in the popular series Makoti, where he played Mthoko opposite Thuli Phongolo, his onscreen wife. He says the show taught him the importance of communication in relationships. “Also just boundaries, a lot about boundaries,” he says. One way he has introduced clear boundaries is in his refusal to talk publicly about his romantic relationships. It’s part of how he maintains his peace — something that is important to him. In his downtime, he spends time at home, re-orientating in silence. “I just like silence. Sometimes I wake up and I jam songs, sometimes I wake up and there’s just nothing,” he says. “I have grown to be more quiet than loud. I’ve grown to understand my surroundings and myself, and I have grown to put myself in people’s shoes more often than not.” Considering the sometimes-fickle industry he is in, Vazi is very pragmatic about his approach. “If one thing doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean the next will also follow suit. If I’m off TV tomorrow, God forbid, it’s not the end of the world,” he says resolutely. “I’ve made so many contacts, I’ve made so many relationships, that I can still carry on with my life.” His BA degree in marketing communication also comes to use in the other entrepreneurial ventures he is involved in. Beyond the silver screen, “life has brought me back to what I’ve always liked, which is marketing and communication,” he says. He has his finger in a number of pies with his company, Rise Vukani, including outdoor marketing and project management and is also looking to do production. Giving back to the community is also important to him and he makes a point of doing community outreach. Although he understands that fame can be temporary, he is making the most of it while he can. “If I were to sit down and go through the things that I’ve done and the possibilities that have been opened for me via my job, I could safely say that I’ve been super, super lucky.” So how long does he want to keep doing this? “I’m planning on being here for long. I want to explore everything that the industry has to offer. I have my own pace with what I want.”

photography STEVE TANCHEL

Shirt, R999, Polo; jacket, R1 900; trousers, R4 500, both Ephymol; sneakers, R899, Country Road Opposite page: Suit, R25 000, House of Olé; shirt, R899, Polo; t-shirt, R180, Markham; socks, model’s own; Roberto Cavalli sneakers, R6 490, Preview Stockists Country Road woolworths.co.za David Tlale davidtlale.com Ephymol ephymol14 @gmail.com House of Olé info @houseofole.co.za Markham markham.co.za Polo polo.co.za Preview 011 884 0401 Tommy Hilfiger 011 883 2573

HEART OF A LION MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

GROOMING GROOMING

PLEIN SPORT/ ICEBERG

Gym Skin Goals After a good sweat, make sure you look ready to tackle life with our quick guide to post-workout grooming like a boss text NOKUBONGA THUSI

hether you’re squeezing in a quick workout before a busy work day or heading to a dinner date afterwards, trying not to look like you just lost half your soul on the training mat can be tricky.

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

After battling through sweat, clammy hands, body odour, and body stiffness, a gym workout can be taxing on the body. So the on-the-go grooming that follows is crucial if you’re not heading straight home to recover.

PHOTOGRAPHY TRISTAN FEWINGS, ROSDIANA CIARAVOLO/GETTY IMAGES

PRE-WORKOUT:

POST WORKOUT:

CONTROL THAT B-O

FACE FIT AND READY

Ikhwapha is never acceptable — even in the gym — so make sure you smell fresh during and after your workout. While some prefer to exercise in the morning when body odour is likely to still be dormant, after-work gym sessions are popular too. After a long day, quickly freshen up before your session by using a cleansing wipe on your armpits and applying an antiperspirant deodorant or rollon. We know you’re thinking: “Why bother if I’m going to get sweaty anyway?” but no one likes the guy who’s radiating a musty scent while doing a shoulder press. Let’s respect each other and create the confidence to power through your session without being That Guy.

Flushed skin: While your skin is feeling great after a workout due to all that blood circulating and oxygen pumping through it, it’s not all that rosy on the outside — or maybe it’s looking a bit too rosy. A little redness or a blotchy appearance on the face after a workout is common — even in those with dark skin tones — and you’re bound to look more flushed if you have conditions such as rosacea. After cleansing the face, apply an anti-redness serum or spritz on a soothing facial mist containing ingredients such as aloe vera and vitamin E to gently calm the redness and cool down the face.

Sweat breakouts: When your face isn’t clean and you get sweaty, it mixes with dead skin cells, sebum, and surface dirt. This can become a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Whether you use a face wipe, micellar water, or a rebalancing cleanser, washing your face after — and even before — a gym session is important. It helps to remove all the sweat and dirt that has accumulated on the skin and prevents breakouts or pores becoming blocked. If you are prone to breakouts, pack a spot-treatment gel into your bag for on-the-go zit zapping. Refined texture: If you have an important engagement after gym, amp up your skin’s post-gym glow and give it a healthy appearance by applying a matte primer to blur texture and make it look like you had a good night’s rest. Use a concealer in your skin shade to cover up any dark circles under eyes and refine the skin. Finish off with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50) and spritz the face with a hydrating facial mist to refresh skin, set concealer, and make skin look healthy and rested. Hand hygiene: The gym is a germ paradise and it’s easy to transfer bacteria and germs to your skin. Touching the gym equipment or sweaty mats and then touching your face can cause flare-ups. Always wash your hands before and after a gym session, or wear gym gloves. If you are a borderline germaphobe, carry a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitiser or a pack of wipes to quickly disinfect your hands and gym equipment after your workout. Beard maintenance: If you realise you’re due for a shave or trim before you head to the gym, don’t shave right before you leave the house. Shaving before a workout can irritate your skin and sweat will seep into any sensitive areas or nicks and cuts. Rather pack a pair of cordless beard trimmers into your gym bag and shave after your shower in the locker room. This is the perfect time to do so: pores and hair follicles are more open, and the hair is softened by the shower and increased circulation from the session. Finish off with a beard oil or conditioner to leave the beard looking glossy and healthy.

TRY 1. 365 Skin Workout Essentials Active Toner, 100ml, R350 2. BioNike Defence Pore Refiner Rebalancing Cleansing Gel, 150ml, R115 3. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths, pack of 25, R140 4. Safeway Men’s Battery-Operated Personal Trimmer, R129 5. Neostrata Spot Treatment Gel, 15g, R395 6. Luma Base Perfecting Priming Moisturiser, 75ml, R350 7. Shield for Men Invisible Germ Defence Roll-On, 50ml, R19 8. Nivea Men Active Clean Shower Gel for Body, Face and Hair, 500ml, R60

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

COLUMN

FOR THE UNINITIATED text YOLISA MKELE

ometime around midnight back in 2001, a group of grade 8 boys from one of those private schools that charge too much money were just beginning to doze off. They were on an orientation camp and, as such, had had a busy day. I, for one, was just getting to the nitty gritty of a dream involving a tactical rescue and a very grateful Beyoncé when the room I was sharing with a bunch of other boys exploded into commotion. The grade 8s were blindfolded, herded into a glade, and made to sit down. Shivering, more than a little bewildered, our blindfolds were taken off and a ritualised introduction to that year’s matric prefect group began. Now, this is usually the part of the story where something tragic happens — but nothing did. After some more shouting and a few empty threats, everyone was sent back to bed, where the grade 8s excitedly giggled about who had been the most scared before falling back asleep. This is how high-school initiations are supposed to go. They are supposed to be like bungee jumping in that they scare the crap out of you but ultimately no harm comes of it. Sadly, this is not always the case. But does that mean we should do away with the practice altogether? Well, that depends. Enock Mpianzi’s drowning at a Parktown Boys’ High School camp was outrageous. Whether it is initiation or orientation, no child should

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never come back. In fact, a school that has had a number of high-profile issues with student safety should absolutely have put better measures in place. However, that doesn’t mean that initiation rituals are, by their nature, a bad thing. One of the arguments for scrapping highschool initiations entirely is that there is no point to them — kids go to school to learn, not to be initiated. But it’s a bit like arguing about the point of certain religious rituals with an atheist — the fact that one cannot see the point of something doesn’t mean it cannot and does not hold value for someone else. Obviously, no one sends their child to school to cower in a glade. You send them there to learn algebra and how to butcher Shakespeare. If, however, you are sending your children to schools with a “Saint” at the beginning of their names, then you may have deceived yourself a little. Those schools all have a very specific sales pitch: they yammer on incessantly about tradition and values (partly thought to be taught through the practice of initiation) and parents eat that up like a chocolate-covered strawberry. Typically, with tradition comes a whole bunch of practices in which every student of the school has partaken since black-and-white TVs represented the future. There is a big caveat there: supervision. Most parents struggle with the idea of leaving teenagers in charge of a house for a weekend, now imagine leaving a group of 18-year-old boys in charge of a group of 13-year-

old boys. Even with minimal adult supervision, it sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. As parents, teachers, and responsible, tax-paying adults, we should be far more involved in what happens at initiation camps than simply signing a form and waving goodbye. The other problem with initiation is… masculinity. Yes, I can hear the collective eye-roll but bear with me a second. There is a common thread among initiation traumas and deaths, whether high-school or not. When a group of boys or men get together with the aim of proving their manhood, it seldom ends well. When there is no guiding hand to stop things from going too far, or if that guiding hand is too busy nursing the chip on its shoulder from when it went through its own initiation, then bad things are bound to happen. For example, the apartheid army loved a good bit of initiation and has subsequently warped the psyche of generations of men who were not even the people ol’ Pik Botha et al were trying to traumatise. All of that, however, doesn’t mean initiations are bad. The people who operate bungee experiences are pedantic about safety. The cords are double- and triple-checked before they are even attached to your feet. It is well regulated. When initiation rituals are well organised and properly supervised, they not only become a lot of fun but can also serve as an excellent bonding tool for a group of young boys starting their highschool journey together.

MOTORING text THOMAS FALKINER

LOVE YOUR CAR

1. CHECK THAT OIL, SLICK: If you don’t know,

oil — that gloopy black stuff that comes from under the ground — is pretty much the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates all the moving parts and also helps to dissipate heat. Without it, terrible and expensive things would happen very quickly. As such, it’s crucial to monitor it regularly. The best time to do this is in the morning before you set off for work and the oil has had ample time to drain back into the sump overnight. Using your owner’s manual, locate and remove the dipstick and ensure that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s too low, top up slowly. Remember that too much oil can be as bad for a motor as too little.

day and age, that’s a darn good thing. 4. DON’T FORGET THE TYRES: Tyres are

Car maintenance is a daunting topic that strikes fear into the heart of the average motorist. The good news is that even the most mechanically averse can keep tabs on their vehicle by following these five easy tips

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2. WASH AND GLOW:

Dirt can attack your car’s paintwork and leave it looking dull and vulnerable to both fading and oxidation — things that could affect the resale value down the line. Consequently, it’s important to stick to a regular cleaning regime to keep your ride looking presentable — once a week being optimal. If you have the time, invest in some quality car-care products and do it yourself. This not only saves money but also ensures that the job is done right and limits accidental scratching by carwash employees. It’s also vital to wax your vehicle at least once a month — particularly in climates with high rainfall. It helps water to bead off paint and also creates a mild protective layer against

perhaps the single most important piece of safety equipment on our cars — and sometimes the most neglected too. For modern tyres to operate at their optimum in all conditions, they must be kept inflated to the exact pressures as stipulated in your car’s operating manual. If the pressures are too high or too low, the handling, braking and wet-weather performance of your vehicle can be severely compromised. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that your tyre pressure remains within specifications. Check them once a week when they’re cold (hot tyres will create an inaccurate reading). Examine the tyre walls and shoulders for any signs of damage. Bubbles and blisters are dangerous and should be seen to immediately. 5. PAY ATTENTION:

bird droppings and other contaminants. 3. FIND A GOOD MECHANIC: Due to the

sad state of our economy and rising cost of living, people are keeping their cars for longer than they have in the past. With many of these vehicles no longer covered by original factory motor plans, owners can now

maintain their chariots at third-party service centres. This can offer some cost saving over the original agents, but the quality of service can vary wildly. That’s why it’s imperative to find a competent and trustworthy mechanic to see to all your servicing needs. This can take some time (ask family, friends, or social media if they can recommend somebody

nearby) but the rewards are well worth it. Firstly, you can work on establishing a relationship of trust and respect. Secondly, the mechanic in question can get familiar with your vehicle’s service history and quirks, something that’s helpful for diagnosing any future issues. Thirdly, by supporting a competent independent mechanic you are supporting a small business and, in this

We know your car has a fabulous sound system but it pays to sometimes turn it off and drive in silence for a bit. This will allow you to listen for any suspicious noises. Squeaking. Grating. Rumbling. All of these could be signaling the start of a mechanical issue in need of urgent attention. Ears aside, use your eyes to seek out any evidence of oil or water leaks. Look under your car before you leave for work and take note of any suspicious stains on your garage or carport floor. This attentiveness can go a long way in terms of saving you money down the line.

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

“My definition of success is something that makes you happy. I measure success by the viability of the business and the growth, expansion, and new developments that we are working on. Pay attention. It is also very important to always be the one who is copied. Since we opened Epicure, we have seen a growth in the number of restaurants that offer African food and we are happy to be at the forefront of the change that is happening. Find reliable people in your industry whom you can educate, build, and grow with.”

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t e p h e n Covey’s best-selling book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effec tive People, has sold in excess of 25-million copies worldwide. It has become somewhat of a bible for those looking to develop mechanisms to help them reach a high level of focus and success, and outlines different habits one can adopt, such as beginning with the end in mind, and the importance of synergy. Locally, we are not short of men who have established themselves not only as leaders in their different industries, but also as changemakers within our economy. But what makes them tick, and what are the principles and habits they’ve adopted to reach the level of success they have?

“To me, success is about setting goals and achieving them. No matter what they are. At the core of it is having a purpose that makes sense, and as a result, feeling useful, feeling joyful, feeling inspired, and feeling grateful are my kind of success. Never be entitled: you have to work hard for the life you want and the output you want to deliver. Also remember that just because it has never been done before, it does not mean that it cannot be done. Question! Question your role on earth. Never be comfortable with just being, and even when people think you are weird or crazy, own it. I’m a collaborative leader — on the frontlines when needed and at the back when needed. I’m stubborn because I never settle. I have high standards because I know that, as a black professional, your starting base is always questioned, so we have to dispel that.”

SYLVESTER CHAUKE Marketing guru, owner of DNA Brand Architects

text EMMANUEL TJIYA

CHEF COCO Chef, owner Epicure restaurant

Six powerful and successful men in their respective industries share the habits that make them highly effective

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SPIRIT SPIRIT

“Succ e s s to me is about happiness, alignment, and significance. It’s about doing what matters to you and making a meaningful impact on the world and others. Never compare, never compete, and never compromise. I make a success of my life on my terms. Also, have clarity of purpose — the why for your existence and work. Focus, stay in your lane, and align. Who you are at work, play, and home should be aligned: you can’t be a different person to different people as it leads to unhappiness and lack of trust. Your brand is your reputation. Build on it by having a clear and focused purpose and consistency over time. To compete, you must be different, not better. Evolve to stay relevant.”

“I find that the best rewards are reaped when goals are met. Work hard and smart, always leaving enough room to learn. Be persistent, always remain eager to learn, and never give up. Not everyone can see where you are heading. Most importantly, doing what you love will always keep you well sought after. Rejection motivates me to work harder. If the opportunity was meant for me it will present itself again, so I never take it as a bad thing.”

AZAEL LANGA Fine artist and sculptor

NKATEKO MALULEKE Advocate, head of stakeholder relations at the Southern African Music Rights Organisation

“Be clear w i t h your intentions. Always be authentic to your core and speak your truth. Respect people and forever be humble. Rejection motivates me, because it simply means that the parties involved don’t see through the same lens or agree on the subject matter at hand, meaning that there’s room for growth, improvement or learning. It’s important to always be patient, to have clear intentions, and to put in the work.”

THEBE IKALAFENG Writer, reputation architect

THEO BALOYI Accountant, founder of Bathu shoes “Don’t quit. No one said it would be easy — if it was that easy everyone would be doing it. Remain standing. God knows the desires of our hearts, and one day talent will collide with opportunity so keep the faith. My wife and I also taught ourselves the discipline of presence. We make sure that we are fully present when spending time together. When time allows, my family and I spend time in the kitchen and I cook all their favourite meals. Work will always be there, but time with my family is borrowed and limited. I never take it for granted.”

MARCH 2020 / S. MAG

Vuyo Dabula

MY FITNESS JOURNEY The love of fitness was instilled in me at an early age because my father was very athletic and my mother loved jogging and maintaining a good diet. As a young boy, I was also influenced by international action heroes such as Bruce Lee, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Sylvester Stallone. I grew up quite skinny and I was body shamed a lot. So I adopted a fighter character which I played for myself on a daily basis. Being fit has allowed me to be a better performer: I am stronger, better, and faster. I am turning 44 this year and I look and feel good. My fitness routine can be quite gruelling. I work out twice a day every week. In the morning I do a cardio session. To warm up I spend about an hour on the treadmill, running about 10-13km. After warming up, I move on

S. MAG / MARCH 2020

For years, Vuyo Dabula has enthralled viewers in movies and on TV — including Africa’s first original Netflix series, Queen Sono. Apart from his acting chops, he has inspired many with his impeccable fitness regimen. He shares his fitness journey with us text THANDUXOLO “THANDZ” BUTI

to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which consists of a variety of intense workouts and resting for about 10-30 seconds in between. After the workout I go to work, if I have work. In the evening I will focus on a specific muscle group. For leg day it’s exercises that focus on my hamstrings, thighs, calves, and so on. The next day I may move on to my stomach — an ab workout — or my arms. And on Saturdays and Sundays I will do lower-intensity workouts. Diet is important. I eat regularly throughout the day, but in small portions. I eat foods that are high in protein, like beans and darker vegetables. I make sure I burn more calories than I consume. I always try to maintain a balance in my life despite my hectic schedule. Sometimes I have to shoot two different shows simultaneously. For example I was shooting Queen Sono and Generations: The Legacy (on SABC 1) at the same time. During such times it’s important to prioritise because I have to be able to train, spend time with my family, and also deliver at work. I am lucky that I have a supportive family and close friends who understand my impossible schedule. However, it is very important for me to make time for my close people and still be able to [go to the] gym and perform. FITNESS ADVICE Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I don’t have a personal trainer but, where I lack wisdom, I don’t hesitate to ask for advice from those who have the knowledge. Learn to prioritise and make sacrifices. There is no way you can achieve your goals without deciding what’s important. You will have to cut out things that have a negative impact on your body or do them in moderation, like drinking alcohol. Have discipline. To succeed, you need discipline because you need to put in a great deal of time and effort in order to see results. Be easy on yourself. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, remember to be easy on yourself and build yourself up slowly. It took small steps for me to get to where I am today. Do it slowly but wisely. Be kind to yourself. You cannot be hard on yourself if you have not been kind to yourself. That’s why people fall off the wagon — because they are not kind to themselves.

PORTRAIT STEVE TANCHEL AND SUPPLIED

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