AFRICA
FRAGILE
FUTURE
NOVEMBER 2023
Luxury’s wake-up call towards sustainable consciousness
DRIVE FOR MORE www.bmw.co.za
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2023
22
CARTIER’S FAUNA & FLORA: We explore the evolution of the brand’s high-jewellery lines
52
32
HOROLOGICAL VISIONARIES: Luxury watch brands that help safeguard our planet
46
POWERING AHEAD ON LAND AND WATER: The automotive industry adopts new mobility innovations for sustainable solutions
22 56 18
REGULARS 8
32
ED’S NOTE
10 YOUR LUXURY
56
12 YOUR DIARY 14 YOUR WATCHES
SUSTAINABLE VITICULTURE: Moët & Chandon groundbreaking quest to curb climate change
16 YOUR STYLE 20 YOUR BEAUTY 42 YOUR COLLECTOR
60
SIP & SAIL: Exploring Norwegian Cruise Line’s global sustainability project
46
6 yourluxury.africa
46 YOUR WHEELS 52 YOUR FOOD 56 YOUR TRAVEL 64 YOUR DOWNTIME
Thankfully, more brands have now answered the call to shun waste-prone excess in favour of carbon-light options. In fashion, designers are reversing the harmful textile dumping many African countries have been subjected to by converting dumped textiles into high-end fashion. Togolese-born fashion entrepreneur Amah Ayivi, who owns Marché Noir Lomé Paris, is re-routing vintage items from market floors in Lomé, Togo, to the fashion rails in Paris. Following suit are designers like Nkwo Onwuka, whose brand uses eco-friendly processes to convert landfill-destined garments into her signature denim-based Dakala cloth. Nkwo Transformables, the brand’s social-innovation project, repurposed unused denim from customers into a collection that was unveiled at Milan Fashion Week last month.
Seven 05 handbag in burgundy A South Africanproduced small-batch handbag. Made to order. thesevenstore.co Elemis ProCollagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich An anti-wrinkle day cream formulated with cocoa butter and marine algaes such as Padina Pavonica, which is only found on the Mediterreanean coast. za.elemis. com
Meanwhile, makers of fine jewels and watches have adopted ethical approaches to sourcing gems and have programmes to off-set the luxury industry’s emissions.
Chanel CODE COCO watch Chanel is a member of the Watch and Jewellery Initiative established by Cartier and Kering, in partnership with the Responsible Jewellery Council. chanel.com
This month, our contributors have crafted stories about luxury’s reckoning with global environmental decay, and each section features an inspiring array of action towards real change.
aseko
OUR COVER
AFRICA
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse® Neroli vegan fragrance. orleanscosmetics.co.za
M N tokozo
Mimi Plange hand-felted jacket The jacket’s felting is repurposed sheep wool, and the small-batch item is made in a work-friendly factory. mimiplange.com
Marché Noir Lomé Paris Black and whitestriped batakali made in Ghana with handwoven Kente cloth. @marchenoirlomeparis
FRAGILE
FUTURE
NOVEMBER 2023
Luxury’s wake-up call towards sustainable consciousness
PHOTOGRAPHER: Judd Van Rensburg MODEL: Khumo Pulumo
EDITORIAL: EDITOR Ntokozo Maseko Ntokozo@yourluxury.africa MANAGING EDITOR Rizwana Variawa rizwana@yourluxury.africa CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kate Walters BEAUTY EDITOR Ingrid Wood ingrid@yourluxury.africa COPY EDITOR Tamlyn Cumings PROOFREADER/CONTRIBUTOR Leigh Herringer IMAGE EDITOR Coralie Elske PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Rachael Akerman rachael@yourluxury.africa ADVERTISING & MARKETING: MD Yvonne Shaff +27 (82) 903 5641 I yvonne@yourluxury.africa ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Yvette Mehl + 27 (21) 439 4907 I yvette@yourluxury.africa ACCOUNT MANAGER: NATIONAL Gina van de Wall I gina@yourluxury.africa MANAGEMENT: MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Yvonne Shaff EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jacquie Myburgh Chemaly jacquie@yourluxury.africa DISTRIBUTION & PRINT: DISTRIBUTION On the Dot, Media Support PRINTED BY Hirt & Carter for YourLuxury: PO Box 1053, Sea Point 8060, Cape Town. All rights reserved. Whereas precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of information, neither the editor nor YourLuxury Africa can be held liable for any inaccuracies, injury or damages that may arise. The opinions expressed in the articles may not reflect those of the publisher. All prices correct at time of going to print.
8 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED EDITOR’S PHOTOGRAPH MPUMELELO MACU; STYLIST JSHAWN NTULI; MAKEUP KALLIE STEENKAMP FROM SCHOOL OF MAKEUP ARTISTRY; WARDROBE CONNADE BY SHELLEY MOKOENA
W
MY TOP PICKS
henever a new trend enters the mainstream conversation, I can imagine the originators of it saying, “we already know, but you’re welcome,” to the rest of us. When it comes to organic, conscious and circular sustainability – particularly in the luxury realms of textiles, food, travel and self-care – our continent can take a bow, knowing that it’s set the bar. Production and consumption habits, like hand-crafting textiles, producing natural dyes, and smallbatch production lay claim to sustainability being inherently African. Where it isn’t by choice, extenuating circumstances around infrastructure and resources have set our default to slow, controlled quantities and circular expressions of living.
EDITOR
FROM THE
NOTE
ED’S
LUXURY
YOUR
JOIN US ONLINE www.yourluxury.africa
FASHION • WATCHES • WHEELS, WINGS & WATER • TRAVEL • WEALTH • ART & CULTURE • FOOD & DRINKS
ONLINE NOW: BMW’s latest design concept offers a glimpse of the brand’s future vehicles as well as digital experiences, emissions-free driving and longterm circularity. Read the story on yourluxury.africa
Z O D WA K U M A L O VA L E N T I N E
I N G A S I B I Y A
M O N A L I S A M O L E F E
Zodwa is a writer and editor who creates social and digital content strategies under her company, new post. She is also associate editor at Pan Macmillan SA. “For me, luxury is about mindfulness – a conscious appreciation of the moments, experiences and possessions that bring you enjoyment, contentment and connectedness.” See: p56
Inga, a seasoned food and travel writer, passionately celebrates Africa’s diverse cultures. She has dedicated her career to illuminating the creativity that emanates from our remarkable continent. “Luxury is ineffable and nuanced. To distil it to one quality, attention to detail, or even access would be diminutive. Luxury is emotive.” See: p52
Monalisa is a multi-hyphenate artrepreneur who thrives in the realm of fine and contemporary cultural artforms. With nearly a decade’s experience, she excels in providing strategic leadership, unravelling the fine arts’ value chain, and fostering connections. “To me, luxury is the experience of flow, quality and ease in who I am and the events around me.” See: p12
10 yourluxury.africa
S A N D I S O N G U B A N E Sandiso is an experienced writer and content strategist, having worked for many years in the worlds of broadcast, print and online media. He also has an invaluable background in the retail industry. “While this might sound like a cliché, I honestly value nothing more than time, and so I think it is certainly a luxury.” See: p64
IMAGES SUPPLIED & ZODWA KUMALO-VALENTINE BY AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTOGRAPHY
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS
DIARY
YOUR
VISA FOR MUSIC 2023
UBUHLE BENDALO’S MUSICAL ODYSSEY Hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, the Ubuhle Bendalo ensemble will perform at the 10th edition of the Visa for Music festival, which takes place from 22 – 25 November in Rabat, Morocco. Tagged as “the event that brings together music lovers”, it promises to be an enthralling journey into the realm of South African indigenous and traditional melodies. The festival celebrates South African dance forms and the unifying power of music through the iconic rhythms of Mbube and a special collaboration between Zulu Maskandi and Moroccan Gnawa beats. Expect a transcendent experience, which merges South African and Moroccan musical traditions while celebrating the universal language of melodies. visaformusic.com
SOULFUL REAWAKENING
THE RETURN OF BLK SONSHINE – A HOMECOMING Experience the long-awaited homecoming of Blk Sonshine, the iconic acoustic duo comprising Masauko Chipembere and Neo Muyanga. After a decade of individual musical journeys, the pair will reunite on 17 November to perform their unique fusion of jazz, folk, soul, hip hop, and African traditions. A Blk Sonshine performance is not just a concert; it’s a soul-stirring ritual, promising laughter, tears and a profound sense of humanity. It’s on at the Unititled Basement in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, and promises to be a unique and intimate musical event. blksonshine. wordpress.com; @untitiledbasement
CULTURE DIARY
THE GIANT WITHIN
C I N T H I A M U L A N G A’ S SOLO EXHIBITION This month, a new solo exhibition by rising star Cinthia Sifa Mulanga, titled Giants, opens at Latitudes Centre for the Arts in Johannesburg. In her latest body of work, Cinthia tackles her innermost conflicts to reveal complex domestic scenes that are characterised as both sanctuaries and battlegrounds. It runs from 8 November 2023 – 30 January 2024 and is available to view by appointment only. info@latitudes.online; @cinthia.mulanga
DESIGNER DELIGHTS
This month the iconic Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town will host CONFECTIONS x COLLECTIONS (CXC), an annual event where African fashion meets afternoon tea. This annual extravaganza brings together African fashion and delectable confectionery, fusing creative expression with a touch of sweetness. For five days, the luxury hotel will spotlight leading fashion designers from Southern and West Africa in exclusive salon-style fashion shows. Notable names like Chu Suwannapha and Sindiso Khumalo will take centre stage, while Mount Nelson’s pastry chef Vicky Gurovich has created bespoke menus for each fashion show. A celebration of culture and creativity, its on from 8 – 12 November, and tickets must be pre-booked. pdfs.belmond.com
12 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED; COMPILED BY MONALISA MOLEFE
CONFECTIONS X COLLECTIONS
DELAIRE.CO.ZA
IN RE
AG
E E
IM EK E E T P N
G
R
WATCHES
YOUR
VO L U TI O N EXPLORE OUR SELECTION OF ECO-FRIENDLY TIMEPIECES THAT SEAMLESSLY BLEND STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY, SHOWCASING INNOVATIVE MATERIALS AND RESPONSIBLE MANUFACTURING COMPILED BY DEBBIE HATHWAY
PANERAI: Radiomir California
ZENITH: DEFY Extreme E edition (top)
– limited to 100 pieces, it features brightly coloured accents in Extreme E’s signature “Vital Green” tone as a message of awareness and action on climate change, as well as recycled and upcycled parts from the Extreme E electric rally in the strap and packaging, POA. picotandmoss. co.za
HUBLOT: Big Bang Unico Nespresso Origin (above) – the first watch to be made using recycled Nespresso aluminium capsules in the case, bezel, crown and pusher, and coffee grounds in the watch straps, POA. hublot.com
BREITLING: Super Chronomat
JAEGER-LECOULTRE: Reverso One Precious Colours (left) – a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council, the brand embraces principles of traceability and transparency, and endeavours to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint, POA. jaeger-lecoultre.com
Automatic 38 (above middle) – with the case in stainless steel and 18kt red gold, this is Breitling’s first traceable watch featuring responsibly sourced artisanal gold and lab-grown diamonds; with stainless steel and 18kt red gold bracelet, R329 500. breitling.com
14 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
PAM01349 (above) – the Brunito eSteel case is made from recycled steel, and Panerai’s innovations embody the spirit of Laboratorio di Idee and intensive research and development to improve product sustainability, R223 200. panerai.com
T H E F U T U R E O F S W I S S WATC H M A K I N G S I N C E 18 6 5
T I M E TO R E AC H YO U R S TA R
DEFY SK YLINE SKELE TON
LUXURY
SUSTAINABLE T
he effects of climate change have rendered sustainability urgent, and luxury brands are now embracing sustainable practices as an essential part of their business strategies. After all, it is about our children and our grandchildren, and the world we will leave them.
NATURE POSITIVITY
IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS, LUXURY BRANDS HAVE REALISED SUSTAINABILITY IS NO LONGER A ‘NICE TO HAVE’, IT’S OF VITAL IMPORTANCE. WE LOOK AT SOME OF THE LATEST SUSTAINABILITY TRENDS
A new dimension has been added to the environmental conversation in addition to climate change. ‘Nature positivity’ refers to halting and reversing nature loss. The erosion of the Amazon rainforest is one such example, as is the risk of bee extinction. Brands now need to be active in protecting living creatures. Thus far, few companies have established nature-related commitments outside of carbon. “At Gucci, we have integrated climate solutions across our sustainability strategy to promote biodiversity conservation while we focus on emissions reduction. Under our ‘Natural Climate Solutions Portfolio’, we are investing in regenerative agriculture, and protecting and restoring important ecosystems that mitigate climate change,” says Marco Bizzarri, ex-president and CEO of Gucci.
WORDS FAEEZA KHAN
imports by 2019, but Rwanda was the only country to enact it. However, Uganda followed suit in August this year. South African designer Thebe Magugu’s SS23 collection, Discard Studies, is a commentary on the dumping of used clothing from the US and Europe into Africa. He sourced piles of these second-hand clothes from ‘kwa dunusa’ (to bend down), a site in downtown Johannesburg, which he recrafted into clothing for his collection.
WATER EFFICIENCY
Scientists predict that by 2030, the global demand for water will double. Companies like Facebook and Starbucks are planning on going “water positive” in the coming years. Similar to net-zero emissions, a company is considered to be water positive when it conserves and returns more water to the environment than it consumes. Levi Strauss & Co. has been a trailblazer in this respect through its Water<Less programme, where products are manufactured using significantly less water. To date, 76 percent of Levi’s products are made within this programme, saving over 4.2 billion litres of water.
BANNING IMPORTS OF USED CLOTHING
COMPOSTABLE CLOTHING
At least 70 percent of garments donated to charity in Europe and the United States end up in Africa, according to British charity Oxfam. But there is mounting pushback against Western countries exporting their unwanted clothing to Africa because much of it ends up in landfills, and it also erodes the local textile industry. In 2016, the East African Community agreed to a complete ban on used-clothing
Underwear remains a problematic clothing category due to the widespread use of non-recyclable materials, such as elastane, and the fact that it cannot be sold second hand. The Very Good Bra is an Australian label that produces compostable bras that are plastic- and toxin-free, and in 2019, one was eaten in a worm farm within eight weeks. Brands like Kent, Bella Eco and Calida also offer biodegradable lingerie. ■ TO P:
Thebe Magugu’s Discard Studies collection was built by sourcing discarded clothing at ‘kwa dunusa’, an area in downtown Johannesburg where second-hand garments from America and Europe get dumped
16 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
TRENDS
YOUR
STYLE
YOUR
1.
n o i h d s o o a g F for
SUSTAINABLE LUXURY BRANDS CHAMPIONING ETHICAL STYLE FOR THE GOOD OF OUR PLANET
4.
5.
3. 2. 6.
1. Okapi Nambi purse made in South African using ethically sourced materials, R12 800, merchantsonlong.co.za. 2. Éki Kéré mini dress with raffia tassel, made with raffia and plantain fibres to create eco-concious pieces with minimal carbon footprint, R4 345, merchantsonlong.co.za. 3. BAM Collective Crater shirt in white cotton sateen and Crater miniskirt in black cotton twill, handcrafted and made to order, R7 200, thebamcollective.com. 4. Munkus Mama jumpsuit, made from recycled denim, R4 500, munkus.co.za. 5. Viviers Studio Artisanal Felted Wool Tailored Umbrella Dress in collaboration with textile maker Stephanie Bentum, made with fabrics mostly sourced from warehouses with deadstock from the 70s; textile waste is also minimised by handcutting garments and reusing offcuts, R38 000, viviersstudio.com.
S H O P
T H E
D I A S P O R A
6. Marché noir Lomé Paris vintage bleu workwear shirt; garments are dug out of a dumped textile pile in Lomé, Togo, are then upcycled for the brand’s vintage boutique in Paris, €190, Marché noir Lomé Paris Boutique. 7. Kkerelé Vera handcrafted leather sandals are sourced responsibly and made to order, $275, kkerele.com.
18 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED, OKAPI, EUNICE DRIVER,
7.
L
N , A G E
RE
C
BEAUTY
YOUR
EN
Sisley Eye Contour Mask, R2 500, combines active ingredients of plant origin (ginkgo biloba, arnica, horse chestnut, linden blossom) with vitamins and oligo elements to hydrate and reduce signs of fatigue. woolworths.co.za
&
SUSTAINABLE, CIRCULAR, VEGAN AND ORGANIC SKINCARE AND MAKE UP FOR THE ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS COMPILED BY INGRID WOOD
BE
A U TIF
UL
The Sothys Organics line combines certified organic and vegan skincare with advanced efficiency. Radiance Exfoliant, R695, Revitalising Emulsion, R785, and Radiance Mask, R740. orleanscosmetics.co.za
Made from 91 percent natural ingredients and 100 percent vegan, Byredo Makeup Mascara Astronomical, R860, volumises, curls and thickens lashes. skins.co.za
Novexpert Anti-Spot Booster Serum with Green Tea Polyphenols, R1 150, has a tripleaction effect: it targets spots while providing both anti-ageing and anti-dullness benefits. It’s also 100 percent natural. futurethis.co.za
Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Cream, R1 020, is a vegan product that contains a blend of ‘mushrooms of immortality’ plus sea buckthorn to hydrate, calm and soothe sensitive skin. woolworths.co.za
20 yourluxury.africa
With 70 percent certified organic ingredients and natural origins, Coola Suncare Radical Recovery Eco-Cert Organic After Sun Lotion, R1 065, has organic agave, aloe vera and nurturing lavender. skins.co.za
IMAGES SUPPLIED
Radiance-boosting N°1 de Chanel Red Camellia Skin Enhancer is infused with plant waxes and hyaluronic acid, and concentrated with red camellia extract from a completely natural production process, R1 505. Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutique
T H E C AV I A R C R E A M
THE PHENOMENAL LIFT
POWERED BY THE REMASTERED CAVIAR SCIENCE AND THE EXCLUSIVE CELLULAR COMPLEX TM,
SKIN CAVIAR LUXE CREAM VISIBLY RESTORES SKIN’S STRUCTURE TO LIFT, FIRM AND DEEPLY NOURISH. FROM POTENT CAVIAR TO AN INDULGENT EXPERIENCE, SKIN IS INFUSED WITH NEW LIFE.
AVAILABLE AT SELECT WOOLWORTHS AND EDGARS STORES. WWW.WOOLWORTHS.CO.ZA AND WWW.EDGARS.CO.ZA LAPRAIRIE.COM
#SKINCAVIAR
CARTIER’S FAUNA & FLORA SINCE THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY, CARTIER’S STYLE HAS EVOLVED AT 13 RUE DE LA PAIX IN PARIS. TODAY, IT REMAINS THE HEART OF THE MAISON’S CREATIVE PROCESS, WHERE DESIGNERS CONSULT THE ARCHIVES TO MAINTAIN AUTHENTICITY AND CRAFT EXQUISITE HIGH JEWELLERY PARURES WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY
22 yourluxury.africa
JEWELS
YOUR
O P P O S I T E: Peau de Croco necklace: rose gold, grey mother-of-pearl (from Tahiti), coral (from Sardinia), and diamonds, POR A B O V E: Panthère de Cartier Pelage necklace: 18kt white gold, onyx, set with three emeralds and 257 brilliant-cut diamonds (6.20cts), POR
23 yourluxury.africa
C
artier’s virtuoso pieces of jewellery depicting flora and fauna are feats of precision by jewellers who can interpret the fragility of flowers and the characteristics of its bestiary in a style that echoes nature, creating volume and depth without heaviness, and masterfully bringing them to life.
Floral motifs have been used by Cartier since its inception in 1847, remaining popular for jewellery in general, and widely used by the house for brooches and bracelets. “Flower jewels were highly prized during the second half of the 19th century because of their links to Marie Antoinette,” says Laure Dalon*, curator and deputy academic director at the Réunion des Musées Nationaux – Grand Palais. Cartier’s designs have always reflected the fashion and mood of the age, exploring technological innovations such as using platinum for flexibility, lightness and adaptability in the 1960s, catering for clients who were then moving away from heavyweight pieces. The new Floral Diamond Dahlia bangle in platinum is a modern example of the house’s quest to always be ahead of the rest – other jewellers making something similar might instead choose white gold. Laurent Salomé*, chief curator and academic director at the Réunion des Musées Nationaux – Grand Palais, notes, “A piece of jewellery only comes to life when worn. Its degree of modernity, its originality and audacity depend entirely on the woman who provides it with that finishing touch of style.” Personalities linked to the history of Cartier – Daisy Fellowes, Barbara Hutton, Gloria Swanson, the Duchess of Windsor (the first customer to be linked to the panther symbol), Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly and Maria Félix, among others – all had influence, and Cartier’s creations became synonymous with their independence, power and determination. As women began to indulge in a “newfound disregard of even the most solemn obligations… Cartier jewels seemed almost to throw down the gauntlet,” adds Laurent. Cartier’s Peau de Croco is a reinterpretation of the emblematic crocodile, featured in a Maria Félix necklace in 1975, with a mosaic of coral and grey mother-of-pearl and diamonds creating a sense of movement. The ferocious felines started coming into their own in the 1940s under the watchful eye of Jeanne Toussaint, aka La Panthère, Cartier’s creative director of jewellery from 1933. “As an image of a brave new femininity, the panther jewel became the most highly prized accessory among the strong-willed customers Jeanne Toussaint knew so well and from whom she drew inspiration… For Jeanne Touissant, and thus for Cartier, the panther – now an iconic motif – was clearly the emblem of a femininity unfettered by convention,” says Laure. Louis Cartier was the first to reflect the big cat in jewellery, using its patterned coat to decorate the case of a ladies wristwatch in A B O V E: Panthère de Cartier Pelage ring: 18kt white gold set with one sugarloaf-cut emerald totalling 4.97cts, 14 onyx spots, and 104 brilliant-cut diamonds (1.42cts), POR; Panthère bracelet: 18kt white gold, set with emerald eyes, 53 onyx spots, onyx nose, and 770 brilliant-cut diamonds (8.31cts), POR
24 yourluxury.africa
JEWELS
YOUR
A B O V E: Floral Diamond Dahlia bangle in platinum featuring one 0.54ct F VVS2 brilliant-cut diamond, and brilliant-cut diamonds, POR
25 yourluxury.africa
platinum, diamonds and onyx in 1914. Panthère de Cartier – Pelage is the latest interpretation of this favoured feline theme. Multicoloured birds also took on iconic status in Cartier collections from the 1940s (produced alongside turtles, ducks and ladybugs), after Jeanne’s famous Freed Bird brooch reignited clients’ interest. Birds’ plumage and grace lend themselves perfectly to jewellery. Parrots are emblematic for Cartier, and the jewellers’ craftsmanship is clear in the effect achieved by stringing perfectly matched ruby beads one by one to evoke feathers in the Parrots earrings. Flora and fauna were a key source of inspiration for Jeanne after the geometry and abstraction of the Art Deco period.
“Jeanne Toussaint CHALLENGED her designers and artisans to fashion pieces that were TRUE to life” She “threw open the gates to the Cartier garden” as she challenged her designers and artisans to fashion pieces that were true to life. “And if she loved animals, it was also for their playful nature. Worn as a brooch on a tailored suit, they add a touch of brightness, lightness and say something about a mood, a taste. Indeed, they are the mirrors of our personality,” writes Francois Chaille in the book Cartier: 13 Rue de la Paix.
*Laure Dalon and Laurent Salomé curated Cartier: Style and History, an exhibition hosted by the Grand Palais in Paris that I attended in 2014. They co-authored the commemorative tome they call a catalogue.
A B O V E: Parrots earrings: white gold, ruby beads (55.33cts), emerald eyes, grey mother-of-pearl beak, 404 brilliant-cut diamonds (2.39cts), POR
26 yourluxury.africa
PHOTOGRAPHER: JUDD VAN RENSBURG MODEL: KHUMO PULUMO
Full of symbolism, the recently renovated No. 13 is “a place of origin and origins… sanctum to Jeanne and Louis… and witness to much of Cartier’s aesthetic and creative style,” Cartier international president and CEO Cyrille Vigneron writes in his foreword. “Jeanne Toussaint was the panther; No. 13 Rue de la Paix is its birthplace and temple.” ■
JEWELS
YOUR
A B O V E: Reflexion ring: a modern interpretation of femininity, expressed in white gold, 26 baguette-cut diamonds totalling 1.81cts, and seven princess-cut diamonds totalling 1.00ct, POR
27 yourluxury.africa
NEDBANK ADVOCATES FOR BUSINESSES TO ADOPT CIRCULARITY IN WAYS THAT REDUCE WASTE AND IMPROVE PROFITABILITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT
MONEY A B O V E:
Khensani Nobanda
28 yourluxury.africa
COLLABORATION
V
ivacious Eco Vixon is a Cape Town-based business that creates eco-conscious products from ethically sourced, landfill-destined materials. “We produce ethical, eco-friendly, reusable products that replace daily single-use items. Our Eco Towel, for example, replaces your once-off paper towel,” says owner Natasha Pearce. “It can be reused by simply washing and rerolling it onto the core.” Natasha adds that the business also makes reusable facial rounds that don’t have to be replaced for up to a year. “All our products are locally sourced from waste that the textile and clothing industry creates, such as overrun trims, zips, elastic and buttons,” she adds. This business came about as an opportunity hidden in adversity for Natasha after spending 23 active years in the fashion industry as a designer and buyer. “After working for years in the industry, I noted the wastage and how it wasn’t being recycled or upcycled; it was mainly being collected and dumped at a landfill. When I was retrenched, I started my own eco-conscious label, instead of another one that adds to the problem,” she explains.
EXPERTS
WHO DO GOOD 29 yourluxury.africa
Starting the business proved to be a challenge, with barriers to entry such as a small injection of self-funding, limited access to market and a vague understanding from potential customers on notions of circularity, upcycling and dead stock. “You don’t always have enough assets and counter leverage to get funding. Sometimes you’re just a one-man show. Many SMEs struggle because we are dreamers with a vision, and to bring that to fruition, we need financial backing. This is often tailor-made for linear business models and not enterpreneurial ones, so it’s a struggle to get financing. Then advertising costs money, social media costs money, and an e-commerce platform costs money,” Natasha adds.
Nedbank, on its own mission to use its financial expertise to deliver positive economic, social and environmental impact, joined forces with the Embassy of Finland and JP Morgan to deliver an intensive Circular Economy Accelerator (CEA) programme. For the last 18 months, this end-to-end businesstransformation programme, run by Fetola, has empowered entrepreneurs operating in the sustainability space to succeed as thriving, profitable SMEs – which includes Natasha. “South Africa generates about 122 million tons of waste every year, and only 10 percent of it is recycled. This situation creates environmental issues with health consequences. That said, waste also creates an opportunity to be
turned into valuable products through upcycling and recycling,” explains Khensani Nobanda, group executive for group marketing and corporate affairs at Nedbank. “We advocate for businesses to adopt circularity by putting sustainabilty strategies in place that reduce and recycle their waste, which builds resilience. When businesses thrive, they create employment with ripple effects on social impact, like access to healthcare and education,” adds Khensani. Nedbank also supports small businesses through South Africa’s longest-running business mentorship programme – Nedbank Business Ignite – which granted Vivacious Eco Vixon one of three packages valued at R140 000 each, consisting of a R30 000 cash injection,
A B O V E:
Natasha Pearce
Fetola’s CEA programme proved to be incredibly beneficial for Vivacious Eco Vixon. The female-led business has received 90 hours of one-on-one mentorship, brand-building assistance including product promotions during workshops, and has access to further support before the programme ends at the end of November. In addition, Natasha also attended business development workshops covering personal transformation, strategic planning, costing and pricing, sales and marketing, the fundamentals of finance, people management, and investment readiness.
On maintaining her ethos, Natasha says that she is mindful of who she connects with. “I only partner with people that are green, and I investigate who I’m collaborating with and where I’m getting my resources from.” It’s a bonus that Nedbank shares that same ethos. “Nedbank is the perfect partner for me, and I say that because the bank runs on the ethos of green is the new gold,” she adds. Natasha’s sustainability goals for her business include going off the grid and to create a 360-degree business model of eco-consciousness, where she’s not just offering home and lifestyle products, but offers home decor, thrifting and repair work on the items that she sells. “Supporting clients that are active in the circular economy is a key way to acknowledge the benefits of job creation and resource optimisation,” concludes Khensani.
30 yourluxury.africa
DOING GOOD S U S TA I N A B L E D E V E LO P M E N T F I N A N C I N G Nedbank’s Sustainable Development Framework focuses on sustainable development efforts to identify business opportunities, risks and cost savings. Pioneering its vision is to remain at the forefront of the evolution of sustainable finance. The framework acts as a lever to integrate Nedbank’s key sustainabilty performance indicators and measurable positive impact targets into its debt-financing activities. This has allowed Nedbank to occupy a strong ESG and sustainable finance position in the market. For more information, visit nedbank.co.za
IMAGES SUPPLIED
business coaching and airtime on 702 and CapeTalk. “Nedbank Business Ignite was such a great boost for me – not just the cash injection, as I’m coaching and mentoring now too. After being on radio, I was offered an opportunity to give 50 masterclasses on eco-conscious businesses. Doors are opening after different divisions of Nedbank found out about my business,” says Natasha.
ART
C I TY
Keyes Art Mile is a unique locale for artists, curators and art lovers alike. The Everard Read Gallery – Africa’s oldest commercial art gallery – and CIRCA are celebrated icons of South African post-modern design. Contemporary art galleries BKhz and Origin Art are also situated here. The precinct has an additional three bespoke exhibition spaces where artists and curators can showcase their practices. Available for short and medium-term rent, gallery tenants receive free WIFI, the use of a mobile PA system, as well as seating. Catering and bar services are available for openings and events. Additionally, four mobile walls can be used by tenants to configure a space to suit their style and artistic visions.
COLLABORATION
ART SCENE
In appreciation – and celebration – of Jozi’s inspiring art scene, Keyes Art Mile’s marketing team promotes its tenants through various avenues, such as First Thursday’s events, when galleries and cultural spaces open their doors for an evening of art and entertainment. During Art Joburg and Open City in September, Keyes Art Mile becomes a hive of activity, attracting a constant stream of local and international visitors.
EXPANDING ART INTO EVENTS Keyes Atrium, located in the Trumpet Building, is a stylish venue available to tenants for openings and events. It includes The Bar on Atrium and a public space, called Atrium, designed for interactive installations, exhibitions and events that bring art and community together. The Annex spills onto the Atrium and is perfect for more intimate exhibitions, solo shows, and special projects.
ON THE MENU
KEYES ART MILE IS AT THE HEART OF ROSEBANK’S EVOLUTION INTO JOZI’S HUB OF CREATIVITY AND CULTURE – AND IS AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO BE MISSED
IMAGES SUPPLIED
A
ffectionately known as Johannesburg’s creative high street, Keyes Art Mile forms part of a vibrant art precinct that’s become one of the city’s most important cultural – and culinary – destinations. With established galleries, contemporary showrooms, diverse restaurants, design stores, a sophisticated workspace and, soon to come, a residential development – this is where everyone wants to meet, work and play.
Keys Art Mile is also abuzz with restaurants, cafés and casual eateries. At award-winning Marble, quintessential South African fare and fire cooking take centre stage, and sundowners in jacaranda season are a must. For something a little more low-key, BGR is known as the best burger joint in town, and for good reason, while Momo Kuro offers delicious Asian food. For people on the go, The Pantry by Marble is the city’s new-generation gourmet grocer. It stocks just about everything and is open 24-hours daily. And just opened are restaurants Kanpai and The Prawnery.
LUXURY WORKPLACE Also in the Trumpet Building is Mesh Club, which offers hot desks, boardrooms and on-site concierge services in a stylish and discreet space. Networking and socialising happen at the popular MIX cocktail bar, where there’s often live music, making for an entertaining outing. keyesartmile.co.za; @keyesartmile
31 yourluxury.africa
HOROLOGICAL
FROM AFRICA TO THE ARCTIC, WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT LUXURY WATCH BRAND INITIATIVES SAFEGUARDING OUR PLANET WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY
R O L E X ’ S
R I V E R
R E F U G E
The Zambezi River, home of the spectacular Victoria Falls, sustains over 20 million people and diverse flora and fauna across six countries. In 2022, National Geographic Explorer and Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative partner, Steve Boyes, began a series of expeditions with Rolex’s support, to study and document the health of this vital uncharted waterway from Angola to Zambia. Steve, a conservationist and ornithologist, launched Great Spine of Africa expeditions to help safeguard the region’s inhabitants and ecosystems. Loaded with the scientific equipment needed to document habitats every 10km along 900km of the Lungwevungu River, the team navigated rapids, channels populated by large crocodiles and hippos, and floodplains in traditional dugout canoes, known as mekoro. “We discovered these vast peatlands that have incredible water-storage capacity. Long periods of drought are going to come with climate change. This is the buffer. It is the lifeline,” says Steve. This rigorous baseline lays the groundwork for regular checks in the future. Measuring adjustments over time is essential for the researchers to enact policy change with governments. The team plans to navigate the Congo and Nile rivers and their tributaries in future phases of their project.
32 yourluxury.africa
Steve wears an Oyster Perpetual Explorer II on his right wrist (above). Described as “the watch of choice for those who venture to the far corners of the globe, often in extreme conditions”, it has a 24-hour display and can simultaneously show two time zones. The high-contrast dial is easily readable in the dark with a Chromalight display, offering long-lasting blue luminescence on hour markers and hands, lasting twice as long as conventional materials.
WATCHES
YOUR
VISIONARIES BACKING THOSE PROTECTING OUR WORLD
O R I S
O U T
T O
S E A
Meanwhile, the Change for the Better campaign by Oris is linked to the Common Wadden Sea Secretariat (CWSS), a tri-lateral organisation covering Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands that works to conserve and protect the Wadden Sea, the world’s most extensive unbroken tidal flat system. Covering an expanse of almost 12 000km in northern Europe, it is home to around 10 000 species of flora and fauna. Despite the protections this listing affords, the Wadden Sea – known as Dat Watt in a local dialect – faces many threats, including overfishing, pollution, shipping, tourism and the challenges posed by climate change. Oris renewed its collaboration with the CWSS
through a limited-edition version of the Aquis, its evergreen diver’s watch, which features a shimmering green dial inspired by the waters of the salt marshes in the Wadden Sea’s ecosystem. The 43.5mm case is water-resistant to 300 metres and has features for safe underwater timekeeping: a unidirectional rotating bezel, a secure screwdown crown, and luminescent hands and indexes. It includes a blue rubber strap and a stainless steel bracelet with a safety clasp and extension system for wetsuit wear. The Dat Watt Limited Edition II (left) will be limited to 2 009 pieces, representing the year the Wadden Sea became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
33 yourluxury.africa
WATCHES
YOUR
R O L E X
D I G S
D E E P
Another Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative supports the work of expert divers Emmanuelle Périé-Bardout and Ghislain Bardout, founding partners of Under the Pole. Established in 2007, the initiative was set up to push the boundaries of ocean exploration through a series of expeditions combining research and innovation. They aim to improve knowledge and awareness of the oceans and assist in their preservation. Their current expedition series, Under the Pole IV: Deeplife, has been endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021– 2030). Deeplife is
a collaborative effort between Under the Pole and international scientists. They aim to explore Marine Animal Forests (MAFs) located in the mesophotic zone (30–200 metres) across polar, tropical and temperate regions. MAFs are considered Vulnerable Marine Habitats by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and are primarily composed of organisms like sponges, gorgonians, hard corals, bryozoans and bivalves, forming canopy-like structures underwater. Deeplife’s primary goals include discovering MAF biodiversity and species connectivity, assessing their vulnerability to global changes, and suggesting conservation and management strategies for this largely uncharted marine ecosystem.
“The notion of TIME is fundamental to EXPLORATION”
34 yourluxury.africa
WATCHES
YOUR
The expedition started in April 2022 in the Svalbard Archipelago, Norway, with a team of divers conducting 107 dives over two months. During this phase, the team discovered the first marine animal forest in the Arctic, predominantly composed of hydroids – creatures related to jellyfish and corals that resemble bells, flowers and ferns. “The difference [in polar regions] compared with navigation in other parts of the world is that there is no room for error. It combines complicated weather, isolation and ice. Each mistake can cost a lot. You don’t have access to rescue, so you must prepare for everything. You can’t get equipment easily, sailing is difficult, repairs are difficult, and you must anticipate wind and ice conditions all the time. Everything is difficult, but at the same time we need to have a boldness that will allow us to push further,” says Emmanuelle. Technology has had a significant impact on their work. “We had reached a level where the limit was no longer depth, the limit was time. It was necessary to push back this time limit. This is why we created the Capsule, an underwater habitat that allows us to stay at depth much longer. We could use an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) to do the work we do with our rebreathers (specialist equipment for deep diving), but it would take dozens and dozens of years to achieve the same result. The work of the diver underwater with his rebreather is irreplaceable. What divers have that ROVs don’t, is intelligence and skill,” he adds. Ghislain notes the value of partnerships like this one with Rolex. “Exploration is something that cannot be done alone. It’s done as a team. The notion of time is fundamental to exploration; exploration takes time, science takes time. By always accompanying us, Rolex has given us this time.”
36 yourluxury.africa
a timeless vintage series c 2021 is now available vilafonte.com
WATCHES
YOUR
U LY S S E N A R D I N ’ S P L A S T I C O D Y S S E Y Since it was founded in 1846, Ulysse Nardin has maintained strong connections with the marine world and actively supports its preservation. Recently, the brand released the first upcycled Diver watch (right) made from fishing nets, demonstrating its dedication to ocean protection. Now, the Swiss watch brand is intensifying its commitment to ocean conservation by partnering with Simon Bernard, CEO of Plastic Odyssey and merchant navy officer, in his mission to recycle existing plastic and reduce waste generation.
The ship has two sections: a plastic-free zone at the front showcasing plastic alternatives, and a recycling laboratory at the rear. The laboratory aims to train local entrepreneurs to establish plastic recycling centres using onboard equipment and collected plastic waste. To combat long-term plastic pollution, Plastic Odyssey will provide entrepreneurs with a self-contained microfactory capable of recycling over a ton of plastic yearly, fostering sustainability and job creation. Additionally, by converting non-recyclable waste into fuel using pyrolysis, one litre of energy per kilogram of plastic can be produced.
During a stopover in Dakar in 2016, Simon says he was struck by the plastic pollution in the cities and the prevalence of salvaging. “I thought to myself that if the plastic recycling technologies currently only available to a few specialists could be made more widely available, not only would the pollution disappear, but thousands of jobs would be created in the process”.
From partnerships with organisations like Plastic Odyssey and Under the Pole, dedicated individuals and brands are taking significant steps to protect our oceans and combat plastic pollution. Through innovative technologies, education and eco-friendly practices, they aim to create a brighter, more sustainable future for our planet. ■
In 2017, the Plastic Odyssey project was initiated, leading to the creation of the prototype boat, Ulysse, equipped with a pyrolyser for plastic-to-fuel conversion. The construction of the 40-metre Plastic Odyssey ship began in 2020 and embarked on its journey on 1 October 2022. Over three years it will cover 40 000 nautical miles, making 30 stopovers in plastic-polluted countries, raising awareness and offering alternative solutions. “Today, although there is a system in place for recycling plastic, only a few manufacturers have access to the necessary knowledge, and the solutions are not widely available or very affordable. Plastic Odyssey’s challenge is to identify simple and inexpensive innovations that can be introduced, enhanced, and made freely available so that they can be developed and made accessible to as many people as possible,” says Simon.
PLASTIC AND THE OCEAN • Twenty tonnes of plastic are poured into our oceans every minute. (1) • We swallow 5g of plastic every week. (1) • Plastic waste fragments into irrecoverable microparticles in the environment. (2) • Ninety percent of marine pollution comes from the coastal cities of 32 countries. (1)
Source: (1) Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean – Jenna Jambeck et al. Science 347, 768 (2015). (2) A global inventory of small floating plastic debris – Erik van Sebille et al 2015 Environ. Res. Lett. 10 124006.
38 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
• Recycling one out of two plastic wastes in the 32 most polluting countries would stop more than 45 percent of the ocean’s pollution. (1)
COLLABORATION
y r u x u L l u f d n i M QUOIN ROCK WINE ESTATE SETS THE BAR FOR STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY
D
enis and Yuliya Gaiduk have done something special at Quoin Rock Wine Estate in the Knorhoek Valley in Stellenbosch. Balancing sustainable viticultural practices, investment in local communities and responsible custodianship of indigenous flora and fauna with a top-tier, world-class wine estate experience isn’t an easy task, but the Gaiduks have managed to do it with style. Sustainable luxury is no longer an option, but a necessity. High-end consumers demand authentic heritage combined with mindful, contemporary luxury, and it’s here that Quoin Rock has a good story to tell. A recent renovation of the estate reflects the Gaiduk’s passion for the land by making the beauty of the Simonsberg mountain range, the vines and the rich red soil the heroes of the design.
IMAGES SUPPLIED
The Venue is a luxurious new addition to the estate. A wedding venue that mirrors the form of the original farm structure, the space cleverly reflects the surrounding landscape with its tinted windows. The exterior features restored indigenous fynbos gardens that are nourished with recycled grey water. Water plays a crucial role in Quoin Rock’s architecture. It’s the lifegiving force that, together with the distinctive terroir, brings the estate’s wine to life, so it is a central focus of the winery’s entrance and reception area. The sparkling ponds and cascading waterfalls contribute to an undeniable ambience of quiet,
peaceful luxury. Around the farm, you’ll see an array of owl boxes and these, along with fynbos corridors and cover crops throughout the property, are part of the estate’s IPW accreditation and commitment to use natural and sustainable processes to keep the land healthy. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious and unique setting to enjoy some exceptional fare and wine, you’ll want to visit the new Pergola and the fine-dining spot, Gåte Restaurant at Quoin Rock. The Pergola transforms the farm’s outdoor patio space, spanning the seating area in the dappled shade of organically-inspired laser-cut metal panels, which resemble an intricate lacework of leaf veins. The estate’s restaurant, Gate, is a symphony of light and air – floor-to-ceiling glass panels let the outside in as interior walls were removed to allow the space to breathe. A design element that really speaks to the significance of the health of the farm’s environment is the five-metre bronze sculpture in the reception area, titled The Heart of Quoin Rock. Depicting a vine sinuously stretching to the ceiling surrounded by streams of water, the work evokes a narrative of viticultural excellence enhanced by luxurious surroundings. This legacy of fine winemaking is thanks to the diverse and talented team – themselves also very much the heart of Quoin Rock – that is made up of almost 10 different nationalities from across the African continent. Being WIETA accredited means that everyone who contributes to making the farm as special as it is can train for additional qualifications. Care for the community extends beyond the gates of the farm. Local fundraising initiatives, charity events and auctions are all in a day’s work at Quoin Rock. Luxury and sustainabilty no longer have to be exclusive and here, in the beautiful Knorhoek Valley, Quoin Rock has got the balance just right. quoinrock.co.za
37 yourluxury.africa
SLOW FASHION IN A FAST WORLD PETRA MASON SPEAKS TO JACKIE MAY, FOUNDER OF SUSTAINABLE FASHION MAGAZINE AND CHANGE AGENCY TWYG, ABOUT CONSCIOUSLY BUILDING A CLOTHING COLLECTION THAT FOCUSES ON TIMELESS, HIGH-QUALITY DESIGN OVER TREND-DRIVEN PIECES WORDS PETRA MASON
42 yourluxury.africa
O P P O S I T E:
COLLECTOR
YOUR
Sindiso Khumalo’s line will be shown at Confections X Collections FA R L E F T :
Jackie with conference delegates at a recycling textile facility L E F T:
Jackie and Renée Neblett, founder and executive director of Kokrobitey Institute B E LO W:
Laani Raani, winner of the Twyg Awards in 2002
A
s sweater weather descends on the north, we have been hit with summer down south – no spring again – thanks global warming! For the fashion forward, it’s T-shirt time, which often means buying mass market – or does it? The buck (literally) stops with us, as does the impact of feeding the fast-fashion monster. “The disconnection between maker, designer and end consumer within the extractive fashion industry has never been more apparent,” says Twyg founder Jackie May. The Twyg ethos is calling for something new – a slow, sustainable and ethical fashion ecosystem and textile industry that reflects Africa’s cultures.
WHAT CLOTHING DO YOU LIKE TO COLLECT? I buy very few clothes as
I don’t have a big budget. When I do buy items, I’m careful. I tend to buy from local designers whose work I admire. By prioritising sustainable, locally made textiles and products, we support the South African economy, create jobs, strengthen communities and reduce the impact of imported fast fashion on the environment.
IMAGES SINDISO KHUMALO ©ARMAND DICKER, TWYG
IS SUSTAINABLE COLLECTING POSSIBLE?
Anyone who buys clothes with a long-term vision to keep and look after them and wear them over many seasons is buying sustainably. The most sustainable garments are the ones already in your wardrobe! HOW DO YOU APPROACH YOUR FASHION COLLECTION IN GENERAL? Collecting for the sake of it doesn’t make sense to
me. I am mindful of what I spend my money on and I wear my clothes for a long time. For example, I am wearing an AKJP jacket that I spent a lot on (for me) a few years ago, and I wear it multiple times a week. HOW DO YOU DEFINE INTENTIONAL BUYING? Know what you
are looking for and keep an eye out for archive sales and vintage swops. Do a deep dive into your style and what suits you and your body shape. Finding your style can be lots of fun. Have a fashion show with friends and learn what suits you.
WHAT IS SLOW-FASHION? Locally produced, eco-friendly versus cheap, imported fast-fashion, which is made mostly from fossil-fuel-derived synthetic fabrics. In a circular economy, fashion needs to be slow: it should aim for clothes to be used more, made again and made from safe, recycled and renewable inputs. ACCORDING TO GREENCAPE, ABOUT SIX PERCENT OF OUR COUNTRY’S TOTAL LANDFILL WASTE IS MADE UP OF TEXTILES. HOW DO WE CHANGE THIS? Twyg is on a mission to inspire a
fashion and textile industry that’s kind, fair, inclusive, diverse, nature-friendly and sustainable, while embracing circular design principles. One of our solution-driven platforms champions this path by hosting the annual Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards, which is happening in Cape Town this month and is by invitation only. NO ONE UNDERSTANDS THE INTERSECTION OF FASHION AND SUSTAINABILITY QUITE LIKE YOU DO. WHY DOES SOUTH AFRICA NEED SUSTAINABLE FASHION AWARDS?
The annual awards were launched in 2019 to not only celebrate pan-African designers, innovators, influencers and activists by awarding them for their hard work, but also the projects they are doing to a larger audience. This encourages consumers to shop sustainably and invites the next generation of designers (and consumers) to take a sustainable approach. Judging is currently under way for the invite-only awards. The Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards finalists will be announced on 12 November, and the winner on 23 November 2023. The public event, Confections X Collections, takes place at the Mount Nelson Hotel over five days. Visit twyg.co.za. ■
43 yourluxury.africa yourluxury.africa
COLLABORATION
STEYN CITY: More
than a home
ne of the most valuable investments you can make in today’s fastpaced world, is the ability to live on your own terms, doing what you want to do, when you want to do it. Investing in yourself and your wellbeing is a necessity, and that’s why every detail at Steyn City’s prestigious Parkland Residence just outside Johannesburg, has been designed to reflect your personal style and aspirations.
Whether you’re looking for a family home or are an executive who wants the luxury of time and wellbeing to work in harmony with your career, Steyn City’s 2000-acre residential estate offers a lifestyle that suits your working needs, Not only will you find AAA-grade offices at Capital Park, but there’s quick highway access and a helistop with its own business centre and meeting rooms so you don’t have to commute. Steyn City School offers an independent and progressive education for pupils from Grades 000 to 12. Convenient bus shuttles operate daily between the campus and homes, and the estate also has a bespoke ride-hailing service that’s safe, reliable and comfortable. The property’s exceptional security services mean you have constant peace of mind and children can run around freely, exploring the estate’s lush indigenous parkland. Traffic is restricted to main roads, and all other areas are pedestrianised too, so visiting the play areas or the skate park is safe and easy. To maintain your holistic and active lifestyle, Steyn City offers an 18-hole Nicklaus Design Championship Golf Course with an award-winning clubhouse, a 45km floodlit promenade that’s ideal for before-and-after-work walks and jogs, a 50km mountain bike trail, fully equipped gym and indoor aquatic centre.
44 yourluxury.africa
Located next to City Centre – Steyn City’s flagship apartment development – is a 300-metre lagoon with braai pods and a new ‘Family Table’ eatery. The brand-new Padel courts have shower facilities and a stunning spectator’s amphitheatre. Steyn City is also renowned for its equestrian centre with an Olympic-sized show-jumping arena. Steyn City has also become one of Joburg’s culinary hotspots thanks to its wide selection of restaurants. Try sundowners and the elegant cuisine at Nineteen by Michael, Italian fare at Café del Sol Steyn City, or enjoy a family-style meal at The Farmhouse, which is also great for children’s parties with its rolling lawns and play area. Adult celebrations with a marquee and bespoke menus can also be arranged here. Steyn City is so much more than a home, it’s a place to thrive. No wonder it’s ranked among the top 10 lifestyle estates in the world by New World Wealth. steyncity.co.za
IMAGES SUPPLIED
O
THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO INVEST IN A LUXURY LIFESTYLE THAT ELEVATES EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR WELLBEING
COME HOME TO EXTRAORDINARY
Book your exclusive viewing at www.steyncity.co.za or email sales@steyncity.co.za and marvel at the ultimate luxurious lifestyle on offer in Gauteng.
POWERING AHEAD
ON LAND DUE TO INCREASING PRESSURE TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE, THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IS REALISING INNOVATIVE NEW MOBILITY SOLUTIONS ON BOTH WATER AND LAND WORDS SUDHIR MATAI
46 yourluxury.africa
WWW
YOUR
AND WATER
T
he so-called ‘greening’ of the automotive sector has been a prime concern for governments the world over for some time. Few, if any, industries have come under the same pressure as automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and sustainable motoring has become more than just a buzzword; it's now a global imperative.
Traditional fossil fuel-based transportation is fast being supplemented by alternative sources of power, and electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as the poster child of sustainable motoring. At this point, it is only small-scale performance brands such as Pagani, Caterham, Czinger and GMA that are not producing some form of electrified vehicle. Of course, electrification is but one prong of the sustainable motoring attack. Another lesser-known option is that of the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Porsche, meanwhile is investing in synthetic fuels that would allow combustion engines to be operated in an almost CO₂-neutral manner.
FCEVs and synthetic fuels are some way from becoming viable on a large scale, but local buyers have the option to step into the EV lifestyle immediately. Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Porsche, MercedesBenz and Volvo are the premium brands that currently offer full battery electric vehicles locally. O P P O S I T E:
BMW’s ‘i’ range offers electric sedans and SUVs A B O V E:
The Energy Observer runs solely on renewable energy
47 yourluxury.africa
A B O V E:
ROLLING INTO THE FUTURE
Sudhir experienced the luxury of Rolls-Royce’s first all-electric vehicle, the Spectre
Rolls-Royce has officially confirmed that it will soon be all-electric. In a statement, brand CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, “All future Rolls-Royces – new ones – will be only electric while maintaining what Rolls-Royce stands for."
L E F T:
The Mercedes EQS450+ has an impressive range of over 780km
The company’s very first all-electric model, the Spectre (from R15 million), made its public debut a few months ago. Torsten describes the Spectre as, “an ultra-luxury electric super coupé”. Luckily, I was one of a handful of scribes from around the world to drive a nearproduction-ready version in and around the Cape at the beginning of 2023. I had a brief taste while the company put the all-new model through its final phases of pre-production testing, and I drove the Spectre, somewhat fittingly, in Franschhoek. The perfectly manicured vineyards, a craggy mountain backdrop and countless boutiques were the perfect environment to experience a car of this stature. We wafted down the town’s main drag with hardly any noise from the car itself. In part, the imagined isolation comes from the 700kg sound damper (read: battery) that is sandwiched into the floor. The project engineers confessed that the team had to actually re-introduce some noise back into the cabin as it was too quiet. The sensation of complete silence is, I am told, unnerving to humans. The large, four-seater coupé feels serene. Inside you are ensconced in a cabin of luxurious hides, milled metalwork and dark open-pore wood. Just add in the soundtrack of lapping waves, and we could just as well be on a Riva speedboat gently cruising on Lake Como. The Spectre, I am happy to report, retains all the hallmarks of Rolls-Royces gone by. It is immensely powerful, has a high degree of comfort and can waft along in near silence. In fact, I’d wager to say that electrification has actually improved the offering.
THE SLEEK SEDAN The Teutonic Trio (Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Germany’s ‘big three’ car manufacturers) offers a full range of EVs, from small sports utility vehicles (SUVs) all the way to luxury limousines, in the local context. From the EQA to the large EQS, Mercedes has an SUV for all requirements. The company also offers many luxury sedans powered purely by electricity, with the EQS at the very top of the range. The sleek sedan features a futuristic cabin and a level of comfort we expect from a range-leading Mercedes. I slid behind the wheel of the EQS450+ (priced from R2 719 010) at an event earlier this year. The model has a plush ride and immense shove from the 245kW/568N.m motor. Even more impressive is the advertised range of over 780km – by far the furthest of any EV available in the country today.
THE SUSTAINABLE SUV BMW also offers sporty sedans and SUVs under its ‘i’ sub-brand. At the top of its SUV range is the iX M60. The iX range (priced from R1 735 000) offers a completely unique appearance inside and out. The expansive cabin makes it ideal for a family, and it boasts a mix of sustainable materials and high-tech luxury. There’s even a bespoke soundtrack composed by the legendary music producer Hans Zimmer, should you wish to make your journeys feel even more ethereal.
48 yourluxury.africa
WWW
YOUR
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y AT S E A A few months ago, a rather interesting catamaran sailed silently into Cape Town. The Energy Observer (EO) is a seafaring vessel that runs autonomously on renewable energy. The repurposed racing catamaran has been fitted with 200m² of solar panels, two aero-optimised sails and a fuel stack. The EO’s main energy source is hydrogen, and it uses the very same fuel-stack found in a Toyota Mirai. The Japanese automaker, a partner to the EO project, provided the team with a fuel stack to allow for complete energy autonomy. The vessel is able to produce hydrogen on board using seawater. The French-based catamaran has already sailed more than 50 000 nautical miles (almost 93 000km) since 2017, with Cape Town being its 80th port of call. But it isn’t just Toyota that has found new seafaring partners.
BREAKING BARRIERS
THE SPORTY ALTERNATIVES For keen drivers who prefer a sportier slant, the Audi RS E-tron GT and the Porsche Taycan could be the answer. These four-door coupés share underpinnings that were co-developed within the parent company, Volkswagen. I’ve yet to drive a Taycan, but a recent stint behind the wheel of an RS E-tron GT (R3 527 400) left me impressed. The family-friendly model ate up the straights at the Kyalami GP Circuit with disdain, thanks to its 440kW of power. The future of sustainable motoring is bright, with various brands embracing innovation and committing to reducing their environmental footprint. From electric vehicles to hydrogen fuel cell technology and synthetic fuels, the automotive industry is evolving rapidly. These advancements will provide consumers with cleaner, more efficient and technologically advanced transportation options. As more brands join the sustainable revolution, we can look forward to a greener and more eco-friendly future on the roads. ■
The C-8 is a hydrofoil boat that almost soars through the air, with less than one percent of the boat touching the water. The C-8 uses just 20 percent of the energy needed by other boats thanks to submerged hydrofoils – wing-like structures under the boat that boost performance and efficiency. It really is a high-tech piece of engineering encased in a sleek design fashioned from lightweight carbon-fibre. To prove the efficiency of the system, Candela recently took to the water to shatter an existing endurance record. The team piloted a C-8 778km in just 24 hours. (The previous record was 146km.) The boat travelled continuously on the waterways around Stockholm, with only brief stops for charging. Candela says the total cost for electricity was approximately $120. A traditional boat would require at least $1 400 worth of fuel to complete the same long-distance journey. The C-8 can travel over 100km on a single charge.
TO P:
Audi’s RS E-tron GT offers consumers a family-friendly sports car A B O V E:
Porsche’s electric offering, the Taycan IMAGES SUPPLIED
Once the performance arm of Volvo, Polestar is now a standalone EV brand owned by Chinese automotive giant Geely. Polestar has joined forces with Swedish maritime manufacturer Candela to provide the motivation for the latter firm’s C-8 speedboat. The boat uses the same 69kWh battery pack found in the Polestar 2. Volvo has a long history of producing marine engines, but this is the first time its EV sister has dipped its toes into the water.
“This feat shows that fast, electric waterborne transport over long distances is viable today, not a distant future,” said Candela CEO and founder Gustav Hasselskog, who piloted the boat during the record run.
R I G H T:
The Candela C-8, a hydrofoil, uses 80 percent less energy than a standard boat
49 yourluxury.africa
T
o mark Champagne Day on 27 October, glasses were raised across the African continent in the company of Moët & Chandon.
For nearly three centuries, the French brand has been synonymous with exceptional winemaking through its terroir, its craftsmanship, and its savoir faire. Moët & Chandon is also recognised as an innovator in the cellar and in the vineyards, with sustainability at the heart of its vision for the future. All these unique qualities were celebrated at this year’s Champagne Day festivities, which coincided with Moët & Chandon’s milestone 280th anniversary since its founding in Epernay, France, in 1743. With a shared appreciation for the joy of Champagne, friends of the maison gathered at chic venues around Africa to pay homage to Champagne Day and the tradition and refinement of Moët & Chandon. Appropriately marking the year in which Moët & Chandon was founded, guests arrived at 17:43, and toasted to 280 years at 20:23 in each country to celebrate the enduring qualities of the iconic wines and the timelessness of marking unique and historic moments with bubbles. Hosts for the events included Nigerian actress and humanitarian Osas Ighodaro, Kenyan media personality Anita Nderu, award-winning South African actress Nambitha Ben-Mazwi, Cameroonian fashion designer Conforte Mahouvi, as
well as Delali Damessi from Ivory Coast, Lydia Laryea from Ghana and Tanzania’s George Williams. At the respective celebrations in their countries, five of these hosts shared the highlights of their visit to Epernay earlier in the year, where they had the rare chance to experience the annual harvest and workings of the Moët & Chandon cellar first hand. A key feature of their itineraries was an exploration of the brand’s progressive agroecology programme. Called Natura Nostra, it was initiated by Moët & Chandon to preserve nature by supporting greater biodiversity and protecting local flora and fauna in the Champagne region. From the Hyatt Regency in Dar es Salaam to the Tribe Hotel in Nairobi and The Westcliff in Johannesburg, the settings for each African celebration aptly reflected Moët & Chandon’s ethos of luxury and nature in harmony. In each country, guests were united in their love for Champagne, their appreciation for the brand’s connectedness to the terroir, and belief in the importance of preserving the planet for future generations. “For a maison with such a rich history of winemaking excellence, Champagne Day is an opportunity not only to celebrate how we have shaped the industry, but also to communicate our Natura Nostra programme and sustainability efforts to ensure that the joy of Moët & Chandon continues to be shared with Africa and the world,” says Aimee Kellen, head of consumer engagement for Moët Hennessy Africa and the Middle East.
C E L E B R AT I N G
C H A M PA G N E DAY AT MOËT & CHANDON, CHAMPAGNE DAY CALLS FOR A CELEBRATION OF TOGETHERNESS, AS WELL AS A LEGACY OF SUSTAINABILITY AND SAVOIR FAIRE
50 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES XXXX
ACROSS AFRICA
Moët & Chandon was founded in 1743 by Claude Moët and elevated to one of the world’s most loved Champagnes by his descendant, Jean-Rémy Moët, who dreamt of “sharing the effervescence of Champagne with the world.”
COLLABORATION
S U S TA I N A B L E V I T I C U LT U R E
The dream of sharing has expanded further with the establishment of the Natura Nostra – “our nature” – programme. With the largest, most diverse vineyards in the region, the maison created this long-term sustainability initiative to protect biodiversity in the region. “Our environment is being pushed to the brink, and our maison must continue to evolve, guided by our thinking that remains ‘a quarter-hour ahead’,” says Sibylle Scherer, the CEO of Moët & Chandon. For the past 20 years, the brand has been striving to fulfil its responsibility to preserve the biodiversity of its estate and those around it. The turning point came when the maison obtained double certification in sustainable viticulture and haute valeur environnementale (“high environmental value) in 2014. Sustainable viticulture, a global certification verified by independent auditors, includes 99 criteria stipulating a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and specific actions to preserve water quality, landscapes and biodiversity. Notably, the certification also required the maison to dedicate 10 percent of its land to biodiversity. Of its 1 200 hectares of vineyards, Moët & Chandon has dedicated 392 hectares to biodiversity preservation: hedges, woodland edges, little walls, slopes, and ditches. It also owns 95 hectares of forest near its vineyards, and 15 kilometres of hedges have already been planted on part of its sites. Moët & Chandon gained a critical new perspective by going through this rigorous certification process. It became more acutely aware of its rich natural heritage as well as biodiversity’s ability to naturally defend and preserve nature and the vine. Inspired, the teams started exploring agroecology, a scientific discipline which applies ecological principles to viticultural practices, and fundamentally changing its approach to land management. “As the leading maison, it is our responsibility to pave the way,” says Sibylle “But we are not alone. Based on our maison’s nearly 300 years of experience, we know that collective action is the only path forward.”
51 yourluxury.africa
CONSCIOUS CUISINE THESE CHEFS ARE PROVING THAT A FEAST FOR THE PALATE NEED NOT BE A DEFICIT TO THE PLANET WORDS INGA SIBIYA
52 yourluxury.africa
FOOD
YOUR
I
n recent years, the culinary world has undergone a remarkable transformation. Across the globe we have seen an increasing focus on sustainability and ethical dining as consumers become more aware of the ecological footprint left behind by dining out. For those who are looking for more ethical alternatives to reduce their dietary emissions, we spoke to a few chefs who are creating not just exquisite dishes, but environmentally conscious ones. As they continue to prioritise responsibly sourced ingredients, waste reduction and eco-friendly practices, these chefs are reshaping the climate of gastronomy.
G A L J O E N S E A S O N A L D E L I G H T S W I T H A C O N S C I E N C E After bringing us Cape Town’s fine-dining Belly of the Beast, chefs Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart have opened Galjoen in the inner city. Led by accomplished head chef Isca Stoltz, this seafood saloon has garnered acclaim for its commitment to serving ethically sourced local and seasonal ingredients. Each day the restaurant crafts a new menu that truly delivers on flavour and honours Galjoen’s dedication to sustainability. WHAT IS THE CONCEPT BEHIND GALJOEN? Chef Isca: Local sustainable seafood. If it can’t be found along the South African coast, we won’t serve it. Diners are becoming more interested in knowing where their food comes from, and we can confidently tell them that our suppliers go out on a small boat and bring us what they caught that day. SERVING ETHICALLY SOURCED PRODUCE ISN’T WHERE IT ENDS FOR GALJOEN, IS IT? Chef Isca: We also serve some of our dishes on upcycled crockery. A local ceramicist created plates from old oil cartons, which represent the pollution in the ocean. As a sustainable seafood restaurant, we strive to create some awareness. ADOPTING A SUSTAINABLE ETHOS CAN’T BE EASY… Chef Isca: We only serve 32 diners per seating and put plans in place to ensure that we don’t have wastage. Yes, it does require a little extra effort, but at least I know everything we put on the plate is the best it can be. galjoencpt.co.za
53 yourluxury.africa
FOOD
YOUR
K U D U S U S T A I N A B L E P R A C T I C E S I N S O U T H E A S T L O N D O N Amy Corbin and her husband, South African-born Patrick Williams, are co-founders of Kudu Collective, a group of popular restaurants in London. They are also proof that the path to sustainability begins with conscious choices and a passion for preserving Earth's provisions. The Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, renowned for its fusion of South African and European flavours, prioritises seasonality and sourcing its products from local farmers which, in turn, helps reduce carbon emissions. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN KUDU? Amy: Our love for good food, and the idea of creating a special place where we can enjoy our favourite dishes with friends and family. HOW DO YOU REPRESENT SOUTH AFRICAN FLAVOURS WHILE SOURCING LOCALLY IN LONDON? Chef Patrick: South Africa is a melting pot of cultures. The food scene is quite diverse and that makes it really adaptable to using different produce. We pay homage to our roots through flavours, but have a modern European approach to our cooking. OTHER THAN THE SOUTH AFRICAN INFLUENCE, WHAT SETS YOU APART ON THE LONDON RESTAURANT SCENE? Chef Patrick: We use products that some might brush off – cheaper cuts of meat, smaller fish – and elevate them. We’re concerned about overfishing, for example, so if we can utilise lesser-known produce, we can relieve the pressure in that way. kuducollective.com
D U S K A V I S I O N A R Y A P P R O A C H T O S U S T A I N A B L E D I N I N G Having worked together for almost a decade, chefs Callan Austin and Darren Badenhorst are providing a much-needed palate cleanser to the industry. Dusk disrupts and innovates with every service. The Stellenbosch-based restaurant showcases a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond the plate. By utilising the waste of neighbouring eateries to create mouth-watering food, Dusk is transforming the power of sustainability when it comes to fine dining. HOW DID THE IDEA OF DUSK COME ABOUT? Chef Callan: We wanted it to be a progressive space. I personally felt that the fine-dining industry had stagnated. Our intention was to inject a bit of life into it, be controversial, and tackle a few issues we had found.
WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR ETHOS, DID THE DRIVE TO SUSTAINABILITY COME FIRST, OR WERE YOU LED BY FOOD? Chef Callan: It’s a prerequisite these days to be as sustainable as you can. With every dish we create, we keep that in mind. However, people do come to restaurants to eat, so we focus largely on the food. duskrestaurant.co.za ■
54 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
DUSK HAS A CLEAR KEENNESS TO EXPLORE FERMENTATION. WHERE DID THE IDEA COME FROM? Chef Callan: I’ve had a personal interest in fermentation for some time. It’s been such an eye-opening exercise because we’ve seen that it’s effective in reducing waste. We started an initiative called the Weekly Waste Challenge to encourage our chefs to collect waste and, using other bench staples, create a dish. The team has come up with some remarkable stuff.
Vivre. Live with exuberance. www.terrepaisible.com
VIABLE
56 yourluxury.africa
VITICULTURE
TRAVEL
YOUR
CLIMATE ACTIVIST CATHERINE CONSTANTINIDES DISCOVERS HOW BIODIVERSITY AND REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE CONVERGE WITH PEAK LUXURY AT MAISON MOËT & CHANDON WORDS ZODWA KUMALO-VALENTINE
A
t the heart of Moët & Chandon’s commitment to sustainability lies its groundbreaking programme, Natura Nostra, designed to meet the challenges of climate change. This initiative stands as a beacon of environmental responsibility and conscious luxury in a rapidly changing world, where the dire effects of climate change often struggle for the attention they deserve. Natura Nostra is a testament to the brand’s dedication to make a positive impact on our planet. From soil to sales – where even Moët & Chandon’s opulent boxes have been replaced by minimalist packaging to reduce its carbon footprint – the brand identity goes far beyond token environmentalism. The maison’s ethos aligns with Catherine Constantinides, a renowned activist who has more than two decades of dedicated service to community-driven climate initiatives. Her journey is fuelled by a profound love for and connectedness to nature.
57 yourluxury.africa
TRAVEL
YOUR
Twenty years ago, when advocating for trees in semi-urban and peri-rural areas, many thought her vision was unrealistic. “I know that people looked at me and thought that I fell out of a tree and hit my head, because why would I want to plant corridors of trees?” she says. However, her dream came to pass. “Today, driving into Soweto – from Southgate to Baragwanath – and seeing those corridors of green trees in full bloom is one of my favorite things. And those are things we advocated for a lifetime ago.” These greening initiatives have resulted in the planting of more than 55 000 trees to date, almost all of which are indigenous and each one meticulously tracked by location and planting date. This has contributed significantly to the preservation of local eco systems.
During her recent visit to the Moët & Chandon maison in Épernay, the Champagne Valley of France, Catherine experienced the true meaning of conscious luxury travel. Meandering through its storied corridors, holding within them Champagne tastings and cellar tours, she discovered the process behind making the famous Champagne. Moët & Chandon’s genuine devotion to sustainable viticulture, she says, is ingrained across its entire value chain. Beyond placards and cute T-shirt slogans, the brand’s practices, like allowing sheep to graze in vineyards and promoting natural pollination, have rejuvenated the surrounding earth and its ecosystem. Concerted efforts are also made to limit human intervention. “Parts of the vineyards that were once considered fallow and unproductive, have been given the opportunity to renew themselves by grace of the natural ecosystem and the deliberate resetting and restoration of the balance between the vines and surrounding ecology,” says Catherine. Collaborating with local authorities and key stakeholders, the maison has identified areas that warrant protection and preservation. In these designated zones, hedges and trees have been reintroduced, not only contributing to environmental rejuvenation, but creating a thriving ecological corridor that currently stretches 50km. The goal is for the corridor to span the Champagne region by 2027, connecting the areas where Moët & Chandon’s vineyards and operations are located.
Catherine’s itinerary was thoughtfully curated to immerse her in Moët & Chandon’s heritage, luxury and commitment to sustainability, and included a visit to the Change Now Conference in Paris with Moët Hennessy, which focused on the world we live in, what needs to be done and what different brands are doing to help. Moët & Chandon was given a platform to share its story of sustainability, biodiversity and regenerative agriculture. She also had a chance to explore the surrounds. “There are a few beautiful hotels in the region, as well as some Michelin-star chefs. You must eat at Le Royal at the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, and at Loisium,” Catherine advises. Securing your space months in advance is key, and a visit to the maison as an actual travel destination is a must. At the heart of these initiatives and the tour lies the important message of conscious consumerism. Expecting to find grapes at your local supermarket when they’re out of season, for example, places a demand on retailers to give us something that has a carbon footprint before we’ve even taken it home. And as an activist, it’s Catherine’s role to connect the dots for people. “Many of us savour that first cup of coffee or tea each day, but we never connect that to the farmers who provide it, to agriculture or to the impact on water security. For far too long it has been an academic conversation, and if we don’t connect this to the people, we’re going to be left with another generation that doesn’t understand the impacts of climate change,” she says. “When people understand that they are going to be affected by the rising cost of living because of the environmental impacts, they start to think differently.” For Catherine, being able to see where the grapes are grown and the meticulous care of the vineyards by the farmers was profoundly affirming. “I was really able to go back to the roots of the brand and see how it has managed to exist and stay at the top of its industry, but also champion sustainability, not just for the industry, but for the entire region.” ■
58 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
Catherine’s passion can be traced to her humble childhood under the watchful guidance of her father. “We had a little garden where I remember spending excessive amounts of time. My dad taught us everything about every shrub and tree. He made us believe that we were responsible for protecting that garden, and in essence, protecting the world around us. I grew up in a home where service to our community was the norm,” she says. This wonder grew into a professional commitment, leading her to helm Miss Earth South Africa and co-found Generation Earth. Both entities, although distinct, rally around community-driven environmentalism.
60 yourluxury.africa
DRINKS
YOUR
SIP
&
SAIL AS PART OF NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE’S GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY PROJECT, “SAIL & SUSTAIN” TRICKLES DOWN TO THE WAY COCKTAILS ARE MADE ON BOARD THE SHIP WORDS STEVE STEINFELD
61 yourluxury.africa
DRINKS
YOUR
I
t’s a cold and rainy day somewhere in the North Atlantic between France and Iceland, and the inclement weather means there’s not much to enjoy in terms of outdoor activities. I batten down the hatches and see what’s happening inside the Norwegian Prima. This is, I suppose, the beauty of being on a ship – these behemoths on the ocean are filled with myriad ways to entertain oneself. I pick up the daily guide which lays out the veritable array of activities on offer. Among the likes of game shows, dance classes and origami workshops are events including “black glass Champagne tasting”, “Sail and Sustain Cocktails” and a “whisky blending” activity. And so, as we continued careening along the vast expanse of tempestuous water from France towards the Nordic countries of Iceland and Norway, my two-week long exploration and enjoyment of the ship’s imbibe-able offerings began.
The Sustainable Spritz seemed to be a fan favourite too. This option sees the ship’s surplus bubbly from previous dinner and bar services mixed with a rosemary-steminfused vodka, Aperol and soda.
Sail & Sustain is the company’s robust commitment to decarbonisation and reaching a net-zero carbon-emissions rate by 2050. Norwegian’s mission has been to continually improve its sustainability culture through innovation, progressive education and open collaboration at all points in the business. While there are bigger energy-saving and emissionsreducing projects – including exhaustcleaning systems and a waste-heat recovery programme – it was refreshing to see that this is an ethos that’s reflected in food and beverage decisions too. Single-use straws were eliminated from the entire fleet and two island destinations in 2018, and in 2019 Norwegian became the first major global cruise line to replace single-use plastic bottles with plant-based cartons. This was done in partnership with
JUST® Goods, Inc, and has eliminated approximately 50 million plastic straws and six million single-use plastic bottles from the fleet per year. The next step in its sustainability-focused drinks programme takes shape through the cocktail menu, which is displayed on tablets and available at the ship’s Metropolitan Bar. The menu, designed by the ship’s mixology team in collaboration with Miami-based cocktail consultancy BarLab, sees surplus ingredients and what would otherwise be food waste repurposed into a range of tasty drinks. This zero-waste concept means that leftover croissants from breakfast, for example, are transformed into Mai Tais. The pastry is used to make a syrup, which gives the rum-based cocktail its buttery taste and texture. Café Replay uses a cordial of spent coffee grounds for a black Russian-esque concoction, while fruit off-cuts from the kitchen – think pineapple skins, lemon rinds, strawberry tops and banana peels – are reduced to make syrups for a host of original cocktails and twists on classics.
62 yourluxury.africa
In addition to being sustainable, this approach has resulted in a tastier product with more natural ingredients and complex flavours than can be achieved when using artificial flavourings. The concept has been so well received that it has been introduced throughout the ship and a selection of these cocktails are served at other bars and restaurants on board. This is in addition to a dedicated wine programme which sees Prima’s speciality restaurant, Palomar, serve up a host of natural, biodynamic and organically certified wine with its Mediterranean-inspired seafood fare. While these are small steps on the journey that’s ultimately required to make Norwegian Cruise Line truly green, the company’s commitment to make cruising more environmentally friendly has set sail, and we’re on board. For more information on cruise destinations, itineraries and deals, visit ncl.com ■
IMAGES SUPPLIED, WWW.NCL.COM
The ship’s extensive drinks selection ensures there’s a tot, tipple or dram for all 3 000 passengers on board. It is to be expected given the ship’s plethora of bars, but what impressed me most – in addition to the knowledge of the beverage team – was the sustainable cocktail programme at the Metropolitan Bar.
Taking the concept a step further, the cocktails are only made with spirit brands that share Norwegian’s sustainable ethos. These include Flor de Caña ECO rum, which prides itself on being both carbon neutral and fair-trade certified and Tequila Tromba, a brand striving to be the world’s only zero-agave waste tequila. A range of ’66 spirits made with like-minded distilleries is also used.
www.rupertwines.com
DOWNTIME
YOUR
MALAAK ROCK-COMPTON IS THE PURPOSE PHILANTHROPIST FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ANGELROCK PROJECT SOUTH AFRICA (ARPSA), AN NGO DEDICATED ENSURING GENDER EQUALITY, EDUCATION EQUITY IN A LIFE OF TO AND GLOBAL INITIATIVES FOR WOMEN AND YOUTH
SERVICE
FROM UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES COMPILED BY SANDISO NGUBANE
HOW DO YOU DEFINE LUXURY?
Being able to make choices for your own life. Luxury allows us to be free and experience what our beautiful world has to offer. AS AN AVID TRAVELLER, WHAT’S A FAVOURITE DESTINATION YOU’VE RECENTLY VISITED? Barcelona,
Spain. I adore that city. We also visited Granada, which sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. We had a magical time strolling around the city. DOES SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT YOUR TRAVEL PLANS? I’ve started
to think of water consumption, especially when I’m visiting places where climate change has had a negative impact. We used to think that staying in luxury hotels meant fluffy towels and beautiful linen changed daily. Nowadays, hotels are asking us to do our part and opt out of daily changes to save water. I’ve also noticed, and appreciate, reusable water bottles being given out at water stations. THE BEST GIFT YOU’VE GIVEN YOURSELF? I’m building a house
in Martha’s Vineyard, which is a picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts. It’s been my happy place for years, and now I’m building my dream home there. I love to relax and entertain on the Vineyard, and the house reflects that.
WHERE WILL YOU RELAX IN YOUR NEW HOME? My bedroom suite.
It will have a dream closet and a bathroom with a glorious shower and bath tub, and a private deck for reading. I’ll be spending a lot of time locked up in there and relaxing! Up until now, my three children always invaded any space I had, so this is very special. HAVE YOU MADE SUSTAINABILE CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR NEW HOME? On Martha’s Vineyard, you
have to build and live with sustainability in mind. Thankfully, there are stringent rules and regulations managed by boards to ensure that the marine ecosystem and physical environment of the Cape Cod region is not exploited, damaged or harmed. WITH REGARDS TO YOUR WORK EMPOWERING WOMEN AND GIRLS, HOW DO YOU SUSTAINABLY GIVE BACK? We don’t give handouts.
We invest in the upliftment of our girls to ensure that they can access their fundamental rights to a thriving career and life. My work is deeply aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda. Achieving gender equality for all women and girls is imperative to ending poverty. In a country such as South Africa, ensuring that women and girls live their lives free from violence, discrimination and exploitation is extraordinarily essential. Malaak Compton-Rock The Journey for Change Scholars for Girls is a core programme of ARPSA. Learn more at angelrockprojectsouthafrica.org.
64 yourluxury.africa
IMAGES SUPPLIED
C LO C KW I S E:
Malaak exploring Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard; advocating in Diepsloot township; speaking at her organisation’s Gender Equality & Empowerment Panel for Girls in Johannesburg; with her partner on an oyster boat in Croatia; in front of the Alhambra in Granada
NO ALCOHOL MAY BE SOLD TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18.
louisvuitton.com