little black bookofcool

I’m always on the lookout for innovative restaurants, fashion and beautiful design. Here are some of my top picks…

I TOOK THIS AS A COMPLIMENT. AT 38, I’M ‘YOUTH ADJACENT’ AND APPARENTLY NOT JUST ON A DOWNHILL SLOPE TO 40. I’M ALSO SEEMINGLY IN THE KNOW AS TO WHERE YOU SHOULD GO FOR A RAZZLE… WORDS JO BUITENDACH

CONFESSION, THIS ISN’T MY MOMENT TO FLEX, because I didn’t actually know where the kiki was, at least on that specific occasion. Another confession, I just googled ‘flex’ (to boast or brag) and ‘kiki’ (a social gathering), so that I sound suitably hip and down with the kids. I’m clearly neither.

When YourLuxury Africa asked me to write about being an in-the-know maven, I questioned whether they had meant to mail me and not someone else. Turns out I may be a walking Little Black Book, but also, I have a heavy case of imposter syndrome. For 12 years, I ran an internationally acclaimed tour company in Johannesburg called Past Experiences. It was my job to know what was new, trendy and happening. I was always looking for an innovative spot to take my clients; whether to eat, shop or learn about the City of Gold. I quickly built up an encyclopaedic knowledge and learnt a lot about the luxury market, as most of my clients were wealthy international travellers. I was even honoured with an award by Vanity Fair magazine for the work I did in Jozi. But all good things must come to an end, and I was long overdue for a change. So, three years ago, and after several health issues, much stress and a few major life events, I decided to try something new. I now work as a journalist, so being in the know is still important as I write about trends, design and the local cultural scene. Without sounding clichéd, I have learnt a few things on my journey to where I am now. These life lessons and the confidence and knowledge they bring are one of the joys of getting older, and include:

• Being yourself and honest about your interests and experiences is crucial. Excitement about your work and passions will always shine through.

• I live by an ethos of kindness and acceptance. Archbishop Desmond Tutu said humanity is made for “togetherness, love and compassion”, and I believe this is true.

• A long-time colleague and friend maintains that I can fit in anywhere. I’m empathic and go into all situations with respect and an open mind to fresh ideas and experiences.

• While it may be hard, constructive criticism is important. My sister Sarah is a wellknown journalist and editor and has become my mentor over the last few years. Her advice is essential.

• Music legend David Bowie had a longstanding career because he wasn’t afraid of change. He continually reinvented his music and aesthetic. Like him, I hope to always adapt and challenge myself.

• Balance and boundaries are everything. Being forced to take a break during the pandemic made me realise how unbalanced my life was. Mental and physical health are vital.