Women Who Lead
A Food Safari In Ballito
HOOTERS
An Umhlga Ic
AUGUST/ SEPTEM BE R 2026
FABSTUFF | MY 031 | INSPIRATION | HEALTH | ADVICE W W W. T H E U M H L A N G A M A G A Z I N E . C O . Z A
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CONTENTS
IN THIS ISSUE BUSINESS
LOCAL
Stylish, bold, and effortlessly clean, House of Nala has redefined South African fashion.
48 THE UMBRELLA EDUCENTRE
Discover a place where neurodivergent children are understood, valued, and empowered to learn, grow, and belong.
50 LEAVE REALITY BEHIND
Come and explore the mind-bending exhibits at the Museum of Illusions with the FabTeam.
FOOD + DRINK
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50 24 HERITAGE & HIGH-FASHION
PEOPLE
17 BOLD & BRILLIANT WOMEN
Meet the ladies shaping industries and communities, one insight at a time.
34 CAPTURING THE MAGIC
Turn moments into forever with the Durban Flying Dress.
38 BUILDING MORE THAN BEAUTIFUL SKIN
Dr Maureen Allem reflects on building Skin Renewal with purpose, compassion, and lasting impact.
54 42 TRAINING BEYOND FITNESS
Boxer-turned-coach Derick Kasongo helps women build power, confidence, and practical self-defence.
30 30 A TASTE OF BALLITO
Join us for a mouthwatering spread, a whole feast from refreshing cocktails and starters to rich mains and desserts!
44 ONE OCEAN, ONE MISSION Sarah Ferguson swims the SA coastline to prove small choices can save our oceans.
54 HOOKED
Meet Janine Hunlun, a fearless kayak angler landing giants and breaking barriers at sea.
IN EVERY ISSUE 04 Ed’s Note | 08 #Fabstuff | 10 Social Scene
ON THE COVER Since 2009, Hooters Umhlanga has been serving great food, live sport, and unforgettable moments by the coast. Read more on page 16.
12 My 031 | 14 Inspiration | 56 Health | 58 Advice
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EDITOR'S
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NOTE
ecently, a few people have told me that they read this letter. That it’s one of their first stops in the magazine, that they look forward to it. I started writing these a long time ago, more out of necessity than intent, telling the story of our journey, the place we live, and the communities we feel deeply connected to and love. I never had much of a plan when I started. I just wrote, and you embraced it. That’s an honour, and I’m grateful for the privilege of speaking about the place we all call home. This is our Women’s Month edition, and what stood out whilst reading through it was how few of the women we’ve featured waited until they were ready, or for the perfect timing or situation. Keri Miller walked away from a comfortable career in commercial radio and launched a station from her bedroom, with no investors and no guarantees. Keshni Dhanesar saw flying-dress photoshoots on her travels and thought, “We have such a beautiful city, why not here?” So she simply did it. Sholain Perumal started as a supermarket cashier fresh out of matric and built two businesses from nothing but determination. Dr Maureen Allem opened her first Skin Renewal clinic 21 years ago, when medical aesthetics barely existed in this country. And when heavy surf snapped Janine Hunlun’s paddle in half at Blythedale, she borrowed another one and went straight back out. None of them had a roadmap. They had hope, an idea worth chasing, and a next step they were brave and willing to take. What every one of those stories has behind it is a community. The client who sent a message saying, “I think
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you’ll be good at this.” The families who partner with a teacher building a place where their children finally belong. The clubmates who came to respect a woman holding her own in a tough sport. We’ve been doing a fair bit of travelling this winter, and it’s the same thing I keep noticing in other places. We already know this stretch of coast is paradise: the promenade, the pier, the lighthouse, the morning sunrises over the sea. But paradise on its own doesn’t make a place; the people are the multiplier. The places that have stayed with me are the ones where someone greeted me warmly, took a moment to give me a local recommendation, or simply made me feel welcome. That’s what turns a beautiful place into a home. Which is what I keep thinking about as this coast heads into its next wave of growth. A lot of people will arrive over the next few years, many of them starting something without a plan of their own. We don’t get to choose how fast we grow, but we do get to choose the tone we set while it happens. Engaging, adventurous, bold, and the most welcoming stretch of coast in the country. We’ve always been good at that. Every story in this edition is proof. Till the next edition. God Bless
and the FabMags Team
PUBLISHER Lorinda Scott lorinda@fabmags.co.za EDITOR Justin Scott justin@fabmags.co.za GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michaela Naidoo michaela@fabmags.co.za SALES EXECUTIVE Amy Jenkins amy@fabmags.co.za 082 777 5541 OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Sharlene Odayar sharlene@fabmags.co.za CONTENT & COPY MANAGER Cristina Govender cristina@fabmags.co.za IN-HOUSE JOURNALISTS Elvida Sydney content@fabmags.co.za Jacqueline Herbst jacqui@fabmags.co.za Mariska Moodley content2@fabmags.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Keri Miller, Allison Wewege & iNala Business Coaching ACCOUNTS accounts@fabmags.co.za SOCIAL/EVENTS lorinda@fabmags.co.za CONTACT FABMAGS 032 946 0357 104 San Hall Office Park Kirsty Close, Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal PRINTED BY CTP Printers Cape Town COVER PHOTO Hooters Umhlanga
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents FabMags Publications cannot be held responsible for any omission or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise therefrom. The Umhlanga is published by FabMags Publications, 104 San Hall Office Park, Kirsty Close, Ballito, South Africa 4418. Copyright The Umhlanga and FabMags Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or any part is prohibited without prior permission of the publisher. All products and services featured in this publication are subject to availability and are not stocked by FabMags Publications.
Visit us at our store.
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SCAN FOR MAGAZINES & MORE
FOLLOW US! We are ecstatic to bring you the 87th edition of The Umhlanga Magazine! Thanks to our supportive community, valued clients, and hard-working team, we are able to deliver this magazine to our readers. Be sure to follow us on our social media platforms and websites as we uncover the very best of the East Coast. Let’s keep the conversation going—we love hearing from you!
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Fabstuff
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GROWING PAPER This calendar is one of many plantable stationery items Growing Paper produces. Every sheet is embedded with a different seed. From recycled office paper, to beautiful handmade seeded paper stationery. Retail price is R193 www.growingpaper.co.za
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NOMAAD Experience a refined collection of niche fragrances, where luxury meets olfactory artistry. The curated collection of exquisite, rare perfumes captures pure elegance in every bottle. From vibrant, fresh citrus to deep, mysterious ouds, find your new signature scent today and elevate your everyday style. Sophistication awaits you. They stock TOYBAH, DAARRAA, ODDS, Natural Molecules and Paris2Dubai. Retail price from R200 www.nomaad.co.za
JOCKEY: 2 PACK TAILORED WOVEN BOXER SHORTS Navy and check. That’s all you need. Made from 100% cotton, these boxers balance structure and comfort with a relaxed fit, soft elastic waist, and zero digging. The mock fly keeps it tailored. Wear them for lounging, sleeping, or under trousers. Retail price is R359.95 www.jockey.co.za
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SOCIAL SCENE
Local Vocal Magic UMHLANGA RIDGE The popular annual event, Clash of the Choirs, struck a high note at Park Square, bringing together talented young vocalists from schools across Durban in a vibrant celebration of music, performance, and community spirit.
THE PEOPLE
1. Lauren Randall & Danny Guselli 2. Miss Hornby 3. Atang Dyobo 4. Deirdre Peel & Shan Dean 5. Khaya Mkhize 6. Angel Mazibuko, Shylo Pereira & Shelley Mclean Downham
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ATTORNEYS
Patents | Trade Marks | Copyright | Designs W W W. T H E U M H L A N G A M A G A Z I N E . C O . Z A
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PEOPLE
UMHLANGA THROUGH THE EYES OF A LOCAL!
MY 031
keerannadas
Tikki Tonga
FAVOURITES • Playing pool at Cloud 9. • Tikki Tonga is my favourite place to grab coffee. • The view from Legacy Yard. • Wandering Seoul for Korean barbecue. • The Pearls Mall, for good restaurants and amazing views. • Spending a weekend morning walking on the promenade with a hot or iced coffee in hand.
Pearls Mall
Legacy Yard
Wandering Seoul
ABOUT ME Hi, I’m Keeran Nadas, a full-time content creator who is known on social media for food reviews, restaurant visits, and recipe videos.
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Everything in One Place silhouette FURNITURE
Great Coffee & Food
Premium Outdoor Furniture
Fitness & Training
Molly’s is where heart, hustle and good taste come together. Run by a dynamic motherdaughter duo, the café blends generations of style, warmth and attention to detail creating a space that feels both beautifully curated and genuinely welcoming.
A locally owned and run outdoor furniture manufacturer that specializes in all weather furniture solution. Bringing quality and a personal touch to every space.
An affiliated CrossFit & HYROX gym offering CrossFit, HYROX, Strength & Stretch, Personal Training, and an incredible community. A FREE WEEK is available for those interested in joining. Contact Eunice on 081 716 5540 (whatsapp) or Email: admin@ballitofitnessvillage.com
TENANTS mollyscafe_ballito |
082 326 8790 |
silhouette_furniture_sa | ballitofitnessvillage | drcandileithpsychologist WT South Africa | lit_solutions_sa | thehairshackza
welcome@mollyspark.co.za | www.mollyspark.co.za | Molly’s Park, Point W W W. T H E U32 M HEnterprise L A N G A M A GCrescent, A Z I N E . C O . ZNorth A | 13
INSPIRATION
Playing it Forward WORDS KERI MILLER
T
here comes a point in many careers when success on paper no longer feels like success in reality. The job may be good, the title familiar, and the path predictable, but something no longer fits. For me, that realisation came after years in commercial radio. I never fell out of love with radio; I fell out of love with the environment around it. Radio had always been about connection, the privilege of speaking to someone I would never meet and, for a few moments, becoming part of their day. But over time, I found myself wanting something more creative, more authentic and more personal than the corporate world allowed. Rather than settling, I made the difficult decision to walk away. It was a leap into the unknown. Together with my longtime friend Fiona McCarthy, I launched PlayZN in November 2024. There were no investors, no large offices and no guarantees of success. The station began in my bedroom with little more than experience, determination and a belief that there was room to do radio differently. Starting from scratch has been one of the biggest challenges of my career. Running an independent business means carrying every responsibility, from content creation and broadcasting to the constant reality of keeping the doors open. There are no shortcuts and no safety nets. Yet it has also brought a renewed sense of purpose. Now, success is no longer measured only by audience numbers or commercial milestones, but by creating meaningful conversations, championing local voices and
proving that independent ideas still have a place in an increasingly corporate world. I believe that entrepreneurship demands resilience more than certainty. There are days when you question everything, but if your work is rooted in purpose, you can keep showing up. It is a philosophy that extends beyond broadcasting. Whether behind a microphone, teaching yoga or building a business, the most rewarding moments have come from choosing courage over comfort. I hope my journey can serve as a reminder that reinvention is rarely easy, but sometimes the biggest risk is staying where you have already outgrown. Sometimes, playing it safe means never discovering what you are truly capable of. Playing it forward means believing that taking a chance on yourself is always worth it.
Rather than settling, I made the difficult decision to walk away
KERI is a broadcaster, yoga teacher and co-founder of Radio PlayZN. She launched the independent online station, championing authentic storytelling, meaningful conversations and community-driven broadcasting across KwaZulu-Natal. www.radioplayzn.co.za
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COVER STORY
handcrafted burgers, legendary curly fries, fresh salads, flavour-packed tacos and our iconic Onion Ring Tower, perfect for sharing around the table. Pair that with handcrafted cocktails, ice-cold beers and a relaxed coastal setting, and it's easy to see why so many guests return time and again. The Women Behind the Welcome For more than 16 years, the heart of the Hooters experience has been the people who bring it to life every day. “We are incredibly proud of the women who represent our brand every day. Their energy, professionalism and genuine hospitality are at the heart of the Hooters experience, and they play an important role in creating the atmosphere our guests have come to know and love.” – Lola Coetzer, Hooters South Africa.
Welcome to Umhlanga
Your home for great food, live sport & good company
S
ince opening its doors in December 2009, Hooters Umhlanga has welcomed locals, holidaymakers, business travellers and sports fans alike, earning its place as one of Durban's favourite destinations to enjoy great food, live sport and memorable occasions. Those who haven't visited in recent years are often surprised by how much the experience has evolved. Today, Hooters is a place where friends gather, families enjoy long lunches, colleagues unwind after work, and complete strangers become teammates as they cheer for their side.
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Where Great Sport Comes Alive There's something special about watching live events surrounded by passionate supporters at Hooters Umhlanga. Whether it’s a Springbok test match, Formula 1 races, or Wimbledon, every major sporting event is treated as an occasion, with themed celebrations, carefully curated music, and an electric matchday atmosphere that has become synonymous with the restaurant. More Than Legendary Wings Our menu offers something for everyone. Guests can enjoy
Proudly Part of the Community Much has changed since 2009, but one thing has remained constant: a commitment to genuine hospitality, quality food and creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors. Hooters Umhlanga looks forward to welcoming you. Because great food brings people together – but it’s great people who make you want to come back. 031 942 3401 hooterssa 2 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, Durban
BUSINESS
Bold & Brilliant
Women Meet inspiring female professionals bridging career excellence with community purpose, sharing valuable insights across diverse business sectors.
Shirley Pearson Business & Executive Coach ActionCOACH iNala What sparked your interest in business coaching? A client of mine sent me the details of ActionCOACH with a message: “I think you'll be really good at this.” Back then, they used a lot of sports imagery, and I thought, well, I like sports … Of course, business coaching has nothing to do with sports, but what I did find was a profession that combined my love of business and the opportunity to contribute to something that outlasts a single transaction.
little more focused and show up a little more consistently than everyone else in the room, that’s enough.
What's a key lesson you've learnt in your career? Determination trumps being smart. I learnt early on that I could consistently outperform people who were far more gifted, simply because most people prefer to stay in their comfort zone. If you can be a
What advice would you give women entering this profession? A course is just the starting point; the real learning happens after you've graduated, in the books, the podcasts, the hundreds of resources available to anyone willing to keep educating
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? This is a question I get asked a lot. The hard truth is that extraordinary results require extraordinary effort, so you've got to put in the work. The trick is to create the counterbalance, the downtime and the time to rejuvenate, in a manner and form that is equal in time and effort.
themselves. This is a profession that combines business, people, and a genuine pursuit of excellence. If that combination excites you, you'll do well in it.
inala.actioncoach.com durbannorth@actioncoach.com
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Fatima Goga Registered Generalist Counsellor Live With Purpose What drew you to counselling? The challenges I've faced across my life motivated me to pursue a career in counselling and holistic health to help others along their journeys. What's a key lesson you've learnt in your field? From the fertility counselling perspective, I've come to realise that no two journeys are the same. Because fertility is such a deeply personal and often emotionally sensitive topic, it is easier for clients to engage in one-on-one conversations rather than speak about such topics to a broader audience.
PHOTO ELANA SCHILZ PHOTOGRAPHY
What keeps you passionate about your career? When someone
comes into counselling feeling overwhelmed and leaves with greater clarity, healthier ways of thinking, and a way forward in their respective journey, it's incredibly rewarding. What's one piece of advice for a woman who feels stuck? I feel the best protection against life's uncertainties is education and the willingness to learn, to improve your mental health, physical health and financial wellbeing.
www.lwpfertility.com lwp_fertilitycounselling
Renelle Moodley Director & Head STBB Attorneys Umhlanga What sparked your interest in the legal industry? Watching the TV series LA Law during my teenage years sparked my fascination with the role lawyers play in promoting justice and shaping outcomes. My involvement in interschool speech and debate contests also inspired my passion for research and presenting well-reasoned arguments.
What keeps you passionate about your career? The ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients, while staying true to my Christian values of integrity, compassion and service. Being part of a talented team and a firm with a national footprint allows me to collaborate, grow, and make a broader impact for the clients we serve.
What's a key lesson you've learnt? Hard work and perseverance pay off. Women often need to work harder to gain recognition and credibility. This has taught me the importance of resilience, confidence and consistency. Over time, dedication and results earn respect and create opportunities for growth.
What advice would you give women entering the legal profession? The legal industry can be demanding, often requiring long hours and strong commitment, but the rewards are worth it. Build supportive networks, seek mentorship, keep learning and embrace every opportunity. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and
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take pride in the results of your hard work and dedication. 031 583 8060 www.stbb.co.za
BUSINESS
Siobhan Redshaw Interior Architect Sphere Design & Architecture What drew you to interior architecture? From a young age, I was surrounded by influences from the Built Environment profession, and as I grew, I quickly knew it was something I wanted to be involved in. It allows me to express myself and create environments for people to enjoy and experience. What’s a key lesson you’ve learnt about business? It is ever-changing. One constant in the industry is the relationships you form. We are in a key position in the built environment profession, working closely with other industry professionals, and the knowledge gained from these relationships is invaluable. How do you balance your vision with your client’s needs? Through listening, collaboration, and iteration. One of the best parts of this career is being able to use design as a tool to bring a client’s ideas to life. What advice would you give to women starting interior architecture? Passion and the desire to continue learning are key. This profession is rewarding; there’s nothing quite like seeing a concept sketch come to life, but like any profession, it is not without hard work and determination. The industry is constantly evolving, so the willingness to learn along the way is vital to your growth as a designer.
ROCKETS PADEL+SOCIAL
SIOBHAN & CHELSEY
Chelsey Hillier Simpson Interior Designer Sphere Design & Architecture What sparked your interest in interior design? I have always loved the creative industries, whether it be interiors or fashion. I found myself intrigued and drawn to beautiful, imaginative spaces. I wanted to take my own ideas and imprint them on the world in some way. What’s a key lesson you’ve learnt about business? It takes time to understand the design industry, build meaningful relationships, and earn the trust of clients, contractors, and suppliers who help bring your vision to life. I think people often only see the finished project, but there's so much more behind the scenes. It's about constantly learning; every project teaches you something new. How do you stay true to your unique voice? While the interior design industry can be
CATIA’S PETITE
competitive, I really believe there’s room for every designer. Everyone brings something different to the industry, and there is something special about observing other people’s work and drawing inspiration from one another. Embrace your individuality in your design, trust your ideas, and never compare yourself to others. What advice would you give to women starting in interior design? Believe in yourself. There will be challenges; take them as opportunities to learn and grow. Keep developing your skills, explore new design trends, and never limit your creativity. 031 312 5133 www.spheredesign.co.za
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Lea Wimble Director & Conveyancing Attorney Wimble Attorneys What drew you to conveyancing? I was drawn to it because property is deeply personal. A transfer is rarely just a legal transaction, but rather a new chapter; it is incredibly rewarding to see my clients through the journey towards their preferred future. What's a key lesson you've learnt in your career? People do not only need legal knowledge; they need calm, honest guidance. Clients often come to us during stressful or uncertain moments, and knowing the law alone is not enough. You need to communicate clearly, manage expectations and be willing to have difficult conversations when necessary. I have also learnt that integrity is everything. Your reputation is built over many years through consistency, honesty and doing the right thing, even when it is not the easiest option. What keeps you passionate about your career? “The Gifted Project”: a passion project through which we donate homes with title deeds to vulnerable people. For me, it is a reminder that property law is not only about transactions, title deeds and registration dates. At its heart, property is about people, security, belonging and the opportunity to build a better future. The Gifted Project helps me keep perspective, especially on the difficult days. It reminds me that the work I do does not just serve clients professionally but can also change the trajectory of someone’s life and break the cycle of poverty. How do you maintain a work-life balance? I am not sure that a perfect balance exists, and I am most definitely a “work in progress” in this area! As a business owner, wife, and
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mother of five, I often find myself pulled in 100 different directions. I have had to learn that just because something feels urgent, it does not always mean it is the most important thing. It is very easy to spend your day responding to messages, putting out fires and trying to keep everyone happy, only to realise that the things that matter most – my faith, my family, my health and the bigger-picture decisions in my business – have been pushed to the side. For me, balance is less about having everything perfectly under control and more about constantly realigning myself with what matters most.
What advice would you give women entering the legal profession? Be patient. Your career does not have to look impressive overnight. Build it with patience, integrity and excellence, and in time, the right doors will open. There is real value in being teachable, doing the small things well, and allowing each season to shape you. Good things really do come to those who wait, but waiting does not mean being passive. It means showing up consistently, working hard, learning from those around you and trusting the process. 061 568 3541 www.wimble-attorneys.co.za
BUSINESS
Pamela Naidu Head of Sales & Marketing & Principal Property Practitioner Devmco Realty
mental agility, unrelenting roundthe-clock commitment, and absolute professional mastery to truly set yourself apart. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? I am fortunate that my two daughters have blossomed into adulthood and have walked alongside me throughout my extensive real estate journey. Today, my husband serves as an indispensable partner in the business, meticulously managing critical operational facets. This shared professional ecosystem fosters a deep, mutual comprehension of the rigorous demands our careers prescribe. Consequently, we are fiercely intentional about creating space to retreat, unwind, and protect our sacred family time from the fast pace of the luxury property market.
What drew you to real estate? The vastness of the industry granted me the freedom to curate bespoke, flawless solutions for an elite clientele. I was instantly captivated by the flexibility, sophisticated client stewardship, and deep human connection. Intentionally pivoting toward the ultra-luxury market, I sought to elevate my expertise and grow an incomparable distinction. I immersed myself entirely, enchanted by the unique architectural alchemy of high-end property. What keeps you passionate about your career today? The inherently buoyant nature of the real estate market demands immediate action and fluid, adaptive strategies. I am fundamentally driven by unparalleled delivery speed and flawless service
execution. I thrive in high-growth trading sectors, where I possess the unique skills to completely redefine benchmarks for return on investment. Navigating an everevolving architectural landscape and shaping grand developments from inception allows me to collaborate seamlessly with premier industry stakeholders while inspiring a legendary team to achieve historic excellence. What's one thing about your career that most people get wrong? They assume that a flexible schedule equates to parttime effort, believing success materialises effortlessly without intellectual depth. Achieving sustained excellence in this arena is no easy feat; it requires immense
If you could share advice with women entering the real estate industry, what would it be? Develop profound courage, an insatiable appetite for knowledge, and an intimate command of local territory alongside shifting market trends. Master social media architecture; it remains the ultimate gateway to commercial opportunity. Above all, deliver outstanding customer service, cultivating an exquisite referral ecosystem so vast that client acquisition becomes almost effortless. Operate with integrity, honesty, and a tireless embrace of demanding hours. This relentless dedication invariably yields the best outcomes in your career, cementing your legacy within the industry. 087 550 1300 www.devmcorealty.co.za
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BUSINESS
Charmaine Brewis Owner Lady Jane What sparked your interest in your industry? I've always believed that the most successful businesses solve a real problem, and I saw a gap in the market for a space where men and women could explore their sexuality without judgement or embarrassment. After working in New York, I returned to South Africa and decided to create a business with a competitive edge that also served a valuable purpose in the community. Lady Jane was founded out of a desire to turn something often misunderstood into something positive. What's a key lesson you've learnt in your career? People are the heart of any successful business. Without our customers, we would not prosper, and without our staff, we would not succeed. Lady Jane has always been a family-run business, and that family culture extends to every member of our team. I've learnt that when you genuinely invest in your people, they will invest in your business. What keeps you passionate about your career? Knowing that what we do genuinely makes a difference in people's lives. I'm most proud of how Lady Jane has become a trusted space where medical professionals can confidently refer their patients who are navigating intimate health challenges. Whether someone is experiencing erectile dysfunction, menopause, oncological conditions, trauma or other medical concerns that impact intimacy and quality of life, we can offer guidance, education, and products that help support their wellbeing. What’s one thing about Lady Jane that’s commonly misunderstood? The vast majority of our customers are everyday people in loving,
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committed relationships who simply want to maintain intimacy, strengthen their connection, or explore new ways to enjoy their relationship together. We also welcome individuals who are focused on self-discovery, confidence, or overcoming medical conditions that affect their intimate wellbeing. We believe that healthy intimacy is an important part of a healthy relationship. By helping couples keep the spark alive, communicate openly, and prioritise one another, we're supporting stronger, happier, and often longer-lasting relationships. Advice for women to build more confidence: I always encourage women to focus on progress rather than perfection. Set yourself small, achievable goals and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. Those small daily wins build confidence over time and remind you that you're capable of achieving far more than you think. I've also learnt
the importance of planning. Life doesn't always go the way we expect, so being prepared and having a risk-management mindset allow you to adapt without losing sight of your goals. Never underestimate the value of people skills. The ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, to show empathy, and to build genuine relationships is one of the greatest strengths you can develop. Finally, the moment you stop allowing other people's opinions to define you is the moment you begin to grow. You can't live your life trying to meet everyone else's expectations. True confidence comes from trusting yourself, embracing who you are, and understanding the value you bring to the world.
081 050 6675 info@ladyjane.co.za
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Heritage &
HIGH-FASHION Honouring the past while designing the future WORDS MARISKA MOODLEY
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FASHION
PINK SAFARI PRINT RUFFLED DRESS
H
ouse of NALA is a PanAfrican design collective and platform that elevates artisan excellence across the continent. Founded on the principle that African craft is luxury, NALA partners directly with designers and makers to preserve technique while shaping the future of global fashion. You can view their collections online at www.houseofnala.com
This piece celebrates African heritage through bold animal print and sculpted design. The print evokes majestic wildlife and landscapes, while dramatic tiered ruffles mirror the organic, flowing lines of rural South African terrain. Rooted in cultural storytelling through textiles, the design honours craftsmanship and identity. It’s a powerful, contemporary tribute to local pride and the beauty of African land and tradition.
PINK SAFARI OVERSIZED BLAZER This garment redefines luxury through a contemporary African lens, celebrating ‘new heritage’. Instead of traditional geometric prints, it features a bold leopard motif honouring African wildlife, safaris, and landscapes. Impeccable tailoring and signature gold crest buttons merge modern high-fashion with cultural roots, creating a piece that respects ancestry while looking to the future.
JEYNA A PEARLED BOUBOU This flowing, loose-fitting dress is rooted in West African tradition. Its dramatic floor-length silhouette draws from the agbada and kaftan, symbols of elegance, stature, and regal modesty. Cowrie shell embellishments, a tribute to heritage, once used as currency and still representing prosperity, spirituality, and protection. Paired with a voluminous afro, the look merges ancestral elegance with modern haute couture, celebrating African identity.
CHIFFON FRINGE SET This ivory runway coat blends modern tailoring with African luxury. Its sleek, elongated silhouette is elevated by bold gold fringe cuffs that add movement and celebration. Inspired by local culture, the layered fringe honours ancestral ceremonial textures, while the ivory and gold palette reflects traditional attire worn during life passages and cultural celebrations, merging history with contemporary power dressing.
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FASHION
MANTSHO KIMONO COAT A piece that merges traditional African identity with modern style. Its fluid, expansive silhouette echoes regal African robes, while bold abstract graphics celebrate contemporary artistry rooted in heritage. The earthy, contemporary palette respects ancestral storytelling and the continent’s rich design history. Together, it captures strength, pride, and cultural depth in a timeless, everyday form that keeps our legacy alive through modern fashion.
TAILORED DOUBLE BREASTED PANTSUIT This white pantsuit fuses sharp contemporary tailoring with African artistry. Its standout detail is vibrant, multicolour beadwork trimming the lapels and pockets, inspired by traditional South African beadwork. In these cultures, elaborate beads signal identity, status, and pride. By setting ancestral, hand-embellished craftsmanship against a modern silhouette, the piece pays homage to heritage while making a bold luxury couture statement.
MALI JITE MAXI DRESS
This dress features the Mali Print, a custom textile incorporating West African ancestral artistry. The billowing kaftan silhouette mirrors traditional African robes, symbolising regal elegance. Earthy ochres, mustards, and abstract white motifs evoke organic landscapes. Through textile, form, and colour, it honours ancestry while delivering contemporary luxury.
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SARAYAA SODA PRINT KIMONO This piece fuses traditional heritage with contemporary global style. Inspired by African textile traditions, it features bold geometric motifs that echo artisanal techniques like West African Adire and Ankara wax prints. Its flowing, oversized silhouette honours the regal elegance of classic boubous and robes. The design celebrates cultural identity through modern function, turning ancestral artistry into wearable, timeless fashion.
R E DEF IN ING
SUCCESS With Vision and Heart
W
omen’s Month is a celebration of women who challenge the status quo, inspire change, and prove that success is built on courage, resilience, and purpose. Sholain Perumal, CEO of The Gold Bar and Sensational Hair, Nails & Beauty, embodies these qualities, building thriving businesses while remaining deeply committed to empowering others. Sholain’s journey began far from the boardroom. Fresh out of matric, she worked as a supermarket cashier, armed with little more than determination and an unwavering belief that her circumstances would never define her future. Through hard work, perseverance and an entrepreneurial spirit, she transformed humble beginnings into a flourishing business empire. Today, The Gold Bar is recognised as a trusted leader in gold recycling and precious metal buying, while Sensational Hair, Nails & Beauty has become a destination for confidence, beauty and self-care. Yet, for Sholain, success extends far beyond financial achievements.
She is passionate about creating employment, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and investing in communities through philanthropy, guided by her belief in “changing the world, one act of kindness at a time.” However, her most rewarding role is being a mother. The arrival of her young son reshaped her definition of success, proving that women can excel in business while embracing the joys and responsibilities of family life. From board meetings to bedtime stories, Sholain navigates both worlds with grace, demonstrating that leadership and motherhood can coexist powerfully. This Women’s Month, her story serves as an inspiration to women everywhere. It is a reminder that where you begin does not determine where you will finish. With vision, resilience and compassion, it is possible to build a meaningful legacy, uplift others and redefine success on your own terms. Sholain Perumal is living proof that empowered women don’t just build businesses – they build brighter futures for generations to come.
Contact Sensational Hair Umhlanga
060 890 2388
The Gold Bar 072 985 9754
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ADVERTORIAL
Coral Cove A New Chapter in Coastal Senior Living
T
here is something undeniably special about life on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. The ocean air, slower rhythm and connection to nature create a lifestyle that feels both energising and grounding.
multi-generational environment while still benefitting from a community thoughtfully designed around their needs and lifestyle.
Now, within the prestigious Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate, Coral Cove by Auria Senior Living is redefining retirement living by blending contemporary coastal luxury with hospitality, wellness and future peace of mind, all within one exceptional environment.
From elegant apartments and contemporary maisonettes to spacious villas with private gardens, every residence has been designed to feel modern, lightfilled and effortlessly liveable. Practicality and luxury coexist, with lock-up-and-go simplicity allowing residents to spend less time maintaining a home and more time enjoying life around them.
Designed for those who want to continue living fully, socially, and independently, Coral Cove moves away from traditional ideas of senior living. Instead, it offers a lifestyle centred around quality of life, connection and ease. Residents can enjoy the unique energy of a
At the heart of Coral Cove is a carefully curated lifestyle offering. Residents can enjoy Café Auria, beautifully designed lounges and dining spaces, wellness facilities, creative studios, a library and a pool deck with panoramic ocean views. A calendar of social
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gatherings, wellness activities, talks and experiences creates countless opportunities to connect, explore new interests, or simply enjoy the company of like-minded people. Importantly, the community also offers peace of mind for the future. While the focus remains firmly on living well, residents have the reassurance of an on-site Care Centre with access to personalised support, including frail and memory care, should needs ever change over time. What makes Coral Cove particularly unique is its setting within the Zululami and Seaton Estates. Rather than feeling separate from everyday life, residents remain part of a vibrant, multi-generational community where children and grandchildren can visit, stay and share in the coastal lifestyle. To explore Coral Cove or to experience the Auria lifestyle at one of our Johannesburg communities before making the move, contact our team.
www.auria.co.za
This is not retirement.
This is coastal living, reimagined. A first-of-its-kind senior living community on the KZN North Coast, Coral Cove combines contemporary homes, exceptional hospitality, wellness amenities and a full continuum of care within the beautiful Zululami Coastal Estate. Residents enjoy an active, connected coastal lifestyle with the reassurance that support is available should their needs change.
Assisted Living
from R1.95m Maisonettes
from R3.7m 2 Bedroom Garden Villas
from R5m
3 Bedroom Garden Villas
from R5.5m
Contact us for a tour of Coral Cove 087 537 0539 or coralcove@auria.co.za
Auria Senior Living has been internationally awarded 20
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A Taste of
BALLITO WORDS ELVIDA SYDNEY
Cristina, Dhivashni, Sharlene, and I embarked on a bespoke food safari, where we experienced the vision of culinary twins Ayanda and Andile Ngidi across their restaurants.
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hen you’re in Ballito, stop by the beautiful New Salt Rock Centre. You will see three restaurants conveniently lined up for a spectacular and fun food safari: Donna Modern Italian, Butcher & Wine, Kung Thai Eatery and Saint Yves, all sporting distinct aesthetics and cuisines. What is nice about these three restaurants is that you can happily stay at the table you like and order from all the menus from one seat, or you can wander from table to table for a change of scenery between courses, which also makes for a perfect photo op. What made it special was how easy it was to linger. The conversation flows, moves with the atmosphere, and the beautiful spaces give you new things to talk about. Before you know it, hours have passed.
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FOOD + DRINK
Saint Yves Bar The time: well, it’s cocktail hour somewhere in the world, but there’s no better time than the present. Our wonderful waiter, Stanley, led us to our table in the outdoor seating area where it was cool and breezy, and recommended a few drinks to start. One was the Salento, a vibrant mix of passionfruit, orange, pineapple, and lemon, bourbon, and amaretto; a cocktail that feels like a mini holiday in every sip. The Donna, queen pineapple meets a medley of berries and a burst of citrus in this cocktail inspired by the tale of the African queen. It is bold, rich, and fit for royalty. The Mango Daiquiri is a tropical getaway in a glass, contrasting the stronger vodka-shaken Espresso Martini with Kahlua and a shot of cold-brew espresso, finished with a silky texture. To pair with the drinks, we had the salmon cream cheese and prawn avalanche sushi platter. Fresh, tender, delicious, crispy, and flavourful. It checked all the boxes!
A food safari worth the drive up to Ballito.
saintyvesbar
Kung Thai Eatery Situated in Saint Yves, Kung Thai Eatery is adorned in long emerald curtains and tropical wallpaper. From the starter menu, we ordered Thai Fish Cakes blended with red curry paste, served with sweet chilli sauce and a salad. And from the main menu, we had The Kung Thai crispy duck (or chicken, your choice), sliced in their in-house chilli-garlic-lemon sauce with spring onion, served with either jasmine rice, noodles, crispy spinach, or steamed vegetables. These were such great follow-up dishes, and it definitely kept us on our toes for the next stop. kungthai_saltrock
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FOOD + DRINK
Butcher & Wine
We moved indoors for this course, where it was cosier, and the dimmed lighting really set the mood for our dining experience. We hope you’ve got a healthy appetite because this course is quite hearty but so worth it. These dishes were robust in flavour. The Queen prawns were served with lemon and herb, or peri peri sauce, and a tartar dipping sauce. So buttery and succulent, it keeps you reaching for more. A bold, juicy T-bone steak, served with Café de Paris butter, a sauce of your choice (we had the chimichurri sauce, recommended by Stanley). And the Rump, which had smoky notes, served with Café de Paris butter and a mushroom sauce. Both meat dishes were served with the crunchiest onion rings. For the sides, we chose chips, steamed vegetables, and a salad which was accompanied by a lovely dressing. Stanley helped us pair our meals with a Porcupine Ridge Merlot; a silky smooth wine with berry, spice and mocha notes, and a Winter Daiquiri, which has spiced golden rum, zesty lime, and a rich honeycinnamon syrup flavour. butcherandwine
Donna Modern Italian
Dearest foodies, our last stop. Desserts: the sweetest last note. A Deconstructed Crème Brûlée, creamy vanilla custard, with a caramelised sugar crust and the Panna Cotta, a delicate vanilla milk pudding, both served with strawberries. They had a lovely lightness to them. The Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert made with layers of rum- and coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese; rich and bold flavour notes balanced well with the creaminess. Of course, we must have Chocolate Brownies, a rich, fudgy dessert served with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. No dessert is complete without a hot brew. We had a chai latte, the classic cappuccino, and a red latte; a lovely way to end our food safari. donnamodernitalian
Thank you to the incredible team behind these three restaurants for a truly memorable experience. We savoured every moment.
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Capturing the
Bold experiences for every woman WORDS ELVIDA SYDNEY PHOTOS DURBAN FLYING DRESS
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BUSINESS
K
eshni Dhanesar, founder of The Original Durban Flying Dress, is a dog mom, businesswoman, creative spirit and dreamer, and loves empowering others while still learning and evolving herself. The inspiration behind the Durban Flying Dress was ignited by her travels abroad. “I saw these flying dress photoshoots, and it captivated me, so I did it! I saw myself in a whole new light. It was then that the entrepreneurial wheels began to turn.
I thought to myself, we have such a beautiful city ... Why not bring this magic to Durban?” Inspired by that transformation, she simply wanted to create something unique and meaningful: an experience where women of all ages, shapes, and stories could feel bold, beautiful, and unforgettable in the most cinematic way, using our city as a backdrop. Each person she meets and every photoshoot they do is incredibly special because everyone arrives with their own unique story. Some
are celebrating a milestone birthday, motherhood, an anniversary, a personal achievement, or simply a season of growth and self-discovery. “I love highlighting these stories because they are what make each person authentic and extraordinary. The captions on my posts are my way of honouring the journey behind the photograph and celebrating the reasons that brought them to Durban Flying Dress in the first place,” Keshni says. The captions remind people that these photographs are about more than looking beautiful.
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BUSINESS
The captions remind people that these photographs are about more than looking beautiful. They represent resilience, growth, self-love, family, and the moments that shape our lives.
They represent resilience, growth, self-love, family, and the moments that shape our lives. Umhlanga's iconic Whalebone Pier, golden beaches, and The Lighthouse have become synonymous with Durban's charm and are a firm favourite amongst clients.
These landmarks provide the perfect backdrop, creating images that could easily be mistaken for an international destination while remaining proudly local. Clients can choose from their collection of flowing dresses and are photographed against Umhlanga’s breathtaking backdrop. They manage every detail to create a luxury, stress-free experience, from booking and styling to creating the dramatic flying-dress effect and ensuring a relaxed experience. Their unique range of packages incorporates horses, luxury or vintage vehicles, private yachts, safari game drives, and even helicopter rides, making it a truly exclusive, curated luxury experience.Many women arrive feeling nervous, selfconscious, or convinced that they are not photogenic. By the end of the experience, they're standing taller,
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smiling bigger, laughing freely, and seeing themselves in a completely different light. “This is honestly why I do what I do. Each session is a celebration of femininity, individuality, and boldness. For me, the magic lies in the emotional reveal. There’s a moment after every shoot where a woman looks at herself on camera and asks, ‘Wow, is that really me?’ That spark, that joy, that's everything.” Durban Flying Dress is ultimately about creating memories which will outlive the moment itself. They are proud to showcase the beauty of Umhlanga while helping people celebrate their stories. Every photograph becomes part of a legacy ... something that can be shared with children, grandchildren, and future generations. That is what makes this experience so meaningful. durbanflyingdress
Dr. Bianca Naidoo
Services: • Medical aesthetics
Is an experienced General Practitioner and Integrative Health Aesthetics Practitioner based at 32 Adelaide Tambo Drive, Durban North. We continue to provide comprehensive, patient-centered family healthcare, acute and chronic illness management, and medical aesthetic treatments to the Durban Community.
Personalized obesity and weight management, rejuvenating facial injectables, and various dermatological/surgical procedures.
• Integrative & restorative therapies
IV vitamin infusions, NADA acupuncture, and holistic lifestyle/stress support.
• Comprehensive women’s health
Gynecological care, pap smears, hormone balancing, family planning advice/ TOP/ IUD removal, and intimate area rejuvenation
• Full-spectrum family medicine
Child-friendly consultations, chronic condition management (e.g., Diabetes, Hypertension, Asthma, HIV), and routine health screenings.
32 Adelaide Tambo Drive, Durban North
Contracted to all Medical Aids
@acubody.aesthetics
infoacubody@gmail.com
067 657 8008
acubodyaesthetics.co.za
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Building More Than
Beautiful Skin Twenty-One Years of Purpose, Passion and Possibility WORDS DR MAUREEN ALLEM
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BUSINESS
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hen I founded Skin Renewal 21 years ago, I wasn't thinking about building a national brand. I was thinking about people. More specifically, I was thinking about how I could help South Africans feel healthier, more confident and more comfortable in their own skin. Like many women who choose to start a business, I quickly realised that entrepreneurship is never a straight line. It demands resilience, courage and the willingness to keep learning. There are moments of uncertainty, difficult decisions and countless lessons that can only be learned through experience. But there is also something incredibly rewarding about building a business that genuinely
changes people's lives. I have also been fortunate to share that journey with my partner, Victor Snyders, whose strategic leadership as CEO has helped shape Skin Renewal into what it is today. Together, we have always believed that exceptional patient care, continuous innovation and uncompromising medical standards should remain at the heart of every decision we make. While our roles
are different, our vision has always been the same: to build a business that makes a meaningful difference in people's lives. When we opened our first clinic, medical aesthetics was still a relatively new concept in South Africa. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching the industry evolve alongside our business. Advances in technology, research and medical science have transformed the
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BUSINESS
There are moments of uncertainty, difficult decisions and countless lessons that can only be learned through experience.
way we approach skin health, while patients have become more informed and proactive about investing in their wellbeing. Throughout that evolution, one principle has remained unchanged: every patient deserves personalised care. No two people are the same, and neither are their skin journeys. Taking the time to understand the individual behind the consultation has always been, and will always be, the foundation of everything we do. As women, we often wear many hats. We are professionals, mothers, daughters, partners, mentors and caregivers, often putting the needs of everyone else before our own. One of the greatest lessons I have learned is that self-care is not selfish. Looking after your physical and emotional wellbeing enables you to show up more fully for the people who depend on you. Confidence doesn't come from perfection. It comes from feeling comfortable in your own skin.
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Healthy skin can certainly contribute to that confidence, but true confidence is built through knowledge, kindness, resilience and authenticity. Those qualities never go out of fashion. Looking back over the past 21 years, I am proud of the business we have built, but even more grateful for the people who have been part of the journey. Every patient, colleague and team member has contributed to the story of Skin Renewal, reminding me that success is never achieved alone. As we celebrate Women's Month, I hope more women will feel empowered to pursue their ambitions,
whether that means starting a business, changing careers, raising a family or simply making time for themselves. There is no single definition of success. Each woman's journey is unique, and that is what makes it extraordinary. After 21 years, my greatest lesson is perhaps the simplest one of all: when you lead with purpose, remain curious and never lose sight of the people you serve, success becomes so much more than a destination. It becomes a legacy. Umhlanga 031 566 3590 Ballito 032 648 0048 www.skinrenewal.co.za
Email: sales@firstshelving.co.za
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Training Beyond
FITNESS Former competitive boxer Derick Kasongo is helping women build strength, confidence and practical selfdefence skills. 42 |
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PEOPLE
He trains women much like he would prepare a fighter. The French- and Englishspeaking trainer begins every programme by assessing each client's fitness level before designing a training plan suited to their individual goals and abilities. A strong emphasis is placed on correct posture and technique to reduce the risk of injury, while workouts are regularly adapted to keep clients challenged and progressing.
F
WORDS JACQUELINE HERBST
ormer competitive boxer Derick Kasongo has built a loyal following of female clients by offering a different approach to personal training. Known for his friendly personality and approachable nature, Derick incorporates boxing into his fitness sessions, training women as he would prepare a fighter. Rather than simply focusing on fitness, he
holds the pads up and teaches basic boxing techniques, giving clients useful self-defence skills while improving their strength and physical health. His sessions combine explosive boxing drills with functional fitness exercises to create varied, high-intensity workouts. While clients train at his gyms in Umdloti and Salta, they also enjoy taking sessions onto the beach when the weather allows. Derick says beach boxing offers additional benefits, with the sand helping to strengthen the legs while increasing the intensity of each workout. Sessions often include beach runs, which provide a more demanding workout than running on roads or on a treadmill. His client base also includes female runners and other athletes looking for sport-specific conditioning, as well as women referred by medical professionals to improve conditions such as low bone density or back pain.
He recommends three one-hour sessions a week but understands that time and affordability can be barriers. Having built his own business from humble beginnings, acquiring equipment one piece at a time, Derick aims to keep training accessible. Group sessions cost R200, while private sessions are R250 per hour. Interestingly, he says women make up almost three times as many of his clients as men. During an all-women's training session at the Salta gym, the atmosphere was energetic, with hard work balanced by plenty of laughter and encouragement. Speaking to us, clients repeatedly referred to Derick’s favourite sayings – “Get the job done” and “You will be okay” – describing him as a trainer who motivates without intimidation. They credited his supportive approach with helping them feel comfortable, stay consistent and enjoy working towards their fitness goals. ftness.pro
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One Ocean, one
MISSION WORDS JACQUELINE HERBST PHOTOS NICKY LLOYD
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PEOPLE
World record holder Sarah Ferguson is swimming South Africa's coastline to inspire everyday action against plastic pollution Sarah says humanity largely treats the ocean like a rubbish dump, yet the waste that ends up there never truly disappears. “While the ocean is clever and spits some of it out on the beach, much of the trash gets stuck underwater, suffocating coral reefs and strangling marine animals.”
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orld record holder, ocean advocate, open-water swimmer and physiotherapist Sarah Ferguson is on a quest to show the world, one stroke at a time, that by eliminating just one source of single-use plastic from daily life, everyone can collectively make a meaningful difference in reducing the plastic waste strangling our oceans. She is doing this by swimming the entire South African coastline, from Kosi Bay on the Mozambican border to Cape Town. Beyond the physical challenge, the project, called the “One Ocean Swim”, aims to deliver an important environmental message: there are no borders in the ocean. It is one interconnected body of water that needs to be protected.
While recycling has its place, Sarah says it does not make the waste disappear. The real solution, she believes, is to reconsider whether single-use items are necessary in the first place. Just as every stroke brings her closer to Cape Town, every decision to stop using a single-use plastic item can make a difference. Sarah first stopped using plastic straws and switched to refillable coffee cups and water bottles. She now buys fizzy drinks only in cans, takes her own container when buying sushi, and packs unpackaged fruit and vegetables in cardboard boxes from home. She also uses a reusable menstrual cup, buys cleaning products from local suppliers who refill her containers, and purchases much of her clothing from thrift stores.
The Swim
A long journey The idea for the One Ocean Swim was born during lockdown. By February 2021, the threemonth weather window for the first leg of the journey, from Durban to Gqeberha, had arrived, and Sarah and her support crew set off on a demanding, multi-year adventure that is still underway. The swim can only take place during favourable conditions. Attempting it, for example, in winter – when Cape storms batter the coastline and pelagic fish and sharks follow the annual sardine run – would be far too dangerous.
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PEOPLE
swims for four hours, stopping every 30 minutes to eat and maintain her energy levels. "The current moves very fast. Swimming in it is fun – it feels like you fly," she says. As the Agulhas Current is a migration route for species such as turtles, encounters with marine life are common, which is why she felt it was unusual to see very little wildlife on the latest completed leg from St Lucia to Mtunzini. After the swim, it is back onto the boat for a long, bumpy ride to shore.
Just as tackling ocean pollution happens one decision at a time, Sarah's epic swim is being completed in manageable stages. She first swam from Durban to Gqeberha before completing another leg from southern Mozambique to Sodwana. During the Philocaly Trail, she swam parallel to the route from Umtunzini to Durban. This was followed by the stretch from Sodwana to St Lucia and, most recently, she closed the gap between St Lucia and Mtunzini. Swimming almost 50km offshore in the Agulhas Current, Sarah was both disappointed and concerned by the lack of marine life she encountered during the latest leg. She believes climate change, shipping activity and seismic surveying could all be contributing to the decline in wildlife in the open ocean. Behind the scenes Taking on a swimming mission like this is far more complicated and challenging than most people realise. Every swim day starts with a three- to four-hour boat trip to find the Agulhas Current.
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"Even using satellite technology, finding the current can sometimes be like finding a needle in a haystack," says Sarah. But when they find it, they know immediately as the water temperature rises to about 27°C. Although the Agulhas Current can be up to 300km wide, Sarah says it behaves like a dynamic river that is constantly shifting. Once the current has been located, Sarah dives in and
The wind also plays a major role. While a north-easterly is ideal because it allows Sarah to swim with the waves, it also brings choppy conditions and blue bottles, which frequently sting her. A south-westerly, on the other hand, means swimming into the waves. Sarah's support crew includes a skipper, a second skipper who is also a marine biologist, her coach, a kayaker, a photographer and a two-person land crew responsible for transporting the vehicles. Behind the scenes, there is also extensive planning and administration to keep the expedition running smoothly. Another challenge is a lack of sleep. "At the end of the day, you are sore and tired, but because your adrenaline is pumping and cortisol levels are elevated, you don't sleep well," she explains. Sarah hopes to complete the final stretch of coastline between Gqeberha and Cape Town in two or three more legs, depending on funding. While parts of the expedition have been sponsored by corporate partners, the team itself, which has at times delayed progress, has funded much of it. The biggest expense, she says, is fuel to keep both the support vehicles and the boat operating for weeks at a time.
sarahfergusonza
Independent Financial Advice
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The Umbrella
EDUCENTRE
Where Individuality is the Foundation for Success WORDS ELVIDA SYDNEY
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ed by Founder & Principal Revania Naidoo, The Umbrella Educentre was created to fill a gap: a nurturing, inclusive space for neurodivergent children and those with diverse learning needs. Their mission is to provide an environment where every child is understood, valued and allowed to thrive. Through individualised educational support, behaviour intervention, life skills development and family collaboration, they help build confidence, independence and meaningful connections with the world around them.
How it all began
Throughout Revania’s years working with children, she repeatedly met families searching for support systems that truly understood unique strengths and challenges. “I saw children being overlooked because traditional educational environments could not always accommodate their individual needs,” she says. Those experiences highlighted the urgent need for something that focuses on acceptance, understanding and personalised intervention. The Umbrella Educentre was created to be that safe space where every child can learn and grow at their own pace.
At The Umbrella Educentre … No two days are ever the same. Their days include structured learning, therapy-based activities, opportunities for social interaction, behaviour support and practical life skills training. They currently focus heavily on communication, emotional regulation, social skills,
independence, school readiness, executive functioning and self-help skills. Every activity is designed to be meaningful and functional so that children can apply what they learn in their daily lives. “Personalisation is at the heart of everything we do. We begin by understanding each child’s strengths, challenges, interests and developmental goals,” Revania explains. Individual assessments, ongoing observations and regular collaboration with families allow them to create intervention plans tailored specifically to each learner. They continuously adapt strategies as children progress, ensuring that support remains relevant and effective.
Driven by this very purpose
“A child arrived with very limited communication skills, frequent tantrums and difficulty engaging with peers. Over time, through consistent intervention, patience and family collaboration, I watched that child begin communicating their needs, reading, participating in group activities, implementing selfregulation techniques and developing meaningful friendships. Seeing the confidence and joy that emerged reminded me why this work matters. Every small milestone represented a life-changing achievement for both the child and their family,” Revania says.
One of the biggest misconceptions
That neurodivergent children are defined by their challenges.
In reality, every child has unique strengths, abilities and potential. Neurodivergence is not something that needs to be “fixed”. Instead, they need understanding, appropriate support, and opportunities to succeed in ways that honour their individuality.
The support system
Parents and caregivers are essential partners in every child’s journey. They maintain open communication, provide practical strategies, offer guidance and celebrate progress together. By helping families understand and reinforce skills at home, they create consistency between environments. When parents feel empowered and supported, children are more likely to generalise skills and achieve long-term success.
www.theumbrellacentre.co.za
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Leave Reality
Behind WORDS CRISTINA GOVENDER
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Join the FabTeam as we experience the mind-bending Museum of Illusions! As a team of creatives, we always try to “think out of the box” to come up with new angles and concepts. So, sometimes, it’s necessary for us to actually step out of our physical box-shaped cubicles and turn our world upside down, so to speak. The Museum of Illusions opening at Gateway Theatre of Shopping presented us with the perfect opportunity to leave everything that made sense on the outside. This is one of the most fascinating attractions that has come to KwaZulu-Natal for the first time. After becoming a global phenomenon in Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam and New York, with museums already in Johannesburg and Cape Town, it was Durban’s turn to experience the mind-boggling space designed for play, curiosity, and to capture unforgettable moments. Each stop blended science and art, with descriptions explaining how each activation worked along the way, and we understood how it appeals to everyone from kids to adults, and those in between. As we walked through the museum, guides helped us make the most of every stop, occasionally stepping in to show us the best angles to capture the illusions. There were a few you could interact with, like the Ames and tilted rooms; then there were those you had to just stand back and observe to experience the illusion, namely the infinity portal and the moving picture. With so many things to see and do, we could probably fill a whole magazine with our adventures! We had fun with the Ames room; the more “vertically challenged” members of our team took the opportunity to tower over the rest of us. The illusion works by playing with your brain’s notion of shape, depth and size. Because of the irregular hexahedron shape of the room, people within the room appear to grow or shrink when moving from one corner to the other.
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We all know that optimal lighting is a key element when trying to capture the best photos, but the RGB room takes this to another level. As the light changes, the pictures on the walls transform into completely different scenes. Using different wavelengths of light, it shows an interaction between the coloured graphics on the walls and the light sources, revealing one of the three levels of superimposed images depending on the light being emitted. Need expert advice? Sometimes, a staff meeting with yourself is in order. The clone room and the cloning table both allowed us to create more versions of ourselves, and even form fun shapes using reflections. The mirrors, placed at clever angles, create the illusions using the properties of the light reflected off them. Ever tried that challenge where you have to say the colour of a word and not the colour the words spell out? It’s a mouthful to explain and even more difficult to do! Putting our problem-solving skills to the test, we solved a few puzzles. The “escape” installation became one of the favourites as we gathered to watch a team member move pieces around – not being allowed to pick them up – to slide the big piece out. A huge highlight, one of our last stops, was the building illusion. A massive 45-degree mirror is angled over a flat mock-up of a building on the ground. The entire façade is reflected in the mirror and appears to someone standing in front of it as if the building were upright. We had fun, and some difficulty, getting into position to make it look as if we were catching a falling member, diving for a bag, carrying other team members or … Spider-Man. Passing by the moving picture and the symmetry room, our tour came to an end. It was back to life, back to reality. But the temporary escape refreshed us and showed us new perspectives, ready to go back to creating. The Museum of Illusions at Gateway is open seven days a week; book online for your next adventure. www.moidurban.co.za
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The building illusion had us catching falling members, diving for bags, and channelling our inner Spider-Man.
THE WAFFLE SOCIETY Mornings Done Right
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WORDS MARISKA MOODLEY
e headed down to Compensation Beach Road, in Ballito, where The Waffle Society sits in its cosy corner in stripes of red and pink that you can’t miss. The cool morning ocean breeze was rolling in with the warm North Coast sunshine. The staff greeted us like regulars, and we settled in to take our time with the menu, because honestly, choosing is half the fun. We kicked off with drinks while we debated the food: a Dirty Chai, Caribbean Coconut Hot Chocolate, Strawberry Iced Matcha, and Mixed Berry Smoothie. We went big with their all-day breakfast menu. First up, The Breakfast Club, a cheese- and caramelisedonion-stuffed waffle piled high with streaky bacon, two eggs, silky hollandaise sauce, and a hit of chilli jam. Then came The Rise & Shine,
which proves waffles can be healthy yet indulgent, with dark chocolate and coconut granola, fresh banana, berry compote, lime syrup, peanut butter crémeaux and yoghurt, all paired with blueberry waffle bites. It’s bright, rich, and somehow makes you feel virtuous while essentially eating dessert for breakfast. Not in a waffle mood? No problem. We swapped ours out for sourdough bread with The Society Royale, smoked salmon, crispy fried capers and two perfectly poached eggs stacked on sourdough, finished with hollandaise sauce. Light, fresh, and still very ‘Society’. We couldn’t resist a side of Sweetcorn Fritters with sweet chilli mayo either. Crispy, warm, and the perfect thing to share while you’re pretending you’re not going to order dessert. Speaking of dessert … we ended with sharing their signature Biscoff Bliss.
Topped with Biscoff sauce and crumbs, served with ice cream and cream, it was sticky, caramel-y, and the perfect finish to the meal. By the time we left, we were on a happy high from the meal and still talking about it hours later. The Waffle Society is reimagining breakfast, lunch, and everything in between, and doing it in the most fun, family- and pet-friendly spot on the North Coast. If you haven’t made the short drive yet, put it on your weekend list; they open at 7:00 every morning, so you can get an early breakfast and go for a walk on the promenade after. It’s good vibes, fresh air, and waffles that will ruin all other breakfasts for you. 087 711 3672 thewafflesociety 16 Compensation Beach Road, Ballito
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Hooked! WORDS JACQUELINE HERBST
One of KZN’s few female kayak anglers has earned respect in one of the toughest fishing sports.
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mdloti Beach Skiboat Club's Janine Hunlun is one of only a tiny handful of female kayak anglers. Why? Because it's not an easy sport and Janine loves a challenge. Having landed, among other highlights, a 32kg giant trevally (GT), a 21kg couta and placing third overall in the club's annual Grand Slam – a year-long competition requiring anglers to catch a prescribed list of species using skill, strategy and knowledge – Janine has more than earned her place in this male-dominated sport. Very few women participate, she says, because surf launching a craft that cannot duck dive or catch waves is intimidating. "Many people, not only women, but some men too, fear being exposed on the vast open ocean, brimming with wildlife,” she says. "It's early mornings, cold water and the surf launch is tough. Your timing must be spot on, or the surf will give you a hiding." Janine's journey began eight years ago when she paddled alongside her husband in a single ski, launching from the sheltered Vetch's Beach at Durban Undersea Club (DUC). "If you can't beat them, join them," she remembers telling herself. Seeing dolphins and other marine life from the best seat in the house left her mesmerised. She later attempted her first full surf launch, not to fish, but simply to paddle. She mastered launching through the surf and handling an ocean fishing
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One bite and I was hooked. I bought the ski I'd been borrowing that same day.
PEOPLE
PHOTO JANINE HUNLUN
kayak before ever putting out a rod. Although she was severely seasick on that first outing, Janine loved the ocean too much to let a bout of nausea and vomiting put her off. On only her third or fourth surf launch, she put a line in the water for the first time at Nonoti Beach where, before property development, cattle still roamed the shoreline there. That day she landed her first deep-sea fish: a modest snoek compared with the busses she consistently catches today. "One bite and I was hooked. I bought the ski I'd been borrowing that same day," she says. Kayak fishing is hard work, she says. "There's a huge amount of preparation and cleaning up to be done. But it's absolutely worth it." Before a major competition, Janine spends up to two weeks preparing traces, carefully labelling them according to the bait she will use to target different species. She also asks plenty of questions, soaking up every bit of information she can to improve her skills. "The correct tackle is the key to success. You have to be confident in your hooks, your bait presentation must be on point, so it looks like live bait. You also have to enjoy what you're doing and go out there with the right attitude." Every fish bites differently, but couta remains her favourite. "It's just the most exciting thing when you hear the reel screaming.
They're super-fast, striking the bait and then they're off," she says, describing the adrenaline rush of hooking, fighting and finally getting the fish safely into the kayak's hatch. Being one of only a few female kayak anglers in KwaZulu-Natal, Janine says the men initially did not quite understand what she was there for. Over time, however, she earned their respect. "Too many people sit on the sidelines because of fear," she says. She encourages more women to give the sport a try but cautions they must
love a challenge and not be afraid of getting hurt. She recalls getting "absolutely smoked" by heavy swell at Blythedale. "The wave hit me in the face, my head hit the back of the kayak, I hit the bank and broke my paddle in half." Rather than giving up, she borrowed another paddle and headed straight back out. Her angling prowess has since earned her features in Stywe Lyne magazine and an upcoming feature in Go Fish magazine, and not forgetting this magazine too. janineclair
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HEALTH
Women's Trauma Response WORDS ALLISON WEWEGE
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rauma is a word that is finally being recognised in modern society for what it really is. By definition, trauma is what happens within our nervous system when we become overwhelmed and have no control over what is happening to us. Trauma does not have to result from a major catastrophic event. It can stem from verbal or emotional abuse or from many smaller traumatic experiences that build up over time. It poses a real threat to our wellbeing and should never be underestimated. Men, women and children generally respond to trauma differently. Men tend to react with a "fight or flight" response, while women are more likely to "freeze" or "fawn". Fawning is closely linked to the "tend-and-befriend" response, where women attempt to negotiate with or appease the perpetrator, often internalising and minimising the trauma. Over time, this can become a default response to future stress and traumatic situations. Behaviour like this can downplay the severity of the experience and prevent the trauma from being fully recognised and released by the body. Neurological and hormonal responses can also cause women to experience more prolonged reactions to traumatic events. They often have higher rates of dissociation and cognitive or moodrelated changes. Research also shows that women are more likely
than men to be exposed to interpersonal trauma from a young age, including sexual assault. They are also at a significantly higher risk of surviving childhood sexual abuse. Following a traumatic event, men often release stress through physical activity, such as exercising, playing contact sports or surfing. These activities help discharge built-up energy from the nervous system. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to seek talk therapy and process their emotions cognitively. While talk therapy can be valuable, trauma is primarily a physiological response rather than a logical or emotional one. Talking alone may not release what the body continues to hold onto, which is why bodybased approaches, such as somatic therapies, have become increasingly recognised. In my professional opinion, Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) are among the most effective body-based approaches available. Developed by David Berceli in the 1990s, TRE is a safe, evidenceinformed technique that helps release tension and trauma stored within the body. It works by activating the body's natural neurogenic tremors, which are designed to discharge stress during and after traumatic experiences. TRE allows the body to release stored survival energy without requiring a person to relive traumatic experiences through conversation. It can also help release residual tension from events that someone may feel they have emotionally processed, but which the body still remembers.
ALLISON is a La Lucia-based Pilates instructor with a background in dance and fitness training, and a certified TRE® provider. allison.wewege@gmail.com
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PEOPLE ADVICE
Where is Your Business
LEAKING? Do you have a lead problem or a leak problem? WORDS INALA BUSINESS COACHING
A
s we move into the second half of the year, many business owners find themselves asking the same question: “How do we generate more growth?” For some, revenue is behind target. For others, growth has slowed, margins are under pressure, or the pipeline feels thinner than expected. Whatever the reason, the conclusion is often remarkably similar: “We need more leads.” More leads create more opportunities, more conversations and, theoretically, more sales. The difficulty is that lead generation is often where the pain is felt, but not necessarily where the problem exists. I often tell my clients that business is really about two things: getting customers and keeping them. Most businesses focus heavily on the first. One of the questions I sometimes ask is this: “What would your business look like today if you were still doing business with 80% of every customer you had ever acquired?” They immediately begin thinking about former customers they no longer hear from. Customers who bought once and never returned, whose needs changed and were never explored, and who quietly drifted away despite being satisfied with the service they received. It is, in many ways, the business equivalent of a leaky bucket. When growth slows, the instinct is often to pour more water into the top. More advertising, networking, social media activity, and lead generation. Yet if the bucket is leaking, pouring more water in is only part of the answer. This is where a mid-year review can be particularly valuable. By now, the market has provided six months of feedback. Customers have responded to your marketing, sales process, service
levels and value proposition. The opportunity is not simply to ask how many leads have been generated; it is to understand where customers and opportunities are being lost. Sometimes they are lost before a prospect ever makes contact. Often, they are lost after the first sale. Customers buy once but never again. Relationships remain transactional when they could have developed into longterm partnerships. Referral opportunities are missed. Customers who may have been willing to spend more, buy more frequently or introduce others, simply drift away. The challenge is that these losses are largely invisible. We can see the revenue that arrived, but rarely see the revenue that could have been generated had we retained one more customer, secured one more referral, or deepened one more relationship. That is why the strongest businesses tend to view growth differently. They understand that a customer relationship does not end when the sale is made. In many respects, it is only the beginning. They look for opportunities to deepen relationships, understand changing needs, increase customer lifetime value and create advocates who willingly refer others. As we move into the second half of the year, instead of asking, “How do we get more leads?” ask, “Where is the bucket leaking?” Each leak represents value that has already been earned but is not being fully realised. If we can shore up some of those holes, every new customer becomes worth more, every marketing brand works harder, and every sales opportunity has a greater impact, and growth is no longer being built on a leaky foundation.
Styling Tools for Every Hair and Look
Business is really about two things: getting customers and keeping them
INALA BUSINESS COACHING is a firm of internationally certified business coaches, licenced by ActionCOACH. They empower business owners and senior executives to grow, scale, and thrive, creating wealth and positively impacting lives. www.actioncoach.co.za/coach/actioncoach-inala
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