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OCT/NOV 2023 Nadia Jaftha On her journey towards a new era of entertainment and how the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 fits into these exciting times
Contents LOOK LIVE Shades of Summer The sunglasses that are making waves 20 Effortlessly refined Timeless pieces for that classic style 28 Get the look With our shopping pages 34 Pan-African fashion OMÔL blends African identity and women empowerment 62 FEEL Melting Point Our main beauty spread 44 Hair Tools Getting that salon styling experience at home 48 On the spot Managing adult acne 50 Beauty Read How Ectoin can protect your skin 38 Time to shine Nadia Jaftha on her latest journey into the entertainment world 78 Long-distance relationships How to keep smiles between the miles 84 Women’s wellness Tapping into your feminine energy THINK Magical Mauritius A journey to the jewel of the Indian Ocean 98 Changing the game A spotlight of women in professional sport 106 AI in perspective Will this groundbreaking tech change our lives? 94 28 PHOTOGRAPHY: Franco Kellerman NADIA WEARS: dress: Lukhanyo Mdingi; bangles: Phillipa Green; watch: HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 38 44 PHOTOGRAPHY: ALENA SAZ, FRANCO KELLERMAN, LAUNCHMETRICS, SUPPLIED 14
Ceramide Water Cream
ED’S LETTER 6 “This Spring issue is bursting at the seams with all the essenals you will need to step into the new season with confidence” Nadia has not only entertained and engaged her audience with her fun and humorous content, but she has also built an impressive digital business empire. In an exclusive interview, we dive deep into her remarkable journey; exploring the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that have shaped her path to becoming an entrepreneur. GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 Grab a cup or glass of your favourite beverage, find a cosy spot and prepare to be transported into the world of GLAMOUR as we embark on a wholesome journey to finding renewal this Spring. Enjoy the issue! Nontando Mposo, Editor-in-Chief PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED S WE BID FAREWELL to the cold winter months, it’s time to welcome a blooming season of growth and renewal that comes with Spring. In this issue of GLAMOUR, we have proudly put together an enriching edition that promises to prepare you for the warm and exciting months ahead. Whether you are seeking the latest hair tools must-haves to revitalise your hair, or looking for fashion’s shoppable trends to update your wardrobe, this Spring issue is bursting at the seams with all the essentials you will need to step into the new season with confidence. Furthermore, the team and I have curated a selection of articles and interviews that will inspire and rejuvenate you for the last stretch of the year. We’re also counting down to our most-awaited event of the year: GLAMOUR’s Women of the Year (#WOTY). Taking place at the end of November, this momentous occasion shines a spotlight on extraordinary women who are excelling in their respective fields. Serving as beacons of hope, they remind us that with passion, determination and resilience, we too can achieve greatness. Our phenomenal 2022 awards winners are featured on pages 96 and 97. On the cover of this issue is awardwinning content creator Nadia Jaftha, whose journey from content creator to CEO has been nothing short of inspiring. Throughout her rise to success,
Editor-in-Chief NONTANDO MPOSO EDI TORI A L Managing and Syndication Editor Walter Hayward Managing Editor Gareth Dean FAS HI ON Fashion Director Tania Durand BEAU T Y Earrings POR Gucci Beauty Editor Jesé Lillienfeldt-Hartman Beauty Intern Simone Smith A RT Art Director Andrea Kühn Graphic Designer Nosipho Ngqula FEAT U RE S Features Editor Thobeka Phanyeko Content Producer (Print and Digital) Farah Khalfe DI GI TA L Digital Campaign Manager Viné Lucas Junior Digital Designer Andisiwe Bulawa GlamourSouthAfrica glamour_sa glamour_sa C O N T E N T N A T I O N M E D I A ( P T Y ) LT D CEO Samantha Subrayen Office Manager Trishana Naicker FI N A N C E Operations General Manager Paul Myburgh Senior Finance Controller Marjorie Lotterie Finance Controller Abigail Okkers PROD U CT I ON Group Production Manager Jean Jacobs Production Co-ordinator Charné Phillips CI RCULAT I ON Circulations Co-ordinator Bertina Ellis ADVERT I S I N G JOHANNESBURG Head of Sales Shana Rahaman Account Managers Wendy Robinson, Nolusindiso Mbambo, Sylvia Ditabe CAPE TOWN Head of Sales Charlotte Nutman Account Managers Samantha Peel Advertising Liaison Manager Nadean Mcbride Sponsorship Account Manager Colleen Salmon SALES R EPRES E N TAT I VE I TA LY Angelo Careddu (Oberon Media) BR AND PROPERT I E S A N D E VE N T S Events Manager Lerato Molefe CAPE TOWN HEAD OFFICE Content Nation Media (PTY) Ltd, 5th Floor, Newspaper House, 122 St George’s Mall, Cape Town, 8001 Tel: 021 344 0500 JOHANNESBURG OFFICE Condé Nast Independent Magazines (Pty) Ltd, Rosebank Corner, 191 Jan Smuts Avenue, 3rd Floor, East Wing, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196 Tel: 011 263 9560 SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES TEL: 087 353 1291 EMAIL: condenastsubs@onthedot.co.za REPRODUCTION Studio Repro PRINTING Novus Print Montague Gardens DISTRIBUTION On the Dot, Montague Park, Montague Gardens RESEARCH Publisher Research Council ©2023 Content Nation Media (PTY) Ltd. Copyright subsists in all work published in this magazine. Any reproduction or adaptation, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited and is an act of copyright infringement which may, in certain circumstances, constitute a criminal offence. ISSNs 1728 8770
A LOOK INSIDE THE LAUNCH OF Glamour South Africa recently launched its first ever Book Club at the opulent Taj Hotel in Cape Town. The auspicious occasion was one for the books. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO LAUNCHED DURING WOMEN’S MONTH, in partnership with FNB, Loot, Valdo Prosecco and Victoria Gin, the Glamour Book Club brought together avid readers in an intimate setting at the Taj Hotel in Cape Town. The venue was transformed into a book lovers dream, inviting guests to lean in and explore. Catrice was on standby with a make-up touchup station to ensure that the ladies were picture ready for the pink carpet. Like-minded women showed up and revelled in the safe space, connected over good music, scrumptious treats, gin and champagne courtesy of Victoria Gin and Valdo Prosecco. Hosted by Glamour’s Feature Editor, Thobeka Phanyeko who is the founder of this empowering initiative, she says the intimate launch exceeded her expectations. “I am thrilled with the turnout and optimistic about the future of the Glamour Book Club. The calibre of guests affirmed that there’s a place for women who value community and literature. The Glamour brand prides itself in being inclusive, authentic and bold. We are passionate about female empowerment, so a platform like the Glamour Book Club speaks to our approach 10 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 to impact. I am eternally grateful to our CEO, Samantha Subrayen and Glamour’s Editor-in-Chief, Nontando Mposo for trusting my vision and allowing me to run with this project.” Another event highlight was the inspirational lineup of speakers, including Intergrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Meditation Practitioner, and Founder of Melissa Lainn Wellness; Melissa Lainn, Human Behaviour Specialist, Natalie Louw, Anthropologist & Author of the Soft Life, Lebohang Masango, Founder of Soji skincare products, Sebastine Pepler, and Business Development Head for SME Funding, Palesa Mabasa. Guests were also afforded the opportunity to engage Lebohang Masango, who shared her take on literature in the context of women empowerment. The articulate author also unpacked the creative process behind her offering, The Soft Life, encouraging women to raise the bar and own their lifestyle choices. Book Club members walked away with signed copies of her book, self-care goodie bags, life-changing nuggets, a sense of community and memories that will last a lifetime.
PHOTOGRAPHY: TSHEPO RANCHO LOOK OPPOSITE PAGE Glamour Editor-in-Chief, Nontando Mposo and Author of Soft Life, Lebohang Masango; Glamour’s Features Editor and Founder of the Glamour Book Club, Thobeka Phanyeko with Glamour Book Club member, Noludwe Wolfkop CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Glamour Book Club Members at the Taj Hotel; Conde Nast CEO, Samantha Subrayen and her guests; Noludwe Wolfkop at the Victoria Gin Station; Thobeka Phanyeko at the Glamour Arch; CN Sponsorship Account Manager, Colleen Salmon at the Catrice touch-up station; Lebohang Masango in the photo booth; Valdo Prosecco champagne station OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 11
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRIANA GREENIDGE A FA S H I O N F O C U S Throwing shade with the latest looks in sunglasses P26 Effortlessly refined in timeless classics P40 A cultural shift with Cameroon’s hottest new fashion brand P20 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 13
LOOK Acly Cool Oakley frames are commonly known as a sports eyewear brand, but thanks to Dior and Balenciaga (they released similar-looking frames) it has become the cool kid sunnies of choice. No longer confined to fitness gear – you can style these with your fave street-style looks, like a cute crop top and long denim skirt and sneakers. From R2 450
One of the best parts of summer is wearing your favourite pair of sunnies to complete your look. Not sure which pair to buy? These are the styles making waves. WORDS BY TANIA DURAND OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 15
LOOK
LOOK Sha Shifter Our favourite ‘It’ girls have been wearing these rectangular frames on the daily. Remember Kendall Jenner rocking a tortoiseshell pair of these? They are flattering and complement most face shapes. From classic black to bold white, whichever you choose you’ll be the ‘It’ girl of your group. THIS PAGE Oakley, From R2 450; OPPOSITE PAGE H&M, R199 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 17
THIS PAGE Dolce & Gabbana, R3 570; OPPOSITE PAGE Versace, POR 18 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 PHOTOGRAPHY: RVIDERUM QUATIS LOOK
Upda Classics Classic aviator-style frames will always be cool but this season it’s all about the bold neon colours for a fresh update of PHOTOGRAPHY: FRANCO KELLERMAN; HAIR & MAKEUP: CANDICE FRANCES KUIT; COMPILED BY: TANIA DURAND an icon. Have fun styling these! OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 19
LOOK Efftlessly Expressing yourself in statement pieces that are classic, fresh and timelessly in vogue. WORDS BY TANIA DURAND PHOTOGRAPHY/STYLIST BRIANA GREENIDGE Dress House of Jewell Earrings HALEIA Necklace Vivienne Westwood Shoes Lhambi 20 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
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Dress Anicy Manuguian Earrings Territory Six Shoes Territory Six
LOOK Suit HALEIA Earrings Samantha Siu Shoes Lhambi OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 23
LOOK Dress House of Jewell Earrings Samantha Siu Shoes Lhambi 24 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
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LOOK I looked there was so much inspiration for me to feed off. I was naturally always into fashion, and then being in Manhattan I met people who did things like visit art galleries and go thrifting. They introduced me to unique fashion pieces, new, archived, vintage etc. and I was always intrigued. Naturally my love for photography intertwined with my interest in fashion and my journey into fashion photography jump started itself very quickly. I started interning for a fashion event company in 2013 and within a few months I sent my work out to more people and ended up getting the opportunity to shoot a few big shows during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, such as Jeremy Scott, BCBG Maxazria and Project Runway. From there it became a constant thing for me to shoot Fashion Week for years. Ever since then, I’ve loved shooting anything fashion related in any capacity – from shows to editorial publication shoots to clothing brand shoots. 15 or 16 years old. Playing around with my mother’s digital camera at home, I was always thinking of different visuals in my head that I wanted to bring to life. So, I would just set the camera up at different angles on my floor, set the timer and create anything I could. I delved more into the fashion side of photography once I started college because my school was based in Manhattan, New York City, and everywhere G: What do you attribute to your success? BG: I definitely attribute my persistence and my desire to improve to my success. BRIANAGEE_ Briana Greenidge: My love for photography in general started when I was about G: Your work has been featured in L’Officiel India & Singapore, Elle,Grazia, etc. What has been your career highlight so far and what dream do you still want to realise? BG: Being able to have my work published in well-known magazines such as these has definitely been a highlight of my career. Seeing my work in print brings about a different feeling for me, it being tangible and knowing that it will be seen by so many different people around the world who can purchase it and possibly gain inspiration from it is what makes me happy. A dream that I do still want to accomplish is to curate a photography exhibition in either New York or London showcasing some of my all time favorite photos that I’ve taken for people to be able to come in and view. Bria Greenidge NYC-BASED PHOTOGRAPHER Briana G, photographer and stylist, shares her journey to success, her experiences in the industry as a black woman and what it takes to make it in the world of fashion photography. Glamour: Can you describe your journey into the world of fashion photography? 26 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
LOOK For me, whenever I get a no, I say to myself maybe that wasn’t for me and then I keep going until I get a yes somewhere else – even if it takes weeks, months or years. I also always feel like I can improve in everything that I do and so I tell myself that I can do better, and then I do. I’ve always taken pride in wanting the best for myself and never stopping until I get it. In addition, I make sure to never set a time frame for myself when it comes to my goals because you can’t put a timestamp on success. I always say to myself “Whenever I get it done, I get it done. As long as at the end of the day, I can say that I did it.” ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER: MUSA JOHNSON; HAIR STY;IST: ALANA KELLEY; MAKEUP: RYANN CARTER; MODEL: NAKAI AT STATE MODEL MANAGEMENT G: With the development of the newer phones that have exceptional technology and filters that help you take beautiful pictures, what are your thoughts on social media making people believe they are/can be photographers? BG: I don’t think much about that to be honest. I believe that it takes much more than a few clicks and a filter to be a photographer. You have to have the vision, the passion, the gift of being able to envision a moment and story in your head and then bring it to life. No filter or any amount of new technology can do that. That’s something organic and natural that comes from pure creativity within and from a true visionary. G: You have been in the industry for over 10 years. What do you believe are the necessary skills to be a successful photographer? BG: I sometimes get the impression that people feel you have to know all of the technical terminology when it comes to photography and learn how to use every single feature on a camera to be successful. However, I think it’s all about your creativity and your eye. As long as you know how to capture people’s attention with your actual art and make them feel something, you can succeed. certain amount of looks that needed to be shot for an editorial and we had to work on a time crunch. I’ve learned from those experiences, however, because it has taught me how to work under pressure. Although I do not recommend it all the time, of course. G: Do you have any self-care practices to help you manage your hectic work life? BG: I mainly just try to get as much sleep as I can when I have a busy day or week ahead of me. I also make sure not to think too much about the shoot the day before because it sometimes tends to make me anxious. A little meditation, music and sleep does the trick for me every time. G: What do you love about what you do? BG: I love the freedom of it. There’s always something or someone new that I get to experience every day that I’m on set. From my team to the models that I photograph, I love that I can leave a shoot feeling more cultured and inspired than I did when I walked in. G: As a woman of colour in this industry, has this been a hindrance to you becoming a success or would you say it has been an asset that you’ve utilised on your journey? BG: I would say that it’s half and half. At times I have felt like I was the underdog in such a very male-dominated industry and that I had to work harder to prove myself and show that my skin was just as thick as theirs. But in the same token, we are also in a time where people of colour are being given their moment to shine way more than they used to years ago. I’ve definitely utilised this on my journey and used it as a way to show just what we have to offer in this industry – which is a lot. G: Which do you enjoy more, photography or styling? BG: Photography is my first love, so I will aways enjoy taking photos more because I feel a sense of freedom being behind the lens and bringing what I see to life exactly how I want to. I am somewhat of a shy person, so my camera allows me to kind of hide behind it in a way and just create and be free. While styling is very daring and expressive, nothing brings me more satisfaction than being able to capture moments that someone can look back on for the rest of their life. G: Do you feel a certain responsibility in ensuring a seat at the table for the next generation of black female photographers? BG: Absolutely. I want to be able to represent black female photographers in a very strong and dominant light. The goal is essentially to not be categorised as a “female photographer” but as just a photographer, so people know the title is for everyone, both male and female. I do however still want to be able to represent proudly for black female photographers. My goal is to show that I too can create photos with a broader set of intentions – which is to move away from the expected and showcase a wider variety of beauty and art. G: Can you share a particular harrowing experience on set? BG: Luckily, in all of my 10+ years of shooting I can’t say that I’ve experienced any harrowing experiences on set. A few nerve wracking moments, maybe. Those moments usually happened when my team and I would be pressed for time and had a G: Which celebrity/model do you dream of working with one day? BG: Rihanna is at the very top of my list when it comes to a celebrity I’d like to work with one day. As for a model with whom I’d like to eventually work, Adut Akech would be right up there. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 27
LOOK 4 1. 501 Tote bag Levi’s R699; 2. Green croissant bag The Fix R299.99; 3. Woven handbag Guess R2 699; 4. Natural fibre shopper bag Mango R1 699; 5. Quilted XL tote Karl Lagerfeld R6 990; 6. Patterned tote Luella POR; 7. Natural straw bag Exact R259.99; 8. Large leather shopper Karl Lagerfeld R6 990 1 5 6 2 7 3 8 Bigger the er Practical yet trendy; oversized bags are the perfect foil to those lipstick-only micro handbags as they can effortlessly cope with all your essentials. 28 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
LOOK 1 2 1. Square toe mesh mules Bash.com R650; 2. Leather-trimmed mesh pumps Bottega Veneta POR; 3. Fishnet pumps Gianvito Rossi Alisia POR; 4. Mesh knee-high boots Saint Laurent POR; 5. Green mesh mules Superbalist R239; 6. Mesh ankle boot Truworths R850; 7. Fishnet pumps Dolce & Gabbana POR 3 4 7 6 5 Foot Fesh It’s all about fishnet heels adding another level of sex appeal to your look. Gracing the runways of Bottega and Magda Butrym, this latest trend has seen our favourite celebrities rocking them. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 29
LOOK 2 3 5 1 4 8 6 1. Maxi dress Mango R2 999; 2. Halterneck mini dress Roberta Einer POR; 3. Wool mini dress Magda Butrym POR; 4. Bodycon dress The Fix R149.99; 5. Layered satin dress Zara R1 199; 6. Longsleeve dress Desigual POR; 7. Draped mini dress Zara R1 079; 8. Strappy mini dress Y&G R299; 9. Strapless print dress Poetry R1 299 7 Cool Sumr Chic summer dresses for every occasion. Whether it’s a date at the wine farm or dinner with the girls, we’ve got you covered. 30 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 PHOTOGRAPHY: PEXELS, ZIMMERMAN, SUPPLIED 9
LOOK WHAT’S ON OUR FASHION RADAR CREATIVE. COLLECTIVE. CONNECTED FASHION MEETS ART Blackstories and experiences are no longer ignored or sidelined but rather celebrated and heard. Hence, The Museum of Modern Arts(MoMA) in New York is hosting an exhibition with a focus on Black culture and experiences across the diaspora this November. Acclaimed British fashion designer, Grace Wales Bonner, will be curating the series titled Spirit Movers which is the latest entry in the institution’s Artist’s Choice series. Grace will select 50 artworks in MoMA’s collection from the likes of Terry Adkins, Moustapha Dimé, Agnes Martin, Man Ray, Betye Saar, and David Hammons, amongst many. “I hope the exhibition and associated publication resound with the spirit of the contributing artists and continue to conjure new dreams and new visions,” said Bonner in a statement. The exhibition will run between November and April 2024 PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED AFRICAN STREET CULTURE UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT Adidas continues its legacy of highlighting creatives and trailblazers through their brand. For their Adidas originals “Home of Classics” campaign they’ve profiled Johannesburg based, Happyville founder and fashion designer Lebohang Serame. According to Hypebeast, he is known for crafting “minimalist outerwear that carefully blends traditional forms with bold colour palettes and sleek materials”. Lebohang understands that in order to create for the future we need to recognise the classics of what came before. His desire has always been to change lives through fashion and he continues his mission with unrelenting passion. GLAMOUR WOTY WINNER DESIREE ELLIS TELLS HER STORY The darling of Women’s soccer, coach Desiree Ellis, has released her autobiography MAGIC, which details her youth and rise to become our most successful Banyana coach. Her aim is to inspire other young women of colour to pursue their dreams, regardless of whether it fits the gender norms or their economic status. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 31
PHOTOGRAPHY: CREATED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE This image was generated using Text-to-Image AI, which is an example of how AI can be utilised in the fashion industry to allow designers to push the boundaries of their craft
LOOK AI IN FASHION: FRIEND OR FOE? AI in fashion is a reality that cannot be denied, but with any new development there are some concerns that need to be addressed and resolved. WORDS BY TANIA DURAND TECHNOLOGY HAS ALWAYS BROUGHT WITH IT GREAT BENEFITS. We see the integration of it in our daily lives; like the cellphone which performs as a computer, camera and media player. The improvements made in the medical field, in the transport sector, agriculture and many more. We cannot deny the indelible impact it has made and the necessity for it. We now see the explosion of the digital age, which seeks to provide us with an alternate universe in which to live. This, to me – who fully embraces the actual world I live in – is slightly alarming, and dare I say silly? Remember the NFT craze? The newest kid on the tech block is Generative AI. Fashion brands have always been early adopters of technological advances and have all been clamouring to utilise the latest offering. Not sure what Generative AI is? This is Artificial Intelligence capable of generating text, images, or other media, using generative models. Generative AI models learn the patterns and structure of their input training data and then generate new data that has similar characteristics. This means the speed at which analysing data and receiving said results from input data is remarkable. The game-changer, according to Mckinsy, is that AI tools can analyse real-time data, like videos on social media or model trends from various consumer data, and perform sentiment analysis quickly. Efficiency is another key component of fashion embracing AI. The ability to accurately predict market trends more effectively ensures a more profitable bottom line. The use of AI in the design process is another contributing factor to why brands would want to invest in the technology. According to Beyond Talent Recruitment, “Generative AI programs create countless variations based on specified parameters, and algorithms can identify which fabrics, materials and trends are best for certain designs. These almost-instantaneous options save designers a lot of time.” This nascent technology has the potential to evolve and will do so at a rapid pace, especially with the buy-in of the multi-billion-dollar fashion industry. Having considered all of the above, the dilemma I face with this developing technology is the fact that all of this boils down to profitability and a loss of privacy. Don’t get me wrong, we live in a capitalist world where making money is essential and in no way am I against this. But if Covid taught us anything, it’s that the constant striving for the next best thing adds no real value to our lives. The need to market more effectively to the public means that our privacy is being compromised. Especially when you consider that the data is gathered from sites that we visit, the purchases we make, as well as conversations we have. All of this is being obsessively monitored and we get bombarded with the same type of information based on all of the relevant data gathered. Ever had a conversation with a friend with your phone nearby only to later scroll through Instagram to find the very thing you discussed pops up on your feed? This is no coincidence. Almost every website I researched stated that one of the biggest threats of all lies within our privacy being breached. A question to ask ourselves is what happens if/when it falls into the wrong hands? How well is all of this new tech being regulated by our governments? There are also valid concerns around AI replacing the human workforce. According to Forbes “One of the biggest concerns is the potential for AI to replace human labour. With AI algorithms capable of doing the jobs of designers, marketers and other fashion professionals, there is a risk that some jobs will be lost. This is a valid concern, and it’s important for businesses to approach AI in a responsible and ethical manner.” We cannot deny that the development of AI is already at an advanced stage and will continue to evolve. It is up to all of us to be aware of the world around us and ensure it does so in a controlled manner that’s beneficial for both technological and societal growth. “AI wl evolve at a rapid pace, especially wh buy-in from the fashion industry” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 33
LOOK Cameroonian-based fashion brand OMÔL weaves a blend of tradition, African identity and women empowerment into every garment. WORDS BY FARAH KHALFE CULTURAL Nathalie Chebou Designer WEAREOMOL CAMEROONIAN-BASED fashion brand OMÔL, is a juxtaposition of fierceness and femininity. Founded by designer Nathalie Chebou Moth in 2020, the brand offers culturally-rich contemporary garments infused with an ethos of eco-consciousness and community upliftment. African identity and craftsmanship is woven into the fabric of OMOL, and their aim is to spark a Pan-African fashion movement on the continent and beyond. We chatted to Nathalie about her journey with the brand and her aspirations for the future. What led you to founding the OMÔL brand? I am self-taught and I have always been passionate about fashion and craftsmanship. The brand emerged from my desire to create differently and showcase the country and continent where I’m from in a different light – an Africa that is creative and able to overcome the challenges imposed by the fashion industry. What does OMÔL stand for as a brand? OMÔL means Mademoiselle in my father tongue, Banen. This represents my cultural 34 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
heritage and the idea of unapologetic femininity. We want OMOL to represent strong African women who know their worth and inspire others. We want to represent women outside of any male prism. PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED How does OMÔL champion sustainability in both its production and clothing? Sustainability is embedded within our brand. We try to limit our impact on the environment by upcycling during our production process. We also don’t subscribe to the notion of having seasonal collections. As the brand was founded in Cameroon, seasonal dressing is irrelevant to us. Thus, all of our pieces are transeasonal, which reduces waste and allows for a more circular product cycle. Since 2022, Omôl has partnered with a Spanish textile platform that focuses on circular fashion. This collaboration helps us tackle the issue of transparency, traceability and assessment of our impact on the planet. We also aim to bring about social change through our brand. We work with local craftspeople and each of our garments are signed by the artisan who created it. This humanises our pieces and highlights the skills of our team. What does ‘Made in Africa’ encompass and how does OMOL represent this? ‘Made in Africa’ represents luxury. It is a stamp of identification that represents the creative talents, design and vision of people from Africa. When a project bears this African DNA, it transmits human, historical, and environmental values that make it undeniably richer. It comforts me that ‘Made in Africa’ is starting a new Pan-African movement that fosters support and collaborations between brands. Is there an item or collection that you’re particularly proud of ? I’m obviously proud of everything we’ve created so far, but the collection I’m most proud of is definitely our 2023 collection: “OMÔL Means Mademoiselle”. Not only did it allow us to reintroduce ourselves, but this collection is a labour of love from so many African minds. The team we put together to deliver this collection is so eclectic that it shows in everything from the clothes to the music and visuals. Through this drop, we managed to bring together Congolese, Cameroonians and Ivorians on three continents. Who is the ideal OMOL woman? The OMÔL woman is irreverent and she forges her own path. Her lifestyle is rich and inspiring and she shares her wealth with the world. What are your aspirations for OMÔL? My aspiration for OMÔL is to keep carrying our African DNA and telling African narratives through fashion. We would love to create synergies and collaborate more with other creatives and brands. We do have a few upcoming projects that will go in this direction. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 35
Swit dital TO With a digital subscription, you’ll never miss an issue of Glamour, GQ or House & Garden. DOWNLOAD 01 THE 04 CONNECT APP N3YH UNVEILS LIMITED AND EXCLUSIVE RESORT WEAR COLLECTION: A floral-inspired journey to elegance and comfort N3YH, THE RENOWNED ECO-LUXE FASHION BRAND known for its bold designs and commitment to sustainability, is thrilled to announce the launch of its limited and exclusive resort wear collection. Just in time for the spring and summer seasons, this highly anticipated collection is set to shake the fashion industry with its unique botanical prints and timeless elegance. N3YH’s resort wear collection draws inspiration from the alluring beauty of flowers, creating a romantic and enchanting experience for the wearer. Each piece shows a sense of grace and sophistication, designed to empower women to embrace their inner elegance and express their unique style. The centrepiece of this collection is a two-piece ensemble, consisting of a timeless blouse with a collar and a pair of wideleg trousers. This classic combination showcases N3YH’s commitment to delivering versatile fashion that can be effortlessly dressed up for a night out or dressed down for a casual day of lounging. The superior craftsmanship ensures both comfort and style, making it an essential addition to any fashion-forward wardrobe. Become a part of a lifestyle which allows you to be both tranquil and effective and shop the new resort wear collection on the N3YH online store by visiting www.n3yh.co.za For more exciting news and updates about N3YH, be sure to follow them on their social media platforms: Instagram & TikTok: @n3yh.official Download the free Zinio or Magzter app and create a new account. SEARCH 02 AND PAY Search for your favourite magazine, click subscribe, and pay. 03 CHECK OUT Once you’ve paid for your subscription, check out and head to your library. Your device must be connected to the internet to access your purchased subscriptions. (Don’t worry, you can download issues to read offline.) 05 READ You can adjust your download to standard magazine format or book-style text - Happy reading! ZINIO MAGZTER FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @Glamour_SA @GQSouthAfrica @houseandgardensa | X @Glamour_SA @GQdotcoza FACEBOOK @GlamourSouthAfrica @GQSouthAfrica @HouseGardenSA
PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED B E A U T Y, I N S I D E A N D O U T All that shimmers - adding sparkle to your style P47 On the spot - adult acne and how to manage it. P54 The 15 beauty sins you need to avoid. P38 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 37
FEEL 38 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
We’re living for bold eyes and overly glossed lips that give us all the Saturday night fever we need – get your inspiration here! WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN jeled Who says rhinestones and jewels are only meant for festivals and our eyelids? We’re spreading the bedazzled love all over our body. Use eye glue and wait for it to get tacky before sticking them down. Hold for 10 seconds to ensure they are secure.
FEEL
FEEL drippin’ The secret to full, succulent and high-pigmented glossed lips? Applying layers and layers of clear gloss on top of your favourite lipstick. PS. There’s no such thing as too much! OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 41
FEEL bng’d Any good eye makeup look has to start out with a simple base. Sweep a light-coloured shadow into the crease of your eye. Then, using a darker shade of the crease colour, go in with as well as dusting the colour all over your eyelids. Now for the best part – sweep the glitter colour over your eyelids. Using a flat, dense brush make sure the glitter doesn’t just dust off your eyelid within a few minutes of application. Also, you know the deal – the more glitter the better!
PHOTOGRAPHY: LUCILE LEBER (@LUCILE_LEBER); MAKEUP: NOMAS (@NOMAS_MAKEUP); MODEL: STACI @ ENJOYMODELSAGENCY FEEL OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 43
FEEL HAIR TOO Check out the best must-have styling tools for flawless looks this season. WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN 1 5 6 2 1. ghd helios™ Professional Hair Dryer In Pink Peach R3 400 2. Safeway Salon Series Foldable Hair Dryer R369 3. BaBylissPro Black Star Ionic Hair Dryer R1 535 4. Safeway Salon Series Softhood Hairdryer Attachment R159 5.BHE Air Dryer R4 158 6. Xiaomi Water Ionic Hair Dryer R1 199 7. Dyson Hairdryer Hd07 Supersonic Black R 7 999 3 ZIMMERMANN BACKSTAGE S23 4 AT HOME TIPS Before semi-drying your hair, make sure you always detangle prior to your actual blow-dry. To achieve a smooth finish and shine, point the nozzle downwards. REMEMBER: High heat manipulates your hair’s shape, and cool air sets a style. 44 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 7
AKRIS BACKSTAGE F23 2 1 MAKE THINGS EASIER - Make sure you’re using the correct barrel size for the length of your hair. If it’s too big it’ll become a pain to use. - Adjust your heat setting for your hair. For fine hair, use a lower setting and for thicker hair 3 use a higher setting. - For more volume hold your wand horizontally. for less volume go vertical. KOMA BACKSTAGE S23 4 6 5 7 8 1. Silver Bullet WonderCurl Triple Barrel Curler R1 239 2. Beauty Works Jumbo Waver R2 450 3. Beauty Works x Molly-Mae Waver Kit R3 150 4. Moyoko Curl Master 32mm R1 495 5. Sorbet Drybar Curling Wand R399 6. BaByliss Airbrush Midnight Luxe R799 7. Toni & Guy Curl Squad Spiral Wand R479 8. Dyson Airwrap Multi Style Short Nickel & Copper R11 999 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 45
FEEL 1 4 2 3 5 SALON READY Go for styling tools that are designed to ensure your hair is volumised, healthy and tangle-free all at one. It needs to only serve a salon-style blowout at your convenience, every time! ROKH BACKSTAGE S23 6 7 8 9 1. Clicks Cushion 5. Safeway Salon Brush R46.99 Series 4 in 1 Multi 2. Moyoko Professional Styler R649 Magnitude Blowbrush 6. Beurer HT 60 R1 599 Multi-Functional 3. Moyoko Detangling Styler R1 099 Hailo Brush R350 7. Beauty Works 4. Revlon Pro Professional Collection Onestep Straightener Hairdryer & Styler R1 920.50 R799 8. ghd Platinum+ Hair 46 Straightener R3 900 9. Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener Hs03 Copper R9 999 10. Babyliss Hair Straightener Berry Crush R1 199 11. Toni & Guy Wide Plate Hair Straightener XXL R799 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED, LAUNCHMETRICS 11 CHET LO BACKSTAGE F23 10
FEEL De ADULT ACNE It’s time we learn everything we need to know about how to approach, tackle and keep these bad boys at bay once and for all, thanks to our amazing skin experts! WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN LET’S JUST BE REAL FOR A HOT SECOND – adult acne is a real thing and we can’t even try to deny, or disguise it. I know many of us were hoping that oozy, red, blunt and terribly painful pimples were something we’d left behind in our teen years, or those that were lucky enough to have missed the hectic pimple stage thought they were in the clear for life, right? Well - if you feel that you might be struggling with it now, you best listen up and hear what the experts have to say to ensure that you know exactly how to deal with these bad boys and get them under control, ASAP! LET’S GET DEEP Adult acne, like teenage acne, is primarily caused by the combination of several factors that contribute to the clogging of hair follicles (pores) causing inflammation. Here are some of the main factors that can contribute to adult acne: Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal changes, especially fluctuations in androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone, can trigger increased oil production in the skin. This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells and lead to clogged pores, which are a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Excess Oil Production: Excessive sebum (oil) production is a common contributor to acne. This can be influenced by genetics, hormonal imbalances, and even certain medications. Clogged Pores: When dead skin cells and excess oil accumulate in the hair follicles, they can clog the pores and create an environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive. Bacteria: The skin naturally harbours a type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). When the pores are clogged, this bacteria can multiply and contribute to the development of inflammatory acne. Inflammation: Inflammation is a key component of acne. When the immune system responds to the presence of bacteria and clogged pores, it can cause redness, swelling, and the formation of pus-filled pimples. Stress: Chronic stress can trigger hormonal fluctuations, leading to increased oil production and inflammation, both of which are associated with acne. Diet: While the relationship between diet and acne is complex and varies from person to person, some studies suggest that diets high in refined sugars, dairy products, and certain highglycemic foods might contribute to acne in some individuals. Cosmetics and Skincare Products: Certain makeup and skincare products, especially those that are comedogenic (tend to clog pores), can contribute to the development of acne. Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, and certain birth control pills, can influence hormone levels and contribute to acne development. Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollutants, humidity, and other environmental factors can impact the skin’s balance and potentially contribute to acne. It’s important to note that adult acne can be influenced by a combination of these factors, and what triggers acne in one person might not be the same for another. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 47
FEEL 5 2 3 4 6 1 1 8 1 7 1. Mesoestetic Acne One R1 090 2. Dr. Hauschka Clarifying Toner R735 3.Eucerin Sun GelCream Oil Control SPF 50+ R299.99 4. AQ Skin Solutions Active Serum R2 398 5. PHformula A.C Resurfacing Kit R2 080 6. Eco Diva Natural Acne Mini Solution Set R940 7. Yearn Acne and Oil Control Mask R425 8. Nivea Clear Up Deep Pore Cleanser R160 9.Vitaderm Enzymatic Exfoliator from R497 9 THE IMBALANCE “When the gut is not functioning as it should (constipation, bloating, pain or tenderness), it can cause havoc with our skin in the form of acne, cystic eruptions and skin irritations. A diet high in sugar, gluten and dairy can cause yeast to grow in unhealthy quantities throughout your digestive system. Antibiotics to treat acne-prone skin could also be contributing to the problem: High-sugar diets, antibiotic use and certain diseases such as diabetes can make the gut flora more ‘yeasty’ than it can handle. Acne is a very common symptom of a yeast imbalance which can manifest in skin eruptions, bloating, digestive issues, constipation, lethargy, and foggy head – plus, this is the same type of yeast infection that could present as vaginal thrush.” – Nicole Sherwin Eco Diva YOUR NEXT STEP If you’re struggling with adult acne, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can help determine the underlying causes 48 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 and recommend appropriate treatments, which might include topical treatments, oral medications, lifestyle changes, and skincare routines tailored to your specific needs. Salicylic acid, especially, is considered a good ingredient for treating adult acne, as well as acne in general. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is well known for its ability to exfoliate the skin’s surface and inside the pores. Here’s why salicylic acid is beneficial for treating acne: Exfoliation: Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate into the pores and help to dissolve excess oil, dead skin cells, and other debris that can contribute to clogged pores. By exfoliating the inside of the pores, it can help prevent and treat comedones (whiteheads and blackheads) and reduce the formation of new acne lesions. Unclogging Pores: One of the primary causes of acne is the clogging of hair follicles, leading to the development of pimples. Salicylic acid’s ability to unclog pores makes it effective in addressing this root cause.
FEEL Anti-Inflammatory: Salicylic acid also has mild antiinflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. Blackhead and Whitehead Treatment: Salicylic acid’s exfoliating properties make it particularly effective for treating non-inflammatory acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads. Oil Control: Since it can help reduce excess oil production on the skin, salicylic acid can be beneficial for individuals with oily or combination skin types that are prone to acne. – Ruan Winter from Vitaderm THE CHECKLIST Skincare products that contain mineral oil and petroleum can clog pores and give one blackhead and pimples. Hormonal imbalance can affect the sebaceous secretions by increasing sebum production. If one has the predisposition towards acne, then it may manifest in such a way. Digestive sensitivity to gluten and/or dairy may cause the skin to respond with cystic or pustular pimples. When the colon is not working correctly, this can also cause toxic build-up which may contribute to pimple formation – Caroline Copeland, Tocara Skin & Body PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTYIMAGES, SUPPLIED WHAT YOU NEED TO AVOID inflammation, and potentially lead to scarring. Abrasive Scrubs: Physical exfoliants with harsh particles can irritate your skin and worsen acne. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliation methods like chemical exfoliants (e.g. salicylic acid) or soft cleansing brushes. Skipping Moisturiser: Even if you have oily skin, moisturising is important to maintain your skin’s balance. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to prevent over-drying. Using Multiple Active Ingredients: Overloading your skin with multiple active ingredients (such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids) can lead to excessive dryness and irritation. Introduce new products slowly and use them as directed. High-Glycaemic Diets: While the relationship between diet and acne is complex, some studies suggest that diets high in sugary and processed foods might contribute to acne. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is generally GUT HEALTH recommended. CLEANSE JUICE DIY Stress: While avoiding stress RECIPE altogether might be challenging, Courtesy of Eco Diva managing stress through techniques like exercise, meditation, and relaxation 1.500ml purified or can help prevent flare-ups. filtered water 2. 3 leaves of Spinach 3. 5 stalks of Celery 4. 1 green Apple 5. 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper 6. Half a lemon, squeezed Ignoring Professional Advice: If you’re struggling with persistent or severe adult acne, it’s important to consult a skin care professional. They can provide a tailored treatment plan and guide you on the best course of action. Wearing Tight Clothing: Tight clothing, especially around areas prone to acne (such as the back and chest), can trap sweat and bacteria, potentially exacerbating breakouts. Using Hot Water: Washing your face with excessively hot water can strip your skin’s natural oils and worsen inflammation. Stick to lukewarm water for cleansing. Mineral oil and petroleum-based skincare products, makeup and sunscreen. Dietary – possibly stay off dairy. When dealing with adult acne, DIRECTIONS: there are certain things you should avoid Wash all fruits and veggies to prevent exacerbating the condition first. Place all ingredients into a and to help manage it effectively: blender and blend together until Harsh Cleansers: Avoid using smooth. Drink throughout the harsh, abrasive cleansers that can strip day, every day for 30 days. Once your skin of its natural oils. Opt for you see and feel the difference, gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers that this will become your daily ritual. won’t further irritate your skin. Over-washing: Washing your face excessively can strip away natural oils and disrupt your skin’s barrier, leading GUT CLEANSE to more breakouts. Stick to washing your face twice a day Turn your health around by being conscious of what you are (morning and night) and after sweating. Heavy, Comedogenic Products: Avoid using heavy eating. Let food be your medicine and it will heal your skin, makeup or skincare products that are likely to clog your pores your gut and your life. (comedogenic). Look for products labelled “non-comedogenic” Try a 30-Day diet shift and gut cleanse. This will have your or “oil-free”. skin and your health glowing in just a couple of weeks, setting Picking and Popping: Avoid touching, picking, or you well on your journey to lasting pH balance. A consistent popping your acne lesions. This can introduce bacteria, cause pH balance means no acne or breakouts. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 49
FEEL WHEN I FIRST READ UP ABOUT THIS NEW ACTIVE INGREDIENT, the first promise was that it ‘might just be the new niacinamide’. Now if you’re a skincare expert you’ll know that’s a big statement to make. Curious, I continued to scroll, watch videos and research everything I could. When they say meet your skin’s new bodyguard, they are not playing! Here’s what you need to know. ECTOIN EXPLAINED Ectoin is a natural, water-binding molecule that is produced by microorganisms as a protective mechanism against environmental stressors, such as high salinity, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation. It was first discovered in extremophilic microorganisms – ones that thrive in extreme environments like deserts, salt flats and hot springs. THE BENEFITS Ectoin has gained attention in various industries due to its potential benefits for protecting the skin from environmental stressors and reducing the effects of dryness and ageing. It’s believed to have hydrating and soothing properties that can help maintain skin moisture and barrier function. WORKING ECTOIN INTO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE In skincare products, ectoin is often used as an active ingredient in creams, lotions, serums, and sunscreens, with claims that it can help alleviate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. However, it’s important to note that while there is some scientific research supporting these benefits, more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of ectoin’s effects on the skin and its longterm safety. THE NEW NIACINAMIDE Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a well- 50 researched and established ingredient in skincare. It’s known for its various benefits that include helping improve the skin’s barrier function, reducing inflammation, regulating oil production, and addressing issues like hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide’s effectiveness is supported by a substantial body of scientific research and its inclusion in many skincare products across different brands. Ectoin, on the other hand, is relatively newer in terms of its popularity in skincare. While it does show promise in hydrating and protecting the skin, whether ectoin will become a “new niacinamide” depends on several factors, including continued research into its benefits, long-term safety, and its ability to address a wide range of skincare concerns. Ectoin might GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 become a popular ingredient in certain skincare products, but if it will achieve the same level of ubiquity and scientific validation remains to be seen. HERE’S WHY ECTOIN IS SET TO BECOME A NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENT: 01 Novelty and innovation: Ectoin is a relatively newer ingredient in the skincare market compared to niacinamide. The skincare industry is always seeking innovative and effective ingredients, and ectoin’s unique origin and potential benefits could pique interest.
FEEL YOUR skin s ' BODYGUARD There are claims that ectoin (pronounced ek-toe-win) is the new niacinamide. One way to think of this active ingredient is like a shield for your skin’s moisture barrier. Let’s unpack all you need to know. WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTY IMAGES 02 Environmental protection: Ectoin is known for its ability to protect microorganisms from extreme environmental stressors. If research shows that this property translates to skincare by protecting skin cells from environmental damage, it could be a sought-after ingredient for those looking to shield their skin from pollution, UV radiation, and other harsh stressors. positioned as an ingredient for calming sensitive or redness-prone skin. 03 Hydration and barrier support: 05 Natural and bioactive: 04 Sensitive skin and redness reduction: 06 Combination with other ingredients: Ectoin’s water-binding properties might make it an appealing ingredient for maintaining skin hydration and barrier function. If it proves to be effective in reducing moisture loss and improving the skin’s overall health, it could gain attention as a hydrating ingredient. Some early research suggests that ectoin might have anti-inflammatory properties. If substantiated, it could potentially be “Ectoin’s water-binding properties might make it an appealing ingredient for maintaining skin hydration.” Consumers are often interested in natural and bioactive ingredients. Ectoin’s origin from extremophilic microorganisms aligns with this trend, potentially making it an appealing option for those seeking natural skincare solutions. Ectoin could potentially be combined with other proven ingredients, like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or antioxidants, to create multifunctional skincare products. 07 Scientific validation: For ectoin to become a significant player in skincare like niacinamide, it would need robust scientific research to support its efficacy, safety, and versatility in addressing various skincare concerns. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 51
WHAT’S ON OUR BEAUTY RADAR? We’re trying new things to celebrate different ways of feeling good from within! WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN & SIMONE SMITH SPARKLE SEASON I am a lover of all things that shimmer! I always add a little bit of glitter or shimmer to any part of my outfit or makeup look. Incorporating a touch of shimmer or glitter into your makeup regimen can truly elevate your look without requiring an expensive, flashy outfit. A couple of favourites that I’ve been reaching for the most are MAC Woodwinked and Amber Lights – both offer subtle shimmer and gorgeous hues of gold and bronze that suit all skin tones. For a night-time look, I love rocking this with a thick black winged liner for that extra DRAMA! A bonus is that these shimmers last all night. For that ultimate JLO body glow, I always go for the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Gold Deposit and apply it to my collarbones and shoulders. Myoko Professional Magnitude Blowbrush R1599 BLOWN OUT 1 2 I’m always keen to try new things when it comes to experimenting with my hair. Just some benefits: the angle-free combination bristles allow the blow brush to smoothly glide through the hair, whilst giving you maximum control – making detangling and styling effortless, and it’s no secret that my hair is thick and can be unruly and difficult to manage at times. I try avoiding blowdrying my hair because my arms can’t handle it, and honestly the end product is not giving that in-salon experience. But wow, after trying this blowbrush, which despite how big it looked, was quite kind to my wrist and arm and was really a breeze to use thanks to the ergonomic, lightweight handle. My hair dried so easily (smooth after three passes) and I had no frizz! That was already a game-changer for me. I love the shine my hair was left with – all without using a flat iron! The Aerodynamically designed air vents and oval barrel allows optimum airflow, for quick and thorough styling and ensures a bouncy, healthy and shiny salon blowout in 35 minutes. SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! 52 MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Gold Deposit R660 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 SKIN FOOD Weleda Skin Food Moisturiser R220 For all my ladies who suffer from dry, flaky skin, I might have the product for you! Lately, I’ve been using the Weleda Skin Food moisturiser, and although I might be late to the hype that it gained years ago, this product has truly been a lifesaver. I love that it keeps my skin moisturised and hydrated, and the active ingredients penetrate deeply, offering hydration and essential protection to the skin barrier. This gem has kept the flakiness at bay while also giving that glow. I’m lovin’ it!
FEEL COMFORT WINS Living up to the standards of their garments being light yet substantial, warm but breathable, and cool but timeless already has me sold. These cute handmade pj’s are artisinally hand-crafted with the environment in mind and each bespoke item is designed in-house to be as comfortable as humanly possible. I love that I can wear them in the house on a relaxed day in, and not feel like I’m wearing sleeping clothes. The fresh designs add just the amount of quirk you need to uplift your spirits. 5 Woodstock Laundry Women Short Pajamas R895 INOAR AThe Ordinary Range From R130 NOTHING ORDINARY The Ordinary’s arrival on SA soil was probably one of the most exciting things for the skin care industry in 2023. It’s no secret that the serums are a disruptor in the game and it’s officially become a cult favourite for me. I love the minimal packaging that makes it easily Instagrammable and the single-ingredient products that are surprisingly reasonably affordable have been my go-to, especially during earlier transitional months. I’ve been loving the Squalane cleanser as well as the niacinamide + zinc, and the hyaluronic acid serum. I mean, what’s not to love? PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTY IMAGES; SUPPLIED Revlon PhotoReady Primer R279.95 PERFECTING THE PRIME SCENTFUL Q By Dolce&Gabbana R2415 I will be first to admit that I have my signature scent that I tend to always go back to - but there’s something about layering scents (which had me in a chokehold in the cooler months) that I just can’t seem to kick. I’ve been reaching for this as of late, especially for rendezvous on weekend nights as the notes of cherry, musk and jasmine scream summer in a bottle. 7 In my opinion, using a good primer makes a significant difference in makeup application and in achieving that flawless base. The Revlon PhotoReady Prime collection offers three different primers that cater to various skin types and skin concerns. If you’re looking for something that offers hydration, or something that’ll brighten dull skin, then this might be the collection for you. These primers are infused with amazing skincare ingredients such as Vitamin B5 & C, Hyaluronic Acid, Salicylic Acid and many other fantastic elements; all while providing a smooth, flawless base. It’s a perfect product that seamlessly incorporates skincare into your makeup routine in just one step.
FEEL 1 SLEEPING WITH MAKEUP ON Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores, lead to breakouts, and accelerate ageing. Always cleanse your face before bed. 2 USING DIRTY MAKEUP BRUSHES Dirty brushes can harbour bacteria and lead to breakouts. Regularly clean your brushes to prevent this. They’re teeming with bacteria. Need we say more? 3 IGNORING DIET AND HYDRATION NEEDS A balanced diet and staying hydrated contribute to healthy skin. Processed foods and dehydration can affect your skin’s appearance. 4 SKIPPING SUNSCREEN 5 OVER-LOADING PRODUCTS Not wearing sunscreen daily can lead to sun damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Going out in the sun without SPF is an open invitation to dark spots, pigmentation and we’ll say it again… skin cancer. Still aren’t wearing any? Using too many active ingredients at once can lead to irritation and worsen skin issues. 6 USING EXPIRED PRODUCTS Expired products can be less effective and even cause skin reactions. Regularly check expiration dates. Holding on to out-dated makeup like it’s an heirloom? If you haven’t used it in the last six months, you’re not going to use it at all. Out with the old then, and in with the (user-friendly) new. 7 PICKING OR POPPING PIMPLES Picking at acne lesions can introduce bacteria, cause inflammation, and potentially result in scarring. One of the worst things you can do to your skin is pop your pimples. Not only can you spread infection under the skin, causing more pimples to come to the surface, but you can also create scars. When you pop a pimple, it stops being a regular pimple 54 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
FEEL beauty There are many things that you can get away with when it comes to beauty! But these are the ultimate 15 beauty sins you should definitely avoid! WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN and becomes an open wound, which makes it more susceptible to germs and breakouts. 8 USING PRODUCTS WITH HARSH INGREDIENTS Harsh ingredients can strip your skin and cause irritation. Opt for products with gentle formulations. 9 SHARING MAKEUP Sharing makeup can transfer bacteria and cause infections. Make sure to use disposable applicators when testing products. PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTY IMAGES PROFESSIONAL 10 IGNORING SKINCARE ADVICE If you’re struggling with specific skin issues, seek advice from a dermatologist or skincare professional. HOT WATER TO 11 USING WASH YOUR SKIN Washing your face with hot water can strip your skin’s natural oils. Instead, opt for lukewarm water when cleansing. is an easy way to minimize wrinkles. This one’s a bit of a doozy, but unless you have a silk pillowcase, sleeping face-down pulls and tugs at your skin and will lead to wrinkles. SHAVING EVERY DAY 13 Too many people make the mistake of shaving their sensitive skin over and over, particularly areas such as legs, underarm, and the bikini area. It may seem like a quick fix for stubbly hair, but shaving only removes hair at skin level, so it reappears in one to four days, and over time the skin itself becomes coarse. Worse still, by continually cutting the hair, you are, in fact, stimulating its growth; encouraging the hair to grow back faster, thicker, coarser, and fuller. This can result in more hair growing from each pore. Even worse, the daily risk of nicks, cuts, ingrown hairs, and razor burn further aggravates the skin. 14 OVER-EXFOLIATING Excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Stick to a gentle exfoliation routine. FACE DOWN PATCH TESTS 12 SLEEPING 15 IGNORING Sleeping on your side or stomach creates a Always perform patch tests for new skincare furrow on one side of your face. Sleeping on your back products to avoid adverse reactions or allergies. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 55
FEEL A TREAT OF NOTE It’s time to give your skin and body all the attention it needs and deserves! WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN WE’RE ALL ABOUT SKIN AND BODY THIS SEASON - I mean, very little has changed since last season. IYKYK, glowing, dewy skin is always in and we’re hookin’ the girlies up with the best facials in town. Let’s not even forget lathering your body with all the goodness it deserves, as we share a few body-care must-haves. Let’s go! F a ythful reset Essential Youth Reset facial helps soften the appearance of fine lines, sun damage and sagging skin with this peptide and vitamin-packed treatment for a more youthful appearance. The pioneering Environ Ionzyme® DF Machine combines two sophisticated 56 technologies - low-frequency Sonophoresis (sound waves) and pulsed ionophoresis (electric current). Dual electro-sonic technology creates tiny pathways in the skin to assist in delivering more essential nutrients to where they are needed most, ensuring beautiful, healthy-looking skin for life. Disclaimer: The Environ Ionzyme® DF machine is manufactured in compliance with regulations for a global professional skincare market and may therefore not be available in all markets. DF Youth Reset Treatment 60min @ R850 and 90min @R1 060. Available at the Environ Skin Care Institute on Bree Street, Cape Town and participating skin centres or salons. GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 F exrience Experience a customised skin rewilding treatments that incorporate advanced pre-and probiotics, along with the application of live probiotics in the bespoke Live Probiotic Experience Treatment. Providng their benefits through probiotic and organic ingredients, which deeply hydrate, soothe, and renew the skin. This process not only rewilds the skin, restoring its natural microbiome but also reduces inflammation and slows the ageing process. Esse Experience treatments range in price from R450 to R995 and are available at leading spas: Amani Spa V&A Waterfront, Woodlands Spa, and Lyftaal Esse.
FEEL 3 F a treat 1 2 5 4 F the ce 6 This unique anti-ageing ritual is ideal for photodamaged and mature skin, as well as any skin type that desires a more youthful, radiant appearance. This treatment is designed with highperformance ingredients that are known to exfoliate, hydrate, and target skin’s natural collagen. Exuviance SKINspiration Radiance Recovery RX from R530. Available at Sorbet salons. BODY CARE PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED Prioritise your body care this season with a few of our fave indulgences! 1. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream® All-Over Miracle Oil R545 2. LeNaturel Natural Lotion R220 3. Nivea Radiant & Beauty Even Glow Body Cream R120 4. Tree Hut Tropic Glow Moisturizing Shaving Oil R399.67 5. Gatineau AHA Body Lotion R750 6. Tree Hut Bikini Reef Suagr Scrub R285 7. That’s so Glowy Gold Dry Oil R560 8. Nuxe reve de Granular Scrub R525 9. Biolsculpture Pot Pourri Aqua Soak R200 Suitable for all skin types, this is the recommended facial to introduce your skin to Vitaderm and kick-start your journey to healthy skin. Following a skin analysis, you are treated to an aromatic facial experience that includes an exfoliation and masque specially selected for your unique skin type. This 60-minute treatment includes a relaxing face, neck and décolleté massage, and will leave your skin feeling revitalized and healthy. The result? A hydrated, conditioned and glowy complexion. It contains phyto actives such as Volcanic Ash, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Papain and Bromelain Enzymes, Aloe Vera and Tea Tree. Vitaderm Aromatic Treatment R625. Available at Vitaderm Sorbet stockists and independent salons. F glow 7 8 9 This is a triple exfoliating, medical treatment. 1. Lactic Acid 10% - exfoliates, encourages skin cell turnover and helps reduce fine lines and discolouration. 2. Mandelic Acid 10% - a natural skin brightener, that helps to target blemishes, discolouration and wrinkles while minimizing irritation. 3. Salicylic Acid 10% - resurfaces skin texture and prevents future blemishes and clogged pores. Supercharge your results with a pressure point massage, alternating cryo and thermo therapy, LED therapy, healing rose quartz treatment and more. The Laser Beautique Advanced Pro Peel Treatment R 950. Available at TLB. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 57
FEEL SELF-CARE FAVOURITES Olwethu Leshaban CEO of Art of Superwoman OLWE2LESH Olwethu Leshabane unveils her new self-care range and chats about what inspires her journey. WORDS BY JESÉ LILLIENFELDT-HARTMAN THE NEW SELF-CARE RANGE Coco Jane Home and Spa was created by award-winning media entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Art of Superwoman Olwethu Leshabane as a tribute to her late maternal grandmother. As someone who valued self-care, she created a loving and welcoming home for all. We journey with Olwethu as she shares how the range celebrates some of her favourite items. Glamour: What inspired your business idea? Olwethu Leshabane: I have always been the mom that baths her babies. I enjoy guiltless self-care that involves skin-to-skin bonding. So I sought out products that would bring all these elements together but also look after the well-being of both me and my children. As well as being sustainable, of course. G: What sets your products apart? OL: All the products are non-irritable, not tested on animals and are free from hormone disruptors (chemicals that interfere with or disrupt the endocrine system), so they are safe for the whole family to use. G: What was the biggest challenges you experienced along the way? OL: I think with any vision you want to bring to life, funding has to be the biggest challenge. G: The most rewarding part of your business? OL: At the heart of Art of Superwoman and Coco Jane are women. When I am serving women and sharing knowledge and solutions, I feel rewarded. 58 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 G: What goals have you set for your business? OL: To expand into retail, hopefully soon. G: What percentage of your products are organic? OL: With the exception of the diffuser, as this has ethanol in it for diffusing purposes, all the products are organic. G: And best sellers so far? OL: The Coco Jane Luxury Candles and Diffusers. The Luxury Soy Candle is crafted with pure soy wax (hydrogenated soybean oil) and coconut oil and contains fragrance oils. The candles come in vanilla (suitable for pregnant women) and cinnamon and are available in different sizes with two wick options, cotton and wooden and what’s amazing is that the candle can be used as a luxurious massage oil too. The Wooden Top Cinnamon and Vanilla diffuser is an easy, environmentally friendly, effective and safe way to diffuse fragrance throughout a home and space. G: What inspires you to be successful? OL: Being motivated by the aspiration to evoke a sense of
FEEL pride in the younger version of Olwethu is what truly propels me forward. The yearnings of my younger self, who ardently sought achievement and success, continue to serve as a wellspring of inspiration for me. Furthermore, I am driven not only by the personal pursuit of success but also by the aspiration to become a beacon of inspiration for future generations. My intention is to kindle a resolute spark within the hearts of young people, calling on them to safeguard their dreams with unwavering determination. It is my belief that dreams are not frivolous luxuries but rather the very essence of human potential, deserving of nurturing and fulfilment. I aspire to guide young dreamers, empowering them to move past the confines of doubt and insecurity, and manifest their aspirations and dreams into reality. G: Why was embarking on this business journey so important to you? PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED OL: So many of us are juggling work, parenting pressures and life in general, a lot of things are bound to fall through the cracks. But there are certainly a few key secrets to finding balance between things that matter. For me, lighting a candle and enjoying a soak in the bath is a simple way to unwind and treat ‘me’. If Coco Jane can be part of those moments for any woman, I am grateful. G: What innovations can we expect from Coco Jane in the near future? OL: A greater variety of non-irritable and non-hormonal disruptor scents and variations in our ranges of home fragrances, candles, diffusers, skincare and bath oils. G: What would you tell your 18-year-old self ? OL: No matter the season you’re in, don’t change who you are in response to that particular season. “Dres e not frivols luxuries but rather the very essence of hum potenal, deserng of nurturing d fulfnt” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 59
PHOTOGRAPHY: FRANCO KELLERMAN T H I S I S T H E F U N PA R T Nadia Jaftha’s journey into a new era of entertainment. P82 Exercise - can working out before bed affect your sleep? P84 The benefits of tapping into your feminine energy. P62 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 61
N A D I A J A F T H A It’s It all started with a prank for award-winning content creator and businesswoman, Nadia Jaftha. But things got serious when her authentic approach to storytelling captured the attention of South Africans and global brands – most recently an ambassadorship on the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 campaign. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO PHOTOGRAPHY FRANCO KELLERMAN CREATIVE DIRECTION & STYLING TANIA DURAND
LIVE OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 63
LIVE RONICALLY, I’VE BEEN REFLECTING ON THE CONCEPT OF TIME for a while now, and today is no different as I make my way to Camps Bay Retreat; a lush gem nestled in the heart of the leafy suburb. The first person I see is our fashion director, Tania Durand, who greets me warmly and shares that our cover star, Nadia Jaftha is a bit nervous about the interview, and I immediately affirm to her that I’ll be approaching it as a conversation. Nadia is on the make-up chair when I walk into the cosy suite. With the formalities out of the way, she seems more relaxed. Considering that she shares intimate parts of her life with her 617 000 followers on Instagram and over 55 000 subscribers on YouTube, she feels somewhat familiar but I’m curious about all the elements that went into the makings of this dynamic woman. So where did it all begin for the award-winning content creator? “I was born in Cape Town to very supportive parents. My mom has always been a hard worker so she passed on her work ethic to me.” As her biggest cheerleader it comes as no surprise that it’s a prank video featuring her mom that catapulted her career. Having engaged with her fun content, I ask her to let us in on her creative process. “I’m a natural born content creator, even when we had to do presentations at school, I would do it in video format whenever I could. I still have the old handheld VHS camera and the little cassettes that go in there. I love creating content, not necessarily of myself but of other people and showing their stories. Now that it translates into my work and I can do it for clients and brands, I can help other creators and influencers by showing them how to do it for themselves. That’s the ultimate goal for me.” Her contribution to social impact is also visible in the work she does through Ace Labs; a platform she co-founded to help creators grow their brands while building sustainable businesses in the process. It’s commendable that in a society where content is heavily curated, Nadia’s feed showcases her life in its authentic form. “You have to be intentional about everything because you can easily get lost in this industry, until you’re in it, you’ll have no way of knowing when you’re lost. There was a point where I lost myself for a bit, because I felt the pressure of people only wanting to see comedy content or they only like me when my mother is in the video. And when they see me in public, they’ll ask me where she is. You get all these comments, but after a while you become immune to them.” With this in mind, Nadia has steadily solidified her presence in the digital space. Apart from her authenticity, she’s not afraid to use her voice. So how does drown out the noise? “You have to ask yourself, what is my truth? And then you have to go soul searching and find out.” Affirming that it’s a beautiful position to be in, “although it breaks you down, you also put yourself together again. You realise what you actually stand for. You have to stand for something!” As someone who expresses herself in different forms, she shares that her fans initially struggled with this, as they knew her as a content creator, so the thought of her venturing into music made them feel uncomfortable. “I ke to fight back by elevang instead of fuelng ne dra. My progressi is my payback” 64 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
PREVIOUS SPREAD Tongoro Jumpsuit Merchants on Long earrings H&M studio collection watch HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 THIS PAGE Coat Kai Collective at closet runway dress Lukhanyo Mdingi earrings H&M studio collection boots stylist's own
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“The first song I did came off the back of me slowly showing that I’m singing on Instagram. I posted random videos of myself singing, and I hadn’t been exposed to the dark side of social media at the time. I was doing it with good intentions on my phone, alone in my room, forgetting that there were thousands of people on the other side of the screen. I didn’t think there was a possibility of getting hate for something I genuinely love doing. I had people saying I can’t sing, I’m just an influencer, asking who I think I am; but how would they know if I grew up singing at family functions? Something I was actually forced to do and I’d make everyone close their eyes. People don’t know that though, they just assume your values based on how they view themselves.” This didn’t deter her though, as she went on to record her debut single, Paradise, which topped the charts for a few weeks. “I like to “fight back” by elevating instead of fuelling online drama. My progression is my payback.” This also speaks to setting boundaries in the digital space, “there’s so much access that the public feels entitled to certain decisions I make in my life, it’s important to set those boundaries the same you would in any other relationship you have in your life.” Considering that social media is a doubleedged sword, how does she navigate it in its duality? “I don’t think I can safely say I’m at a point where I know how to deal with everything because there are new elements and variables that come into play daily. When I go to an event for example, I don’t know if there’ll be that one person who’ll try to get a reaction out of me. So it’s important to always be grounded and to do the things that’ll keep me on the straight path.” From a mental health perspective, she says she tries to have practices in place that keep her mental health in check, “this includes Pilates, meditation or walking my dog. Those are the habits that ultimately give you a fulfilling life in the end.” With her makeup done, she makes her way to the hair chair, I’m cognizant of the time, and I notice that she’s sporting a gold pendant on her wrist. “This is my HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 and it’s a big part of my lifestyle; as someone who is health, fitness and fashion forward, my watch complements all my looks; from the red carpet to my workouts. I simply change the straps or the face to suit the occasion, and it tracks my heart rate while I work out.” This also speaks to the heart of the campaign, which fuses fashion and fitness. “I move between roles and I don’t always have time to change devices, so the all-in-one watch is perfect for me because it connects to any phone.” What’s striking about the watch is that one would expect it to look like a fitness or tech watch but the fashion-forward aesthetic gives it a luxe appearance. “This also shows the innovation behind technology and fashion, and that’s what positions HUAWEI as a trendsetter in wearable technology.” Affirming that the brand, which boasts a decade-long presence in the field, has been part of her life for years, making the partnership was an easy yes! OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 67
LIVE She’s moving closer and closer to the water and I’m wondering if her pendant is water resistant, “it is!” she says, when we find each other again between her different looks. Her attitude on set is an extension of her general outlook on life as she shares that her motto is “dive in and figure it out later! I don’t know what my next looks like because if you try to plan every single step perfectly, and you want to wait until you’re ready, you’ll find that you’re never actually ready.” Reflecting on how her life has unfolded, she says it also speaks to her faith, “I believe in my maker and move with faith and good intentions. I believe that if you move with good intentions, even if the people around you have ill intentions, you’ll end up where you’re supposed to, just keep your faith.” So how would she define her current era? “I’m in my elevation era, and looking forward to it, I don’t know what my next era looks like. I think if I knew, I wouldn’t be as excited but I do know that it won’t be the same version of me that people are used to, and the cover will definitely reflect that. The energy of it is powerful. Last year on my vision board, I put ‘makings of an icon’ and that’s what I’m leaning towards in my respective field and encouraging others that they can be the same.” Nadia shares that going into 2024, her short-term goals include a lot more decisiveness and going after what she set out to do. “This year was a lot of reconstructing and moving pieces but I think next year I’m laying the foundation and look forward to reaping what I sow. The biggest thing for me is making sure that my family is sorted and that my mother is happy. That’s the most important thing for me.” As the sun begins to set on this picturesque location, and our time on set draws to an end, I ask her what she knows for sure? “When all is said and done, I know for sure that I’ll always have my supporters. I feel like they’ve grown up with me and I’ve grown up in front of a lens, they’ve been through so much with me and there’s still a lot that I want to explore, and so many adventures I still want to take them on. I wouldn’t be here without them. I think this cover is for everyone who has supported me through the years, even my haters.” “I’m in my eleva e, d loo fwd to , I d’t know what my xt e looks ke” Even more striking is Nadia’s aura; she has a calmness about her, which becomes more noticeable as she moves across the room to slip into a sheer Lukhanyo Mdingi original. She throws on a purple coat, which elevates the look before making her way down to the scenic landscape. Her first look is set against the backdrop of the ocean to the sound of waves crashing. She’s a force of nature, and the birds chirp in agreement. Nadia’s feeling at home in her own skin as she works her angles effortlessly. When I catch up with her between takes I ask if she’s always been this confident? “I’ve had moments of imposter syndrome so I’ve had to push through feelings of inadequacy. Sharing that she’s come a long way from her varsity days when she felt she didn’t belong. “I felt it was a big ask for my parents to put me through UCT considering that I had three other siblings at the time.” It’s hard to imagine her as anything but unapologetically taking up space but it’s also her ability to be vulnerable that makes her relatable. “I never want people to feel that I’m untouchable, I don’t want to distance myself in that way. In real time, she’s almost ethereal in her cover look; donning a sheer purple and green Lukhanyo Mdingi dress from his Burkina collection. Her commitment is notable as she explores different angles to get the perfect shot. 68 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
CREATIVE DIRECTION AND STYLING: TANIA DURAND; ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER: RAPHAEL BLUE BROMILOW; HAIR: JAMIE PILLAY; MAKEUP: RAINE TAUBER; ART DIRECTOR: ANDREA KÜHN Coat Ntwana Crop top and skirt H&M studio collection Earrings Phillipa Green Jewellery Eyewear CHIMI Watch HUAWEI WATCH GT 4
LIVE UTERINE FIBROIDS UTERINE FIBROIDS AFFECT UP TO 80% OF PEOPLE WITH A UTERUS (and are two to three times more likely to occur in Black women) – and uterine fibroids symptoms tend to be “loud and obnoxious,” says Dr Ruth Arumala, an OBGYN and fibroid specialist in Texas. While it’s possible to have asymptomatic fibroids, “they make their presence known if they’re symptomatic,” Dr Arumala says. Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths found in or on the uterus which can be as small as a pea or as big as a grapefruit. Depending on their size and location, they could be wreaking havoc or you might not even know you have them. “Some women have ginormous fibroids and don’t know, or they do know, but it doesn’t necessarily bother them,” says Dr Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified OB-GYN and fibroid expert. Your gynaecologist may catch asymptomatic fibroids during a routine pelvic exam but typically, uterine fibroids go unnoticed unless they start causing symptoms, the most common of which is heavy menstrual bleeding. Uterine fibroid symptoms can range from “being a nuisance to being life-threatening,” says Dr Arumala, so it’s wise to know the signs you might have fibroids and keep an eye on any existing growths. Here’s everything you need to know. SYMPTOMS YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH Fibroids can be “loud and obnoxious.” But the good news is they’re treatable. Types of fibroids Uterine fibroids are classified by their location. Depending on where they are located, they can cause different symptoms. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) there are three main types of fibroids: subserosal fibroids, which occur outside of the uterus; intramural fibroids, which grow within the uterine lining; and submucosal fibroids, which live inside the uterine cavity. WORDS BY MACAELA MACKENZIE As a general rule of thumb, if you’re changing your pad or tampon every two hours during your menstrual cycle, most gynaecologists would agree that’s heavy bleeding. If you’re bleeding for longer than normal during your period or bleeding non-stop, those are also symptoms of uterine fibroids you should flag to your doctor right away. In rare cases, fibroid-related bleeding is heavy enough that it can cause anaemia, a condition that occurs when your body produces lower-than-normal amounts of red blood cells, according to the NIH. Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, a racing heart, and craving ice. Bulk symptoms “Bulk symptoms” occur when “the fibroids are so big that they cause a space issue,” explains Dr Arumala. This can manifest in a few ways: Pain during sex Uterine fibroids symptoms The most common symptoms of fibroids can be sorted into three categories, says Dr Arumala: bleeding, bulk symptoms, and reproductive symptoms. Bleeding Heavy periods are often a sign of fibroids. “The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists used to define [heavy bleeding] by millilitres or number of pads,” says Dr Somi Javaid, a board-certified OB-GYN and founder of HerMD. But recently, there’s been a push towards a more subjective understanding of heavy bleeding, she says. “If a woman’s perception is that her bleeding is heavy, it’s heavy.” 70 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 “Fibroids can cause a lot of pain, particularly if they’re near the cervix because there can be contact if you’re talking about penetrative intercourse,” says Dr Javaid. You might also experience pain during orgasm. Large fibroids growing in the wall of the uterus or in the uterine cavity can feel like boulders, Dr Javaid explains, so when the uterus contracts during an orgasm, it can feel uncomfortable, like squeezing a rock. Depending on the location of the fibroids, you might also experience a “rocking pain” during sex as certain positions or thrusting can cause your uterus to rock back and forth, adds Dr Arumala. If you’re experiencing any pelvic pain or lower back pain, flag it to your doctor.
LIVE “Uterine fibrd sympts c nge fr being a nuisce to being fe-threatening” Arumala. As the pregnancy begins taking more blood flow from the uterus, any fibroids, which need a healthy blood supply to live, may begin to die, she explains. “Anything dying, like a tooth, is going to cause pain,” Dr Arumala says. Fibroids can also increase your risk of having a caesarean delivery. Bladder and bowel issues PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTYIMAGES If a fibroid is pressing on your bladder, it can cause frequent urination and incontinence, says Dr Arumala. The same goes for fibroids pressing on your bowels. “Sometimes patients have an alternative of constipation and diarrhoea, or just constipation,” she says. “If the fibroid is on the back of the uterus and it’s pressing on your rectum or part of your intestine, you’ll have an inability to poop. If the poop gets past that blockage, it rushes out. So you’ll have constipation, diarrhoea, constipation, diarrhoea.” Bulk symptoms can occur even if you don’t have bleeding issues due to fibroids. “A lot of women will not realise that and they may end up with the wrong doctor,” says Dr Javaid. Fertility symptoms Fibroids can be a cause of infertility. Depending on their location, they can literally block the fallopian tube, preventing an egg from being fertilised. Fibroids in the lining of the uterus can also prevent a fertilised egg from implanting. (For years, fibroids have also been linked to the fear of early miscarriage. Though recent research suggests there’s not enough evidence to support an increased risk, according to the NIH.) During pregnancy, “fibroids can cause excruciating pain,” says Dr When to talk to your doctor If you have asymptomatic fibroids, your gynaecologist will likely manage them without treatment. Eventually, most fibroids will shrink and because they need oestrogen to grow, the risk of developing any new fibroids drops dramatically during menopause. If you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding or any of the other symptoms above, talk to your gynaecologist. “Any one of these should warrant some type of conversation with your doctor. It’s always better to start the conversation when things might be not as frequent or not as severe so that if there is something that starts to increase the frequency or severity that you have a baseline,” says Dr Shepherd. “Then it can start to generate a conversation of potentially looking at fibroids as the cause.” The good news? There are plenty of treatment options. Fibroid treatments range from a procedure called a myomectomy to remove the fibroids, to the use of birth control (either an IUD or the pill which can limit fibroid growth by increasing your body’s levels of progesterone) or, depending on where you are in your reproductive journey, even a hysterectomy. If you’re dealing with symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about what’s best for you. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 71
LIVE WE CAN ALL AGREE THAT there’s a cost-of-living crisis, and as we try to stay afloat, it’s important to understand how inflation affects living standards. FNB Senior Economist, Koketso Mano enlightens that the world has suffered from a post-lockdown cost-of-living crisis driven initially by supplydemand misalignment and exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. “Supply chain bottlenecks have since subsided, but inflationary headwinds persist. These headwinds include tight labour 72 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 markets in advanced economies like the US, climate change, as well as the reconfiguration of investments and business operations in attempts to strengthen post-pandemic supply chains and in response to escalated geopolitical tensions.” Furthermore, these global factors have spilled over to South Africa’s inflation dynamics through the ports and have been compounded by a weaker rand. Tighter global financial conditions and rising debt vulnerabilities have generally lifted
LIVE THE RISING COST OF We’re all feeling the impact of inflation, so we’ve roped in the experts to offer us some insight, tips and advice as we navigate these trying financial times. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO the risk associated with emerging markets assets, weighing on currencies. “In addition, the rand has suffered from political risks and stunted growth given crippling infrastructure constraints. As a result, the rand has underperformed relative to peer currencies. The weaker rand, failing infrastructure, and poor service delivery has lifted the cost of operating and living in South Africa, worsening SA’s inflation trajectory,” she says. Glamour: In light of this, what are the three main factors that contribute to inflation? Koketso Mano: Generally speaking, supply-demand misalignment (supply shortages or excess demand) across the globe, a weak exchange rate, and poor service delivery that pushes businesses and households to procure or augment basic services privately. In terms of the Consumer Price Index, the initial uplift in fuel inflation has now unwound and its steep deceleration (in deflation in June 2023) has supported lower headline inflation. Unfortunately, food and core inflation are expected to be more stubborn but do not undo the slowing in headline inflation, which is expected to ease from 6.9% in 2022 to 6.0% this year. G: Can you please explain the relationship between inflation and interest rates? Koketso: By moving the repo rate, monetary policy affects other market interest rates, the exchange rate, liquidity in markets, asset prices as well as inflation expectations. With a transmission lag of around 12-24 months, the impact of policy moves eventually influence spending and investment decisions. The current hiking cycle would have resulted in tighter lending standards, less liquidity in markets, less credit demand and extension. This eventually dampens household consumption and investments, albeit the current cycle will be different as investments will be driven by critical energy-related spending. As household consumption slows, the pricing power of business (including the power to pass through prevailing cost pressures) is limited, arresting inflation. Also, higher interest rates tend to attract capital inflows, after adjusting for the risk associated with local assets, and supports a stronger currency which reinforces lower inflation. That said, monetary policy is more productive in addressing demanddriven inflation. Given that current inflation is more supplydriven, monetary policy has had to focus on second-round effects instead – the passthrough of initial supply shocks to the broader basket of goods and services. For example, when fuel inflation spikes, the cost of transport rises and lifts input costs for business which is often passed to the consumer. To avoid price and wage setters planning for and embedding what could be temporarily excessive inflation, the central bank has had to be credible, convincing these agents that the target of 4.5% will be achieved over a two-year horizon. “The aker rd d po serce dery has fted the cost of operang d ng in Sth Africa ” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 73
LIVE G: Would you say SA is experiencing spiralling inflation at the moment? Koketso: No. Although we anticipate G: With consumers losing purchasing power, how can the economy be sustained? Koketso: We expect virtually no that a third of the inflation basket will average above the 6% upper target limit this year, and 83% is rising relative to 2022, we predict that those proportions will fall to around 25% and 42% next year. In any event, headline inflation has already softened from a peak of 7.8% in July 2022 to 5.4% in June 2023 and is expected to slow from an average of 6.0% this year to around 5.0% next year. Furthermore, while average surveyed inflation expectations across business, trade unions and analysts to the year 2025 remain above the reserve bank’s inflation target of 4.5%, wage growth expectations have slowed. This is in line with weak growth and employment prospects, indicating the reduced risk of a wage spiral that would have maintained upward pressure on interest rates. growth this year, with the most support coming from investment into energy supply. Export growth will be constrained by lower global demand and local logistical issues, while household spending growth will be weighed down by a higher cost of living. It is important to note that some households would have benefitted from the higher interest earned on savings and investments, but these households usually have a lower propensity to consume. Some households will still be taking up consumption-related credit like credit cards, but these will be more expensive lines of credit and may delay the recovery in household spending while credit standings are being repaired. Ultimately, the importance of structural reforms is highlighted by the outlook over the next 3 to 5 years. With more traction on these reforms, more private-sector participation, improved competition and productivity, greater investment in human capital as well as lower inflation can be generated over time. G: Low-income households are greatly affected by inflation, is there a way around it? Koketso: The central bank contends that price stability is in the interest of the purchasing power of the poor or low-income households. Without low and predictable inflation, budgeting, and the ability to optimise spending would be impaired, making price stability a key contributor to sustainable growth. Inflation was anchored around the 6% upper target limit from the time that the inflationtargeting framework was adopted in SA in the year 2000 until 2017, when the Monetary Policy Committee started speaking to their preferred 4.5% anchor. Since then, and apart from lockdown effects, inflation has been better anchored around 4.5% and interest rates have also been lower. While there is a case of having to endure the higher inflation at this stage, there are ways that one can get through the tough times. Included in this are some small tricks that one can do, such as looking at where 74 ESTER’S 5 TOP TIPS for surviving the current economic climate 1 Draw up a budget and track your spend 2 Use loyalty programmes to free up cash 3 Do meal planning to reduce unconscious spending on frequent trips to grocery stores 4 Don’t cancel insurance policies 5 Stay the course with your savings and investment journey despite market volatility spending is going currently and if there is a way to reduce spending on wants and redirect to needs and looking for specials when shopping. If you are struggling with your debt position, chat to your service provider to see if they can assist in potential restructuring the debt which could free up some cash flow which could be used to pay off the debt sooner. GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 G: Lastly, what would you like South Africans to know from an economic perspective as we navigate these trying times? Koketso: We are navigating a time of weak growth, elevated inflation, and high interest rates. Unfortunately, geopolitical tensions and climate change mean inflationary pressures stay will with us for some time and interest rates will likely remain higher for longer as a result. In line with monetary policy, fiscal policy is encouraged to stay the course of consolidation and avoid adding upward pressure to interest rates. Should political weight remain behind structural reforms, South Africa can build a more productive economy with robust growth and an inclusive labour market.
LIVE Product Head of FNB Integted Adce, Ester Ose ighs in… ILLUSTRATION: ADOBE STOCK, GALLO/GETTY IMAGES G: How else can ordinary South Africans manage the impact of it? Ester Ochse: There is a huge impact on ordinary consumers with the rising interest rates as well as inflation. The best way that one can get around it is to get back to basics. Check what they are spending the money on, the best way to do this is to track spend for a period of one month. Every time money is spent, be it cash, credit or debit order, make a note of it or use an app like Track my Spend on the FNB App. Then one can see where exactly their money is going. After that look if there is a way that one can reduce on certain spending categories and redirect to the important or needs spend. For example, if you are spending on eating out and treats, can you reduce that and put towards paying off expensive credit. Paying off expensive credit quicker will free up more cash flow, which can in turn be used to save or invest. Also leveraging off loyalty programmes which will free up cash as well that can be used towards paying off expensive debt. The good side to a higher interest rate environment is that savings earn more interest, so extra funds in a savings account should earn more interest. G: Is it realistic to encourage people to save when salaries aren’t keeping up with the inflation rate? Or is it possible? Ester: As mentioned above, with the higher interest rate environment, money in a savings account will earn more interest. So, it’s a good time to build up an emergency fund. There is also a common misconception that one needs to have lots of money to save, but that is not true, even putting away R50 a week (the price of a hamburger) will make a difference. That is why it is critical to look at where one’s money is going and look at where one can free up cash by reducing spend on “want spend” (treats, eating out, clothing, grooming) and then using that feed up cash to put towards savings. “Pang off expensive cret quicker wl free up more cash flow to save or invest” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 75
LIVE How to actually f yrself No matter what you did, you can move past it. WORDS BY PATIA BRAITHWAITE & SAMANTHA VINCENTY FORGIVING OTHERS isn’t always easy. When someone hurts you, it can require major strength (and maturity) to take a deep breath, put your ego aside, and accept a sincere apology. But what happens if the person you need to let off the hook is yourself? Many of us are too self-critical and it can be really, really difficult to forgive yourself for making a mistake or hurting someone. Whether you made a few careless comments at a wedding and now you’re on the wrong end of a possible friend breakup, or you’re tired of never sticking up for yourself, it can feel downright impossible to end the self-condemnation and let those things go. You may not even understand why it’s so hard to forgive yourself for past mistakes, no matter how ready you are (or think you are) to shed the burden of carrying these guilty feelings with you. Often, “the reason why it can be challenging for some people to move into forgiveness is because it’s not just about that one event,” says Courtney Cope, a principle manager of clinical operations at online therapy platform BetterHelp. Whether the misstep is forgetting a friend’s birthday, say, or a bigger transgression like cheating on a partner, “the event triggers other negative emotions, and the person will then begin to recall all of the things they’ve done wrong,” she says. Cope adds that resorting to shame, blame, or anger when you make a mistake can all feed into the struggle to self-forgive. No matter what thoughts or feelings have you stuck, we hope the expert advice below will help you forgive yourself and move on (because you deserve it). 1 Affirm your ability to forgive yourself. If you can barely even think about what you did without quickly needing to focus on literally anything else – or if it’s sending you into a spiral of unhelpful, repetitive thoughts about the situation – that’s totally normal, Cope says. As a result, “people wrestling with self-forgiveness can feel depression, anxiety, or insomnia, and in more 76 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 extreme examples, it might culminate in self-harm or self-medicating with substances.” When whatever you did (or didn’t do) is weighing heavily on your mind, selfforgiveness might feel unachievable, which is why telling yourself you can move past this is an important step in the healing process, says Fanny Tristan, a New York City–based therapist. “Start by asking yourself, Do I believe in my ability to get better? To change and improve, while recognising that I’m flawed just like everybody else?”, Tristan recommends. Even if your
LIVE brain responds with a resounding “NO,” challenging your negative thoughts in this way can help you begin to see the possibility of forgiving yourself. 2 Treat yourself like you would a best friend. “When we’ve done something that is outside our moral comfort zone, often we start beating ourselves up about it, which doesn’t really help. So we have to practise a lot of self-compassion,” says Dr Emily Jamea. How do you actually do that? Asking what it would look like to address yourself as if you were talking to a friend can make you feel a bit better. “That question alone can help create a little bit of perspective and soften the negative feelings we may have toward ourselves,” Dr Jamea says. If you’re infamously hard on your friends (under the guise of “being honest”), this tip might not work as well for you. Instead, try looking at yourself as if you’re an innocent child or even a rambunctious puppy. The idea is to soften your heart toward your mistakes, says Dr Robert Allan, assistant professor of couple and family therapy at the University of Colorado, Denver. You should try to remember that “making mistakes is human. We’re all going to make them,” he says. Maybe you really did mess up but that doesn’t mean you’re a bad person. PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTY IMAGES 3 Write (or talk) the facts out. Often, when you do something wrong, you might feel an overwhelming rush of guilt. That can make it tempting to view the interaction through a hazy mix of self-loathing and catastrophic thinking. In these cases, it might help to write down what happened, even if it wasn’t pretty, to say it out loud to yourself (maybe in a video or voice note), or to discuss it with a non-judgemental person you trust. This can help you stop ruminating and see the situation as a learning experience. “You have to be able to say, ‘This is something that I do or this is something that I have done, and it has had an impact on me or others in ways that I don’t want it to,’” Dr Allan says, adding that if you can’t be honest with yourself about the source of your guilt, it’s harder to move forward and change your behaviour in the future. 4 Ask yourself, “What was my expectation?” Another way to spark a perspective shift: Identify the selfimposed standard that you think you failed to meet when you did (or said) the thing you regret. “What was the expectation, in your mind, of what you should have done in this situation?” Tristan asks. “Is this expectation grounded in reality, or in an idea of perfectionism, in which you’re expecting yourself to mind-read or never make mistakes?” The point of this exercise isn’t to shift blame or shake off accountability, absolving you of any need to take action to remedy the situation. What these questions can do, though, is clarify whether you’re punishing yourself to an unreasonable degree. 5 Try to make amends. 6 Try a mantra… and repeat. REMEMBER THAT FORGIVENESS IS A PROCESS Part of the reason self-forgiveness can feel so nebulous is that it often isn’t a one-time affair. It doesn’t always automatically happen after you’ve said “I’m sorry” in the mirror (or in your head). “Forgiveness is an active process, and it can require repetition,” Dr Allan says. It might take more than a mantra or quick inner chat to release the grudge you’re holding against yourself. Maybe you need to work with a therapist or other mental health professional to guide you in the self-forgiveness process. Regardless, you’ll likely need to grant yourself some patience. “Forgiveness isn’t a doorway,” Dr Allan says, “consider it something that you engage with over time.” Once you’ve looked at your situation through a more compassionate lens and reflected on what really happened (and how you feel about it), you can ask yourself how you’d like to make amends. Let’s say you’re angry at yourself for letting another week go by without cleaning your apartment. You might take a look at your calendar and figure out a realistic day to get it done. If your transgression is something like yelling at a loved one during a drunken party, you might brainstorm ways to keep yourself from drinking too much in the future. The idea isn’t to punish yourself but use your regret as an opportunity for personal growth. “An amends takes an apology one step further,” Dr Jamea says. “It’s accountability for what you did and commitment to doing differently in the future.” Cope suggests “training” your brain to let go of mistakes by saying this to yourself as often as you need to: “I did the best I could at the time with the knowledge that I had. Now, I’ll do better.” This reminder can challenge your inner critic and remind you that you’re worthy of forgiveness. Or, she adds, maybe try this four-sentence mantra popularised by therapist Dr Ihaleakala Hew Len, inspired by the traditional Hawaiian reconciliation practice of ho’oponopono (roughly translated to “make things right”): “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you.” “It’s a kind of repentance or way to acknowledge the mistake you’ve made,” Cope says. “It’s something that you can say to another person, if you’re having a reparative conversation – but you can also say it to yourself or write it in a journal, as a way to give yourself peace.” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 77
How to Keep Your Lo Distce Relaonship HEALTHY, HAPPY & HOT It does take work, but it can absolutely be worth it. WORDS BY SAMANTHA VINCENTY AS ANYONE WHO’S EVER BEEN IN ONE CAN ATTEST, making a long-distance relationship (LDR) work is challenging – yes, even if you’re super into each other. But despite what a sceptical friend, family member, or coworker may try to tell you, LDRs can last (thrive, even!) when the people involved are excited about being together and willing to put in the effort required. The core ingredients of a healthy long-distance relationship are the same as in-person relationships, says Dr Rachel Hoffman, a therapist and the chief clinical officer at 78 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 mental health support platform Real. “You still need the same foundational pillars: trust, communication, and commitment,” Dr Hoffman says. “The challenge is, you need them tenfold in a long-distance relationship.” When you first start dating someone who you can see and touch any time you want, a natural rhythm of date nights, sex frequency, and leisurely Saturday morning rituals often develops organically; from there, things either evolve into something more serious, or they don’t. “We typically do a lot of relationship building unintentionally,”
LIVE Make a pl y both feel good abt “Your levels of uncertainty and insecurity can rise when you don’t have your person next to you on a daily or weekly basis,” Dr Hoffman says. Without the constant reassurance you get from regular in-person intimacy – hugs, hangouts, sex, etc. – it’s harder to build trust and feel secure in your relationship. To feel more connected to your partner from afar, Dr Hoffman recommends “making a plan and getting very clear on the schedule and the habits of your relationship.” It might take some compromise to agree on these LDR plans, but once you’ve started to put them into practice, Dr Hoffman recommends a regular state-of-the-union conversation (once a month, say) to talk about which habits need tweaking. Maybe trying to squeeze in pre-work Skype chats is more stressful than you anticipated, or the phone sex is getting a little boring. This is an ongoing, collaborative process, Dr Hoffman says. Discussing how you’re each feeling about your communication habits, sex life, and IRL plans can keep you feeling close, despite the physical distance. Discuss yr endge, too says Moraya Seeger DeGeare, in-house relationships expert for couples app Paired. “But with long distance, every single action is very much a choice.” Maybe you’re hoping to take your relationship from LDR to IRL romance within a year. Or perhaps you or your partner has to temporarily relocate for a new job, and you’re determined to make it work. No matter your circumstances, these expert long-distance relationship tips will help you navigate this tricky new frontier with clear eyes and an open heart. Does every successful long-distance relationship end with one half of the couple deciding to move for love? Not necessarily; both DeGeare and Dr Hoffman have clients in LDRs who are happy to dwell in separate cities with no defined end point. While DeGeare believes that couples do need a certain amount of time and shared experience together to maintain the emotional connection and keep a relationship going strong, “that amount can vary depending on what season of life you’re in,” she says. That said, expecting to wind up reunited for good is far more common, particularly if having kids someday is among your goals. If your relationship is just a few months old or you’re even starting off as long distance, it may feel too soon to ask the other person to commit to an in-person life together down the line. The point isn’t to pressure anyone into a set-instone plan, but to gauge whether you’re generally on the same page. You might ask your long-distance partner something like, “If this goes well, do you hope we’ll make a life together in the same place one day?” “It just can’t be a situation in which one person assumes you’ll end up living together while the other person thinks living separate lives is ideal,” Dr Hoffman says. It’s also possible that one of you will change your mind down the road. In a healthy long-distance relationship, Dr Hoffman adds, you’ll feel comfortable telling your partner if your desired endgame changes over time. That way you can revisit the plans you’d discussed previously and decide together if you’re both still game for this vision of the future. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 79
LIVE LONG-DISTANCE BUT LIKE-MINDED Here’s a starter list of questions Hoffman and DeGeare recommend for getting on the same page at the outset: ĺ ,4,#1"+4&))4"1)(ī ĺ,6,2-/"#"/-%,+",/3&!", ))0ī ĺ%1!,6,2&*$&+",2/0"5)&#"4&)) ),,()&("ī ĺ/"6,2,-"+1,-%,+"0"5,/0"51&+$ī ĺ ,4,#1"+ +4"##,/!1,0""" % ,1%"/&+-"/0,+ī ĺ%,4&))"3&0&1&+$4%,ī ĺ #4"Ņ/"&+!&##"/"+11&*"7,+"0ń4&))4" 1)(4%"+ Ņ*%"!"!1,4,/(+!6,2Ņ/" $,&+$1,"!ī ĺ&))4"1)(,+1%"-%,+"&+1%"*,/+&+$ ,/0"+!$,,!*,/+&+$1"510&+01"!ī ĺ ,4.2& ()6 + /")&01& ))6"5-" 16,2 1,/"0-,+!1,*"00$"0ī “Does ery successful lg-stce relaonship end wh e half of the cple decing to mo for lo? Not cessy” Voice yr jealousy d insecuries You and your significant other’s schedules have felt impossible lately – you can’t even remember your last great late-night talk. Meanwhile, they keep going on about Rory, their awesome research partner who gets to eat lunch with them in person and looks hot in the tagged social media photos you just found. AND Rory plays the drums?! You’re officially spiralling. The problem is not Rory, Dr Hoffman says, but a lack of trust and security in your relationship. The solution is to share those feelings as soon and as clearly as possible: I feel jealous of Rory. “By looping your partner in, it doesn’t turn into, ‘I’m not going to text them for the next 48 hours because I want them to feel what I’m feeling,’ or, ‘I’m gonna find my own Rory,’” Dr Hoffman says. “When things play out in these passive-aggressive ways, long distance becomes problematic quickly – because you don’t have the ability to say, ‘Let’s talk this over face-to-face.’” Sharing your feelings, instead of bottling them up and developing your own bad-faith narratives about what might be going on, can head off unnecessary arguments. “When people don’t find a way to communicate that they’re feeling insecure, they tend to blame their partner instead,” Dr Hoffman says. “It becomes, ‘You’re avoiding me,’ or ‘You’re not answering my calls,’ instead of 80 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 identifying what the real issue is.” It’s your partner’s job to help you figure out what will make you feel reassured (up to a reasonable point). “One of the most important questions in any relationship is, ‘When I need you, are you able to respond in a way that says you understand me, that you care about me?’” DeGeare says. You might require deeper conversations or more sexual connection going forward in order to feel secure, for example. Words of affirmation from your partner, such as “you’re the only one that I want to be with,” can help, says DeGeare, who also suggests repeating mantras to yourself that reinforce those feelings of trust and security (“We’re in this relationship because we want to be”). Make sure you’re not over cpromising Sacrificing your own needs can happen in any relationship, but Dr Hoffman sees this play out much faster with long-distance
LIVE D’t stay just use y made that aforemened pl When one of you has crossed agreed-upon boundaries – cheating, not talking to the other for days on end – that’s obviously a sign that things aren’t working. But DeGeare says she’s seen many LDRs meet a quieter death that both partners are reluctant to acknowledge. “It’s very easy to drag out a longdistance relationship, especially if you’re not fighting,” she says. Letting a stagnant relationship continue happens within in-person relationships, too. But in DeGeare’s experience, it’s much easier to do when you’re not in each other’s faces every day, and you may not have realised how easy it’s become to put the other person out of mind when you’re not on the phone together. You may still enjoy the abstract idea that you’ve got someone waiting at the end of this long-distance period – but do you still actively want that, and with this person? “It’s tempting to avoid a heartbreak and just power through because you’ve got a vacation in Mexico planned,” says DeGeare, who recommends periodically evaluating whether you’re still all-in. Similar to Dr Hoffman’s state-of-the-union recommendation, DeGeare says it’s a good idea to regularly check in with yourself about how your relationship makes you feel – like in a journal entry or during a long walk. PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTYIMAGES Try to enjoy the ride couples because people are eager to agree to whatever it might take to make it work. “You’ll start to say stuff like, ‘I said I needed to talk before bed – but it’s okay that they don’t call me back at night,’” she says. Again, the ability to compromise is a relationship green flag, but there’s a difference between meeting the other person halfway and giving up on the things you value entirely. Ceding your needs little by little can bring on anxiety symptoms like insomnia, tightness in your chest, and intrusive thoughts, Dr Hoffman says. Left unaddressed, she adds, this anxiety can spur an insatiable need for reassurance that no affirmation or amount of phone calls will satisfy, which in turn leads to tension and arguments. If you find that the compromises you’ve made have slowly led you to feel physical symptoms of anxiety, or you simply feel more bad feelings than good ones when you’re talking with your significant other or thinking about your relationship, you may need to consider breaking up. There’s no shame in saying, “I love you, but a long-distance relationship isn’t working for me,” DeGeare says. Figuring out how to be there for each other on a consistent basis when you’re in different cities, time zones, or even countries demands planning, vulnerability, and no small amount of faith. But that doesn’t mean it has to be a slog. Longdistance love comes with lots of opportunities to get to know each other better through late-night conversations that wind into the wee hours as your phone gets hot on your ear. You can cultivate a deep curiosity for the other person’s life as they send you pictures of the people and places they love. And, as you support each other while you pursue goals on separate paths that’ll one day (hopefully) converge, your love may grow even deeper. “You might create such a secure base that, ten years down the road, you’ll say to each other, ‘We didn’t just make it through; we learned how to communicate in a way that might have taken a couple years in person – and we chose to do it. I love us for that,’” DeGeare says. DeGeare knows firsthand that a long-distance relationship can “end” well: like me, she was in an LDR that ultimately turned into a marriage and, today, a happy family. If you and your partner are able to talk through the rough patches – when it’s been too long since the last visit, when you haven’t quite hammered out where you’ll both end up – I’ll be the first to tell you that a successful long-distance relationship isn’t just possible; it’s worth it. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 81
Is it okay to work out at night, or does it affect your sleep? Here’s what you should know if you prefer to exercise before bed. WORDS BY ASHLEY MATEO IF YOU’VE BEEN STRUGGLING TO DRIFT OFF, you’ve probably tried all sorts of strategies to fall asleep faster; put your phone away at a decent hour, make your bedroom relaxing, and stop exercising before bed. Does working out at night really mess with your sleep? It’s a valid question if you don’t have tons of free time to exercise during the day; for a lot of people, evenings may be the only option to squeeze in a session. But many folks are reluctant to sweat before they sleep because they think a workout might make it hard to wind down. Rest assured; a 2019 review published in the journal Sports Medicine concluded that the science does not support the idea that exercise before bed revs you up – “rather the opposite,” the researchers wrote. A separate 2022 review published in Nature and Science of Sleep supported that statement and added that some moderate-intensity evening routines helped people sleep better. There’s no “magic hour” for fitness, and “working out at night is better than no exercise at all,” says Thom Manning, a sleep and recovery coach with the fitness app Future. That said, some routines – mainly, super intense exercise done very close to bedtime – can make getting quality sleep a little trickier. Here’s what you should know. YES, CERTAIN NIGHTTIME WORKOUTS CAN HINDER YOUR SLEEP Doing intense workouts – say, Peloton’s latest HIIT cycling class or a sprint-heavy running session – too close to bedtime (within an hour or so) can mess with your body’s thermoregulation, a process that’s key to good sleep because it affects your core temperature, says Dr 82 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
LIVE bands, says Ellen Thompson, a NASM-certified personal trainer at Blink Fitness. Yoga in particular can be super helpful before bed; it’s been shown to improve sleep quality by reducing the number of times people woke up at night, according to 2022 research published in BMC Psychiatry. But you don’t have to reserve more vigorous exercise (which ranks at a 7 to 8 effort level out of 10) for the daytime if you don’t want to. Doing high-intensity exercise two to four hours before bed is unlikely to disrupt your sleep, according to a 2021 study published in Sleep Medicine Review. That means if you have a later bedtime, you may be able to squeeze in a HIIT routine after work and still have enough time to get your body back to baseline before you start to wind down for bed. If you are going to do a harder routine in the evening, pay attention to how you structure your session, too. “Starting [your workout] with more intense or challenging exercises will stimulate your body and increase your heart rate,” Thompson says. For instance, if you’re strength training, you may want to do your plyometric exercises or compound lifts before less strenuous ones. Then you can transition into a movement that’s more chill, such as easy aerobic activity, to gradually bring your heart rate down, before going into a cooldown. Regardless of which kind of activity you choose, “you should strive to finish any kind of workout at least one to two hours before bed,” says Dr Kilkenny. “There’s no ‘mic hr’ f fss - w t at night is er th no exercise at all” Thomas Kilkenny, the director of Staten Island University Hospital’s Institute of Sleep Medicine. “The brain falls asleep better on a decreasing temperature curve,” he explains. That drop in body temperature naturally starts about two hours before you doze off. So if you raise your internal temperature through vigorous physical activity – whether you were lifting heavy or doing cardio – without giving yourself enough cooldown time, your sleep quality may suffer. Doing these high-intensity workouts before bed also may make it harder to fall asleep to begin with, likely because they increase your heart rate, as a small 2014 study in the European Journal of Applied Physiology suggests. The effects of intense exercise continue even after you nod off, too. Bouts of hard exercise before bed can lead to less REM sleep, a stage that’s crucial for processing emotions, memory consolidation, brain development, and more. PHOTOGRAPHY: UNSPLASH SO… WHAT’S THE BEST TYPE OF WORKOUT TO DO AT NIGHT? You don’t have to stop exercising before bed if that’s the time that works best with your schedule. You may just need to tweak your workouts if you’re not sleeping well after them. Based on the research we have, Dr Kilkenny recommends trying moderateintensity exercise if you prefer to work out at night. According to the 2022 review in Nature and Science of Sleep, this type of activity may support more restorative sleep – which is important for the repair and regeneration of tissues throughout your body. A moderately intense workout has you breathing a bit hard, though you’d still likely be able to talk during it – think about a 5 to 6 on an effort scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being absolute, all-out exertion. This can look like brisk walking, easy cycling, Pilates, yoga, or resistance training with WHAT YOU DO BEFORE AND AFTER YOUR NIGHTTIME WORKOUT MATTERS, TOO. A good night’s sleep isn’t just about what you do before your eyes get heavy. Practising solid sleep hygiene all day will make a huge difference in the quality of rest you get. Some tried-and-true recs include seeking bright daylight early in the morning, cutting down on caffeine at least eight hours before sleep, sticking to consistent bedtime and wake-up times, dimming bright lights at night, and creating a relaxing environment (i.e., cool temps, little light and noise, comfortable bedding, and calming scents). Even if you need to wait until evening for your actual workout, taking a walk or two throughout the day can be beneficial. The more steps you walk in a day, the higher your quality of sleep may be, a 2019 study published in Sleep Health suggests. Of course, managing stress earlier in the day is also key. “Activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and spending time in nature help calm your mind and prepare you for better sleep later on,” Thompson says. As for what to do after your workout: It’s important to “turn down” that state of physiological excitement you just induced via movement, Manning says. That means you absolutely should not skip your post-workout cooldown. “A quality, effective cooldown is essential to transition the body into a state where we can achieve quality sleep,” he says. Your post-workout shower can make a big difference too. A warm one actually helps your body cool down because it stimulates your blood vessels to open. “[This] allows more blood to be pumped to the superficial tissues of the body [like your skin], which releases a lot of internal heat, thus lowering our internal temperature,” Manning says. Again, it’s that drop in body temperature that helps promote solid sleep. Remember, the best time of day to work out is whatever time you can get it done. If that happens to be at night, just make sure you’re planning ahead to set yourself up for successful shut-eye as soon as you crush those last few reps. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 83
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LIVE TA P I N T O YO U R Do you lead with your masculine energy and find yourself low-key wondering how it would feel to take a step back and lean into your feminine energy? Wellness Coach, Melisa Lainn affirms that not only is it possible, but there are also benefits to pulling from both energies. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO FIRST, WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE LAW OF POLARITY, that everything has both masculine and feminine energy within it, regardless of sex or orientation, asserts Melissa. “Nature requires both masculine and feminine energies in equal amounts to thrive. Our world, and our feeling of fulfilment, require us to pull from both energies in any given situation,” she says. Further noting that we have the potential for the full spectrum of energies to manifest; both light and shadow, wanted and unwanted, creative or destructive, think of the yin & yang symbol. Glamour: How would you define feminine energy? Melissa: Personally, I would describe the feminine principle as the spark that brings life. It often manifests as (but is not limited to) the cycles and rhythms, nurturing, creativity, intuition, compassion, and the knowing of the interconnectedness of all things. I have found feminine energy is not passive but dynamic and life-giving. Feminine energy tends to have a dynamic nature, being both gentle and fierce, tapping into their instinct and also allowing life to flow. I think this dynamic nature of the feminine principle tends to confuse most of us, as we forget that it’s the reason many traditions associate the Moon with the feminine principle, due to its natural rhythms and cycles. Feminine energy, in the context of holistic wellness, represents qualities such as nurturing, intuition, empathy, creativity, and receptivity. It’s about being in tune with all of your emotions, embracing vulnerability, and fostering deep and real connections. This energy is not exclusive to women; it exists in all individuals regardless of gender identity. G: How do I tap into it? M: Tapping into feminine energy is natural for all of us, we do it many times throughout the day but just lack awareness. Firstly, be aware of the differences between the two energies then start cultivating self-awareness and allowing yourself to be in touch with the more feminine aspects such as your creativity, your natural rhythms, your emotions, your intuition, your inner world, and receptivity. Begin to allow yourself to include fewer “doing” activities and more “being” activities such as mindfulness, meditation, spending time in nature, creating for the sake of play or having fun, dancing, “Feminine energy is abt being in tune wh yr emoons, embracing vulneraby d fostering deep connecs” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 85
LIVE mindful eating, spending time in or around water, daydreaming and future visioning, etc. Spending time in nature can also aid in connecting with your feminine essence. One of my favorite ways to tap into my feminine essence is by being aware of my body. Is my body stiff or relaxed, are my muscles pulled tight, making me stiff, or are they relaxed and soft? Is my body language open and receptive or guarded and closed off ? Is my brow furrowed and tense, or am I relaxed, trusting, allowing? G: How do I know when I’m in my feminine energy? M: You know you’re in your feminine energy when you feel a sense of flow, ease, and openness. Your actions are guided by intuition and compassion, and you are receptive to both your emotions and the emotions of others. You may also find yourself engaging in activities that allow you to express your creativity freely. You embrace diversity and are aware of the oneness of all things. G: Is it possible for alpha females to lean into their feminine energy? What does this look like? M: Absolutely! But I will start off by saying that the concept of alpha females is not necessary anymore. Females have a wide array of energy to tap into and it’s simply someone in a leadership position. Embracing feminine energy doesn’t mean compromising strength or ambition. For women who are in what used to be deemed more “masculine” roles such as leadership, high-powered, etc. it involves finding a balance between assertiveness and receptivity. It’s about understanding that creativity, vulnerability, and empathy are powerful tools in leadership. Embracing feminine energy allows all women to create more meaningful connections, allow for diversity, foster creativity, understand the rhythms and cycles of life, and lead with compassion. G: From a relationship perspective, with regard to “alpha females” who struggle with beta male energy. Would you recommend avoiding this dynamic altogether or is there a way around it? M: As for the notion of Alpha females struggling with Beta male energy, it’s important not to limit individuals based on such terms. When it comes to attraction and a spark, we need tension and we need opposing masculine and feminine energies, no matter what the gender identity is. When two people have different sexual energies, like one being more masculine and the other more feminine, it can create a strong attraction 86 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 between them. It’s not just about physical attraction; there’s something deeper here! This contrast in energies allows for a beautiful dance of connection and a strong bond. Embracing this unique polarity can bring a special spark to the relationship, making it more fulfilling and harmonious for both partners. So, celebrating the differences in energies can truly ignite the passion and intimacy in a relationship! But it is up to the individual to decide what is the foundation of their relationship dynamic and what works for them. In my opinion, there is no right or wrong, simply what brings two people the most healing and harmony. G: What are the benefits of leading with feminine energy? M: Leading with feminine energy can bring a sense of harmony and understanding in relationships, be it personal or professional. It fosters better communication, and emotional intelligence, and promotes a more nurturing and inclusive environment. By incorporating more feminine energy, individuals can experience greater creativity, tap into ‘flow state’ more often, reduce stress and tension due to rigid demands and improve overall well-being. Knowing when each energy is needed is key! G: What are the factors that make it difficult for some women to tap into their feminine energy? M: Social conditioning, cultural expectations, and traditional gender roles can make it challenging for some women to connect with their feminine energy. Pressure to adopt more masculine traits in certain environments to ensure their own
LIVE safety, success, and progress can lead to a disconnection from one’s authentic self. Additionally, past experiences of trauma or emotional pain might create barriers to embracing vulnerability. Personally, I had to adopt a more masculine role from a young age, growing up without a father in the home. I wasn’t taught the strength and creative power that lies within the feminine and believed that being stronger and looking after myself meant being hard, rigid, and frankly more masculine. I now understand that I needed both, and that both are beautiful and welcome to exist within me. G: Is it possible to lead with both the masculine and feminine? M: Absolutely! True holistic wellness comes from embracing both energies within ourselves. It’s not about choosing one over the other but integrating both in a balanced way. By acknowledging and honouring both aspects, we become more whole and authentic in our approach to life. G: Please list some practical ways ILLUSTRATIONS: ADOBE STOCK to help women tap into their feminine energy? M: It’s fantastic to discover what helps you as an individual activate (remember it’s already within you) your feminine energy, but some of my personal favourite activations are: ƀLJ ,.#-LJ &#%LJ '#..#)(ŻLJ *LJ belly breathing, or yoga to foster selfawareness, and a deeper connection to your body (because that’s where your emotions and intuition communicate with you) and let old, stuck energies and emotions flow from your body. ƀLJ ,.#0LJ 2*,--#)(LJ #-LJ %3ƂLJ 2*&),LJ making art, singing, dancing, and moving your body in joyful ways, journaling or creative writing, and doing all of this for fun, play, and simply because you’re a creator. No goal or bigger purpose is required, just create! ƀLJ*(#(!LJ.#'LJ#(LJ(./,ŻLJ-*#&&3LJ#(LJ or near water to ground yourself and feel a deeper connection to the world around you is so powerful. Nature embraces diversity, yet is very aware of the oneness that is everything in existence, Nature flows, follows rhythms and cycles, and takes great care of all the creatures. She is still the shining example of the feminine. ƀLJ,ŻLJ*&3źLJ .LJ#-LJ-)LJ-3LJ.)LJ &&LJ#(.)LJ."LJ trap of “me, myself, and I” but allowing yourself to care deeply about things, other people, nature, life, and the planet and then allowing that energy to flow out from you is a great way to activate your feminine energy. ƀLJ #0źLJ "LJ '#(#(LJ #-LJ ,*.#0źLJ Feminine energy is open to receive the good life has to offer, help from others, love from their partners, etc. So much of the time we live as givers alone, the feminine energy within all of us allows energy in so that we can fill up with what we need to be able to give again. It’s a beautiful synergy, like breathing. Learn how to allow yourself to receive and watch how your world shifts through this feminine principle.. G: What situations require a more masculine approach? Do you recommend this? M: That will absolutely depend on MELISSA’S TOP 5 TIP S FOR TAPPING INTO YOUR FEMININE ENERGY ĺ*/ "32)+"/&)&16Ļ 1&0-,4"/#2) 1,)"/+%,41,)),46,2/0")#1," ,-"++!21%"+1& 4&1%6,2/#2)) /+$",#"*,1&,+0+!1%"+"51"+! 1%14&0!,*1,,1%"/0Ņ#"")&+$0ń1,,Ļʢ ĺ/ 1& "0")#ķ ,*-00&,+Ļ"$"+1)" +!(&+!4&1%6,2/0")#Ļ,01,#,2/ 0")#ķ'2!$*"+1 ,*"0#/,*4+1&+$ 1,"ń!,ń+!%3"*,/"&+01"!,# )),4&+$+!"*/ &+$1%"%"/"+! +,4ń4%& %&0*,/"#"*&+&+"Ļʢ ĺ2)1&31" /"1&3&16Ļ 10,*"1&*"0 #"")001%,2$%,2/0, &"16%0 !&0 ,++" 1"!#/,* /"1&3&162+)"00 4" +0"))&1ń,/*("*,+"6#/,* &1Ļ+$$"&+ /"1&3" 1&3&1&"01, 1&31"1%"#"*&+&+""5-/"00&,+ *,/"Ļ,2/&++"/ %&)!4&))1%+(6,2Ļʢ ĺ ,+,2/6,2/&+12&1&,+Ļ"/+$&+ %,41,1/2016,2/&++"/$2&!+ " +!1-&+1,6,2/&+01&+ 10Ļ 1Ņ06,2/ &+1"/+)+3&$1&,+0601"*+! 40$&3"+1,%")-6,2+3&$1"1%&0 %))"+$&+$',2/+"6Ļ ĺ""()+ ""14""+1%""+"/$&"0Ļ */ ",1%*0 2)&+"+!#"*&+&+" "+"/$&"01,%3"&$$"/"5-"/&"+ " ,#)&#"ń1,"+',61%""+"#&10,# ,1%ń+!1,")"1,)+ " 6,2/0")#,214%"+6,2+,1& "1%1 6,2Ņ/"!"-"+!&+$,+,+"1,,*2 %Ļ "*"*"/ń6,2)460%3"1%" -,4"/1, %,,0"$&+Ļʢ the individual and how you choose to show up in the world. But, you may want to be aware that if you’re consistently struggling with things like executing your goals and dreams, getting and staying motivated in tasks, making decisions, not having a stable relationship with money, not being able to set and keep boundaries; or you become completely overcome with the emotions of others, you might need to tap into your masculine energy more. It’s also worth noting that if you believe you’re wired a certain way because of your gender, Melissa asserts that masculine and feminine energies are not limited to gender. “Embracing both energies allows us to experience greater wholeness and spiritual growth. The key is to find harmony and balance within ourselves and our interactions with others, so there is no ‘right way’ to go about activating your feminine or masculine energy, it’s an individual and unique journey and should be seen as such,” she concludes. Women Who Run With The WolvesLj 3Lj &,#--LJ #(%)&LJ -.-LJ #-LJ LJ /- /&LJ ,-)/,źLJ Melissa recommends it as a captivating and empowering book that draws on myth, fairy tales, and cultural stories to explore the innate wildness and instinctual nature of women in its most authentic and unbridled form. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 87
LIVE Trends, memes, and feel-good content we’re loving TIKTOK IS FLOODED with people sharing ‘beige flags’ – weird, yet slightly cute and wholesome habits about ourselves, partners or loved ones we can’t help but laugh at. Here are some of our favourites. @EMMAGERARD “My boyfriend’s beige flag is that he can remember every single detail from every single thing that’s ever happened but can’t remember something I told him four times because he has ‘memory issues’.” @CAT.ELIZABETH “My boyfriend’s beige flag is that he gets impatient at restaurants and helps the waitress bring the plates to our table.” “My best friend’s beige fl is that her favre ac is gng home.” @THELIFEOFANNAANDMICHAEL “My fiancé’s beige flag is that she’s never at 100% health. She’s either got a slight headache, is kind of tired, has a little tickle in her throat, feels a bit nauseous, or has a random pain somewhere on her body for no apparent reason.” 88 @ZOEFRIED_ “My boyfriend’s beige flag is that he gets impatient at restaurants and helps the waitress bring the plates to our table.” GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 “My best friend’s beige flag is that her favourite activity is going home. She invited me to the bar? Oh look, she’s going home. It’s 2 hours into a sleepover? Nah, she needs her own bed, time to go home. It’s almost midnight on New Year’s? See ya! She’s going home.” ILLUSTRATION: GALLO/GETTY IMAGES @BROWNHAIREDBADDY
THE PALERMO IS BACK IN FRESH, FRUITY COLOURS. As a tribute to the shoe’s Sicilian namesake, the latest styles feature vibrant colourways inspired by the iconic scenery of the coastal capital of the island of Sicily. The Palermo was originally part of a special series of sneakers created by PUMA that paid homage to some of Europe’s most famous cities, including London and Oslo. This kick made its debut in football stadiums in the 80s, where it was a staple among the terrace crowd. Today, this icon of football culture makes its return to the streetwear world, complete with its signature tag on the upper, a T-toe construction, and a classic terrace gum sole. Part of PUMA’s storied history, to this day, the Palermo’s unmistakable DNA evokes a deep sense of football nostalgia. After being teased by PUMA collaborator and ambassador Dua Lipa earlier this year, the Palermo OG made an official return in the original navy and white colourway with PUMA lettering in gold. This was followed by the drop of two new PUMA Palermo colourways of Light Mint – Orchid Shadow – Gum and Silver Sky – Cayenne Pepper – Gum. Keep an eye out for further Palermo drops taking place in November! PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED The classic is back! Priced at R1 899 each, the PUMA Palermo is available from PUMA.com and PUMA retail stores.
What’s NEW ONLINE Why we could all be wearing seaweed one day This month on GLAMOUR.co.za Accessories: The bigger the better The benefits of cold-water immersion and why you should try it Six colour trends that will change the way you dress Subscri to the digital edition of Glamour for your daily fix of fashion, beauty trends and topical women’s issues FOLLOW US ON glamour_sa How to grow hair faster naturally, according to top trichologists GlamourSouthAfrica glamour_sa glamoursouthafrica
ILLUSTRATION: ADOBE STOCK E L E VAT I N G T H E C O N V E R S AT I O N The future of aviation - local air travel is taking off. P104 What makes the perfect cake? We open the oven door. P106 Demystifying the complex world of Artificial Intelligence. P100 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 91
THINK IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR AGAIN, where we’re set to host our annual GLAMOUR Women of the Year Awards (WOTY). This prestigious event is known for celebrating women who are leaders in their chosen fields. These are people who inspire us, who are steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, and are unafraid to awaken to their full potential. Last year, after a two-year hiatus, WOTY returned for a very special Game Changer’s Edition. This edition honoured pioneers, trendsetters and innovators, and focused on women who are pushing boundaries and rewriting the narrative for the next generation. In partnership with Tresemmé as a headline sponsor, the awards spanned across 12 categories, including an all new Next Gen Game-changer award - representing our everchanging social landscape and the power of digital storytelling. Some of our winners included Shudu Musida as our Mental Health Game-changer, Thuso Mbedu as our Game-changing Actress, and DBN Gogo as our Game-changer in Music. In honour of this year’s event, here’s a look back at our winners from WOTY 2022. 92 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
THINK OPPOSITE PAGE Game-changing Entrepreneur Siba Mtongana; Game-changing Actress Thuso Mbedu; Gamechanger in Music DBN Gogo; International Game-changer Peace Hyde; Sustainability Game-changer Jackie May; Beauty Game-changer Dr Vanessa Lapiner THIS PAGE Next Gen Game-changer Rabia Ghoor; Mental Health Game-changer Shudufhadzo Musida; Icon Award Anele Mdoda; Sports Gamechanger Janine van Wyk; Tech Game-changer Tashline Jooste; Fashion Game-changer Yoliswa Mqoco A LOOK BACK AT 2022 Reminiscing on our special Game Changers Edition honouring women who are shifting the narrative for generations to come. WORDS BY FARAH KHALFE
Situated in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa, the tropical island lends itself to both exploration and leisure. From breathtaking views to scenic destinations, Mauritius is a gift that keeps on giving. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO Gersly WHEN I TEXTED THE WORDS “I’m just finna be on an island sipping on cocktails” to a friend on a chilly winter’s morning in the Mother City, little did I know that the universe was listening. Just a week into Spring, I’m boarding an Air Mauritius flight, looking forward to exchanging the cold weather for warmer climate in Paradise. It’s hard to contain my excitement as I wonder whether it looks as enticing in real life as it does in the images I’ve seen on the internet. I also imagine myself in a bikini, living without a care in the world. The screen in front of me shows our exact location and three hours into our flight, we’re 4 000 feet above sea level; I’m in awe… My dream of chasing sunsets with sundowners in hand is fast becoming a reality when a cabin crew member announces that we’ll be landing in Mauritius at 19h35. We touch down on cue at Sir Seewoosagar Ramgoolan International Airport, just 48km of the south-east of the capital city, Port Louis. We disembark, make our way to baggage reclaim, and navigate through the massive airport. The atmosphere is electric as Mauritian fans have come out in numbers in support of their football team after participating in the 2023 Men’s Indian Ocean Island Games Football Tournament. The cheers become more audible as we 94 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 ABOVE Cocktail at Avec Amour, Le Méridien RIGHT Perfect bikini weather on the Indian Ocean BELOW Kayaking at Le Méridien
THINK ABOVE Le Méridien Barbecue Soiree LEFT Azure seas and coral reefs surround the JW Marriott Mauritius Resort desert seals the dinner with a chef’s kiss! We share a toast and reluctantly call it a night. Just when I thought Mauritius couldn’t get any sweeter, I step into a sanctuary fit for a queen. The room is an extension of the thoughtfully designed exterior, and the colour palette makes the space feel even more comfortable. I particularly love the neutral creams and whites with pops of blue. And the fluffy carpets are a love letter to my feet after a day of travelling. Within minutes, I doze off peacefully to the soothing sound of waves. My alarm plunges me into the day prematurely, considering we’re two hours ahead of SA time. I’m tempted to hit the snooze button but I grudgingly get out of bed, and take in my surroundings. The breathtaking view of the glistening Indian Ocean wins me over and any ideas of going back to bed are replaced with an eagerness to lean into the day. Suddenly I’m filled with gratitude when I realise that I’ll be present for my first Mauritian sunrise. The picture I had envisioned starts to take shape, so I move closer to the ocean with my phone in hand to capture the moment. A memory I plan to revisit whenever I need to locate joy in the moment. I lose track of time as I try to find the perfect shot to share with our almost 100k Instagram followers. I start to wonder if it’s at all possible to capture the essence of this magical island. It’s a call from our host for the trip, SA’s representative on behalf of Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Hermina Sennelo that gives me perspective…you have to experience it! So I dive right in… “Just when I thought Maurius cldn’t get y sweeter, I step into a nctuary f f a queen.” approach the crowd to get to our shuttle. We exchange glances as if to say, “what an epic welcome!” An industry colleague on the media trip asks if I’m taking a video, I nod. Our driver welcomes us warmly, and in just a few minutes we embark on a two-hour scenic drive to Le Meridian Le Maurice. We finally arrive at the perfectly located five–star luxury resort, set against the shore of the Indian Ocean. It’s night time, so we only get a glimpse of paradise as we drive in. Our hosts receive us warmly, and the friendly staff offer to carry our bags to our rooms while we check in. The live performance sets the tone for a magical stay. Shortly after, we’re treated to a three-course meal at Le Meridian; our first experience of the “Generously Mauritius” promise that runs through the DNA of the Marriott International offerings. The passion for hospitality can also be seen in the generous meal portions, which become a regular talking point during our stay. We’re blown away, not only by the gourmet experience but by the colourful nature of the people. Our waiter remains in sight to keep our glasses full as a we get acquainted over the scrumptious meal. The ambience is enchanting, the conversation’s flowing, and the A snapshot of r Mauri adnture Day 1: We drove to Bain de Rosnay and enjoyed a Sea Kayaking experience at Ile d’Ambres. Tackling the kayaking adventure in pairs, my partner Andrew Thomspon and I took turns to keep the boat afloat as we covered a long/significant distance; it was a fun and memorable experience. A 45 minute drive to Le Château de Labourdonnais allowed us to revel in the experience and dig into to a three-course meal at the Château de Labourdonnais. We transferred back to Le Meridian, kicked back with sundowners in hand and watched the sun set resort before dressing up for a wholesome dinner. Day 2: Our day started with breakfast at hotel Le Meridien before checking out. The excursion, which was steeped in history OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 95
included a visit to the Interpretation Centre and a walking tour of Port Louis and the market before heading to lunch at Eureka Restaurant. We later transferred to the JW Marriott Mauritius Resort; a five-star luxury haven surrounded by protected coral reefs and lush vegetation. Situated on the south-western side of the island, it’s set against the backdrop of the majestic, unspoilt Le Morne Brabant - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known locally as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. We were treated to a sea food-inspired five-course dinner, which was definitely one of the trip’s highlights. Day 3: We welcomed the day with breakfast at JW Mariott before embarking on a site visit to Le Morne Heritage. A scenic drive led us to Chamarel La Terre Couleurs and we immersed ourselves in nature at the Waterfall + Geo Park. Here we spotted turtles and marvelled at the waterfall before making our way to La Rhumerie de Chamarel. We had the opportunity to taste Rhum during the guided tour and lunch was served at the lush location before transferring back to the resort for some leisure time before dinner. Day 4: We started our day with a buffet breakfast and mimosas before transferring to La Balaise Marina where we spent the day aboard the JPH Catamaran on the west coast of the Island. We enjoyed sundowners before heading back to the resort for a scrumptious three-course dinner. Day 5: We were served breakfast in our rooms before checking out at 06h30 Mauritian time. Did I mention that the five-star luxury hotel offers a butler service and we were ferried to and from our rooms to the restaurant for the duration of our stay? The Maurituian adventure is definitely one for the books. Beyond sipping cocktails in Bikinis (which I absolutely loved) you’ll be pleased to discover that there’s more to this majestic gem…here’s to uncovering the layers and chasing sunsets in Mauritius! 96 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 ABOVE Exclusive spoils at Le Méridien LEFT After lunch at La Rhumerie de Chamarel RIGHT Papaya Bar, Le Méridien
THINK PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED ABOVE Air Mauritius LEFT Sunset JW Marriott Mauritius Resort FAR LEFT Grand Beachfront Villa Suite JW Marriott Mauritius Resort ABOUT AIR MAURITIUS Air Mauritius was incorporated on 14 June 1967, a few months before Mauritius gained independence. Over more than 50 years, Air Mauritius has fully played its role as the national airline of Mauritius, providing air connectivity that has been crucial for the Republic’s development. However, in April 2020, travel restrictions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic culminated in the closure of borders in all its markets and the cessation of all international and domestic flights. This led to a complete erosion of the company’s revenue base with the uncertainty as to when international air traffic would pick up. In these circumstances, the company was not esteemed to be in a position to meet its financial obligations in the foreseeable future. The board, therefore, took the decision to place the company under voluntary administration in order to safeguard its interests and those of its stakeholders. Air Mauritius exited voluntary administration on 01 October 2021 with the support of the Government of Mauritius which injected MUR 12 billion (USD 280 million) into the airline through its parent company Airport Holdings Ltd. Air Mauritius has come a long way over the last 50 years as the national airline from its humble beginning with the Piper Navajo to the latest generation aircraft, the Airbus A350-900 XWB and the A330-900neo. Today, the Air Mauritius serves points in Europe, India, Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands and other points in Asia and Australia. Over the last half-century, the airline has forged its reputation as a true national ‘icon’ connecting with the people of Mauritius as a symbol of pride and flying the Mauritian flag in leading airports of the world. Air Mauritius operates from its base at SSR International Airport in Mauritius. SSR International Airport was designated Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport 2021 for the third year in a row by the World Travel Awards. Air Mauritius Communications and Corporate Affairs – March 2023 The Red-tailed tropic bird Phaeton Rubricauda, commonly known as the Paille-en-Queue, inspired the Air Mauritius logo. It is a large seabird with long red tail streamers and a red bill. The Phaeton Rubricauda is commonly seen on the northern islets of Mauritius and in other parts of the Mascarenes, where it nests in undisturbed cliffs. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 97
THINK WOMEN IN Women bloom wherever they’re planted and it’s no different on the pitch. Here, we profile two women who are changing the game and winning. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO Ayabonga Khaka SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL CRICKET PLAYER have shown resilience in breaking new grounds and discharging their expected responsibilities. This has made fans view women’s sport from a different angle. Glamour: For 29 years, South G: Last year you made history as the fifth South African woman to take 100 one-day international wickets as part of the cricket team that participated in the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup. What does this achievement mean to you as a young black woman? AK: It is every bowler’s dream to achieve been some positive reforms, especially now that women can sign contracts and be financially rewarded for their achievements. Having said that, there is still a huge room for improvement, especially with greater media exposure . such milestones. I was very humbled by such an achievement which spoke to my determination and hard work. Africa has committed to the promotion of gender equality within the South African sporting landscape. Based on your experience, would you say that there has been reformation and what does that look like? Ayabonga Khaka: Yes, there have G: Have you always wanted to pursue a career in sports? AK: Having started playing at a very young age, a career in sport was not on my mind. I then realised that there is a career in sport that I can follow. G: Cricket is still a male-dominated sport. Please share what it means to be part of a female team that plays at an international level? AK: I am very proud, honoured and blessed to be part of the women’s team that plays at the highest level. Women 98 G: How do you encourage other young women to pursue a career in sport? AK: I come from humble beginnings and have achieved international milestones through determination and diligence, so I strive to be a role model by showing young women that anything is possible. G: What are some of the challenges that you’ve had to overcome in your career? AK: A lack of resources and sponsorships, coupled with the concern of being injured and missing time to train and sharpen required skills are among the challenges. GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
THINK Akhona Makalima ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL REFEREE Glamour: What does being the first certified female football referee in South Africa mean to you? Akhona Makalima: Being the first person to ever do something comes with a lot of responsibility; you want to open doors for other people, bring change, redefine a previously male-dominated industry. You also want to give hope to young girls; inspire them by what you do. It carries a lot of weight and pressure. G:What does your role entail? AM: My job is mainly about decision making and game management, as well as the interpretation, application and enforcement of the laws of the games. G: Please talk us through your journey and kindly share some of your career highlights? AM: I started playing football at a young PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED age, and later transitioned into being a match official. I was a very active child, in addition to football, I was also involved in athletics. I come from a rugby background in the Eastern Cape. My family is sports orientated; my mother used to play netball, and my father played rugby. Due to the lack of infrastructural resources back home, I realised that I wouldn’t make it far as a football player, so I made the decision to transition. I was fortunate to be given an opportunity by The South African Football Association (SAFA) who were looking to promote female match officials at the time. I ran with the opportunity and here I am. G: What sort of challenges have you been faced with and how did you overcome them? AM: Mainly, the stereotypes regarding women in football, people saying we don’t belong in this space. They would look at me and ask why I didn’t play netball rather? It’s the negativity more than anything, I recall one coach telling me I belong in the kitchen. Constantly having to prove yourself, and having to assert yourself in certain spaces. People doubt your abilities and decisions simply because you’re a woman; they assume that your decisions in the field of play are influenced by your gender, or they’ll say you’re too harsh because you want to prove yourself or too soft because you’re a woman. And constantly having to prove yourself in the industry, no matter how hard you work. G: As a women’s sports pioneer, why is it important for you to encourage women to occupy space in the sports fraternity? AM: I encourage each and every woman to not only join football but what they love. I have a feeling that I’m no longer inspiring or encouraging only women in sports but women in general. I encourage women to take up space, and to be deliberate and honest with what they want to be. And when they sit at that table, they should ensure that they are heard, and open more doors for others. I’ve always been aware of the goals I set for myself and what I intend to achieve in this space. I was also honest about the steps I needed to take to get there. My advice to women is, do not be intimidated by race, gender or landscape. Know who you are, what you want, and focus on yourself and your goals. G: Female football is starting to gain traction, what does this speak to? And would you say it’s about time? AM: It’s about time women’s sports started getting noticed, celebrated and advertised and out there. Women are doing amazingly well, and for every woman interested in sports, this is the time to be inspired, motivated and encouraged by the successes of other women. With all the women’s world cups taking place, they should plug themselves into these spaces. There’s a beautiful platform in SA called The Juice Sport; keep an eye on such platforms that elevate women, and you’ll also get to know other women in sports, and be inspired by what they’ve achieved. “I encge ea d ery w to not ly jn football, but what they lo” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 99
THINK THE FUTURE OF With the post-pandemic emergence of new airlines the aviation industry is on a steady incline, so we’ve roped in cofounder and CEO of LIFT Arlines, Jonathan Ayache, to give us a bird’seye view and unpack this shift. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO Glamour: How would you describe the current aviation landscape? Jonathan Ayache: The recovery of the airline industry is underway but we’re not there yet and global consensus is that we won’t see a full recovery until the end of 2023. The domestic market has still only recovered to ±75% of pre-pandemic passenger volumes as compared with 2019. We are expecting the industry to recover further this year and we’re keeping a close eye on growth opportunities but are very responsible in how we approach that, as building a sustainable airline industry is crucial. G: How are you responding to the dramatic shift in the aviation industry post-pandemic? JA: Passenger volumes in South Africa have been flat over the last 12 months at ±75% of pre-pandemic levels. On top of that, the South African market is seasonal with supply and demand dynamics shifting throughout the year. We have built our business on a demand-driven model with flexible capacity which we believe is a far more responsible way of operating an airline. This allows us to increase flights during peaks without having an overcapacity which damages the industry in the off-peaks. i.e. between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban which account for ±75% of domestic passenger volumes. This model is crucial to the sustainability of the airline industry. G: What sort of travel trends do you see emerging? JA: There is a mix of Business and Leisure travel, very much impacted by seasonality, with a 50/50 mix across the two sets of travellers. We are seeing business travel across all segments; from both large and small businesses, as well as individual business travellers. We have also seen an equal recovery across all these segments, and 100 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
G: LIFT is fast positioning itself as a disruptor in the aviation space, let’s talk about some of the features that make the airline a genuine game changer? JA: Despite challenges such as the cost of jet fuel, high inflation, low economic growth and infrastructural deficiencies, LIFT has done exceptionally well and entrenched itself as a favourite and preferred airline for many South Africans due to its focus on the customer experience and complete flexibility. G: What are some of the conversations that have emanated from taking such an unconventional approach? JA: At LIFT, we approach everything specifically in the leisure segment, we see a lot of VFR Travellers (Visiting friends and relatives). Travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town remains the route with the strongest demand for both business and leisure travellers. When it comes to trends in customer loyalty, we’ve seen that airline reliability and consistent product and service offering is key in consumer decision making. Travellers want an airline that sticks to its promised experience offering, and they evaluate whether the actual service meets or exceeds expectations. The South African market is one of the markets with the latest booking curve in the world. While many travellers in other markets book in advance, South Africans tend to leave local flight bookings to the last minute, as close as 24 to 48 hours before a departure. The SA Leisure Market, specifically, is price sensitive, which plays a part in their decision making, however, the SA Corporate Market tends to be more brand loyal, subject to the airline delivering the product and experience that fits with the requirements or expectation of its customers. with a customer lens. We hope to provide our passengers with a valueadded experience. We’ve taken a look at the industry and have provided solutions to challenges the airline space has had for some time. From our focus on flexibility - allowing travellers the flexibility to change or cancel their flights up to 24 hours before departure with no change or cancellation fees - to the ability to process instant refunds to passengers through the LIFT Wallet, we aim to make flying simpler and more enjoyable. We’re always seeking new ways to make the experience more enjoyable for our passengers - from our complimentary onboard beverage and snack service to in-air music performances, dog-friendly options and outdoor activity travel packages. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 101
G: We’ve noticed that the ladies at LIFT wear comfortable clothes. What does this unusual trend speak to? JA: Yes, gone are the days of high-heels, stockings and ties! Our crew are sporting fresh new footwear, thanks to the airline’s exciting partnership with Veldskoen Shoes. All cabin crew and ground team members wear comfortable jeans and tops. We believe that if our staff are comfortable, our travellers are immediately put at ease. As a business that’s passionate about South African brands, LIFT is delighted to be able to play its part in supporting local businesses. This is not the first time we have partnered with a brand that has a place in South Africans’ hearts; with everything from coffee to wine and food crafted and inspired by South Africans, this is a brand that aims to celebrate everything our country has to offer. We love being able to delight our customers with the excellent offerings this country is capable of producing. But more than that, supporting local producers means supporting the local economy, too. This partnership means we can keep our crew looking stylish while bringing together two iconic local brands G: Do you see more women taking up space in the aviation space? What sort of opportunities are available for women in the industry? JA: The aviation sector is growing globally, and we continue to see a recovery in the local market as we move back toward pre-pandemic levels of air travel. It is a sector that offers such a great variety of opportunities for everyone and we see more and more women entering this sector and growing careers in 102 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 this industry. Whether as ground or cabin crew, or in some of the more technical roles, including pilots and engineers, there is no role today that cannot be fulfilled by a woman with the right skills. G: The ‘Unaccompanied Minors’ service is a boon, especially for single moms. Please tell us more about this offering – from the booking process to landing and what makes it a winner with the kids. JA: LIFT loves our little travellers, and that’s why even our youngest flyers get benefits such as; ƀLJ,LJ.#0#.3LJ))%LJ(LJ,3)(ƀLJ)1(&)&LJ*).# 3LJ%#Ɖ-LJ*&3&#-.Lj ƀLJ*LJ.)LJųŰƵLJ-0#(!LJ)(LJũ#!".-LJ ),LJ%#-LJ/(,LJűŲ We also understand that sometimes, little ones need to travel alone. In cases like these, parents can book an unaccompanied
THINK PHOTOGRAPHY: PEXELS; UNSPLASH INTERESTED IN THE UNACCOMPANIED MINORS SERVICE? minor ticket. The feedback we hear from the parents that have used the service, is how safe and relaxed their child felt throughout their journey. It’s that warm, personal sense of care that we bring to the process that stands out for parents, and gives them real peace of mind to use this service. Our crew really goes the extra mile to chat to our unaccompanied LIFT Littles, making them feel secure and happy throughout their journey. Bookings for unaccompanied minors cannot be booked online. Instead, you can contact our Customer Support Desk at support@lift.co.za to assist with a booking. G: What is the future of aviation? JA: Flexibility and the building of a sustainable airline industry, where both airlines and passengers thrive, in a marketplace in which responsibility balances supply and demand while providing real value to travellers. HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: ĺ &/01)6ń2+ ,*-+&"!*&+,/0/".2&/"-/"+1)ŕ $2/!&+!" )/1&,+ŋ %&)!/"+"14""+1%"$"0,#Ę+! ĔĔ6"/0ō+,16"1Ĕĕ11%"1&*",#1/3")Ŏ4&))" "-1"! 1,1/3")-/,3&!"!/"0-,+0&)"!2)1"0 ,/101%" %&)!1 ,1%&/-,/10,#!"-/12/"+!//&3)Ļʢ ĺ-/"+1ń$2/!&+,//"0-,+0&)"!2)1*6-/"0"+11%" %&)!1 %" (ķ&++! ,*-)"1"1%"/".2&/"!!" )/1&,+ #,/*0"#,/",/!&+$Ļ 1Ņ0&*-,/1+11,0164&1%1%" %&)!#,/0),+$0-,00&)"+!/"*&+11%"&/-,/1 2+1&)1%"&/ /#1&0&/,/+"Ļ ĺ+ ,*-+&"!&+,/04&))")), 1"!0"1&+$ 0-"/1%"0"1&+$-)+#,/1%"--/,-/&1"&/ /#1Ļ %"+&1Ņ01&*"1,$,1,1%",/!&+$$1"0ń /,2+! 1##"*"/ŕ%+!)&+$$"+14&))"/"0-,+0&)"ō&+ $/""*"+14&1%1%"/"0-,+0&)"!2)1ō0ŎŎ#,/1(&+$ /" ,#1%" %&)!+!02-"/3&0&+$1%"&/,/!&+$-/, ""!&+$0,# ,+1,1%"&/ /#1Ļ2/ /"4&0/"+,4+"!#,/1%"&/#/&"+!)6 !"*"+,2/ń+!4"1(""51/0-" &) /"4%"+!")&+$ 4&1%,2/)&11)"-00"+$"/0Ļʢ ĺ%&0 /,2+!1##"*"/4&))"+02/"1%11%" %&)!&0 ("-10#"+!4&))&+#,/*1%""+&,/&+/"4"*"/ ,#1%"+ ,*-+&"!&+,/"#,/",/!&+$+! 4&))"0 ,/11%"+ ,*-+&"!&+,/1,1%"&/ /#1ŋ "+02/&+$1%"6%3"1%"&/1/3")!, 2*"+10+!1& ("10&+ 0")"!-,2 %Ļ ĺ%" &+ /"4*"*"/4&))0&$+1%"+ ,*-+&"! &+,/#,/*1, (+,4)"!$"1%"+ ,*-+&"!&+,/ "&+$,+,/!Ļ ĺ+//&3),#1%"#)&$%111%"!"01&+1&,+&/-,/1ń$/,2+! -"/0,++")4&))*""11%" %&)!11%"&/ /#1+!"0 ,/1 1%"*#/,*1%"&/ /#1ń1%/,2$%1%"&/-,/11"/*&+)1, *""14&1%1%"&/-/"+1ŕ$2/!&+Ļ%" %&)!&0%+!"!,3"/ 1,1%"/")1&3"0,/$2/!&+0+!1%"+ ,*-+&"! &+,/#,/*4&))"0&$+"!0+ (+,4)"!$"*"+1 1%11%"+ ,*-+&"!&+,/&0%+!"!,3"/1,1%" /"0-,+0&)"!2)10&+!& 1"!,+1%"#,/*Ļʢ OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 103
THINK LEFT Lemon Butter Cake with zesty glaze BELOW Moist Date Cake WHAT’S IN A FOUNDED IN 2019, Chef Sumi Engelbrecht shares that her thriving cake business, Sassy Bakes, started as a hobby. “I was experimenting with different flavours and unusual designs as I wanted to offer the people something different, and I started thinking out of the box,” she says. She came up with the concept of creating mini cakes and tested the market. “The response was overwhelming, like many have stated, after your first bite of Sassy Bakes you are hooked!” It takes more than your usual ingredients to bake the perfect cake. For Gateau Queen, Chef Sumi Engelbrecht, the key ingredient is always love. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO Glamour: What do you love most G: What’s your secret to baking about baking? Sumi: I literally love everything about baking, from sifting the flour to seeing the end product, but what really offers complete joy to my soul is when I create something unique and the end result is awesome; nothing beats that feeling. the perfect cake? Sumi: My top secret is never use inferior products, as the quality of your product is very important. Always ensure that your flour is sifted and that all your products are at room temperature when baking. The key ingredient is do it with love – trust me, it will affect the outcome. G: What are the top baking trends to look out for at the moment? Sumi: There are so many cake trends at the moment, but I usually don’t follow trends as I feel the need to create my own trend. 104 G: What’s in a cake? Sumi: A cake can be a combination of so many things, but it mainly consists of flour, eggs, sugar, butter, oil and a GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 raising agent. My personal opinion is that a cake should be moist, flavourful, and not overly sweet. It should just be a perfect bite that makes you want more. G: Do you follow a recipe to the tee or do you follow your heart? Sumi: I create with my recipes by heart, but once I have ironed out all the imperfections I follow it to the tee. This offers consistency in baking, and in this business consistency is key. I always remind my staff you are only as good as your last performance.
THINK Chef Sumi’s Fave Cake Recipes Sumi Engelbrecht Chef at Queen Gateau SASSY_BAKES LEMON BUTTER CAKE juice or add more icing sugar for a INGREDIENTS sweeter version. For the Cake 2 Pour your warm glaze onto your 170g salted butter slightly cooled bundt, decorate with 170g castor sugar fresh raspberries, mint and dust with 170 self raising flour icing sugar. 1 ½ tsps baking powder 3 extra-large eggs 2 tbsps milk 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice MOIST DATE CAKE 1 tbsp lemon zest INGREDIENTS 220g pitted dates G: Who would you like to invite over for cake and tea and what’s the topic of conversation? Sumi: I would definitely invite our President, Cyril Ramaphosa, over for cake and tea. I will offer him a complete “sassyfying” experience. Then, after his sweet experience, we can the discuss politics – one of my favourite topics. G: What are the options for people who love cake but are also health-conscious? Sumi: I will definitely say there are so many options on the market currently. Gluten-free cakes, vegan cake or sugarfree cakes are becoming more popular. These options allow you get to enjoy your cake without stressing about how it will affect your health. PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED G: What’s your advice to people who would like to try baking but are intimidated? Sumi: Stop, stop, stop; never feel intimidated, start with something easy, even if it means you start with a ready mix off the shelf, then do it. Just follow the instructions to the tee, and once you put it in the oven, just pray, hahaha. Once you have accomplished that first bake, you will feel more confident to try it again. I still stress about baking sometimes, your oven plays a huge role in the consistency of your baking. For the Zesty Glaze 280ml boiling water 250g full-fat cream cheese 1tsp bicarbonate of soda 100g salted butter 155g unsalted butter 1 ½ cups icing sugar 1 cup light brown sugar 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 3 extra large eggs 2 tbsp water 1 ½ tsps vanilla essence 175g self raising flour METHOD For the Cake METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 180º C. 1 Chop dates into small pieces and 2 Place all your dry ingredients into place in a heatproof dish. Sprinkle your mixing bowl and slowly mix for bicarbonate of soda over the dates one minute using your hand held mixer and pour boiling water over. Stir the or a stand mixer. mixture and use the back of your 3 Add eggs and milk and blend on spoon to smooth out any lumps. Allow medium to low speed for 1 minute. it to cool completely. 4 Scrape the sides of your mixing bowl 2 Preheat your oven to 175º C. using a rubber spatula, add lemon 3 Using an electric or hand mixer, beat juice and lemon zest, and mix for an butter and sugar on medium to high additional 3 minutes on low speed. speed for 5 minutes until creamy. 5 Fold the batter using your rubber 4 Add eggs one at a time, ensure spatula to ensure the butter is smooth that each egg is well blended before and lump-free. adding the next. 6 Pour your batter into a well greased 5 Add vanilla essence and cooled date bundt mould and bake for 30-35 mixture and blend for 1 minute. minutes, check for doneness. 6 Slowly spoon in your flour while your 7 Allow your cake to cool slightly on a mixer is running on low speed, use a cooling rack before unmolding it on a rubber spatula to ensure your cake cake stand, or desired plate. batter is properly mixed. 7 Pour your batter into a well-greased, For the Zesty Glaze lined baking pan, 35x21cm and bake 1 Blend all ingredients besides your for 30-35 minutes. butter together until smooth. 8 Allow the cake to cool before In a saucepan, on a low heat setting, cutting. Enjoy it as is, drizzle with add your butter and your blended custard or caramel and fresh cream, ingredients and heat. Test your glaze: or your desired cream cheese or for a zestier glaze, add more lemon butter cream topping. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 105
The introduction of AI has sparked interesting debates, evoking different emotions ranging from excitement to fear. What’s undisputable however is that this smart technology is causing a digital revolution. WORDS BY THOBEKA PHANYEKO 106 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
THINK in perspective THERE ARE NEW ROLES EMERGING IN THE AGE OF TECHNOLOGY, particularly in the AI space. And as co-founder of Spatialedge, Pierre le Roux explains that there are two aspects to his role in relation to AI. “On the one hand, as a cofounder of Spatialedge, we are developing cutting edge AI models, systems and tools to help enterprises improve decision making, save money or create business value. On the other hand I wear many hats and use AI technologies to expedite and automate marketing and sales.” Below he explains further. AI at Spaaledge The AI that we develop at Spatialedge is called “enterprise” AI. This means we don’t develop AI apps for the general public, but models to solve specific problems in big organisations. Typical solutions include sales forecasting, demand forecasting (how much stock should you order for the next season? ), markdown optimisation (how much should you decrease the price to sell the stock faster while maintaining a high profit margin), personalised marketing, recommendation systems, etc. AI in my role AI tools have streamlined our workflows and helped us create content with a small marketing team. In one example, we use a podcasting tool that automatically identifies and switches between different speakers to reduce the editing time per video by hours. We use an AI word editing software called Wordtune to improve our writing, finding alternate ways to express ourselves. Last but not least, we use Midjourney to generate images for presentations and marketing materials. Glamour: What is spatial artificial intelligence? Pierre le Roux: At Spatialedge we play in the enterprise AI space. Our organisation is called “Spatialedge” because when we started in 2015, we explored leveraging various sources of geospatial data to add value to the insurance, banking and retail sectors. In 2017, after multiple products and multiple iterations, we couldn’t find a viable business, so we turned to developing bespoke solutions for enterprises. Our growth trajectory shifted completely as a result of that. By solving problems in this way for the industry, we have become a major player in the South African market while gaining a deep understanding of what organisations value most and how to unlock value in these markets. Therefore, we have built a highly competent, high performance team of almost 90 specialists (data scientists, machine learning engineers, and data engineers) and develop cutting-edge solutions as a result. As to “spatial” AI, it likely refers to the development of machine learning models that make use of spatial data, or properties in spatial data to solve real-world problems. Examples could include detecting air quality from historical air quality datasets or object identification on maps. G: There are mixed reactions to AI, what would you attribute this to? PL: The first reason is that people are afraid of the unknown and that which they do not understand. Our imaginations run wild when a machine or computer performs tasks previously performed solely by humans. There is a tendency for us to imagine a dystopian future in which we are replaced. These kinds of stories spread through fear mongering. This is more a matter of human psychology than anything else. There is also a lot of hype around what AI can do. More than the hype, there are countless examples of people achieving real-world results and companies benefiting from AI investments. I suggest viewing this wave of AI as another improvement in technology in general. This new technology has real benefits and solves real problems. For example, I would not be able to easily navigate in unfamiliar towns, or even find existing addresses without Google Maps or Waze. Using these technologies, you can access real-time traffic information combined with some of the most advanced AI available. Yet, with an improvement in technology, there will always be people using it to commit crimes. For example, deep fakes can be used for positive purposes in the case of a celebrity creating an AI music avatar. However, it can be misused for bad, “This new tenology has real benefs d is capable of solng real problems” OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA 107
THINK “Augmenng d improng hum tput d crea e key to successful solus; I d’t beeve AI alone wl be able to replace my jobs” when thieves impersonate a CEO and convince employees to pay large sums of money. G: What are some of the biggest misconceptions about AI? PL: Augmentation and improvement, not replacement. Augmenting and improving human output and creativity are key to successful solutions. I do not believe AI alone will be able to replace many jobs. Every time we develop an “enterprise AI” solution, we put a “human in the loop”, that is someone who can access the predictions and insights to make a more informed decision. Or use the tool to perform their job better. G: Can you please bust some of the biggest myths around AI that are rooted in fear? PL: MYTH: AI is going to replace our jobs. This may or may not happen, but the point is to rather focus on how you can apply the available tools and technologies to your life and industry. Jobs and value is based on the principles of supply and demand. If you can supply something no one else can or better than other people due to AI, then you will make money. If you supply something that is done better by others using AI, then you are in danger of losing. But I would not say that is unique to AI, that is how industries work. MYTH: AI will take over the world. Science fiction writers love this narrative. They create an abnormal, non-human entity that poses some great threat for us. From what I have seen and with what we build, I don’t believe this will happen. It is also not productive to worry about this. Bias has been an important topic within AI for quite some time. A machine learning model learns patterns within data, so if data is biased, then the model will learn that pattern and also behave in a biased way. For example, in a well known case study, Amazon used a model to automate its hiring process to expedite the selection of candidates. The model was “sexist” in that it favoured males over females. But the real issue was that in the dataset, the model had a much higher percentage of male than females working for Amazon, which caused the bias. That being said, all competent data scientists will be aware of biases and be on the lookout for them when building and testing models. G: What are some of the benefits of embracing AI? PL: It depends on which tool you use and what you use it for. For businesses it generally results in streamlined workflows, enabling improved competitiveness, higher quality delivery for lower effort and opening up new ways of working. For example, Midjourney allows us to quickly create images that we can use within presentations or marketing materials. Instead of designing new elements for hours, we can generate them in minutes (although getting it the way you want it can take time). AI solves problems that previously were unfeasible to solve and provides them with a competitive advantage. G: What’s your message to people with genuine fears of being replaced by AI? PL: It won’t happen. Rather fear someone who is able to G: What sort of opportunities are available in this fastgrowing space? PL: At the moment there is a big need for data science, machine learning engineers, data engineering and software developers. Technical skills that can help companies solve big problems. G: What in your opinion, is the future of technology? PL: Combining different technologies to get new outcomes and solve more problems. The future of technology depends on how well people can integrate technology with their imaginations and their practical problem solving skills. 108 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 ILLUSTRATIONS: ADOBE STOCK leverage new technology to compete better than you, deliver better results and get more clients. In that case, learn to use the technologies and get better skills to deliver.
Sustnaby r looked this good THE FIX’S “LOCAL IS LEKA” initiative focuses on showcasing local manufacturing and employment, while uplifting communities and supporting local skills development. They’re seeking to provide opportunities to empower youth whilst being a proudly South African brand and #DoWhatsRight. The FIX has embarked on a journey to re-use and repurpose their window The FIX’s latest locallydriven initiative explores their journey towards sustainability banners (made out of Polyknit Fabrics) that have been used from previous marketing campaigns in stores. The objective is to align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), supported by TFG, and create awareness around the brand’s reusing, upcycling and repurposing initiatives, through a fashion lens. The FIX has been on this journey for a couple of seasons now; exploring and finding its feet in the world of sustainability – having realised these matters are just as important to their consumers. A few seasons ago, they launched a sub-brand called Changes*, which speaks to using recycled fabrics and locally-produced products. The initiative has also evolved into collabs with local illustrators to interpret sustainability within the Changes* catalogue. Their range is 100% sustainable – made from 60% fabric waste and 40% plastic waste. An avenue the brand is actively exploring is repurposing and upcycling. One of these exciting projects is The FIX Upcycling Designer Showcase. The brand has scouted eight designers from national accredited tertiary institutions, to create their own unique collections through repurposing of the window banners. With this project, the aim is to provide designers with an opportunity to showcase their talent and enable access to new markets. Additionally, it aligns them with learnerships and developmental programmes within The Foschini Group (TFG) and Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) to help them scale their talents and grow their businesses. The FIX recently hosted the first Upcycling Designer Showcase in Cape Town at Rooftop on Bree. It was a fabulously fashionable evening that left a lasting impact. For more information about The FIX, visit their website, or head to Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Subscribe &renew Download your digital subscription now by visiting zinio.com/ glamoursa THE FIRST 40 SUBSCRIBERS WILL RECEIVE A GOSH MYSTERY HAMPER VALUED AT R999 EACH!* 6 A Mystery beauty haul for the GOSH fans! Featuring a collection of our favourite GOSH products, this mystery beauty box will surprise and delight! CALL 087 353 1291 or EMAIL condenastsubs@onthedot.co.za *This offer is valid until 30 November 2023 or while stocks last and is for print subscribers with a South African address only. See ‘Stockists’ page for terms and conditions. Network providers’ standard data charges will apply. PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED; SUPPLIED DISCLAIMER: STYLES AND SHADES MAY VARY ISSUES FOR R225 25% DISCOUNT
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THINK Meet the What do you love most about your job? I enjoy storytelling and connecting with different people – from personalities, clients, brands and the awesome people I meet at events and on the streets. Your greatest career achievement thus far? I’m particularly excited about the launch of the Our Features Editor, Thobeka Phanyeko, shares some of her favourite things Glamour Book Club, a project close to my heart. I thought about it for a while before pitching it, and seeing it come to life has been surreal. Additionally, securing a cover collaboration for Glamour and project managing it is still a ‘pinch me’ moment. What do you still wish to accomplish? I stand for social impact and I’m proud of the work we’ve done as a brand to champion inclusivity and representation. I find myself being drawn to conversations around conservation and sustainability as there’s still a lot of work to be done in this space. In my personal capacity, I’m excited about my personal development journey and look forward to meeting the woman I’m becoming. A hidden talent you might have? I’m a singer (not so hidden anymore). On that note, please stream and download my single, ‘Where Are You?’ on all digital platforms. Miss Aquilla is the name, thank you! A perfect day for you would include? A mimosa, of course! A song that’s currently on repeat on your playlist? ‘Mnike’ by Tumelo.za and Tyler ICU has me in a chokehold. Top 3 things you can’t live without? A book that changed your life? There are so many! Most recently Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday and How Are You Really? by Jenner Kutcher Something you love to indulge in? A pampering self-care moment. 112 GLAMOUR.CO.ZA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED God, my daughter, and money.
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