June 25-Ballito-Umhlanga

BALLITO • UMDLOTI • UMHLANGA

J Sbu shares his

Father’s Day plans

North Coast

events you don’t

3want to miss

Bright futures

Don’t miss our

kids’ section

WIN!

A bottle of Conte

Camillo Negroni

The dad issue

Cheers to our favourite guys

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD

JUNE 2025

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14-May-25 3:29:34 PM


14-May-25 3:30:08 PM

GET IT

Editorial

Phone 032 946 0276

Email jennifer@getitnc.co.za

Ballito Business Centre • Ballito Drive

Ballito • KwaZulu-Natal

Like and Follow us

Get It Magazine Ballito.Umdloti.Umhlanga

@GetItMagNC

@getitmagnc

www.getitmagazine.co.za/ballito-umhlanga/

Editor Jennifer Campbell

jennifer@getitnc.co.za

Layout and Design

Jessmica Depalal

Triveshni Poonsamy

ads@northcoastcourier.co.za

Advertising

Natalie Bertram

Natalie@getitnc.co.za | 082 434 3442

Janine Nyce

janine@getitnc.co.za | 072 709 6673

GET IT NATIONAL

National Group Editor and Sales

Kym Argo

082 785 9230 | kyma@caxton.co.za

Distribution

12 000 copies monthly

Get It Ballito • Umhlanga is distributed

free of charge in Ballito, Salt Rock, Umhlali,

Umdloti, Umhlanga Rocks, Umhlanga

Ridge, Gateway and La Lucia

Published by The North Coast Courier

Competition rules

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton

employees or their families. Get It Magazine

reserves the right to publish the names of

winners, who will be contacted telephonically

and need to collect their prizes from Get it Ballito

branch within 10 days or they will be forfeited.

Prize winners’ names are published on our

Facebook page monthly.

CONTENTS

THIS MONTH

3 Dates to diarise this month

4 Our must-read books

6 On our wishlist this month

8 See who we’ve spotted out and about

PEOPLE

14 Get to know J Sbu

16 Ntandoyesizwe Mhlongo falls in love with fashion

18 Learn to paint with Minnette Schmidt

24 Meet The Salt Rockers

FOOD & DRINKS

28 The coffee and wine we love

30 Delicious avo smoothies to try at home

KIDS

36 Beautiful books for little ones

38 Why early childhood development is important

40 Josh Paul makes waves in South African mountain biking

44 Tips for travelling with teens

TRAVEL

46 Enjoy a pamper party for two

WIN

48 Our June spoil: a bottle of Conte Camillo Negroni

14

Cover details:

J Sbu and his son, Zanda

Shot by: Olivia Rebecca Photography,

www.oliviarebeccaphotography.com;

@oliviarebeccaphotography

Location: Next Level, Ballito Lifestyle

Centre; www.nextlevelballito.co.za;

087 460 0451; @nextlevel_ballito

JUNE 2025

11978 copies distributed (Oct to Dec 2024)

June 2025 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga 01

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17 18

YEARS

R 9 500 000

ZIMBALI LAKES | WITHIN EASY REACH OF FACILITIES

Sea view from this easy living family home located on a level stand. One

en-suite bedroom located on the living level whilst the other two en-suite

bedrooms are both located on the upper level on either side of the landing.

3 3.5 2

260m 2

SIBAYA PRECINCT | JUST METRES FROM THE SHORELINE

A great lifestyle, with the benefi t of a gym, laundry and clubhouse comprising

a large swimming pool and lounging areas. Price includes VAT therefore no

transfer duty is payable.

1 1 1 52m 2

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE

R 1 600 000

R 4 794 000

SHEFFIELD BEACH | BRAND NEW HOME

Wind your way along a manicured roadway amongst vineyards, orchards

and coffee plants and pick your own fresh salad greens from the veggie

garden. No transfer duty payable.

3 2 2 180m 2

Invest. Intelligently.

032 946 1439 / 082 551 2607

073 106 6010 - Rental Specialist

www.fionacrago.co.za

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A hot date!

Surfing, food and card games this June.

56th edition of The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill will take place from 22 June

to 6 July at Willard Beach and surrounds. Expect all the usual surf action, live music,

22The

beach fun and good vibes! Details: Follow @theballitopro for the full line-up.

28

Get ready for a fun day

of games, including

social bridge and

canasta at the very

first Festival of Cards,

organised by Bloom

Special Needs

Therapy Centre and

School to raise funds

for the school. Expect

snacks, cake, tea and

coffee, as well as loads

of prizes. There will also

be a Bloom Flower Bar

to buy flowers.

Details: The event will

take place at Collisheen

Boma from 9am and

costs R1000 per table of

four. To book, WhatsApp

Debbie on 082 290 9313.

26

Get ready for the next Tequila Mexican

Food Festival at the Manor House! Dive into

deliciousness with a mouth-watering array

of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, guacamole and

all your favourite Mexican dishes! But wait,

the real star of the show? Tequila! There’ll also

be live music, including performances from

Spoegwolf and TiMO ODV.

Details: Tickets start at R300 per person and are

available on www.howler.co.za


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Book club

Beat the winter blues with a brilliant read and a glass of Bordeaux-style white.

Renowned for doing things differently, Fairview’s Regional

Revival Range is a collection that reimagines the great wines of

the Old World - Italy, Spain, and France - with an unmistakable

Cape twist. And their first white wine in the range - the

Fairview Altesse 2024, is a classic Bordeaux-style white blend

of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, with a Darling maritime zest.

Straw coloured with a touch of green in the glass, it’s a vibrant

mix of white peach, orange blossom, green figs, herbs, zesty lime

notes, and a touch of sea spray, and is an exceptional wine to serve

with grilled West Coast fish and a zesty salsa verde, prawns with

lemon butter, a creamy seafood risotto, slow-roasted chicken,

or even a simple, well-aged cheese. R190 from

www.fairviewmarketplace.co.za

Compiled by: KYM ARGO

How well do you know your son?

It’s a question the parents of three

teenage high-school football stars

don’t want to face after a teen party

sees the school outcast in hospital,

and the three boys suspended for

the rest of the season. With their

futures uncertain, the families get

together to assess the damage to

their boys’ prospects, the reputations,

their futures ... and to their own

relationships. Set in Southern

California, Our Beautiful Boys by

Sameer Pandya centres around

Vikram, an Indian American, Diego,

of Latin American descent, and the

white and wealthy MJ ... and is a story

of class, race, gender and parenthood.

Bloomsbury Publishing • Being in limbo,

30,000 feet in the air, offers time to

reflect and take stock, and for Aaron,

it’s an opportunity to connect with

his 14-year-old son as they travel

halfway across the world. Unsettled

by his past, and anxious for his future,

Aaron is at a crossroads in life. The

damage inflicted upon him during

his youth threatens to widen the

growing fissures between him and his

only child. This trip could bind them closer

together, or tear them further apart. Action

and consequence, fault and attribution,

acceptance and resolution, John Boyne’s

Air is a redemptive story of a father and

a son on a moving journey to mend their

troubled lives. Penguin

04 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga June 2025

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Wife. Writer. Murderer? Denise

Morrowm, a famous true crime author,

who knows how killers operate and

how they get away with murder, is

found standing over the body of her

husband, a bloody knife between

them. With all her knowledge, you’d

think she’d have done better. But it’s

an open and shut case according to

Detective Declan Shaw. And then he

discovers the subject of the author’s

next book - the violent murder of

a girl called Maggie Marshall ... a

case that Declan worked on and

one that’s haunted him for years.

James Patterson and J.D Barker’s The

Imperfect Murder ... the perfect wife,

the perfect motive. Century

In Sophie Stava’s Count My Lies,

the liar is Sloane Caraway. Harmless

lies, she tells herself, to make her

life a little more interesting. One

afternoon she sees a crying child

who’s been stung by a bee and

tells Jay, the girl’s father she’s a

nurse, helping him pull out the

sting. A small lie ... one that sees

her becoming the nanny for Jay

and his wife, Violet. The couple

appear to have everything, and

Sloane wants their lives. And she’s

prepared to lie about almost

anything to get it. But ... small twist

... she might not be the only one

who’s lying! Century

The Martini Club - a group of retired

spies living in a quiet seaside town

- are back in Tess Gerritsen’s The

Summer Guests. This time Maggie

Bird and her ex-spy pals get involved

when a young teenager goes

missing, the daughter of a woman

who’s just married into one of the

town’s most powerful families. It’s

down with the Martinis and books,

and out with the binocs as they offer

(unasked for and unwanted) help out

to the local acting police chief. Loads

of twists, red-herrings and mystery

... a terrific read. As is the bonus Lee

Child and Tess Gerritsen short story...

Over Easy is a fabulous ten minute

read with Maggie Bird meeting Jack

Reacher. Penguin

Alice Feeney’s Beautiful Ugly is a

dark and disturbing thriller about

marriage, and revenge. The story

opens with an author phoning his

wife to ask when she’ll be home ...

he’s excitedly waiting for a call from

his editor to tell him whether he’s

made the New York Times Best Seller

list. But as he talks to her, he hears

her slam on her brakes, get out the

car, and then ... nothing. A year later,

he’s still grieving, and takes up an

offer of a remote cabin on a tiny

Scottish island where he hopes to

break out of his writer’s block. But he

keeps seeing a woman who looks

just like his wife. Something’s just not

adding up. A little far-fetched, but

that makes it no less of an enjoyable

read. Macmillan

More new releases to look out for ...

The World According To Merle

by Merle Levin ... the memoir of a

deliciously daring granny, born in

Vereeniging in the 50s, she’s a vibrant

force of nature who’s lived a full,

rich, fun-filled life on her own terms.

Melinda Ferguson Books

A hidden love. An impossible dream ...

The Midnight Secret is the fourth in

Karen Swan’s The Wild Isle series ... this

one about a woman who’s discovered

that every blessing comes with a

curse. Her handsome husband’s a

bully. Her second sight inherited from

her mother only allows her to see

death. All secrets and passion and

violence. Macmillan


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Wish list

Hot fires and smooth whiskey ...

winter’s looking exceedingly fine

Great glassware sets the tone ... and these crystal, textured Allure

tumblers from the Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen range set the

standard high. Lead-free, break-resistant, sophisticated ... Father’s Day

gift sorted! R279 for a set of four from janonline.com


Weekend braai vibes sorted ... chop-chop!

Light the fire. Clickety-click the tongs. It’s time to get this braai party started. The hottest brand on the local market is Die

Braai ... with two sizzling products that’ll head straight to the top of your must-have list. Die Braai Tray is the ultimate braai

companion ... a clever, detachable tray that transforms your braai setup. Crafted in durable stainless steel or mild steel, it

mounts effortlessly onto your wall or fireplace, making it a versatile extension of your braai ... giving you an instant side table,

marinade station, serving tray and so much more. Then there are the Braai Blaai sheets, an essential for anyone serious

about their flame-kissed foods. Much more than just a prep sheet ... these are the go-to tool for every stage of the braai

journey, from seasoning to serving. There are tips on spices, recipes, and meat prep, and each pack comes with six sheets -

one each for fish, pork, venison, lamb, beef and chicken. Plus ... the Braai Blaai disposable sheets fit perfectly within the Die

Braai Tray, minimising mess and ensuring easy cleanup. Less fuss, more braai! R79 for a pack of six Braai Blaai, and from R1150

for Die Braai Tray. Details: diebraaiblaai.com; IG: @braaiblaai.


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Yes. We all know the

Stanley flask. But ... the

Stanley Classic Travel

French Press? Now we’re

talking. Picnic. Hike. Car

trip. You can enjoy the

taste of French-pressed

coffee anytime, anywhere.

With an integrated coffee

press and two stage lids,

you can drink from it

(or decant into a coffee

mug), and the doublewall

vacuum insulation

ensures your coffee stays

hot for four hours. Plus ...

leak-proof lid and versatile

carry handle. R999 from

yuppiechef.com

This small elegant Kitchen Craft Bar

Craft hip flask

captures the spirit

of the roaring 1920s, when

patrons of jazz bars and

speakeasys would drink

their favourite tipples

from little hip flasks.

Perfect for parties or

picnics, it comes

with a handy

funnel so you can

decant your fave

tipple straight

from the bottle.

Stainless steel,

and finished with

a soft touch, matte

black coating, R499

from yuppiechef.com

Try a Siren Serenade ... the perfect

drink to reflect on the day’s

adventures, the journey travelled and

the legends created. Pour 40ml Finvara

Irish Whiskey and 20ml Bitter Aperitif

into a highball glass over ice and top

up with 120ml ginger ale. Stir gently

and garnish with a sprig of mint and

a dehydrated orange slice. And for a

chance to win a bottle, pop over to

@getitmagnc on Instagram or

Facebook, find The King’s Gambit post

and follow the prompts.

Steeped in legend, inspired by a

mythical king whose stories have been

passed down through generations and

rooted in Irish folklore, the exceptional

Finvara Irish Whiskey embodies the spirit

of adventure, mystery and mastery. Its

inaugural release, The King’s Gambit,

pays tribute to the ancient game of

chess - symbolising the brand’s bold

strategy to challenge traditional

whiskey-making conventions. Finvara

offers a rich, full-bodied flavour

profile that’s smooth, aromatic, and

exceptionally well-balanced. With every

sip, it transports drinkers into a world

of Celtic tales, blending heritage with

a bold new taste that’s perfect for both

whiskey connoisseurs and newcomers

alike. Introduced into the local market

by Mack Brands - who boast they are

on a mission to make every moment

memorable, you’ll find it for R499

at selected liquor outlets or online

at Norman Goodfellows, Port2Port,

Takealot and Bar Keeper. Follow on

Instagram @kingfinvara.


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Bread and

bubbles

Nikita Fortmann, Nokwanda Malima and Clova Fortmann

Yoli’s Artisan Bakery at Ballito Lifestyle

Centre hosted a delicious bread tasting to

celebrate the return of their baking team

to the on-site bakery. Freshly baked loaves,

mimosas and perfectly brewed coffee set

the tone for a seriously tasty start to the

day. From the 60-hour cinnamon spice

sourdough to the olive and garlic focaccia

and indulgent truffle sourdough, guests were

treated to an array of unforgettable flavours.

Ricky and Chazné Govender

Kgosi Kgalegi, Chané Cotton, Tiara Govender and Rachel Singh

Nicky and Derryn Cooper

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The joy of slowing down

The monthly Noble Women

networking event offered a

refreshing change of pace

as attendees swapped

their usual coffee chats for

a peaceful morning picnic

on Salt Rock Main Beach.

North Coast women came

together to enjoy sandy

toes, good company and

delicious food. The event

provided space to slow

down and connect in the

company of like-minded

women, all under the theme

‘Know When to Unplug’.

It was a gentle reminder

that rest is productive - and

deeply deserved.

Candice Morphew and Leva Gasiunaite

Cyndi Konar and Cimaron Willaert

May Campbell and Anneline du Toit

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Stretch,

sip and

socialise

Nathan Roodt, Timera Ramlal

and Natasha Patterson

Kellie Ettmayr, Aziza Engar

and Ayesha Sarvan

The Pilates with Love event,

hosted by Timera Ramlal at

Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate,

was a wholesome morning of

movement, mindfulness and

connection. Guests began the

day with a rejuvenating pilates

session surrounded by nature,

followed by freshly brewed coffee

and delicious bites from Fika. The

event offered the perfect setting

to relax, recharge and connect

with like-minded people in a

beautiful coastal setting.

Jade Pottinger, Kirstie du Preez, Celeste Denton and Jaclyn Anderson

Ready to shake things up?

The East Coast Radio House + Garden

Show is back, and it’s bigger, bolder, and

brighter than ever! We’re serving up the

hottest home trends, epic expert tips,

and more surprises than you can handle.

Think celebrity chefs whipping up magic,

competitions with prizes that’ll make you

swoon, and an ultimate Kids Zone that’ll

have the little ones begging to stay longer.

Whether you’re revamping, renovating,

or just here for the vibes, this is Durban’s

home, garden & lifestyle event of the year

—and you do not want to miss it.

Follow Us Online

@HOUSEGARDENSHOW

HOUSEGARDENSHOW.CO.ZA

28 JUNE - 6 JULY

DURBAN EXHIBITION CENTRE

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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Stylish

new

arrival

Toni

Kerr and

Candice Smith

Cindy Shaw, Susan Lloyd, Alison

Badenhorst and Carole Hastings

Leisure Lounge has

officially opened its doors in

Ballito, bringing its signature

blend of style, sophistication

and premium quality in

soft furnishings and leisure

design to the North Coast.

Guests were treated to a

stylish launch event, where

they had the opportunity

to explore the beautifully

curated space and discover

the brand’s latest collection

of luxurious designs.

Pam Stafford-Mayer, Samantha

Engelbrecht and Kim Caelers

Wayne Mc Cauley, Rob Goetzsche

12 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga February 2022

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Gagasi FM

Influencing the youth of KZN

As South Africa

celebrates Youth Month,

the spotlight turns to the

voices of those shaping the

future of our province.

For the young black adults of KZN who

are ambitious, economically active

and culturally rooted, Gagasi FM isn’t

just a radio station; it’s a platform for

them to connect and share their stories.

With a median age of 31, our audience

represents a generation that’s locally

grounded yet globally connected.

We call them, true glocalists (a term

we coined). These individuals not

only drive trends, but economies and

conversations as well.

Why Gagasi FM resonates

When Gagasi FM was founded in 2006,

the aim was to fill an essential gap that

had been identified in the market. The

radio stations that existed before the

station came on the scene had more

of a ‘either-or’ approach (either Zulu

or English bases; either catering to the

rural or suburban market etc), but no

commercial radio station in the region

offered a perfect blend of the infused

language and lifestyle that reflected

and connected with the contemporary

young black adult of KZN, who happen

to be fluently bi-lingual (speaking both

IsiZulu and English on a daily – we

call this eclectic language Zunglish)

and who lived between the urban and

suburban environments.

We went on a mission to create a

platform that would perfectly bridge

this gap, with our core purpose being

to foster a deep sense of belonging for

KZN’s young black adults.

For brands, this means access

to a highly engaged, influential

audience (SEM 4-10) with immense

spending power. Gagasi FM isn’t just

a media advertising medium; it’s a

bridge to authentic connections with

consumers who value relevance and

realness.

A platform for the hustlers

We understand that KZN’s youth aren’t

waiting for opportunities – they’re

creating them. Features like “The

Hustler’s Corner”, and our annual

“Youth in Business” seminar, amplify

the spirit of young entrepreneurship,

spotlighting young entrepreneurs who

are rewriting the rules of success.

So, what makes our connection to

the KZN Youth so effective?

• Cultural authority: We speak the

language of KZN’s urban youth,

blending local pride with global

aspirations.

• Lifestyle beyond airwaves: From events

to CSI initiatives, we’re embedded in the

communities we serve.

• The glocalist edge: Our listeners are

trendsetters – rooted in their heritage

but shaping the future.

This Youth Month, Gagasi FM reaffirms

its role as the sound of KZN’s progress.

Because here, youth isn’t just an age –

it’s a force and beacon of the future.

#Glocalists #YouthMonth #GagasiFm

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On air, on stage,

on dad duty

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL Photograph: OLIVIA REBECCA PHOTOGRAPHY Location: NEXT LEVEL BALLITO LIFESTYLE CENTRE

From igniting the airwaves to lighting up the dance

floor, East Coast Radio presenter, DJ and musician J Sbu

has built an incredible career. But beyond the mic and

the music, his most important role is being a dad. We

chatted to him about his journey in the entertainment

industry, his love for music, the lessons of fatherhood,

and the moments that matter most.

You've built an amazing career as a

radio presenter and DJ. What first

drew you to the industry?

I've always had a passion for

connecting with people, and radio

gave me the perfect platform to

do that. My journey started in 2014

when I co-founded RadioDUT, a

campus station at DUT, where I

discovered my purpose and love for

broadcasting. Joining East Coast Radio

and hosting the drive-time show has

been a dream come true. I get to

share stories, uplift and entertain a

community I truly care about every

single day.

Tell us a bit about your music

career - what do you love about

performing?

Music has always been part of who I

am - it moves people and connects

us. I started creating music at

RadioDUT, building a studio for young

talent. In 2018, I released my first

single Uthandolwakho and have since

dropped two EPs. I'm now working on

my debut album, Illuminated Journey,

which reflects my experiences with

love, faith and growth. Performing

lets me share that energy and create

moments people will never forget.

What does being a father mean to

you?

Being a father is one of the greatest

blessings in my life. As a dad to two

incredible children, Smanga (my angel

child) and Zanda (who is turning eight

this year), fatherhood has shaped me

in ways I never imagined. It has given

me a deeper sense of purpose and

responsibility and an overwhelming

gratitude for the privilege of being

able to honour Smanga and raise

Zanda.

Parenting is both a gift and a

challenge. It pushes me to be the

best version of myself so I can lead

by example, instilling values of love,

resilience and kindness. Yes, the

pressure is real, but every second

is worth it. There's nothing more

fulfilling than witnessing your child

grow, develop their own personality

and navigate life with the foundation

I've helped lay.

How has fatherhood changed your

perspective on life?

Fatherhood has completely reshaped

the way I see life and approach my

career. It's made me realise that

everything is about perspective.

How you choose to see things either

adds value to your life or takes away

from it. More than anything, I've come

to understand that our true purpose

as human beings is to serve.

Ultimately, fatherhood has taught me

to be intentional about everything

I do. I strive to create a life that

fulfils me emotionally, spiritually,

psychologically and financially so that

I can show up as the best version

of myself, not just for my career but,

most importantly, for my family.


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J Sbu’s ultimate

Father’s Day playlist

1. Avicii - Hey Brother

This song is all about loyalty,

love and always being there

for your family. It’s a reminder

that no matter what happens,

the bond between loved ones

remains unbreakable.

2. Luther Vandross -

Dance With My Father

This one hits deep. It’s a

reminder to cherish every

moment with my father and

my son while I still can. Life

moves fast, and this song

reminds me to appreciate the

time we have together.

3. Will Smith -

Just the Two of Us

A feel-good, heart-warming

song about the joys of

fatherhood. It perfectly

captures the love, lessons and

fun that come with being a dad.

What are some of your favourite

things to do with your son?

Ah man, we do so much together!

Swimming, watching cartoons

- yes, I'm a proud Paw Patrol fan!

But beyond just having fun, I love

engaging in activities that allow my

son to learn while playing. One of

our favourites is building with Lego.

It's amazing to see how it sparks his

creativity and teaches him problemsolving

skills in such a natural way.

What's your ideal way to spend

Father's Day?

My ideal Father's Day is all about

family, spending quality time with

my own father and making his day

special, just as he's done for me

throughout my life. Now that I'm

a father myself, I appreciate our

relationship even more. There's a

deeper understanding between us,

and our conversations have become

more meaningful as we connect manto-man.

And of course, as a proud Nxumalo,

no Father's Day would be complete

without a proper braai! We go all

out, with most types of meat sizzling

on the grill, homemade pap and an

assortment of salads to create that

perfect seven-colour plate.

If you could give one piece of

advice to new or soon-to-be dads,

what would it be?

Be present, be intentional and lead by

example!

Details: IG: @jsbuofficial


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Purpose

&

passion

From the sugarcane fields of Etete to the fashion world of Cape Town, Ntandoyesizwe Mhlongo

is using his platform to challenge outdated stereotypes and inspire the next generation.

With his striking looks and

deep sense of purpose,

Ntandoyesizwe is not

your average model.

Raised in a township on the Dolphin

Coast, he’s gone from awkward teen

to international model and, most

recently, Mr South Africa finalist. But

it’s his passion for mental health

advocacy that truly sets him apart.

What was life like for you growing up?

I was brought up by an army of

powerful women. My grandmother

worked hard as a domestic worker in

Ballito to raise my mother, who went

on to break generational cycles by

going to college. Growing up, our

house was always filled with relatives

and strangers who had experienced

abuse, financial hardship and other

challenges. My mother instilled in me

the values of selflessness and service.

I was always sharing my toys and

clothes with others.

How did you first get into

modelling?

I’ve loved art and fashion for as long

as I can remember. I was the only

12-year-old in my neighbourhood

watching the Met Gala, fashion

documentaries and reading the latest

issues of Vogue and Get It magazine!

TEXT: JENNIFER CAMPBELL

As an awkward teenager who was

constantly bullied, I never imagined

I’d become a model. But in 2021,

encouraged by my best friend, I

decided to take a leap of faith and

send out applications to modelling

agencies.When Twenty Model

Management signed me, I felt

undeserving at first. But I reminded

myself of my purpose: to represent

every young man who has ever felt

underrepresented.

What has modelling taught you?

To stay true to yourself. In an industry

that constantly evolves, you have

to find a balance between staying

authentic and embracing change.

What does becoming a finalist for

Mr South Africa mean to you?

It means I have a national platform

to speak about issues close to my

heart. I want to use my reign to raise

awareness around mental health in

young men.

Even if I don’t win, just being in this

space will inspire young men from

townships to believe they belong - and

that they can achieve their dreams.


GETBALL0625pg016.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:16:44

You’ve chosen to focus on mental health among

young men. Why is this issue so personal and

important to you?

Growing up, I was often told “indoda ayikhali” - meaning

“a man doesn’t cry” - whenever I expressed emotion.

This phrase suppressed emotions that didn’t fit society’s

image of masculinity.

While I had a supportive family, many of my peers

didn’t. I saw some neglect their mental health, which

led to substance abuse, teenage parenthood, crime, or

even becoming abusers.

I believe one way to combat South Africa’s genderbased

violence pandemic is to understand why some

men lose their sense of empathy. It starts with how we

raise our boys.

What kind of impact do you hope to make through

the Mr South Africa platform?

Male pageantry has evolved. It’s no longer just about

muscles - it’s a platform for young men to launch

careers and advocate for social issues.

To be part of a legacy of young men who stand for

youth and women’s empowerment would be impact

enough for me. I can’t wait for the young boys in my

neighbourhood to see me representing them on a

national stage. I hope it inspires them to chase their

dreams, no matter how unrealistic they may seem.

What are your biggest dreams for the future?

I want to launch a school meal programme that

provides breakfast and lunch for children in

underprivileged schools and communities in Stanger.

I hope to host seminars where young men can express

themselves in a safe and non-judgemental space.

Career-wise, I’d love to pursue acting and eventually

win a South African Film and Television Award. Later on,

I want to step behind the scenes as a fashion creative

director and a film director.

Details: IG: @ntandoyesizwe8

JUST FOR FUN

What’s one thing people would be surprised to

know about you?

How addicted I am to history documentaries!

Fashion must-have: what’s always in your

wardrobe?

Anyone who knows me knows I love wearing baggy

jeans or trousers.

Favourite local spot on the Dolphin Coast?

I honestly can’t choose one; we have so many

amazing places here. From Crocodile Creek, to the

beautiful Salt Rock beaches, Rain Farm and the iconic

restaurants at Ballito Lifestyle Centre - they’re all

special.

February 2022 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 17

GETBALL0625pg017.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:15:51

Sip, paint & unwind

with Minnette

Ballito artist Minnette Schmidt

has found her passion in

hosting Sip & Paint events on

the North Coast, making art fun

and accessible for everyone.

We caught up with her to chat

about her creative process and

why she believes mistakes are

just part of the magic.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m an artist, entrepreneur and coffee

enthusiast. I grew up in Witbank,

where I spent my childhood drawing

on anything that didn’t move. In 2021,

I moved to Pretoria and - plot twist -

reconnected with my now-husband,

whom I first met when we were five

years old in pre-primary school! Fast

forward a few years and here I am

on the North Coast, building my art

empire one Sip & Paint event at a time.

I’m also a wife and a mom to twin

girls, which means life is wonderfully

chaotic.

What inspired you to become

an artist?

I’ve loved art for as long as I can

remember. I was that kid who doodled on the back of maths exams instead

of solving equations! But it was around the age of 24 that I realised art was

more than just a hobby - it could be my career. Once I started getting paid

for my work, there was no turning back. I’ve never worked for anyone else

since, and I love that my passion is what pays the bills!

Describe your artistic style in three words.

Vulnerable, expressive and emotive. My art is like a heart-to-heart

conversation - but with paint.

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL

What’s something about you that people wouldn’t guess just by

looking at your art?

Most people assume I'm an extrovert because I'm so chatty and engaging

at my Sip & Paint events. But in reality, I'm quite introverted! I love quiet

moments, my own company and getting lost in a good book. I'm also the

"serious" one in my family - the planner, the organiser and the one who keeps

things running smoothly.

What do you like to do when you’re not creating art?

Between painting and wrangling my twin toddlers, you'll usually find me

curled up with a coffee, enjoying the sea breeze. If I could magically find time

to go for a run or a hike (without the constant "Mom! Mom! Mom!" in the

background), I'd be out in nature in a heartbeat.


GETBALL0625pg018.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:15:31

Let’s talk about your Sip & Paint

events. How do you come up

with themes?

There’s no secret formula - it’s a mix

of creativity and organised chaos! I

choose art that's beginner-friendly but

still allows room for happy accidents.

Mistakes are all part of the fun, and

let's be honest, nobody’s scrutinising

the details. Colourful messes are the

best kind of messes!

What advice would you give to

someone who has never painted

before but wants to join one of

your events?

Relax and enjoy the process! No

one expects you to become Picasso

overnight. It’s not about creating a

masterpiece - it’s about having fun

and embracing the therapy of it all.

Just let loose, sip your wine and let

your inner artist take over!

How do you balance guiding

guests while allowing them to

express their creativity?

I provide step-by-step guidance so

no one feels lost, but I also encourage

guests to go rogue if they want to!

My goal is for everyone to leave

with a painting they love and more

importantly, a smile on their face. It's

about joy, not perfection.

How do you keep the atmosphere

fun and relaxed?

I bring my full energy to every session.

While I might be the "serious" one

in my family, at Sip & Paint, I'm all

about fun, laughter and making sure

everyone enjoys the experience. It’s a

judgement-free zone where the only

rule is to have a good time!

Details: IG: @artminnette

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February

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Ballito,

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GETBALL0625pg019.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:15:10

Keep Dad warm and

stylish with O’Neill’s

Glacier Hooded

Reversible Jacket,

with plaid

Superfleece

on one side

and sleek

puffer on

the other.

R2 999.

Dad

Because

deserves the best

Whether he’s an adventure

seeker, a style icon or a

man who enjoys the finer

things in life, you’ll find the

perfect Father’s Day gift at

Ballito Lifestyle Centre.

These Skechers x John Deere waterproof mid-top boots from

Trappers bring all-day comfort with memory foam cushioning

and a tough Goodyear sole. They’re perfect for work or weekend

adventures. R3 199.

This standard-fit short-sleeve button-up

from Holmes Brothers features a bold

rugby collage print, the perfect nod to

Dad’s Springbok pride. R799.

Give Dad’s wheels the ultimate pamper session

this Father’s Day at MachineWorx, with a valet

package which includes a full exterior wash, deep

upholstery clean, and engine detail, all for R1500.

This sleek shaving gift

set from The Gentry

includes everything

your dad needs:

a chrome safety

razor, badger

hair shaving

brush,

shaving

cream and

blades, all

packed

in a handy

travel bag. R1 595.

Exclusively available at

TOPS at Lifestyle, the Jack

Daniel’s Single Barrel Select

Personal Collection is a

remarkable expression

of craftsmanship and

individuality. Every

bottle in the collection

is a premium piece,

hand-labelled with

its barrel number,

bottling date,

and the exact rick

and warehouse in

which it matured,

details that make

each bottle a true

collector’s item.

R699.99.

Spoil Dad

with Wilbur

Smith’s

latest novel,

Crossfire,

where he

returns to

his legendary

Courtney

Series with a

brand-new

race against

time World

War II thriller.

R369 from

Bargain

Books.

WIN!

A collection of

products from the stores

featured on this page.

Follow Lifestyle Centre

to enter:

IG: @lifestylecentreballito

FB: @ballitolifestylecentre

Ts & Cs apply.

Treat Dad to some well-deserved grooming time at The Barber Shop

by Gerald Wells. From classic cuts and beard trimming to hot towel

shaves, it’s the perfect spot for a sharp look and a little downtime.

www.ballitolifestylecentre.co.za

GETBALL0625pg021.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:12:43

PROMOTION

for him

Give dad a day to remember this Father’s Day! From delicious meals to active fun, we’ve rounded up the best

local experiences to spoil the father figures in your life.

BUTCHER BOYS

Well done, you’re about to give

your dad exactly what he wants

for Father’s Day – a Great Steak!

Butcher Boys serves South Africa’s

finest grain fed beef – wet or dry

aged and hung for a minimum of

28 days, it offers the ultimate in

flavour. Let dad take a tour of their

cold room and chat to the expert

in-house butchers before choosing

his perfect cut.

Details: www.butcherboysgrill.co.za;

Umhlanga: 031 561 4106; Ballito:

087 711 0973; IG: @butcherboysgrill;

FB: butcherboysgrill

Just

1

2

Karibu Padel

Karibu Padel is a place where people from all walks of life

can enjoy good sport and great food. Treat dad to a fun

day out with the whole family!

Details: Karibu Farm, 1 Salt Rock Road; 082 619 6991;

www.karibupadel.co.za; IG: @karibupadel

MOZAMBIK BALLITO

Let your dad enjoy a feast fit for a king at Mozambik! With ice-cold

beers, bold flavours that pack a punch, and a vibe that’s anything

but ordinary, it’s the perfect way to say ‘thanks for everything, Pops’.

Treat him to great food, good laughs and the kind of meal he won’t

stop talking about.

Details: Belvista Centre, 12 Library Lane, Ballito; 032 946 0979;

IG: @mozambikrestaurants; FB: Mozambik Restaurants

3

GETBALL0625pg022.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:09:22

KING

FOR A

DAY

One Day. All The Fun.

All About Dad.

Movies

Meals

GAS Motor Show

Arcade Games

And so much more family fun

ENTERTAIN. IT’S WHAT WE DO.

GETBALL0625pg023.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:02:07

Salt, surf

and

shenanigans

They’re not pro anglers or polished influencers - just two best mates sharing the wild,

wonderful (and often hilarious) reality of kayak fishing on the North Coast.


Meet the Salt Rockers - Francois van

der Merwe and Justin Flemmer -

whose ocean adventures have built

an online following hooked on big

catches, epic fails and a whole lot of

fun. Francois, a GP, and Justin, who

works in imports and exports, started

filming their kayak fishing trips more

for laughs than likes. “We were always

capturing footage of our ocean

adventures anyway,” says Francois.

“So eventually we thought, why not

share it?”

Learning (and laughing)

along the way

Their YouTube channel and Instagram

page are a mix of tips, tricks and

entertaining misadventures. “We’re

not professionals,” Justin laughs. “We

just want people to learn from our

experiences - even if it’s what not to do!”

Wipeouts and war stories

That includes camera chaos (like

filming a blank screen during a

massive catch), a close encounter with

a hungry bull shark, and a kayak crash

that recently landed Francois and his

girlfriend in matching knee braces. “A

freak wave caught us and slammed

the kayak into both of us,” he says.


GETBALL0625pg024.indd 1 2025/05/15 16:01:34

“We tore our ACLs and MCLs - and

had surgery on the same day. She’s

not too keen to go out again!”

Braving the surf

It’s all part of the Salt Rockers’ charm

- honest, unfiltered stories from the

water. They also don’t shy away from

the challenges unique to the North

Coast. “People overseas usually launch

in much calmer conditions. We’re

paddling through big surf before we

even start fishing,” explains Justin.

Camera vs chaos

Capturing content mid-chaos isn’t

easy. “Ninety-nine percent of fishing

is boring,” says Justin. “Then during

the one percent of action, everything

needs to go right - the rod, the kayak,

the camera. It’s madness!”

From childhood passion to grownup

adventure

Francois and Justin have both been

fishing since childhood - Francois on

family trips to Cape Vidal and Justin

We just want

people to

learn from our

experiences -

even if it’s what

not to do!

with his dad. Their gear is simple:

GoPros, trusty kayaks and a lot of

patience. With full-time jobs, they

usually squeeze in a paddle once a

week, more often in summer.

Helping others get hooked

They have also started creating

beginner content. “A lot of guys don’t

know how to start kayak fishing,” says

Justin. “We’ve done intro videos, and

there’s so much more we want to share.”

More than just fishing

Their relaxed style and local flavour

have earned them fans not just in

South Africa, but also in New Zealand,

Australia and the US. But the best

part? “Sharing the catch,” says Francois.

“There’s nothing better than filleting it,

firing up the braai and enjoying it with

friends and family. We also make an

excellent poke bowl and sushi!”

Details: IG and YouTube: @saltrockers

Scan here to

see the Salt

Rockers in

action!

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drink

is

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ready.

Download the Starbucks

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your Reward.

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Spend R50 in

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GETBALL0625pg025.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:58:46

GETBALL0625pg026.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:58:12

GETBALL0625pg027.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:57:40

EAT, DRINK

&BE MERRY

&

On a sunny winter afternoon, not much beats a glass of wine,

a coffee date, or making merry with a gathering with friends.

Chenin Blanc. Distinctive ... and said to be the

bona fide OG (Original Grape) of the South

African wine industry. A newcomer on the

shelves is this G.O.A.T - Greatest Of All Time

Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023. With white pear,

quince and ripe tropical flavours on the nose,

and a rich palate with fresh acidity and hints of

lemon and citrus, it’s lovely served as an aperitif,

or paired with seafood paella, creamy pasta or a

pizza. You’ll find it in selected liquor outlets and

online at perdeberg.co.za for R130.


WIN

We’ve a case

to give away .... for

a chance to win, visit

@getitmagnc on

Instagram or Facebook,

find our G.O.A.T post and

follow the prompts.

Tavola’s range of

biodegradable napkins

and table runners as well

as placemats made from

recycled materials are

faves ... so many designs

to choose from ... like this

gold Suzanie. R145 for 25

from tavola.co.za

Posh up your table setting

with this six-piece Laguiole

steak knife block set in ivory.

R899 from Woolworths.


GETBALL0625pg028.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:55:55

We’d plan a picnic simply

so we could buy a set

of these stainless steel,

enamel coated Villa

plates, bowls and mugs.

Vanilla with gold rim, hard

wearing, glossy ... love! From R129

each from Woolworths.

Coffee parties ...

the next big trend

It doesn’t matter if we’re out on a hike,

throwing a picnic in the garden or at a

concert-in-the-park. Coffee is essential.

And we’re becoming more discerning

about the quality and taste of our coffee.

Add to this the increasing number of

people opting for sober-curious lifestyles

and it’s no wonder social gatherings

centred around coffee are becoming so

popular. So instead of a cocktail party,

invite a group of friends for coffee and a

chat. You could add to the fun by having

a coffee tasting, with guests sampling

different coffee varieties and perhaps

finding a new favourite, or throw a

coffee and dessert pairing party ... serve

a selection of sweet treats - chocolates,

pastries and cakes.

Another growing trend is ready-to-drink

beverages ... so the Douwe Egberts

introduction of their Cappuccino

Break and Ice Mocha Latte Break

is jolly well timed. It’s a cool, energising

drink without the need for brewing, so

fabulous for a grab-and-go caffeine fix

when you’re running around town, and

an essential addition to the coolerbox

when you’re on a road trip. You’ll find

them at stores including Checkers, Pick n

Pay, Makro and on Takealot.


GETBALL0625pg029.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:54:47

Fuel. Recover. Perform

Slow and steady wins the race. And having an avocado

on hand will take your sports nutrition to the next level.

Text: SOUTH AFRICAN AVOCADO GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION

Avocados are rich in heart-healthy

monounsaturated fats, which

can provide slow-release energy.

These good fats help keep you

fuelled for endurance sports like

running and cycling. Plus, they

help with the absorption of some

vitamins and protect your heart,

so you get the most out of your

diet when adding an avo.

Cramp less, recover more

Every athlete knows that postworkout

recovery is just as

important as the training itself.

Avocados contain potassium

(double than what is in bananas),

which helps prevent cramps and

supports muscle recovery. The

anti-inflammatory properties of

the avo also help reduce postexercise

soreness, getting you

back on the road or trail faster.

Happy gut

A happy gut means a happy

athlete. Avocados contain

fibre and prebiotics to support

digestive health, keeping your

gut microbiome in tip top shape.

A well-balanced gut can improve

nutrient absorption and even

support immune function, key for

avoiding those pesky winter colds

and niggles that disrupt training.

So, whether you're making a

green smoothie pre-training,

spreading avo on toast, or adding

it to a post-ride salad, this green

food is a must-have for runners

and cyclists. Fuel smarter, recover

faster, and keep your gut in

the game with the power of

avocados. So go on, just add

an avo!

Details: avocado.co.za ,

@iloveavocadoSA on Facebook and

@iloveavossa on Instagram

Vegan friendly dairy-free avo smoothie

Serves one.

Ingredients:

1 avocado, chopped; 1 banana, sliced; 125ml

(half a cup) chopped pineapple; handful baby

spinach; 180ml (three-quarters of a cup) orange

juice + extra; squeeze of lemon juice, to taste

Method:

Freeze the avo, banana and pineapple overnight

in an airtight container. Blitz together all the

ingredients until creamy. Thin out with extra

orange juice, if preferred. Serve immediately.

Tip: If you don’t have time to freeze the fruit, blitz

them fresh with a handful of ice cubes.

Avocado, kiwi & mint smoothie

Serves two.

You’ll need:

1 to 2 ripe avocados, peeled, stoned and quartered; 2 to 3 kiwis, peeled and halved;

1 handful baby spinach leaves, rinsed; half a cup crushed ice; half a cup water;

quarter of a cup fresh mint

Method:

In a blender combine all ingredients and purée until smooth.

Divide into two glasses and serve with mint leaves to garnish.


GETBALL0625pg030.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:54:19

GETBALL0625pg031.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:53:50

PROMOTION

Brews

for the

best dad

From espresso shots to craft hops –

here’s where to treat dad this Father’s

Day. Whether he loves a perfectly pulled

flat white, a classy cocktail or an ice-cold

beer, these are the best places for him to

kick back with a good drink.

1

Café La Plage

Celebrate Father’s Day with refined

indulgence at Café La Plage. This elegant

spot offers a welcoming ambiance,

making every family member feel right at

home. Create cherished memories with

delectable cuisine. It’s the ideal setting

to honour Dad and enjoy a selection of

meticulously crafted cocktails and other

bespoke beverages on the menu! The

gentle sea breeze and panoramic vistas

overlooking the Umhlanga promenade

complement the exquisite cuisine, forging

an indelible experience. Café La Plage is

truly pure bliss!

Details: Shop D1, The Pearls Mall,

uMhlanga Rocks; 031 561 9999;

reservations@cafelaplage.co.za;

IG: @cafelaplage.sa;

FB: Café La Plage Exclusive

2

Doppio Zero

Enjoy Father’s Day at Umhlanga’s Doppio Zero. A rich

cuppa awakens the senses, followed by a delightful

breakfast shared with dad.

Details: Shop A21, Pearls of Umhlanga, Cnr Lagoon Drive

and McCausland Crescent; 010 900 3173;

umhlanga@doppio.co.za; IG: @doppiozero_umhlangarocks;

Mozambik Umdloti

Mozambik Umdloti is a legendary

haven where succulent, flame-grilled

chicken, the freshest ocean catches

and an ice-cold brew reign

supreme. Revel in quality

time with family, smiles all

around the table surrounded

by a vibrant atmosphere and

Father’s Day cheer.

Details: 1 Jabu Ngcobo Dr,

Umdloti Beach, eMdloti, 4350;

032 061 0099;

umdloti@mozambik.co.za;

IG: @mozambikrestaurants;

FB: Mozambik

FB: Doppio Zero Umhlanga

3

GETBALL0625pg032.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:51:34

ADVERTORIAL


June-Dunlop GETBALL0625pg033.indd Advertorial.indd 1 2 2025/05/13 2025/05/15 10:59:42 15:47:38

GETBALL0625pg034.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:47:05

Kids

Beautiful books, mountain

biking and the changing face

of education.


GETBALL0625pg035.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:44:08

Wild

at

heart


Author and community

education specialist Kayleigh

Huysamen is inspiring

young conservationists, one

page at a time.


GETBALL0625pg036.indd 1 2025/05/15 15:43:38

If you’ve ever packed up the family for a bush break

or a long weekend in the great outdoors, you’ll know

the joy of seeing your kids light up at the sight of an

elephant or the call of a hornbill. But imagine if you

could bottle that excitement, pair it with beautifully

illustrated books, and sprinkle in a little conservation

magic? That’s exactly what Kayleigh aims to do with Wild

Kids Books.

Kayleigh, a mum of three, started the project during her

family’s home schooling journey when she couldn’t find

fun, South African-centred books for her children. Living

on a farm in Zululand and surrounded by wildlife, she took

matters into her own hands. Her first series, Sophia’s Safari:

An African Animal Alphabet, follows her children as they

explore the bushveld, learn about local animals from A to Z

and discover why protecting our wildlife matters.

And because siblings are never far behind, new books

quickly followed. Asher’s Survival Guide and Camping

Cookbook joined the range, and little Isla-Mae got her own

imaginative rhyming series. Add to that a set of engaging

field guides (including a Kruger version for bush-bound

families and even a marine one for coastal holidays), and

you’ve got a treasure trove of learning tools disguised as

delightful adventures.

For North Coast families who love a good road trip to the

bush or simply want to bring a bit of nature into their

homes, these books are a gem. They’re not just educational

– they’re genuinely fun. Think animal checklists, sticker

activities and stories that spark big conversations about the

natural world.

Kayleigh’s background in ecology and conservation runs

deep – from childhood visits to Kruger to earning her

Master’s Degree in the field – and it’s clear she’s poured

that passion into every page. “True conservation starts with

connection,” she says. “If children learn to value our wildlife

from a young age, they’re far more likely to grow into adults

who protect it.”

While Kayleigh may be tucked away in the heart of

Zululand, her books are available for delivery across the

country – including right here on the North Coast. They’re

also available from CAP Kids in Ballito, and will soon be

stocked in more stores locally.

Keep an eye out for her upcoming projects too –

including a conservation-themed board game and a new

endangered species range with magnets, tote bags and

more. Kayleigh’s mission is simple but powerful: to nurture

the next generation of conservation champions, one book

at a time.

Details: wildkidsbooksa.mailchimpsites.com;

IG: @wildkidsbookssa

discover the joy of learning

We welcome children aged 12 months to 6 years into a warm, nurturing

environment where curiosity, creativity, and confidence blossom.

Nestled in the heart of Eden Village, Salt Rock, our preschool offers abundant

open play spaces in a nature-rich setting, perfect for exploration and discovery.

A D M I S S I O N S O P E N

0 3 2 8 1 5 0 5 1 3

W W W . V I L L A G E K I D Z . C O . Z A

I N F O @ V I L L A G E K I D Z . C O . Z A


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PROMOTION

10

reasons why

early childhood

development is important

The first six years of a child’s life are essential for early childhood development.

The team at Crawford International North Coast explains why.

Recent advances in science

have shown just how critical

these early years are. During

this time, more than one

million neural connections are

formed in a child’s brain every second.

This rapid growth means children

learn more in these years than at any

other stage in their lives.

1. Rapid brain development

Over 80 percent of brain

development takes place before the

age of five. A rich and stimulating

environment during this period

supports the development of

cognitive skills that are key to future

learning.

2. School readiness

Children who experience structured

early learning arrive at school with

stronger language, numeracy and

social skills. These learners usually

adapt more easily and confidently to

formal education.

3. Holistic development

Early childhood development (ECD)

supports all aspects of a child’s

growth. At Crawford, the focus is on

physical development, emotional

intelligence creativity and critical

thinking as part of a well-rounded

approach.

4. Enhanced emotional intelligence

Social and emotional learning in the

early years helps children understand

and manage their emotions,

develop empathy and build healthy

relationships.

5. Resilience and self-regulation

Play-based and inquiry-led learning

helps children develop problem-solving

skills and manage their emotions. These

abilities build the resilience they will

need throughout life.

6. Long-term academic success

Research shows that high-quality

ECD leads to better academic

performance, a reduced need for

extra support and higher rates of

school completion.

7. Reducing inequality

In South Africa, access to early

learning opportunities can differ

greatly. Effective ECD helps close the

gap, giving all children a more equal

start in life.

8. Parental involvement

ECD works best when parents and

teachers work together. At Crawford,

strong partnerships with parents

are encouraged through regular

communication and involvement in

each child’s development.

9. 21st-century skills

Early exposure to technology,

including AI-based learning tools,

helps children build digital skills and

adaptability. At Crawford, EdTech

is used thoughtfully to support

engagement and personalised

learning.

10. A global perspective

Through the International

Baccalaureate (IB) framework and

cross-cultural experiences, children

start to understand global issues and

different cultures. This prepares them

to thrive in an interconnected world.

Details: www.crawfordinternational.co.za/

north-coast; IG: @crawford_northcoast;

FB: Crawford International North Coast

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www.crawfordinternational.co.za

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Pedal

power

At just 16, Joshua Paul is fast becoming a standout name

in South African mountain biking.

Last year, the Grade 11 student from

Ballito secured two national titles -

short course (XCC) and road - while

also dominating the KZN Schools MTB

Series and winning both the school

and inter-provincial races for his age

group at the national finals.

Passionate about growing the sport

among young athletes, Joshua has

played a key role in getting more

North Coast schools to introduce

MTB to their weekly sports schedule.

Training under Ty White at DriveTrain

Academy, he recently competed in his

first international races in Brazil and

Namibia. As an ambassador for Holla

Trails and Orbea bikes, supported by

On Track Cycles (Cycle Lab Ballito),

Joshua is proving that dedication and

passion can take you to new heights -

both on and off the bike.

We caught up with him to chat about

his journey, race-day rituals and advice

for aspiring riders.

What first got you hooked on

mountain biking?

Was it love at first ride?

My family moved to Ballito in 2018.

Since my dad is a keen rider, we often

went on rides together. One of my

new friends at school rode with Sugar

Rats and invited me to join him and I

loved it! I quickly started riding twice

a week with Sugar Rats and made lots

of cycling friends. My first race was a

Spur School Series event, and from

then on, I raced whenever I could.

As I became more competitive, I

transitioned to DriveTrain Academy,

where I still train with Ty White.

You’ve had an incredible year.

What’s been your most memorable

race so far and why?

Although I won two national titles

last year for road and short course

(XCC), my most memorable race was

winning the national Cross-Country

Olympic (XCO) event at Cascades.

Cascades is KZN's 'home venue,' and

the course changes each time we

race there. Last year's course really

suited my riding style - everything

just seemed to come together for an

exciting race. Taking my first national

XCO win in front of a home crowd

was truly special.

Go to

www.onemovement.co.za

for more of Josh’s

career highlights.


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If you could describe the feeling of

crossing the finish line first in a few

words, what would they be?

After catching my breath - pure joy

and fulfilment.

What’s the one pre-race ritual you

never skip?

I have a few!

I always get my bike checked by On

Track Cycles to make sure everything

is running perfectly.

Nutrition is key, so I have salmon, rice

and steamed veggies the night before

a race, and oats for breakfast on race

day.

If possible, I ride to the race venue - it

doubles as a warm-up and gives me

some mindful quiet time.

If you could design your dream MTB

racecourse, what would it include?

Lots of natural technical sections

and a good amount of climbing

throughout. I particularly enjoy

short, punchy climbs. The course in

Araxa Brazil where I secured my first

international win came very close to

being perfect.

What’s been the coolest moment in

growing the sport at local schools?

Seeing more and more kids riding

bikes has been amazing! Last year,

starting in a line-up of 85+ boys at

Maritzburg College in KZN and at

the Cycle Lab National finals were an

incredible experience.

Not everyone who competes in the

Cycle Lab Schools Series is a hardcore

racer. The courses are lap-based, so

you can’t get lost, and it’s easy to grab

fluids or technical support if needed.

Plus, every rider earns points for their

school just by participating. The

highlight of the day is always the high

school interschool relay!

Why not grab your bike and helmet

and try something new this winter?

Or come along to support your

school’s riders! You don’t have to race -

cycling is a sport where you compete

against yourself just as much as

others. It’s also a great way to unwind

with friends after a day of studying.

My dad has shown me that it’s a sport

you can enjoy for life, and it can take

you to some incredible places - I hope

more young riders get to experience

that!

What’s your best advice for

someone who’s never tried MTB but

wants to give it a go?

Grab a friend and go for a lekker ride!

Holla Trails is a great place to start. You

can hire a bike there to see if you like

it, and there’s a wide variety of trails to

explore.

Joining a school riding team or a

local MTB group is a fantastic way to

develop your skills. And if you fall or

struggle with an obstacle, don’t give

up - try again! The feeling when you

finally master it is totally worth it.

Details: IG: @ joshp_mtb_

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PROMOTION

Raising the bar

in education

Education is evolving – and fast. We asked some of the North Coast’s leading education

experts to tell us more about the future of learning, and share how they’re reimagining

education for a new generation.

Mrs Jacqui Pienaar

Principal

La Lucia Junior

Primary School

At La Lucia Junior Primary, the team is committed to evolving with

the times while staying true to the core values that give education its

purpose. They embrace their responsibility to nurture compassionate,

thoughtful and globally-minded citizens of the future.

What is the biggest change you see coming in education?

Education is shifting towards a more personalised, holistic model.

I believe we will see a greater emphasis on nurturing adaptable,

empathetic individuals who thrive in a rapidly changing world.

How are you preparing students for a digital world?

Learners are introduced to digital tools in developmentally

appropriate ways. We are equipping them with the skills and ethics

needed for a tech-driven future.

What role does mental health play in your curriculum?

Mental wellness is woven into everything we do. A learner who

feels supported emotionally is far more likely to flourish academically

and socially.

Details: 10 Winston Crescent, La Lucia; 031 5722 996;

IG: @laluciajpschool; FB: La Lucia Junior Primary School

Lesley van Straaten

Life and Career-

Choice Coach

Having been an educator for most of her career, Lesley is now a life

and career-choice coach, and NLP practitioner. She calls herself “The

Chatalyst”. Together with her clients, she chats, listens, and catalyses

the changes required to overcome and flourish.


The leaning toward technology and AI means that students need to

think creatively and critically in their own unique capacity, applying

competency and emotional intelligence.


Equipping students with problem-solving skills and adapting to

the rapidly evolving landscape through comprehensive hands-on

experience, is key. At the centre of this is personal identity – realising

and unleashing the power within.


Empowering students to focus on their talents and passions and

reframing limiting beliefs is essential. Self-awareness and resilience are

critical. If they know who they are, they can thrive in any environment.

Details: lesand@telkomsa.net; 082 4510113; IG: @the_kwazilience_way

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Kerryn Viljoen

Deputy Principal

Crawford

International

North Coast

Preparatory

Crawford International North Coast is shaping tomorrow’s leaders. The

beautiful co-ed school (Grades 000-12) is set in an idyllic and secure

campus just a short drive from either Ballito or uMhlanga.


One of the most meaningful shifts I have seen is the move away from

traditional teaching towards a more student-centred, inquiry-led

approach. We encourage students to ask questions, explore ideas and

connect their learning to the real world.


Technology offers powerful opportunities for creativity and

collaboration, and we aim to teach children how to use it with purpose

and care. This includes everything from online safety to understanding

the reliability of information.


Mental and emotional wellbeing play a central role in our daily

classroom life. We aim to create a space where children feel safe,

supported and seen.

Details: www.crawfordinternational.co.za/north-coast;

IG: @crawford_northcoast; FB: Crawford International North Coast

Tammy D’Aubrey

Head of Preschool

Village Kidz

Village Kidz is a family-centred preschool for children aged 12 months to 6

years, where personalised learning, generous outdoor spaces, and a deeply

invested team create a caring and enriching early childhood experience.


The biggest change coming in education is a shift toward nature-based,

experiential learning, especially in early childhood education, and Village Kidz

is leading the way. With immersive outdoor experiences and a low child-toadult

ratio, it nurtures each child in a caring, personalised environment where

young minds flourish.


We place a strong emphasis on play, creativity, problem-solving and

collaboration, which equips children with the cognitive and social skills

necessary to navigate a technology-driven future.


At Village Kidz, mental health is a cornerstone of our curriculum. By nurturing

emotional safety, self-awareness, and secure relationships, we help young

children build the essential emotional foundations for lifelong wellbeing,

resilience, and a love of learning.

Details: Eden Village, Foxhill, Salt Rock; 032 815 0513; IG: @vlgkidz; FB: Village Kidz

Londiwe Khawula

Drama Teacher

Reddam House Ballito

With a background in the film industry, Londiwe is passionate about the

arts. She brings real-world insight and creativity to her classroom.


The most exciting change I see is the move toward individualised learning.

Students are no longer just following a set path – they’re shaping their

own journeys! With more freedom to explore their interests, they’re

learning in ways that truly inspire them.

How are you preparing the students for the digital world?

We teach students to use technology in meaningful, creative ways. It’s

exciting to see how empowered students feel when they take ownership

of their work using technology.


I’m a strong advocate for mental health. Drama requires empathy,

self-awareness and emotional honesty. My classroom is a space where

students are encouraged to connect with their own experiences,

understand others and express themselves freely.

Details: 031 140 8808; info.ballito@reddam.house; IG: @reddamballito;

FB: reddamhouseballito

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Travel with teens

How to take a holiday with

teenagers (and retain your sanity)

Text: FIRST GROUP HOTELS AND RESORTS, www.firstgroup-sa.co.za

Travelling with teenagers can be a minefield - too many

rules or too much structure, and the complaints never

stop; too few activities and boredom sets in causing them

to retreat behind their screens! On the other hand, too

much freedom, and you risk barely seeing them, let alone

bonding as a family.

But according to Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First

Group Hotels and Resorts and father of a teen and tween,

the key to a successful family holiday isn’t about keeping

your teenagers entertained every second - it’s about giving

them space while making time for meaningful shared

experiences that strengthen your connection.

Based on his own experiences, Lamont shares his top tips:

INVOLVE THEM IN THE PLANNING

Give your teenagers a sense of ownership by involving

them in the trip planning process and decision-making. Let

them suggest places to visit or activities to try.

MAKE THE JOURNEY PART OF THE FUN

Road trips can be the most painful part of a holiday. Let

the kids take charge of the playlist and choose roadside

stops, even if it means a detour, as it adds an element of

adventure and fun to the journey.

IF YOU CAN’T BEAT THEM, JOIN THEM

Teenagers love Instagram-worthy moments, and while

parents may be tempted to resist this obsession with social

media, embracing it can lead to planning activities that

create memorable experiences everyone can enjoy and

share.

TEENS STILL LOVE TO PLAY - SO PLAY WITH THEM

They may act cool, but teenagers are kids at heart and

given the chance still enjoy having some fun with mom

and dad. Playing pool or darts, tennis doubles, fun games in

the pool, and card or board games are great ways to bond.

GIVE THEM SOME INDEPENDENCE

Teenagers want some freedom, and a holiday is the

perfect chance to let them have it—within limits and agedependent.

Choose resorts like Magalies Park, Breakers

Resort, or Hermanus Beach Club, where they can safely

explore on their own.

MAKE IT ABOUT EXPERIENCES

Dragging teens from one tourist attraction to another is a

recipe for boredom. Instead, mix it up with experiences like

zip-lining, visiting a water park, quad biking, or kayaking,

along with fun evenings like a DIY pizza competition.

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Pamper party for two

It’s all penguins and pleasure and perfection at Tintswalo Boulders

Sitting on your private balcony with a glass of something celebratory, watching

the penguins waddle around Cape Town’s iconic Boulders Beach ... life is sweet.

Tintswalo Boulders was voted one of the Best 100 Hotels in the World and

listed amongst the Top 10 Hotels in Africa by Fodor’s Travel for 2025. So a jolly

good choice for a honeymoon, a romantic hideaway, or a weekend in Simons

Town.

You’ve a choice of nine luxurious suites - eight with sea views, some with a

balcony or a fireplace, some suited to families, all individually but sensationally

decorated ... think shades of deep-sea blues and softest aquas and calming

sand. The comfort level is off the charts, the names of the suites pay homage

to historical ships - the Mayflower suite, the Mary Rose, the Cutty Sark. Fabulous

little touches throughout.

You can spend the day at the heated pool, book a spa treatment, or stroll down

to the beach, with its world-famous resident colony of critically endangered

African penguins ... major highlight! Back at the hotel, there’s a central courtyard

with a fire pit where you can gather for sunset canapés and cocktails, before a

relaxed dinner.

There’s a special on from now until 31 August ... the rate from R4400 per room

per night includes accommodation, breakfast, a three course dinner and

sunset canapés.

And you can, if you wish, book the villa on an exclusive-use basis for families

and friends travelling together.

Details:

tintswalo.com/

boulders,

res1@tintswalo.com,

follow on Facebook

@TintswaloBoulders

and Instagram

@tintswalo__boulders


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Preening, primping and the ultimate in pampering at The Turbine Spa

Imagine booking a getaway purely to spoil

yourself for a day, a weekend, heck - a longweekend,

with full-on pampering. Massages and

facials. Exfoliation wraps and steaming sessions

and scrubs. Imagine kicking off the spoil with

a couples steamy Arabian bathing ritual in an

exotically mosaic-tiled Rasul Steam Room. Book

us in now!

There are spas. And there are spas. And then

there’s the Turbine Spa - the only one in the

country housed in the heart of an old defunct

power station.

While the unusual Turbine Hotel on Thesen

Island in Knysna is all massive turbines, steel

pillars, bare brick walls and vividly hued pipes,

inside the spa it’s all soft and calm and relaxing.

It’s no wonder it has, for a number of years,

been a finalist in the Les Nouvelles Esthetiques

Spa Awards (a prestigious annual event that

recognises spas that deliver outstanding service,

innovative treatments and unique experiences).

It’s certainly one of the finest on the Garden

Route, with a massive range of pampering

options. Besides the Rasul Steam Room bathing

ritual, there’s the wonderful Couple’s Connect,

the signature Knysna Journey treatment - an

hour-and-a-half of relaxing foot scrub, massage

and a full body massage, and, from the Turbine

Body Collection, a fabulous full body exfoliation

wrap with a relaxing scalp massage followed by a

nourishing body butter application.

There’s obvs more to do than just be pampered.

(But why!).

Knysna is one of the most popular tourist towns

on the Garden Route for a reason ... there are

waterways to explore, restaurants to visit, oysters

to be slurped, and exclusive boutiques every

which way you look.

The five star boutique hotel has modern luxury

accommodation, including a honeymoon suite

and two self-contained suites adjacent to the

hotel, and two lovely restaurants - the Island

Café overlooking the canal with tables tucked

between the original turbines, and Gastro

Pub - all craft beers and imaginative pub-style

dishes. All sorts of unusual instruments and

contraptions are dotted around the hotel which

will keep engineers, scientists and curious visitors

fascinated for hours.

Rates are from R2560 per person per night, but

there are always specials to watch out for ...

like two-night package deals which include a

60-minute massage and dinner for two.

Details: turbinehotel.co.za,

reservations@turbinehotel.co.za, follow

@turbinehotel on Instagram.


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Spoil

June

Conte Camillo Negroni ... a

modern twist on a timeless classic!

Conte Camillo Negroni captures the spirit of the iconic drink

first created in 1919 in Florence by Count Camillo Negroni.

Handcrafted in the Italian Alps by the world renowned master

distiller Alessandro Francoli, Conte Camillo offers a smooth,

balanced taste that combines the bitterness of gin, the richness

of vermouth, and the aromatic complexity of bitters. This

modern twist on a timeless classic blends historical charm

with today’s ready-to-drink cocktail trends. Launched

earlier this year, and introduced to the local market

by Mack Brands, a dynamic new player in the global

beverage market, it’s easy to serve ... all you need is

ice, a generous pour of Conte Camillo, and a twist

of fresh orange peel. Or try a Burnt Negroni ... pour

Conte Camillo into a tumbler, top up with tonic

water, and garnish with some burnt herbs of your

choice - thyme and rosemary work well. And for

a sophisticated take, pour Conte Camillo into an

elegant stemmed glass, add ice and a dash of

Prosecco and garnish with an orange slice.

Cheers indeed! You’ll find it in its striking

packaging for R449 online on Norman

Goodfellows and Takealot and in selected

Checkers stores throughout South Africa.

For a chance to win a bottle, pop over

to @getitmagnc on Instagram or

Facebook, find our Spoil post and

follow the prompts.


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KZN’s Newest Shopping,

Dining and Lifestyle Destination

in Durban’s Outer West.

Delicious New Restaurants

Unique retail in our Makers Market in The Barn

Live Music & Entertainment

Active Play Areas & Kids Activities

Exciting Brands & Shopping Experiences

Come and Explore

#ItsTimeForTheWest

www.westownsquare.co.za


14-May-25 3:31:01 PM

YEARS

Exclusive Finishes +150

Kitchens Installed +50 000

Production & warehousing area

Showroom area

24 380 m2

4250 m2

Staff 420

Service & Delivery Vehicles 75

CAPE TOWN MIDRAND FOURWAYS DURBAN HILLCREST TANZANIA

UMHLANGA (Urban Park)

UMHLANGA (Millennium Boulevard)

0860 788 346 www.kitchenstudio.com info@kitchenstudio.com


14-May-25 3:31:46 PM

June 25-Ballito-Umhlanga

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