The Paragon Hub ISSUE 9
Introducing our 9th issue magazine, showcasing the inspiring stories of business owners, brand creators, and talented individuals from Zimbabwe. As a team, we have discovered that the future is filled with promise and potential, reflected in our theme for this issue “Exploring the Brightness: A Journey Through Balanced Living”. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted as you read about the resilience and creativity of our featured entrepreneurs, athletes, and artists. Let this issue ignite hope in every aspect of your life, whether it's in business, sports, or the arts. Embrace the positivity and optimism within these pages and let it fuel your own journey towards success.
Introducing our 9th issue magazine, showcasing the inspiring stories of business owners, brand creators, and talented individuals from Zimbabwe. As a team, we have discovered that the future is filled with promise and potential, reflected in our theme for this issue “Exploring the Brightness: A Journey Through Balanced Living”. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted as you read about the resilience and creativity of our featured entrepreneurs, athletes, and artists. Let this issue ignite hope in every aspect of your life, whether it's in business, sports, or the arts. Embrace the positivity and optimism within these pages and let it fuel your own journey towards success.
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THE PARAGON HUB
ISSUE 9
DAKAR JOURNEY
WITH ASHLEY THIXTON
AFCON 2023-ROUND UP “BILLED AS
THE BEST EVER
EXPERIENCE THE MADNESS AT
HASQVARNA
TRAILBLAZER 2024
COMMUNITY FOOD LIFESTYLE NEWS OUTDOOR SPORT TRAVEL
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 1
LETS
RIDE
THE PARAGON HUB
“Exploring the
Brightness: A
Journey Through
Balanced Living”
Dear readers,
Welcome to the most recent edition of our lifestyle magazine! As we begin
a new season, we are excited to provide you a multitude of interesting and
inspiring content that will undoubtedly add a touch of brightness to your
daily lives.
In this issue, we have handpicked a wide range of stories and features that
delve into numerous elements of modern living. From fashion and beauty
trends to health and wellness suggestions, we seek to live you with a wellrounded
guide to maintaining a balanced and fulfilled existence.
We recognise the vast range of interests and passions that comprise our
readership. As a result, we’ve included pieces on travel locations, culinary
pleasures, and unique cultural experiences that will definitely fuel your
interests and inspire your next vacation.
We would like to thank our faithful readers, whose support and feedback
continue to influence and drive the content we create. Your passion,
enthusiasm and engagement motivate our dedication to providing an
amazing lifestyle lifestyle magazine that is relevant to your interests and
objectives.
We hope you like this issue and find it to be a source of inspiration,
enjoyment, and helpful insights. As always, we appreciate your thoughts,
recommendations, and ideas to help us improve, grow, and expand.
Wishing you a fulfilling and joyful voyage through the pages of our magazine!
Warm regards,
The Paragon editorial team
THE PARAGON HUB
CONTENTS
8
12
16
20
24
30
36
38
42
46
52
THE FRIEND ANIMAL
FOUNDATION
LOCAL INFLUENCERS
BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME
THE COMMON CAUSES OF
ROAD CRASHES IN ZIMBABWE
LOCAL ARTIST
LEADING WITH INFLUENCE IN
BUSINESS
TRAILBLAZERS 2024
EXPERIENCE THE MADNESS AT
HASQVARNA
AFCON 2023-ROUND UP
“BILLED AS THE BEST EVER
MANA POOLS
INTERVIEW WITH MARIA
ECONOMOU
BSc Pastry and Chocolate Arts
28
40
DAKAR
JOURNEY
WITH ASHLEY
THIXTON
e
U19 CRICKET
WORLD CUP
THAT HAD IT
ALL
Advertsing
Stacy@paragon.co.zw
Head Office
17035 Cedora Road,
Graniteside, Harare
Paragon Express
Suite ZB, Sam Levy’s Village
Borrowdale, Harare
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Arundel Village
Harare
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Harare
THE PARAGON HUB
CONTRIBUTORS
PRINTING
Paragon Printing & Packaging
(Pvt) Ltd
ADVERTISING
Stacy Lambert
hub@paragon.co.zw
FROM THE EDITOR
DISCLAIMER
MAGAZINE DESIGN
& EDITOR
Kinsley P Ravhu
kingsley@paragon.zo.zw
Tremendously excited to present to you Issue 8, in all it’s glory.
Thank you to all of our contributors.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its
content, the editor cannot be held responsible for any omission or
errors. The Paragon Hub has the right to make alterations to any
article submitted and cannot be held responsible for the loss of
or damage to any material submitted for publication. The views
expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the
editor. All prices quoted were correct at the time of going to
press and may vary from shop to shop. The Paragon Hub is not
responsible for copyright issues with advertisers and the pictures
and texts they have used – this is their responsibility.
CONTRIBUTORS
ASHLEY THIXTON
THE ANIMAL FOUNDATION
JILL DAY
MARIA ECONOMOU
SABRE
MARC POZZO
HASQVARNA
TRAILBLAZERS
DINA GOHIL
Have you got something for us?
We are always looking for new and
exciting local stories, from product
launches to community projects. If you’ve
got something to share please contact us,
we would love to hear from you.
COPYRIGHT
No part of this magazine may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or
by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photography, recording or any
information storage or retrieval system
without prior permission from the publisher.
hey
KEEP IN Touch
Stacy@paragon.co.zw
paragon print zw
Kingsley@paragon.co.zw
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 5
THE PARAGON HUB
THE PARAGON HUB
HAZELNUT
#BDA55D
Seasonal
COLOUR
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SEAWEED
HAZEL WOOD
#80461B #666A6D
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JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 7
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 7
THE FRIEND ANIMAL FOUNDATION
HISTORY
AND AIMS OF THE
FRIEND ANIMAL
FOUNDATION
The Friend Animal Foundation was founded in 1997 by
Ms Jean Friend, a wealthy, animal-loving lady who took
over Filippa’s Kennels in Tynwald.
Sadly, Jean died of cerebral malaria only a year later. Her
finances were left in trust mainly for these kennels and
cattery in Tynwald but her legacy has also helped many
other animal welfare organizations. At the time of the land
redistribution programme, the Foundation helped wherever
they could by offering to board pets free of charge and
then relocate them - in conjunction with Commair/British
Airways - all over the world.
The economic hardships Zimbabwe has faced have
taken their toll and sadly Jean Friend’s trust fund has
been exhausted. This led to the creation of a new Board
of Trustees with the dedicated aim of continuing Jean’s
legacy and good work for the animals at The Friend Animal
Foundation. The Foundation now works on businessapproached
protocols and procedures to streamline
monthly expenditure without negatively impacting the
animals, while enabling the Foundation to run in a more
effective, efficient and self-sustaining manner.
By applying for a Private Voluntary Organization number,
we are registering as the only NO KILL Shelter in Zimbabwe
and hope that this will allow us to source help from
international animal welfare agencies.
The Board of Trustees has focused on forming an
enthusiastic, reliable and hard-working staff contingent, as
well as attracting a dedicated Management Committee and
other volunteers to assist with the day-to-day management
and running of The Friend Animal Foundation.
running costs each month, we rely heavily on public support
and donations in cash and kind. Unfortunately, this is not a
stable enough income.
Our aim is not only to continue, but to improve our ability to
provide sanctuary to strays and surrendered domestic animals
in Harare, and we strive to be the model NO KILL animal
shelter in Zimbabwe.
DAY-TO-DAY RUNNING
We take in stray and surrendered dogs that we bring back
to health. Once they are physically stronger we start working
with them to socialize them and teach them to work on a
lead.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 8
One of our aims is to educate the public about the needs
and care of animals in order to stop the many cases of
animal cruelty that we encounter.
We encourage volunteers and sympathetic members of
the public to get involved in our most basic programmes:
dog walking, puppy socializing and cat interaction.We
also always require people to assist with fund-raising,
sponsorship, building and renovations, veterinary aid, food
drives, fostering etc.
The Friend Animal Foundation cares for around 475 dogs,
160 cats and 100 farm animals. In order to cover the basic
We have 7 dog handlers who work with the dogs daily –
either in social groups or individually.The dogs start coming
out into our 40 exercise runs at around 7.15am, we do this in
rotation throughout the day, managing to exercise over 300
dogs daily.
We have a big social group of 30 dogs around the office that
interact with the public.We try to re-home as many dogs (and
cats) as we can and we have two specific projects:
(1) Anti poaching, where we have dogs assisting the Forestry
Commission, Chizarira Wildlife and Save Valley.
(2) Farm Security patrol dogs.
THE FRIEND ANIMAL FOUNDATION
PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS ACT ZIMBABWE:
Title 19, Chapter 19:09
This law constitutes Zimbabwe’s cruelty to animals
act. Under the act, “animal” means: (a) any kind
of domestic vertebrate animal, (b) any kind of wild
vertebrate animal in captivity, (c) the young of any animal
referred to above.
The law prohibits the cruel beating, kicking,
overriding, overdriving, overloading, or torturing of
animals, among other things.
In this Act “animal” means:
(a) any kind of domestic vertebrate animal;
(b) any kind of wild vertebrate animal in captivity;
(c) the young of any animal referred to in paragraph
(a) or (b).
An offence is committed by any person who
(a) cruelly beats, kicks, ill-treats, overrides, overdrives,
overloads or tortures any animal or causes any animal so
to be used; or
(b) drives or uses any animal which is so diseased or so
injured or in such a physical condition that it is unfit to
do any work; or
(c) being the owner, abandons any animal or causes or
permits any animal to be abandoned; or
(e) wantonly or unreasonably does or causes or procures
the commission of any act likely to infuriate or terrify any
animal
(g) cruelly or unnecessarily ties up or confines any animal
or causes or permits any animal so to be tied up or
confined.
any veterinary surgeon is within reasonable distance and
if the animal can without causing it unnecessary suffering
be moved, take it or cause it to be taken to the veterinary
surgeon for such treatment.
Entry by police officer or inspector
(1) Any police officer or inspector may enter upon
any premises where he has reasonable grounds for
believing that such entry is necessary for the prevention,
investigation or detection of an offence in terms of this
Act.
(2) Any person who hinders or obstructs a police officer
or an inspector in the exercise of his functions in terms
of subsection (1) shall be guilty of an offence and liable
to a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars or to
imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or
to both such fine and such imprisonment.
Separate charges in respect of each animal
Separate charges may be brought against any person or
persons in respect of each animal if more than one are
concerned.
Where the owner of an animal is convicted of an
offence in respect of such animal, the court may, in
addition to any other punishment
(a) deprive such owner of the ownership of the animal
and make such order as to the disposal of the animal as
it thinks fit; and additionally, or alternatively
(b) order such person to be disqualified, for such period
as it thinks fit, from having custody of any animal or of
any animal of a kind specified in the order.
Power of police officer or inspector to remove animal
for treatment
If a police officer or inspector finds any animal which is
so diseased or injured or is suffering in such other way
that in his opinion it is desirable that it should receive
treatment in order to relieve its suffering, he may, if the
owner is absent or refuses to consent to the treatment of
the animal, at once summon a veterinary surgeon or, if
7 Kirkman Road, Tynwald
293 0442/ 077 342 9152/ 073 3816 804
friendanimalfoundationzim @gmail
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 9
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
Top Local Influencers
Nicole Duma
Ever since childhood, I have been fascinated by
the power of words and the art of captivating
an audience, shaping my commitment to
the impactful fusion of words, image, and
demeanour.
My journey as a Master of Ceremonies and
Keynote Speaker, enriched by eight plus years
in debate and public speaking roles, has been
incredibly rewarding. From hosting events like
the Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy’s Diploma
Graduation to Word of Life International
Ministries’ Youth Events, I thrive on making
every moment unforgettable. With three years
of experience crafting compelling content, I
also thrive on bringing various ideologies to
life and engaging audiences across various
platforms. I’ve also created, proofread, and
copy-edited corporate, official, and creative
literary work through adequate use of my
written communication and research skills.
Director of First Impressions || Keynote Speaker &
Master of Ceremonies || Content Writer
|| Brand Image
Currently, I am the Director of First Impressions
at Zimworx, where I enhance stakeholder
engagement by maintaining one of my key
strategies: offering my services with a smile
(a seemingly simple yet key strategy to ensuring
people fall in love with your brand). I also voluntarily
head the Word of Life International Ministries’
Impact Administration Team and participate in
community-centred programmes via the Zimworx
Workplace Wellness Department.
Beyond my professional life, I find joy in reading
books and novels, which adds depth to my creative
process and overall approach to my work.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 12
“Be the best version of you there is”
nicolekdblog.wordpress.com
“If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or
Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the
hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.’”
Martin Luther King Jr.
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
Caroline Lucy Ruzariro
Chef Caroline is a qualified pastry chef based
in Harare, Zimbabwe, and the owner of
the up-and-coming gastronomy enterprise
Patisserie Classics. Her burning passion
bloomed at a tender age in her high school
food and nutrition classes into something
much more complex and exciting. She carries
twenty years of experience, and in those same
years, she has gone through both culinary
and patisserie-based routes, mastering the
techniques of both crafts. Patisserie, however,
proved to be her safe haven.
Caroline's endeavours have taken her to
Singapore, Poland, and Dubai, to name a
few. She has also had the honour to mark
international pastry competitions. Patisserie
Classics has been in operation for sixteen
years, finding its voice in the tutoring sector.
Caroline has formulated her own original
cheesecake and chocolate mousse recipes
that have taken the industry by storm.
She has inspired and tutored over 200
Zimbabwean bakers, who have utilised the
skillets to revive and upgrade their own
CEO of Patisserie Classics
businesses. In 2023, she was awarded Gold for
Best Tutor of the Year at the Zim Cake Artists
Awards Ceremony. Additionally, she received
a Gold Award from the CEO's Network for her
professional excellence and selfless contribution
to the industry. Patisserie Classics deals with
weddings, birthdays, and many other events,
bringing clients' well-curated menus to life. The
business continues to flourish, and Caroline looks
forward to a prosperous future ahead.
“Obstacles can't stop you”
@ Patisserie Classics
“You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s
problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has
shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.”
Michelle Obama
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 13
THE PARAGON HUB
Paddington square,lewisam
NOW
OPEN
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 14
Fife Avenue Shopping Centre
Paddington square,lewisam
THE PARAGON HUB
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 15
BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME
By Jill Day
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 16
The book most young Zimbabweans have read
is Robert E. Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad. They
are in good company: written 27 years ago it still
ranks as the #1 personal finance book of all time.
While the rich invest in assets and let money work
for them, the middle class invest in liabilities, naively
considering them as assets, and work for money. To
the middle class, a car is an asset. To the rich, it is a
liability because it costs them money: it doesn’t earn
for them. “If you have to invest in something, invest
in financial literacy,”Kiyosaki says. My own memory
of the book is that once you have left poverty
behind you, one of the best things you can invest
in is property. Sure, the value graph of property
does fall as well as rise, but over the last 20 years
it has significantly outperformed any other asset in
Zimbabwe and continued to increase in value, unlike
any dollar you care to name. So you’ve read the
book, made your stash and now you are looking at
how to invest in something you can live in or rent out
to make your asset work for you. Where do you start?
Websites
There are four online property portals; www.property.
co.zw, www.classifieds.co.zw (both are run by WebDev
and have the same information) www.propertybook.
co.zw and www.property24.co.zw. This last one is a
spin-off from the South African website of the same
name and it features listings of the international
estate agents. We sell property in return for a 5 per
cent commission, paid by the seller. All registered
estate agents are listed at the Estate Agents Council
of Zimbabwe--eac.co.zw. It’s worth checking that the
agent selling a property you like is listed with them
so you have someone to complain to should things
go wrong. The EAC has introduced exams that all
estate agents have to pass by the end of the year:
make sure yours is qualified, so you can trust what
they tell you. You don’t pay agents to go and view
a property or to buy it. And all agents are required,
by law, to represent all properties listed by agencies
other than their own in a proper, professional manner.
Don’t worry legally we have to share commission
equitably, so if you have a friend who is an agent
he can sell you any property listed with any agent.
Making an offer
Once you find a property you like, you complete a
written offer form and take a copy of it. It asks for your
name, contact details, ID, the property you want to
buy, how much and how you will pay for it. You ought
to say how long your offer is valid for you might find a
house you like better and, as written offers are legally
binding (although it’s unusual for this to be enforced)
putting a deadline on the offer gives you an out.
Your agent presents your offer. Incidently, it doesn’t
have to be at the asking price: most sellers expect
to negotiate on a sale. But if you are at a show
day (that’s when agents advertise that a property
will be open for viewing between certain hours
on such and such a day and anyone can go to
see) and 20 people are filling in offer forms, you
are likely to have to offer up to 5% more than the
asking price if you really do want that property.
If your seller comes back with a new offer “I only
want to sell it for $120,000, not $100,000” that
negates your offer immediately. Normally the agent
will run back and forth until you both agree a price. If
both seller and buyer are a little disappointed, I feel
I have done a good job and achieved a fair price for
the property. If either of you is dancing a jig, I’ve let
the other one down. And if a property ticks seven of
the top 10 things you must have in your property,
I’d say it’s a good deal. Along the way, the agent
will ask you for your ID and probably a utility bill for
proof of address. You will be asked to complete a
Know Your Customer form, because the Reserve
Bank asks agents to do this and to keep it in your file.
Title deed
You in turn should ask for a copy of the title deed, to
make sure you are buying the property you think you
are and also to check that there is no caveat, such as
it being subject to a divorce settlement and so may
not be sold, on the deed. Deeds in this country bear
the stand number of the property, not the physical
address. You can confirm this at the Surveyor
General’s office but if the seller’s name is on the title
deed you can be fairly confident that all is well. The
conveyancing lawyer, who is chosen by the seller,
because s/he owns the asset, will also ensure all is in
order before transferring the property to your name.
PAM GOLDING
The lawyer will in due course request payment of 3 per cent of the purchase price for handling the
conveyancing for you. This is a fee set by the Law Society. You will also have to pay 4 per cent government
stamp duty, meaning you pay 7% over and above what you agree to pay for the property. There are no
other costs directly involved in the sale of a property with title. Some properties are sold under cession: the
developer agrees to sell you the property and one day you may get title. This is more risky and normally
relates to new urban areas that were agricultural land. Having title ensures that you, and only you, own the
property and the deed can be used for surety for a loan.
Agreement of sale
The agent or the lawyer will send you a draft agreement of sale and this is legally binding so please check
that your personal details are right, that you are paying the right price for the correct property and any
conditions you requested have been included. Once both parties are happy, this is signed and witnessed.
It is normal practice at this time either to pay in full for the property or to pay a deposit of at least 20 per
cent to show you are a serious buyer and to enable the agent to put the property on hold while you pay the
balance, at which point it is delisted. The sooner you can pay, the less you may have to offer.
The lawyer will then apply to ZIMRA for a capital gains’ certificate. This normally costs 5 per cent of the
purchase price (under certain circumstances it can be set at a percentage of the difference between the
original purchase price and the one you will pay) and is payable by the seller. Both the buyer and the seller
will be asked to attend an interview at the ZIMRA office in Harare or Bulawayo in order for this to be granted.
ZIMRA is interested in ensuring it is being paid the correct amount of tax: there is no collusion between
buyer and seller or falsification of the value. Both the tax office and the deeds office are entitled to ask for a
valuation, for which the parties have to pay.
Once the capital gains tax certificate has been issued, the lawyer applies for transfer. This can take time and,
depending on your agreement and providing you have paid for the property in full, you may be permitted
to move in before transfer. If there is a tenant in the property, however, s/he must be given three months’
notice to vacate. Once you have paid for the property, you are entitled to receive the rent. But you are also
now responsible for the insurance and upkeep of it.
Four bed family home
in Emerald Hill on 5707
m2 for sale at $420,000.
Good borehole,
swimming pool, two
cottages in established
garden. A good buy
in an up and coming
area with supportive
neighbours.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 17
PAM GOLDING
Neat two and three bed
semi-detached garden
flats in Bluff Hill, just
off Lomagundi Road
selling for $95,000 and
$125,000 respectively.
Well built, convenient
and about to be
completed.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 18
When your financial
acumen really pays
off, what about this
architect-designed
cottage on 24,000
m2 in the heart of old
Borrowdale? Yours for
$1,2 million
ART THERAPY
THE PARAGON HUB
23
DRIVE ZIMBABWE
The common
causes of
road crashes
in Zimbabwe
Adopting a responsible and vigilant approach to
driving is crucial for preventing road accidents. By
understanding and addressing common causes,
adhering to traffic regulations, and prioritising
safety, motorists can create safer roads for everyone.
Remember, responsible driving is not just a legal
obligation but a moral responsibility ensuring all road
users’ well-being. Stay safe on the roads!
The common causes of road
crashes in Zimbabwe
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 20
Car crashes, often resulting from carelessness,
dangerous driving, and unhealthy habits, remain
a significant concern on our roads. However,
many incidents can be prevented through
patience, heightened awareness, and adherence
to the rules of the road. Let’s delve into the most
common causes of road accidents and explore
essential practices to avoid them.
1. Speeding is Always a Bad Idea.
Despite numerous awareness campaigns,
exceeding speed limits continues to be a
prevalent cause of accidents. Driving too fast for
road or weather conditions significantly reduces
reaction time, making it challenging to prevent
collisions. It is imperative to prioritise safety
by adhering to speed limits, ensuring a safer
journey for everyone on the road.
2. Avoid Distractions: Put Down Your Phone
and Food.
Distracted driving, whether from mobile phones
or eating, seriously threatens road safety...
Texting while driving is twice as likely to cause
a crash as driving under the influence of alcohol
due to impaired reaction times. Driving and
using a phone involve multitasking, which our
brains are not designed to manage efficiently.
Consider using ‘driving mode’ or placing your
phone in the dash to mitigate distractions.
While there is no specific law against eating and
driving, avoiding any activity that compromises
your control of the vehicle is crucial.
3. Reckless Driving Causes Wrecks
Responsible driving is not just about managing
speed but also entails considerate behaviour
towards other road users. Abrupt lane changes
and tailgating can lead to collisions. Following
the two-second rule, maintaining a safe distance
behind the vehicle in front is essential for
adequate thinking and stopping distances.
4. Look Out for All Road Users.
Being aware of your surroundings
is vital for preventing accidents.
Scan the road for vehicles,
motorbikes, and bicycles, and
use your mirrors regularly.
Approximately 71% of reported
fatal crashes involved drivers who
were reckless or negligent. Even
exiting your vehicle demands
caution; the Dutch Reach
technique, opening the door with
the hand furthest from it, ensures
you check for oncoming traffic,
enhancing safety for cyclists and
other road users.
DRIVE ZIMBABWE
5. Drowsy Driving is Dangerous.
Fatigue contributes to many accidents, with
studies suggesting it plays a role in up to 20% of
crashes. Recognising the signs of tiredness and
taking necessary precautions, such as avoiding
driving when exhausted or during typical sleep
hours, is crucial. Staying vigilant about your
energy levels and being willing to pull over and
rest, when necessary, can prevent accidents
caused by drowsy driving.
6. Don’t Drive Under the Influence.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
severely impairs judgment and reaction times,
endangering both yourself and others on the
road. The simple mantra, “If you’re driving,
don’t drink; if you’re drinking, don’t drive,”
encapsulates the responsible approach needed
to avoid accidents caused by impaired driving.
Which breakdown cover do I need?
Though roadside assistance is provided by
many different companies, their products are
fundamentally the same. That is to say, if your
vehicle breaks down, you can call your provider
for assistance and, if necessary, they’ll dispatch
a roadside contractor or tow truck to help you.
So how can one roadside assistance provider
be distinguished from another?
For some consumers, the choice of provider boils
down to factors such as cost and rescue-vehiclefleet
size (which they may surmise translates to
shorter waiting times).
However, not all towing companies are created
equal. Some might offer cheap rates but
compromise on quality, safety, or reliability.
Others might charge you hidden fees, keep
you waiting for hours, or damage your vehicle
during the towing process. What sets a top-tier
24/7 towing company apart is a customer-centric
approach, where your needs and concerns
are the priority. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside
Assistance goes the extra mile to ensure clear
communication, transparent pricing, and prompt
service, significantly reducing the stress of a
vehicle breakdown. We understand the urgency
of your situation. That’s why we prioritize prompt
response times to get you back on track.
Our skilled technicians are equipped with stateof-the-art
tools to handle any vehicle recovery
scenario. From flatbed towing to winching, we
have the solutions you need.
Contact us now and experience the
reliability and expertise of our Roadside
Assistance Towing and Recovery
Services.
0780 579 261/ 0718 084 297/ 0736 523
424 Office+2638677160725
Email:info@drivezim.co.zw now and get
towing services at unbeatable prices
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 21
THE PARAGON HUB
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 22
THE STORY OF FAMS ZIMBABWE
FAMS Zimbabwe story is rooted in the history of two major
international forwarders – UTI and DSV.
UTI started in Zimbabwe back in the 1970’s and became a
household name in the country. UTI continued through to
2016 when UTI’s global business was bought by DSV – a
large Danish international logistics company.
In 2019, when DSV decided to restructure its Africa business,
the Zimbabwe operation was bought out by FAMS Group
whose partners have a long history working across Angola,
Mauritius and other southern Africa countries.
SERVICES
FAMS Zimbabwe now has offices and warehouses in both
Harare and Bulawayo as well as at all the main Zimbabwe
border posts. It provides both air, road, rail and sea transport
to and from all global origins thanks to its agency
agreements with DSV.
Besides doing international forwarding, the company also
operates bonded warehouses and a full service of customs
clearance, warehouse management and last mile domestic
distribution.
COMPANY POLICY
The company has focused on local experience. All of its staff
are experienced Zimbabwean logistics specialists with many
of them having been with the company for more than 20
years. Experience in Mining, Energy, Healthcare and the
Automotive sector mean that the company knows how to
meet local needs as well as providing global logistics
solutions.
FAMS also focuses on ensuring that it uses the latest
technology in cargo management platforms (its Cargowise
© system is a global leader used by many of the biggest
logistics companies worldwide)
FAMS also maintains global standards in Health Safety and
Security, as well as complying with all global standards of
anti-bribery and corruption.
Care of the environment has also resulted in the company
taking its offices off grid through investment in solar power,
electric forklifts and progressively renewing its transport fleet
with more fuel-efficient vehicles.
WHAT CLIENTS AND STAFF EXPECT FROM FAMS
The experience of its staff and FAMS ability to handle high
volumes of shipments mean that reporting to clients is
tailored to client needs and staff understand the products of
its clients and the need for transparent reporting of when,
where and how shipments will be delivered to their end
destinations.
Difficult economic times have mean that staff working
conditions and support for their needs are kept constantly
under review.
“Our staff are the lifeblood of our business and our
relationships with our customers are critical to their
success, so we have regular performance reviews to assess
future needs, as well as past operational performance
“says Peter Kazingizi, Managing Director of FAMS
Zimbabwe.
FAMS MISSION STATEMENT
To provide high quality and tailored international &
domestic supply chain services to southern Africa entities,
adding value to and effectively communicating with our
customers, delivered by a motivated & dedicated team,
embracing “zero tolerance” compliance and high HSE
standards, and to be recognised as a leading logistics
provider in Southern Africa.
FAMS FUTURE IN ZIMBABWE
FAMS plans to continue to invest to consolidate its
position as one of the leading logistics providers in the
country. Continuous improvement through capital
investment, improving services levels, investing in digital
technology and staff training are all part of the FAMS
Philosophy. FAMS is proud of the company’s long history
in Zimbabwe. The future success and growth of the
company can draw on its experience and as well as its
aspirations to be part of what keeps Zimbabwe moving
forward.
FAMS GROUP VALUES
• Customers first
• Respect our employees
• Best performance
• Be a trusted partner
• True collaboration
• HSE and CSR part of our DNA
• Use sustainable solutions
• Simple, efficient, cost effective and
compliant freight logistics solutions
THE PARAGON HUB
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 23
LOCAL ARTIST’S
MICHAEL
ANTHONY
LEES
Artist Statemement
Art runs through my veins, a gift passed down
through generations of talented individuals in my
family. From an early age, my father recognized
my artistic abilities and did everything in his
power to nurture them. Despite his unwavering
belief in me, I have always struggled to
see the same potential within myself.
Growing up in the breathtaking landscapes of
Zimbabwe, I am constantly surrounded by beauty
that serves as an endless well of inspiration. The
vibrant colors, rich culture, and diverse wildlife
of my homeland fuel my creativity, driving me to
pick up my pencil and sketch the world around
me. The act of drawing only strengthens my
connection to this remarkable place, igniting a
passion within me that grows with each stroke.
As an aspiring artist, I am grateful for the
opportunity to share my work in The Paragon
Magazine. I hope that through my modest
efforts, I can bring a sense of joy and inspiration
to those who view my art. The world is in need
of artists now more than ever, and I am humbled
to play a small part in adding beauty to our lives.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 24
I urge every young artist to embrace their talents
and create with all their heart. The act of creation
is a powerful force that can bring light and hope
to a world in need. Thank you to the publishers
for giving me this platform to showcase my work,
and I hope that my art resonates with someone
out there, sparking a sense of wonder and delight.
TINASHE
ESTERY
KAMBEU
Artist Statemement
My name is Tinashe Estery Kambeu, and I am
a multidisciplinary artist. I started art at a very
young age, and my sister, Gally Kambeu, was
the one who got me interested in art. I was the
annoying little sister that copied everything from
her, and art was what stuck with me.
Currently, I am working with another local artist,
Marko Kalanzi. We have a series of works we are
collaborating on where we fuse our different styles
into one painting or artwork, and some of that work
can be viewed on the Instagram and Facebook
page @EverythangEverywhere.
I was very fortunate enough to go to a high
school that had art as part of its curriculum, so I
got a chance to explore my talent a little more.
My artistic journey really started later on when I
enrolled at the Peter Birch School of Art, where I
did my A-level art, and then later on got to perfect
my skills when I trained at the National Gallery
of Zimbabwe Visual Art Studios. I also have a
diploma in graphic design from the Business
Computing Examination of London, a certificate
in multimedia from NIIT, and a certificate in frontend
web development from Muzinda Hub in
conjunction with Treehouse.
I define myself as a multidisciplinary artist, and that
just means I work with different media. I paint on
multiple surfaces, whether it be canvas, bottles,
or stones, just to name a few. I do abstract, semirealism,
embroidery, craft work, murals, mixed
media art, woodwork, photography, and graphics.
I have so many interests, and embracing all my
interests has enriched every area of my artistic
abilities. I thrive on being fluid in my creativity.
I don’t like to limit myself, and this is evident in
my work, hence the name of my Instagram page,
Everythang_Everywhere. I draw my inspiration
from everything and everyone around me, as well
as other artists I see.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 25
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
Dakar journey 2024
with Ashley Thixton
What was your day to day life like in terms of
training and preperation for the Dakar?
Training all changed for me when the Dakar journey
began. I started training really early in the mornings.
Wake up each day is 4;15 to be at the gym 4:45 to
start training. Dakar is know for its really really early
morning starts so I firstly had to start training my
body to be awake in those early morning situations.
It started with a lot of Strength training to get the
body strong. A lot of band work out with a lot of low
intensity long sessions of Zone 2/3 training. Then it
progressed into a lot of cardio with a requirement
of a minimum of 1 hour additional a day on top of
your everyday workouts. That was all (off the bike
training). I’d normally train 14 days solid then 2 days
off. The (on the bike training) was super long hours,
simulating stages of 10 to 11 hours of riding at a
time. Although I wish I had done more time on the
bike, day to day duties and work commitment sadly
got in the way of more bike rides. But I rode at every
opportunity I got.
What was the highlight of the trip and what was
something that surprised you the most about it all?
The highlight of the trip would defiantly be riding up
that finish line and being handed that Dakar medal,
the feeling I got as I went on the stage was like
nothing I have ever felt in my life. I honestly struggle
to put the feeling into words. But there were some
small moments daily that I really enjoyed, things
like hitting the correct notes in good time, and also
seeing others getting lost and sticking to your guns,
passing riders going in circles. That’s one part that
felt really good. There are more, like coming into the
Bivouac (Pits) daily, knowing you have one less day
ahead and you are one more step closer to achieving
your dream.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 26
How would you describe the food, and what did
you eat?
Food was great if I am honest. There was a really
wide variety of food every meal. From chicken,
fish and beef every meall, a starch of potatoes or
croissants and obviously the veg was really good
each day. There was an unlimited amount of water
you could take, and all the cokes and fizzie drinks
available. I didn’t really have too many of these at
meals, only as soon as I got off the bike each day.
With you burning so many calories each day I pilled
my food on my plate.
There was a 24hr pasta station which I made use of
often and it was always fresh and hot.
I also had a lot of snacks Back at the HT rally Rig,
there was unlimited amount of pringles which I
realized that I really like. The team was great and
as I would come off the bike each day, I would have
noodles and anything in front of me would go down
the hatch. I ate a lot, lets put it that way.
How many calories did you burn during the day?
I wear a Whoop strap all the time and I believe that it
is accurate with the calorie count. I did not take it off
for the whole trip. I burnt a total of 121540 Calories
over the 15 Days of riding. That’s an average of 8105
per day. I lost a total of 10kgs over the 20 days I was
in the Dakar Scene.
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
What was the team you were with and how did they help you everyday?
HT Rally Raid Husqvarna was the name of the team I was with. I really enjoyed the team and it only took a
matter of minutes to feel right at home with the them. As I got back they would be waiting for me to take
the bike. I would have a small debrief with them and discuss the days stage, and if there were any issues
with the bike they would attend to it. Each day the bike would get a clean, new oil and filters, new tyres, as
a standard. If anything was broken it was also replaced.
How did you manage to eat and get enough nutrition everyday while you were moving the whole time?
My eating and nutrition was on point, and I had done a lot of testing of different things to find out what
worked for me. The important thing for eating was to get a good breakfast in. The night before I had to really
carbo load which helped my body for the next day, but normaly I would wake up around 4am. First thing I
would do is make a BIG bowl of oats with a few pieces of fruit and some peanut butter, that was my base
for the day. I would also have a carbohydrate drink that would allow for more slow released energy. With
that I would then have my electrolytes and my hydrate solution. I carried with me a goodies bag which had
5x fast bars (amazing bars) 1x, (I call it baby food) as its like a fruit puree, 2x energy gels, a protein pack and
anti-cramp. We normally had a long liaison before the actual start of the race. Once I got to the end of the
Liaison and just before my roadbook area and start, I would have a bar to keep me running. Then roughly
every 250kms we had a naturalization zone where we would refuel the bike, here we had a 20 minute rest to
refill our water packs and this is where I would have the remainder of my 4 bars. That would fill me up and
keep my energy going. I also had energy Gu that was on stand by for if I lost energy and needed a pick me
up, which I defiantly had to use on a number of occasions. After the stage there was a food station that was
provided by the ASO that all the bikers could stop in at, it had a variation of things including burgers and
chips, chicken curry and as always, pasta. Together with this I would have my protein right after the end of
the stage that would allow my body to start recovering while I was on my Liaison back to the Bivioac.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 27
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
A brief insight of my stages and positioning:
Prologue P105
Stage 1 - 46th 514km sp414
Lots of dust overtaking so many people.
Horrible rocks
Small crash
Stage 2 - 50th 655km SP 463
I crashed really hard. Biggest one of the rally.
Broke rally vest.
Broke clutch pedestal.
Road book switch stopped working.
1st time meeting cars.
1st time in thick dunes, these beat me up.
Stage 3 - 37th
start of marathon 733km sp 433
Day I felt the slowest but was super consistent.
Really got the hang of the road book.
Stage 4 - 36th 631km sp 299
Huge dunes very fast.
Lots of dust from cars.
Stage 5 - 30th 645km sp 118
Stage 6 - 38th 48h Crono
Stage 7 - 32th 873km sp483km
Behind leading quads.
Sooo much dust from quads and then cars.
Stage 8 - 32nd 678 km sp458km
Stage 9 - 46th 639kms sp 417km
Mechanical
Freezing cold.
Stage was amazing, fast same tracks. Big dunes to
climb
Stage 10 - 33rd 612km 371 sp
Dare award.
Big crash hit a rock in shade.
Went to the medical tent.
Rode really well that day.
Stage 11 - 34th
Rocks rocks rocks.
Stage 12 - 27th
Overall - 32nd
20th in my Class
4th Rookie
Interesting facts
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 28
I burnt at total of 121,540 calories,
an average of 8105 calories per day.
I lost a total of over 10kgs in body
mass.
I spent 123hrs on the bike - 8.2 hours
a day average for 15 Days.
Biggest Question asked:
Would I do it again.
Heck YES…….. Where do I sign??
PUBLISHER’S FEATURE
2024
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 29
BUSINESS
Leading with Influence
in Business
In today’s interconnected and distracted world,
all of us are seeking motivation, guidance,
reassurance and a promise of a brighter future.
If you choose to lead, you choose to take on
the responsibility of positively influencing those
around you.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 30
Leadership is a choice; it is not a title. When you
choose to be a leader, you effectively choose
to take responsibility for the results in your
businesses and in your life, and you also choose
to take responsibility for the well-being and the
success of the people around you.
5 Key Tips to Lead Effectively
1. Lead Yourself First:
Before you are able to lead others effectively, you
need to be clear on who you are, what you believe
and what you want.
When you have clarity as a leader, you then can
engage and interact with the world around you in an
authentic way, and with integrity. You will do things
the same way day after day which makes you reliable
and predictable and enables the people around you
to trust you.
2. Multiply Energy:
You will quickly realise that the only way to achieve
what you want in life is by being able to positively
multiply the energy of the people around you.
You can only truly influence someone who believes
in you and who is “intrinsically motivated” to do
things. They do things because they want to, not
because they have to. When people are intrinsically
motivated, motivated from within, they are creative,
they are excited, they innovate, they are enthusiastic,
and they don’t get tired.
The opposite of this is “extrinsic motivation”.
This is when people do things because of fear or
because of outside pressure. Any pressure you force
onto people to perform, whether it be your team
members, your spouse or your children, will result
in their performance being short lived. People who
are pressurised to perform generally have a level
of resentment, which means they will do as little as
required to get by, unnoticed.
3. Understand People:
Everyone is different. We therefore need to invest
time into understanding the people around us. We
must understand the fears and motivations of people
in our teams and in our families. This will enable
us to become better equipped to interact in a more
abundant way. You must learn what excites people,
and what scares them, what makes them productive
and what makes them hide. We must develop our
own character and awareness so that we interact
positively with the different people around.
4. Clarity, Direction and Alignment:
Whenever there is confusion or frustration in teams,
this results in blame, excuses and under-performance,
the opposite of what is required to achieve success.
Work with your team to create clarity. Ensure they
understand what is expected of them, what they are
responsible for delivering, how their performance is
measured and how they will be rewarded.
We must then set a clear direction. It is important
to share what the future looks like for the business,
so that people understand the direction that the
business is going in and they can buy-in and commit
to travelling the journey with you. This also guides
them on what to focus on and what not to do.
We must then get alignment, get everyone on the
same page. Understand what the people around
you want, and make sure they know what you, as the
leader, wants. Your job then becomes to align the
objectives of the business with the objectives of the
individuals in your team and show them their path to
success.
BUSINESS
5. Be Yourself:
To truly influence others, you need to be authentic. People follow leaders that they know, like and trust.
Just be you! Show that you care, understand, and appreciate the people around you. When you’re genuine,
people feel more comfortable around you.
Positively influencing others…
Here are a few activities you can do to positively influence and support those around you:
1. Have regular informal one-on-one meetings. Get to know people personally, ask them how they are, ask
them what they want out of life.
2. Offer people help. Ask them…”How are you?, How can I help?”
3. Listen without judgement. Allow people the chance to talk and share their enthusiasm, their fears, their
frustrations with you and listen with an open mind.
4. Say “thank you” and “well done”. What gets recognised, gets improved. People deeply appreciate a
kind word or a gentle recognition of their efforts. Send out appreciation messages by WhatsApp or email.
“Being a leader who influences
others means understanding
yourself, understanding your
team, making things clear
and getting everyone onto the
same page. Keep it simple, be
kind, and watch your influence
grow!”
Sally Palmer, is a High Performance
Trainer and Coach, with a passion
for igniting people through teaching
skills that enable them to ignite their
lives and their businesses.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 31
LIFESTYLE
Comprehensive Footwear Recommendations
for Men and Women: From Everyday Wear to
Workouts and Running
By Dina Gohil
FOOTWEAR
Choosing the right footwear is crucial for maintaining foot health, enhancing comfort, and optimizing performance
in various activities. Whether you’re navigating daily life, working, exercising, or running, selecting appropriate shoes
tailored to your needs is essential. This article provides comprehensive recommendations for men and women across
different categories of footwear, including everyday wear, work, workouts, and running. We’ll delve into factors such
as materials, toe box space, cushioning, width, and ensuring proper shoe sizing to promote optimal foot health and
functionality.
1. Everyday Wear:
For everyday activities, comfort and versatility are key
considerations when selecting footwear. Here are some
recommendations:
2. Work:
Footwear for work should prioritize both comfort
and professional appearance. Consider the following
recommendations:
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 32
Materials: Opt for breathable materials like leather,
mesh, or canvas to promote airflow and prevent moisture
buildup.
Deep Toe Box Space: Look for shoes with ample toe box
space to allow natural toe splay and minimize pressure on
the toes.
Cushioning: Choose shoes with moderate cushioning
to provide adequate support and shock absorption for
prolonged wear.
Width: Select shoes available in various width options
to accommodate different foot shapes and prevent
discomfort or constriction.
Sizing: Ensure proper shoe sizing by measuring both foot
length and width, and try shoes on in the afternoon when
feet tend to be slightly larger.
Materials: Depending on the dress code, leather or
synthetic materials with moisture-wicking properties are
suitable for work shoes.
Deep Toe Box Space: Opt for work shoes with a roomy
toe box to accommodate foot movement and prevent
discomfort, especially during long periods of standing or
walking.
Cushioning: Look for work shoes with adequate cushioning
in the insole and midsole to provide support and alleviate
pressure on the feet.
Width: Choose work shoes available in wide or extrawide
widths to accommodate foot swelling and ensure a
comfortable fit throughout the workday.
Sizing: Ensure proper shoe sizing by considering both
length and width measurements, and prioritize comfort
and functionality over style alone.
3. Workouts:
Footwear for workouts should offer stability, support,
and flexibility to accommodate various movements and
activities. Here are some recommendations:
LIFESTYLE
Materials: Opt for breathable, lightweight materials with
added durability and support for intense workouts.
Deep Toe Box Space: Choose workout shoes with a
wide and deep toe box to allow for natural toe splay and
prevent discomfort or irritation.
Cushioning: Look for workout shoes with ample cushioning
in the heel and forefoot to absorb impact and provide
shock absorption during high-impact activities.
Width: Select workout shoes available in wide or narrow
widths, depending on your foot shape and preferences, to
ensure a snug yet comfortable fit.
Sizing: Ensure proper shoe sizing by trying shoes on with
athletic socks and allowing space for the toes to move
freely without feeling cramped or restricted.
4. Running:
Running shoes should offer optimal support, cushioning,
and stability to minimize the risk of injuries and enhance
performance. Consider the following recommendations:
Materials: Choose lightweight, breathable materials
with moisture-wicking properties to keep feet dry and
comfortable during runs.
Deep Toe Box Space: Select running shoes with a spacious
toe box to accommodate natural foot movement and
prevent issues like bunions or hammertoes.
Cushioning: Look for running shoes with ample cushioning
in the heel and forefoot to provide shock absorption and
energy return with each stride.
Width: Opt for running shoes available in various widths
to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes, ensuring
a snug yet comfortable fit.
Sizing: Ensure proper shoe sizing by getting your feet
measured regularly and trying on shoes with running
socks to allow for slight expansion during runs.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right footwear for everyday wear, work, workouts, and running is essential for promoting foot health,
comfort, and performance. By considering factors such as materials, deep toe box space, cushioning, width, and
proper shoe sizing, individuals can select shoes that cater to their specific needs and preferences. Prioritizing comfort,
support, and functionality will not only enhance the overall wearing experience but also contribute to long-term foot
health and well-being.
Dina Gohil
CEO of DG Podiatrist
BSc (Hons), MRCPod, HCPC Reg.
DG Podiatrist Mayfair
61 South Molton Street,
Mayfair,
W1K 5SN
www.dgpodiatrist.com
DG Podiatrist Harare
35b Kingsmead Road,
Borrowdale,
Harare,
Zimbabwe
Youtube: The Foot Scraper
FB: facebook.com/dgpodiatrist
TW: twitter.com/dgpodiatrist
Instagram: dgpodiatrist
Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dgpodiatrist
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 33
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 34
THE PARAGON HUB
THE PARAGON HUB
PADDINGTON SQUARE
Sam Levy’s Village
+263 77 214 3307, 86 77 006 177 EXT 237
jonathan@paragon.co.zw
NOW OPEN
paragon.co.zw
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 35
Arundel Village
+263 77 214 3307, 86 77 006 177 EXT 237
steve@paragon.co.zw
OUTDOOR
4
Trailblazers 2024
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 36
The trails have started
blazing again as we
kicked off our year with
the Troutbeck trail run
in February. We had
a successful signup,
participating alongside
Triathlon Zimbabwe,
exploring beautiful
mountains and Nyanga
scenery on a family
weekend away, being
with friends and making
memories.
As a community based group, we are
encouraging trail runners of all levels, to
get together and share the one love we all have,
and that is to be out in the countryside, taking
in the surroundings, soaking up the peaceful
environment, running with friends and making
new ones along the way too. As some say, with
the calorie intake that is encouraged, it can also
be called “picnics in the mountains”. What a
beautiful way to spend our weekends, escaping
the craziness of city life, exploring trails and
going on adventures.
Up next on our calendar we have some trails
planned out at Hippo Pools. This is a fantastic
weekend to attend if you are new to trail running
as the routes are clearly colour coded and marked
throughout the route to assist navigation. We
look forward to welcoming those who have
registered for this event. Please remember we
always encourage safety, nutrition, hydration
and good navigation skills for all our events.
For the first time in Zimbabwe, we bring to you
an exciting new event that is taking place on
the 6th April , called the “Backyard Ultra”. This
will be happening in the beautiful Gosho Park,
Marondera, amongst the beautiful wildlife and
msasa trees so we encourage you to join in on
this amazing challenge. You will be running a
6.7km loop, on the hour, every hour, for as many
laps you can do at your own capable pace, to
total up your mileage to create your own PB
(personal best) on distance in one single event.
So if the furthest you have ever run in an event
is 21km then you only need to complete 4 laps
and you have reached your new PB. Have you
thought about asking for sponsorship to fund
raise each lap completed, to contribute towards
our chosen cause?
We will be raising funds for The Peterhouse
Crown Foundation which provides scholarships
for less privileged children. To any current
Peterhouse staff members or Petreans out there
who are planning on competing – you have the
opportunity to compete for our “Crown Cup”
OUTDOOR
which will be awarded to the runner who can go
the furthest. There will be food available to buy,
as well as a cash bar, so come join us on this
family fun-filled day in the holidays and come
witness this inaugural event, and see who is the
last runner standing.
We had had an incredible response to our
membership signup for the year, thank you to all
those who have shown interest, and we continue
to encourage more to join us throughout the
year. We have some exciting events lined up
for you, in our calendar series. Lets explore our
countryside together, leaving nothing behind,
but our footprints.
Join us in our trail running
adventures where we believe
“the journey is our goal”
Instagram: @trailblazerszim
Facebook: Trail Blazers Zimbabwe
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 37
OUTDOOR
Experience the
MADNESS at the
Husqvarna MUD RUN
Get down and dirty at the annual Husqvarna Mud
Run, taking place on Saturday, 6 April 2024 at The 4x4
Club in Donnybrook. This family-friendly event is sure
to be a highlight of your year and the best part is, all
of the proceeds are donated to KidzCan Zimbabwe.
Every year, thousands of adrenaline seekers turn
up to tackle the course, which has been a staple
event for over a decade. Mud pits, rope swings, tyre
obstacles and slides are just some of the challenging
components along the course. But these won’t stop
your six-year-old from breezing through and having
a blast.
While Husqvarna is the title sponsor, over 60 other
local brands will attend the event and set up their
own sections of the course. Attendees can expect
loads of interaction, incredible food and drinks, a few
giveaways and some fantastic surprises throughout
the day.
In 2023, the Husqvarna Mud Run raised over $55
000 for KidzCan Zimbabwe, which provides critical
resources and medical treatments to children living
with cancer. The event has directly impacted the lives
of many Zimbabwean children and their families.
However, the Husqvarna Mud Run is more than just
a fundraiser. It’s an experience that pulls people
together, instilling a sense of belonging, camaraderie,
and support. Participants and onlookers alike share
in the excitement, cheering each other on as they
conquer difficulties and push themselves throughout
the course.
Despite this, participants never tackle the challenges
alone. The event is all about collaboration, with
everyone receiving the support they require to push
through and finish strong. The Husqvarna Mud Run
is an opportunity to give back to the community,
support a good cause, and have fun while doing so.
The event is a celebration of Zimbabweans’
perseverance and compassion, symbolising the spirit
of unity that brings us all together. It’s an adventure
that will challenge you, reward you, and help out
an amazing cause at the same time. Join us in
experiencing the madness of the Mud Run and see
for yourself why it’s a must-do event for every thrillseeker
in the country.
Tickets are just $10 per person, which include a free
t-shirt, a goodie bag and the experience of a lifetime.
Online registration can be done between Friday, 1
March and Friday, 15 March at Cuttingedge.co.zw/
mud-run.
Ticket payments can be made on weekdays at Cutting
Edge (159 Citroen Road, Msasa) or at KidzCan (111
East Road, Belgravia) and The Hub (170 The Chase,
Groombridge) on the following days:
Friday, 8 March (12pm to 3pm)
Saturday, 9 March (12pm to 3pm)
Friday, 15 March (12pm to 3pm)
Saturday, 16 March (12pm to 3pm)
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 38
saturday, 6 april 2024
The 4x4 Club, Donnybrook
8am to 1pm
$10 per person
All proceeds go to
Registration and payment details:
www.cuttingedge.co.zw/mud-run/
SPORT
U19 CRICKET WORLD CUP THAT HAD IT ALL
Marc Pozzo
After 23 days and 41 matches, it was Hugh Weibgen’s
Australia who got their hands on the coveted ICC U19
Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 trophy, beating five-time
champions India in the final in Benoni. Weibgen’s triumph
places him in esteemed company with Geoff Parker,
Cameron White, and Mitchell Marsh as captains who
guided Australia to U19 Men’s CWC titles. This triumph
marked the end of a 14-year U19 trophy drought for
Australia.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 40
Weibgen not only led by example with the bat but was
praised for his tactical acumen during difficult moments in
the tournament, including the brave decision to pick four
seamers and bat first against India in the final in overcast
conditions. Australia posted a formidable total of 253/7
in 50 overs. Harjas Singh’s half-century, coupled with
significant contributions from Harry Dixon, Weibgen, and
Oliver Peake, played a pivotal role in Australia posting
the highest score in U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup final
history. In response, the Australian pacers dominated
the Indian batsmen, who had performed exceptionally
well throughout the tournament. The pressure of the
scoreboard eventually led to India falling short by 74
runs, securing Australia’s first victory over India in the
tournament since 1998. India’s woes in finals against
Australia continue, the senior side having previously lost
out to Australia in last year’s ICC World Test Championship
Final and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
A total of 16 teams were divided into four groups of
four, with three teams from each group progressing to
the new Super Six stage. India, Bangladesh and Ireland
progressed from Group A while South Africa, England
and West Indies moved forward from Group B. While
Australia, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe qualified from Group
C, it was Group D that witnessed a dramatic finale to the
group stages, as Nepal edged out Afghanistan in a lowscoring
thriller to join Pakistan and New Zealand in the
Super Six. The Super Six stage infused a renewed sense
of excitement and energy into the tournament, elevating
the stakes for the eagerly awaited semi-finals. England
ended their U19 Cricket World Cup campaign with an
emphatic 146-run victory over Zimbabwe, despite batter
Hamza Shaikh’s controversial dismissal when given out for
‘obstructing the field’. The incident occurred in the 17th
over of the Super Six clash in Potchefstroom when Shaikh
blocked a delivery from Ryan Simbi and the ball stopped
after hitting his foot. The right-hander then picked the
ball up to throw it back to wicketkeeper Ryan Kamwemba
as he approached from behind the stumps, prompting
Zimbabwe to appeal on the grounds Shaikh had done so
without seeking permission from the fielding team.
Law 37.4 of cricket states: “Either batter is out Obstructing
the field if, at any time while the ball is in play and, without
the consent of a fielder, he/she uses the bat or any part of
his/her person to return the ball to any fielder.”
The two on-field umpires consulted with each other
and sent the appeal for a review, with the third umpire
signalling Shaikh was out (for one off nine deliveries) after
viewing the replay, leaving England 78-3 after losing the
toss and having been made to bat first. This was a sad day
for Zimbabwe cricket and the spirit of the game in general.
The Zimbabwe Captain Matthew Schonken should have,
with consultation from the side lines consulted with his
team and called the batsmen back with just a warning. If
that’s how one wishes to get wickets, they are extremely
desperate or very nieve about the rules of the game and
way the sport is played . While the decision to give Shaikh
out was correct within cricket’s laws, there will no doubt be
debate around whether it was in the spirit of the game for
Zimbabwe to appeal in the first place. From that moment
on, my support of Zimbabwe U19’s dropped a notch or
three for the rest of the game after that debacle.
Shaikh’s dismissal is reminiscent of a near-identical
incident which occurred in the 2018 U19 World Cup, in a
match between the West Indies and South Africa, which
created a minor furore in the cricket world. In total, eight
players have been given out for obstructing the field in
the history of senior men’s one-day international cricket,
including current England Test captain Ben Stokes in a
match against Australia at Lord’s in 2015.
In Group 1, Bangladesh and Pakistan played out a
humdinger in a low-scoring affair. In the end, it was
Pakistan’s pacers who made the difference, defending 155
runs to take their side through to the semis.Group 2 saw
the vibrant West Indies crash out due to rain interruption
in their virtual knockout against eventual champions
Australia. Both teams needed a victory to progress, but
the match concluded with no result, leading to Australia
and West Indies sharing points.
Both semi-finals were closely contested matches that
went right down to the wire. For the first time in the
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tournament, the undefeated Indian team faced a stern test from the hosts South Africa. Despite a formidable effort
by the South African pacers, led by the exceptional Kwena Maphaka, India – reduced to 32 for four in a chase of 245
– managed to secure victory, with skipper Saharan and Sachin Dhas putting together a pivotal partnership. The second
semi-final witnessed Australia initially cruising in their pursuit of 180 before Pakistan’s talented pace attack made a
spirited comeback, with 15-year-old Ali Raza claiming four for 34. Australia still emerged victorious but by the slimmest
margin of a one-wicket victory in the last over. The win gave them valuable momentum to help them secure their fourth
U19 Men’s CWC title
The inaugural day of the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 provided a tantalising preview of the tournament’s emerging
talents. In the clash between South Africa and West Indies, Kwena Maphaka showcased his prowess by dismantling
the Windies batting lineup with figures of five for 38. However, his efforts were countered by the determined Jewel
Andrew, who nearly single-handedly guided his team to victory in a thrilling fightback. Entering the crease with the
scoreboard reading 52 for four while chasing 286, Andrew exhibited extraordinary poise, not only rescuing the team
from a precarious situation but also steering them within reach of victory. Mixing caution with aggression, Andrew
crafted a remarkable innings, tallying 130 runs off 96 deliveries, laced with 14 fours and three sixes.
Windies were 36 runs away from victory when Andrew fell, extinguishing West Indies’ hopes of securing a victory. South
Africa ultimately won by 31 runs. It wasn’t just the hosts’ bowling that shone in the tournament, with Steve Stolk leaving
an indelible mark with his batting prowess. Having succumbed to their first defeat of the tournament against England
in the previous game, South Africa bounced back with authority in their next, led by the fiery batting of Stolk.
Scotland put up a formidable total of 269 and the pressure was on South Africa. However, Stolk’s eye-catching strokeplay
eventually made light work of the chase. Scotland were blown away in the early exchange as Stolk created history by
smashing the fastest fifty in U19 Men’s CWC history off just 13 balls, surpassing Rishabh Pant’s record off 18 balls. The
onslaught didn’t halt there, as the opening batter neared a century before being adjudged LBW, falling just 14 runs
short of a memorable hundred. Stolk concluded his blistering innings having scored a remarkable 86 runs off 37 balls,
comprising 7 fours and 8 sixes, boasting a staggering strike rate of 232.43.
Both the semi-finals of the U19 Men’s CWC 2024 lived up to their billing, going right down to the wire as all four teams
fought for their chance at glory. In the first semi-final, India won the toss and opted to field first for the first time. Prior to
the semis, India had steamrolled all their opponents, with four of the five victories coming by a margin of over 100 runs.
Batting first, Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Richard Seletswane scored fifties and laid the foundation for a final flourish from
Juan James and Tristan Luus, setting India a challenging target of 245. Kwena Maphaka and Luus wreaked havoc with
an outstanding exhibition of pace and swing bowling. At 32for four, India were staring at defeat when Uday Saharan
and Sachin Dhas bailed them out of trouble with a 171-run partnership.
India were cruising to victory with the two at the crease when Maphaka struck twice in his final spell, including the
wicket of Dhas on 96 to bring South Africa back into the contest. Despite the setback, Saharan remained resolute at the
other end and nearly guided India across the finish line. Unfortunately, he was run out in the penultimate over, but Raj
Limbani stepped up, scoring the winning runs and securing India’s place in the final with two wickets and seven balls
to spare. The second semi-final clash between Australia and Pakistan produced perhaps the most blockbuster finish in
the tournament.
Tom Straker wreaked havoc on the Pakistan batting line-up, reducing them to 79 for five before Azan Awais and Arafat
Minhas anchored Pakistan’s innings with solid half-centuries to rescue them from a dire situation to 179. What looked
like a routine chase for Australia with a 33-run opening stand took a dramatic turn when Ali Raza bowled an inspired
spell to turn the game on its head.
At 102 for five, the partnership of Oliver Peake and Tom Campbell took the team closer to victory before another
collapse meant Australia fell to 164 for nine, still needing 16 runs. In a heart-pounding climax, an inside edge from Raf
MacMillan’s bat found its way to the boundary, eluding the desperate dive of Ubaid Shah as Australia sealed victory
with just a wicket and five balls remaining.
Zimbabwe’s U19 World Cup Campaign
Results
Lost to Sri Lanka by 39 runs ( DLS Method)
Lost to Australia by 225 runs
Won against Namibia by 8 wickets
Lost to South Africa by 9 wickets
Lost to England by 146 runs
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 41
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SPORT
AFCON 2023
Round Up “Billed as
the Best Ever“
By Marc Pozzo
Many are calling it the best-ever Africa Cup of
Nations. The 34th edition of the biennial soccer
tournament served up more goals, plenty of late
drama, and surprising twists and turns as underdogs
had their day. It finished with a happy ending for host
nation Ivory Coast after its remarkable path to the
final, including near-elimination in the group stage.
The Elephants defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the final on
Sunday 11th February in the 60,000-capacity Alassane
Ouattara Stadium to set off unbridled celebrations
across the country. It affirmed locals’ belief that God
was helping the team according to various reports
doing the rounds .
Few could have imagined Ivory Coast reaching
the final after a humiliating 4-0 loss to Equatorial
Guinea left it on the brink of elimination. But highly
unlikely results in other groups favored the home
team. Ghana’s late collapse, conceding two goals in
injury time to Mozambique , and a subsequent win for
Morocco over Zambia meant Ivory Coast squeezed
into the knockout round.
It prompted the Ivorian soccer federation, which
had already fired its coach, to look for another, but
it failed to “borrow” the France woman’s team’s
coach for the rest of the tournament. Ivory Coast’s
interim coach Emerse Faé did not allow the clear lack
of confidence from his federation affect him as he
quietly prepared the team for the knockout round.
And so the country’s scarcely believable run began.
Nigeria’s progress was much more straightforward
as Super Eagles coach José Peseiro banked on
defense for success. Nigeria did not concede a goal
in four games straight after an opening 1-1 draw with
Equatorial Guinea, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali
was the hero with two saves in the penalty shootout
win over South Africa in the semifinal.
Nigeria star Victor Osimhen, the African player of the
year, only scored one goal. The Napoli forward was
unlucky to have three ruled out over the tournament,
and his inspirational performances helped his team
to the final.
Equatorial Guinea forward Emilio Nsue finished the
tournament as top-scorer with five goals. Nsue is
a 34-year-old right back for a third-division team in
Spain. It wasn’t the only surprise. There was more to
come elsewhere.
Seven-time champion Egypt flopped as it failed
to win a game despite sacrificing a cow. They lost
Mohamed Salah in the first half of the draw with Ghana
with muscle injury. While there was hope he would
return to the competition, it never materialized and
he returned to his club Liverpool for rehabilitation
and never returned with his dream of landing Afcon
delayed yet again .
Defending champion Senegal was knocked out by
Ivory Coast in the round of 16. Five-time winner
Cameroon, four-time champion Ghana, and former
winners Algeria and Tunisia were all been knocked
out before the quarterfinal stage, which had a freshlooking
lineup compared to the last edition.
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None of the eight quarterfinalists from the previous Africa Cup in Cameroon Burkina Faso, Tunisia, Senegal,
Equatorial Guinea, Gambia, Cameroon, Egypt and Morocco made it to the last eight this time. Congo made
to the semifinals despite only winning one game in regular time. The Congolese players drew attention to
the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo with a gesture before their semifinal against Ivory Coast.
South Africa also made it to the final four by upsetting World Cup semifinalist Morocco on the way. Bafana
Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams followed up with four penalty saves in a shootout win over Cape Verde
in the quarterfinals.
The tournament was tough on the men in charge. Egypt coach Rui Vitória, Ivory Coast coach Jean-Louis
Gasset and Ghana coach Chris Hughton were all fired. The Tanzania coach was suspended after one game,
the Gambia coach resigned, the Senegal coach was hospitalized, the Tunisia coach’s contract ended, and
Burkina Faso has a coaching vacancy.
The futures of Cameroon coach Rigobert Song and Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi remain uncertain.
Algerian Football Federation president Wali Sadi said he agreed to end Belmadi’s contract, but Belmadi was
reportedly unhappy with that announcement and is yet to finalize his departure. Samuel Eto’o, president of
the Cameroon Football Federation, offered his resignation if other members followed suit. They declined.
The tournament is usually held every two years. However, Covid 19 postponements and bad weather
conditions have disrupted the standard scheduling.That means that the event is now scheduled to be held
for two years in a row, in 2024 and 2025. But with plans for an expanded 32-team Club World Cup, for which
two African teams have already qualified . The exact dates for AFCON 2025 have been thrown into question.
The 2025 AFCON tournament will be hosted by Morocco, but ‘its exact dates are yet to be confirmed.
UNDERDOGS
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 43
TRAVEL
Looking for an exiciting
adventure? Look no further
than Zimbabwe!
"Hop on over to Matobo National
Park and feel the spiritual vibes of
its ancient rock art sites.
Explore Bulawayo’s colonial charm
and uncover the secrets of the
Rozwi Empire at Naletale Ruins.
In Harare, stroll through picturesque
streets and visit the National
Botanic Gardens for a blooming
good time."
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 44
TRAVEL
Venture into the Eastern Highlands for a highland getaway reminiscent of
Scotland, complete with coffee shops, mountain trails, and the thrill of the
world’s highest zipline.
Discover the ancient wonders of Great Zimbabwe, where stone structures
tell tales of a bygone era.
And don’t miss Gonarezhou National Park, home to majestic tuskers and a
diverse range of wildlife.
This year, let Zimbabwe be your playground for adventure, history, and
natural beauty. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and hop on a plane to
explore this amazing country!
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THE PARAGON HUB
Mana Pools
National Park
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THE PARAGON HUB
Travelling to Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe is a journey that
transports you into the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness, where the
beauty of the natural world unfolds before your eyes in breathtaking
ways. Located in the far north of Zimbabwe along the Zambezi River, this
UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast
looking to experience the magic of the African bush. Highly recommended for
4x4 enthusiast.
Kyle Jira
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 47
THE PARAGON HUB
As you embark on your adventure to Mana Pools,
you are greeted by a landscape that is both aweinspiring
and humbling. The park’s dramatic
landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for the
incredible wildlife encounters that await you. Walking
safaris in Mana Pools offer a unique opportunity
to immerse yourself in nature and witness animals
such as elephants, lions, and zebras in their natural
habitat. The experienced guides lead you through
the bush, sharing their knowledge and expertise,
creating unforgettable memories that will stay with
you long after you leave.
In Mana Pools, you’ll find an abundance of impala,
eland, elephant, zebra, buffalo, waterbuck, and kudu
– a rich source of food for the lions, leopards, wild
dogs, hyenas, and other predators and scavengers
that call this extraordinary place home.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience,
Mana Pools offers canoeing safaris that allow you
to explore the park from a different perspective.
Paddling down the Zambezi River, you glide past
hippos and crocodiles, all while enjoying superb
game viewing opportunities along the riverbanks.
This intimate connection with nature and the sense
of tranquility that comes with it make canoeing
safaris in Mana Pools a truly special experience.The
accommodation options in Mana Pools cater to a range of
preferences, ensuring that every traveler finds their perfect
retreat in the wild. From National Parks camp sites for those
seeking a more rustic experience to luxurious lodges and
tented camps for those looking for comfort, each choice
offers its own unique safari experience. Falling asleep to
the sounds of the bush or enjoying gourmet meals under
the stars, the accommodations in Mana Pools enhance
your overall safari experience.
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While exploring Mana Pools, birdwatchers are in for a
treat with over 350 recorded bird species to spot in the
diverse habitats of the park. From colorful resident birds
to migratory species passing through, there is always
something new and exciting to see in the skies above. The
park’s impressive trees and picturesque landscapes provide
the perfect backdrop for birdwatching enthusiasts to
indulge in their passion and capture stunning photographs.
No matter what time of year you visit Mana Pools, you
are sure to be captivated by the abundance of wildlife,
the beauty of the landscapes, and the sense of peace that
permeates this wild wilderness. Each season brings its own
unique experiences, from lush greenery in the rainy season
THE PARAGON HUB
to dry landscapes teeming with wildlife in the dry season. Every visit to Mana Pools promises something
different and unforgettable, making it a destination that beckons travelers back time and time again.
As you plan your safari trip to Africa, consider including other travel destinations in Zimbabwe to
complement your experience at Mana Pools. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the ancient ruins of
Great Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe offers a wealth of diverse attractions for travelers to explore. Immerse
yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Matobo National Park or embark on a thrilling adventure in
Hwange National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
In conclusion, travelling to Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe is an enriching journey that allows
you to connect with nature, witness incredible wildlife sightings, and create memories that will last a
lifetime. This gem of Africa beckons travelers with its untamed beauty and sense of adventure, offering
an unforgettable safari experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Explore Mana Pools and
discover the magic of Zimbabwe’s wild wilderness, where every moment is an opportunity for discovery
and wonder.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 49
THE PARAGON HUB
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 50
The Black-winged Stilt is a widely distributed very long-legged wader in the avocet and stilt
family.
Adults are 35 cm long. They have long pink legs, a long thin black bill and are blackish above and
white below, with a white head and neck with a varying amount of black. Males have a black back,
often with greenish gloss. Females’ backs have a brown hue, contrasting with the black remiges.
In the populations that have the top of the head normally white at least in winter, females tend to
have less black on head and neck all year round, while males often have much black, particularly in
summer. This difference is not clear-cut, however, and males usually get all-white heads in winter.
Kyle Jira
THE PARAGON HUB
The African wild dog is known as the painted dog or Cape hunting dog, is a wild canine native
to sub-Saharan Africa.
It one of the world’s most endangered animals. In Mana Pools National Park in the north of
Zimbabwe, there are only approximately 20 dogs left. This is the lowest number in the park in
10 years. African wild dogs live and die for their family—literally. Though the bigger the clan the
more efficient the hunt, non-breeding adults sacrifice their own nourishment to ensure the pups
in the group get enough to eat and grow. Subsequently these altruistic elders tend to gradually
become malnourished and die younger than their peers in packs with fewer offspring.
African wild dogs work together in packs of 6 to 20 or more to hunt antelopes and even larger
prey such as wildebeests. These highly social beasts communicate with each other by touch,
actions, and vocalizations—before a hunt, you can see them playfully circling each other and
seeming to psych each other up for the endeavor. They’re also one of the few mammals that care
for the old, sick, and disabled members of the pack.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 51
Kyle Jira
INTERVIEW
with Maria Economou
BSc Pastry and Chocolate Arts
Are you a budding entrepreneur with a fiery passion for food? Dive into the world
of culinary arts and watch your dreams sizzle to life! If you crave adventure, love
exploring diverse cultures and cuisines, and can tell a moelleux from a fondant,
then Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is your ultimate destination!
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 52
Immerse yourself in our cutting-edge campuses located in the heart of Lucerne’s
historic center and the picturesque shores of Le Bouveret. With top-notch kitchens
and exclusive partnerships with industry leaders, your journey with us promises
to be a delectable experience like no other. Don’t miss out on this tantalizing
opportunity to turn your culinary dreams into reality!
1.What inspired you to pursue pastry arts and chocolate?
Since childhood, I’ve been passionate about pastry and
chocolate arts, finding joy in crafting treats. With an art
background, pastry is another medium for me. The precision
and creativity in this field fascinate me. Watching “Cake Boss”
fuelled my dream of creating desserts. Pastry isn’t just a career;
it’s my lifelong pursuit of happiness through sharing creations.
2.Can you share a challenging pastry technique you’ve mastered
recently?
This term we have focused on chocolate tempering which
requires a good understanding of the intricacies of chocolate
chemistry. The process involves heating chocolate to a specific
temperature, then cooling it down while agitating it, and
finally reheating it to a precise temperature. It is a very intricate
process to achieve the smooth glossy texture and finish that
will result in the satisfying snap when it sets! Fun fact is that
different chocolate types have different melting points and
tempering temperatures.
3.What specific aspects of culinary and pastry arts are you
most excited to learn about?
I am very excited for Term three as we will be learning how to
make wedding cakes and chocolate sculptures. I’m excited to
learn how to create outstanding showpieces and finally design
and create my own for my final end of first year exam.
Maria Economou and Chef Anton Mosimann
generations of the royal family. Throughout his career,
Chef Anton Mosimann has been a prominent figure in
the culinary world, celebrated for his culinary mastery
and dedication to excellence
7. How do you envision applying your culinary and
pastry skills in the future? (e.g., opening your own
bakery, working in a restaurant, teaching culinary
classes)
4.How do you stay updated on current pastry trends and
techniques?
To stay updated on current pastry trends and techniques
always remain open to learning. Attend workshops, seminars,
and classes offered by pastry schools and industry experts.
Take advantage of all online resources such as social media
and publications for tutorials and insights. CAAS has a library
offering some very interesting recipes which students are
always encouraged to read. Dedicating time to experimenting
with ingredients is a fantastic way to refine techniques and
foster creativity. By incorporating these practices, you’ll stay
informed and relevant in the ever-evolving culinary landscape.
5.What aspect of pastry making do you find most rewarding?
My favourite part of pastry is serving the desserts to customers
because it’s profoundly rewarding to see their mood lift from
something that you poured effort and skill into making. Pastry
also fosters a sense of connection and warmth by bringing
people together both in the kitchen and out when gathering
together to enjoy it.
6.Are there any pastry chefs or bakers who particularly inspire
you? If so, why?
I have had the pleasure of meeting Anton Mosimann in
person, a highly acclaimed Swiss chef known for his expertise
in classical French cuisine and his innovative approach to
cooking. Hearing him tell his life story was very inspirational as
he was the youngest chef to receive two Michelin stars at the
age of 28. He has always had a strong passion for culinary arts
and pastry and has cooked for many celebrities as well as three
During my degree I will have to go through two
internships. My first internship will begin 1st of July
2024 for five months at Het Ge Baar, Antwerp Belgium.
It is a Michelin star restaurant and I am very excited to
expand my knowledge in the kitchen. My dream is to
open my own pastry shop in Zimbabwe and hopefully
expand internationally.
8. What do you hope to gain personally and
professionally from pursuing a career in pastry arts?
I hope to learn and expand my knowledge in pastry
and chocolate as much as possible. Personally, I would
like to see my skills expand enormously. Professionally,
I would like to establish a well-known name for myself
and brand for my future enterprise.
9. What made you choose culinary arts academy over
other institutions?
At the age of thirteen we were encouraged to start
researching about universities and potential career
paths. The moment I found the website of Culinary
Arts Academy I knew that’s where I belonged. Their
motto “Passion for food, Career for life” stood out
to me and I couldn’t wait to start studying with
likeminded students. The university is also situated
in a small town that overlooks Lake Leman. The view
of the lake and mountains takes my breath away
every time. The pastry chefs are also very qualified
and enjoy what they have to teach which makes the
classes enjoyable.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 53
THE PARAGON HUB
MACARON
Ganache filling
Ingredients”
Chocolate macaron (French meringue)
Ingredients
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Cream 200g
Chocolate 52% 155g
Cacao mass 20g
Butter 70g
Total: 445g
Chocolate ganache filling
Method
1. Melt the chocolates to 45 degrees
2. Bring the cream to a boil
3. Pour it over the melted chocolates
1/3 at atime to emulsify
4. When the ganache reaches 35 degrees celsius add
little at a time the butter
5. Set in piping bag (round tip 10) and leave it to
crystalize overnight
Egg white 120g
Icing sugar 1 150g
Almond powder 150g
Icing sugar 2 150g
Cocoa powder 20g
Total: 570g
Chocolate macaron (French meringue)
Method
1. Sieve together icing sugar 2, almond powder and
cocoa powder
2. In a mixing bowl with whisk attachment
make a french merignue with egg white and sugar 1
3. Pour the merignue over the dry product and start
the macaronade
4. Pipe the macaron on silpat (round tip 6) leave to dry
for 30 minutes
5. Cook them 12 minutes 140 degrees celsius
Recipe by Maria Economou
THE PARAGON HUB
SWISS ROLL
Vanilla Roll
Ingredients”
Yoke
125g
Sugar 1
50g
Egg white
125g
Sugar 2
75g
Flour
100g
Vanilla Powder 1
Total
475g
1. Whip yolk and sugar to rubban stage
2. Make a french meringue with egg white and sugar 2
3. Fold the meringue into the yolks mixture
4. Finish with the sifted flour
5. Spread on a silpat mat
6. Bake 7/8 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius
7. Remove the tray when baked
Lemon Curd
Ingredients
Eggs
Sugar
Corn Starch
Lemon Juice
Butter
Total
150g
180g
12g
90g
120g
562g
1. Combine eggs and sugar by whisking
2. Add in the corn starch
3. In a sauce pan, combine all the ingredients together
4. By whisking bring the curd to a light boil
5. Allow to cool to 4 °C
6. Spread the curd on the swiss roll
Italian Meringue
Ingredients
Water
Sugar
Egg White
Total
37g
150g
75g
200g
1. Warm water and sugar to 118 °C
2. Whip the egg white ( until get fluffy )
3. When the syrup reaches 121 degrees Celsius
slowly pour down the side of the whipping egg
whites and then increase to maximum speed
4. Allow to cool by whisking
5. Use for decoration
Recipe by Maria Economou
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THE PARAGON HUB
THE PARAGON HUB
FUN FACTS
1. Earth’s rotation is changing speed.
Earth’s rotation, the spinning motion that gives us day and night, isn’t constant.
Over long periods, factors like the distribution of Earth’s mass and the
gravitational influence of the moon and the sun can alter its rotation speed.
This means that the length of a day is gradually changing. Due to factors like
the melting of glaciers and changes in ocean currents, Earth’s rotation is slowing
down, causing days to get slightly longer over the course of millions of years.
2. You have more taste buds than adults.
You have more taste buds than adults.
Taste buds are tiny structures on your tongue that help you enjoy the flavours
of your favourite foods.
As you grow older, some taste buds stop working, but don’t worry, you’ll still
be able to savour delicious meals even with fewer taste buds!
3. Oranges weren’t originally orange!
Originating in Southeast Asia, wild oranges were green.
Through centuries of cultivation and selective breeding, humans developed
the sweet orange we know today.
The process favoured orange-hued mutations, leading to the development of
the vibrant colour we associate with oranges.
This evolution in colouration made the fruit more appealing and easier to
distinguish when ripe.
4. Play-Doh was originally invented to be wallpaper cleaner.
Play-Doh was initially created in the 1930s as a wallpaper cleaner.
4. Brain freeze is known as “sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia” in
scientific terms.
The sudden and intense headache triggered by the consumption of cold
substances, is known as brain freeze, but did you know it has a scientific
name? Sphenopalatine Ganglioneuralgia!
This phenomenon occurs when cold substances come into contact with
the roof of the mouth, causing blood vessels to constrict and then rapidly
dilate, resulting in a sharp pain sensation.
Its soft, malleable texture and ability to lift soot and dirt without damaging
surfaces made it an effective household cleaning tool.
However, its transformation into a popular children’s toy occurred when
people recognised its potential for creative play and artistic expression.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 57
THE PARAGON HUB
THE PARAGON HUB
DID YOU KNOW?
1. There are 54 countries
in Africa - and 9 dependent
territories. More than 1.3
billion people live on the
African continent. This
means about 15% of the
world's total population live
in Africa!
2. Animals: In Africa, you
will find some of the largest
mammals on this planet. Among
them are the largest land
mammal, the African elephant,
the tallest mammal, the giraffe,
and the fastest mammal, the
cheetah, which can run with
speeds up to 113 km/ hour or 70
miles/ hour
2. Africa makes 70% of the
world’s cocoa beans.
Cocoa beans are used to
make chocolate. Most of
the world’s beans come from
4 West African countries:
Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria
and Cameroon.
3. Africa has the world’s
largest desert – sort of!
The Sahara desert is the
largest desert in the world
– well technically the
largest hot desert. It is the
third largest desert overall,
smaller only than the
deserts of Antarctica and
the northern Arctic.
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 58
4. Africa is the home to the
world’s longest river, The Nile.
The Nile is the longest river
in the world – although some
researchers are arguing that
The Amazon is longer. It flows
through many different African
countries and is the main water
source of Egypt, Sudan and
South Sudan.
5. Africa is the 2nd largest
continent at 30 million
square kilometers or 11.7
million square miles. Africa
is bigger than China, India,
the continental U.S., and
most of Europe combined. The
Sahara alone is bigger than the
continental USA.
WHERE TO EAT IN HARARE
THE PARAGON HUB
Alo Alo
10 Forest Row, Arundel
Village, Mount Pleasant
024 2 369198,
0773 265 932/3
Aroma Cafe
167 Enterprise Rd,
Chisipite
0242 480 904
0772 235 693
Casa Mia
King George Rd,
Avondale
0242 233 2044
0732 272 642
Coimbra
61 Selous Ave,
CBD
0242 700 237
CU LATTE
101 Churchill Ave,
Harare
077 529 0720
Great Wall
94 East Rd,
Belgravia
0712 616 282
0242 33 4149
Jam Tree
40 Bargate Rd,
Mount Pleasant
073 401 8003
Little Eately
1 Hurworth Rd,
Highlands
086 771 77349
Ocean Basket
Shop 3, Sam Levy’s
Village, Borrowdale
0242 852189
Pariah State
Borrowdale 08677 103644
Avondale 08677 103920
Belgravia 0242 251399
Pizazz Pizza
Greystone Park
Shopping Centre
0777 781 583
0777 800 663
Rocomamas
Village Walk
Borrowdale
0703 120 0901
Sabai Thai
Cnr Rolf Ave/Stokesay
Close, Ballantyne Park
0776 743 775
Shangri La
155 Enterprise Rd,
Chisipite
0242 443 263/4
0773 709 686
Spice Lounge
63 Churchill Ave,
Alex Park
+263 470 1672
0779 581 000
St Elmo’s
Sam Levy’s Village
Borrowdale
0242 288 6959
Taj Restaurant
157 Borrowdale Rd,
Gunhill
0732 110 222/333
Tinkabells
Ballantyne
0242 664 745
The Horsebox Bar
1 Hurworth rd
Highlands
0771 929 914
The Mustard Seed
27 Ridgeway South,
Highlands
0772 572 620
The Village Greek
Shop 3,
Sam levy’s Village
Borrowdale
0242 850 666
Tin Roof
1 Lewisam Shopping
Centre, Highlands
0242 495 874
Veldemeers Cafe
Arundel East Village
Arundel
078 459 6116
Let s
eat
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 59
THE PARAGON HUB
Colour in Page Tip: When coloring on gloss paper use markers or even paints
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 60
THE PARAGON HUB
Colour in Page Tip: When coloring on gloss paper use markers or even paints
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 61
THE PARAGON HUB
THE PARAGON HUB
ANIMALS IN AFRICA
Solve the puzzle based on the clues given.
1
2
3
4
5 6
7 8 9
10
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 62
Across
[2] Tallest mammal with a long neck
[3] Spotted big cat
[5] Large, bovine mammal found in herds
[7] Has a large horn on its snout
[8] Fastest land animal
[10] Largest land mammal
E T O
E L E P H A N T P
I K P
D R I
R H I N O C H E E T A H
C E
B U F F A L O M
O A
G I R A F F E
N L R
O L C
B
E
Z
I I
L E O P A R D
Down
[1] Animal with black and white stripes
[2] Largest primate
[3] King of the jungle
[4] Large reptile found in rivers and swamps
[6] Small, social mammal known for standing upright
[9] Large, semi aquatic mammal
Find and circle the vocabulary words in the grid. Look for
them in all directions including backwards and diagonally.
THE PARAGON HUB
N G V S L C T J E D F P Z O R L B
E T O I P H R A S B I J E D M V G
L Z R M T A O C N I A R G T Y Q N
I P E J S N Y K F W H S L A I F I
A Y B E G M D E P T E Q E W C K R
D S O K R E N T Y L W H J B U I P
M U P H T B I L D E N O C Z A F S
K N T C D A W D G P L D B G P L M
F S E I R Z U N O S A E S N U B L
W H Z N A P R S M Y T L F M I W S
P I F C L E A N I N G E B H K A V
T N U I B M V R Z O F R C A W H R
M E D P H C R A M B E K L N S T G
X L F J Y A S N G L S H O W E R S
H B R E A K O P L V C Z U F Y D K
C F T X M U B A S I L W D H G N E
W I H P E D L J R Y Q B S A O X R
APRIL
BASEBALL
BREAK
BREEZE
JACKET
MAY
RAINBOW
SHOWERS
THAW
CLEANING
KITE
PICNIC
RAINCOAT
SPRING
UMBRELLA
CLOUDS
MARCH
PUDDLES
SEASON
SUNSHINE
WINDY
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 63
THE PARAGON HUB
Spot The Difference(10)
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 64
THE PARAGON HUB
CONTACTS YOU MAY NEED
THE PARAGON HUB
Ace Air & Ambulance
0242 302 141
0782 999901/2/3/4
Cimas Rescue
Ambulance
0242 700 070
08 080 300
Mars Ambulance
0242 771 221
0242 706 034
0242 790 391
0712 600 002
Avenue’s Clinic
66 Baines Ave
0242 251 180/1/99
0242 252 480-5
0772 135 259
Healthpoint
15 Lanark Road Belgravia
0242 700 666 – 8
+263 78 703 3834
+263 86 771 74760
The MedRehab Clinic
Physio O.T Speech Therapy
23 Clayton Road,
Milton park
0773023758/0773510223
Parirenyatwa
Mazowe St, Milton Park
0242 702 224
0242 701 554-7
0242 705 941-3
Arundel Mediclinic
Norfolk Rd,
Mount Pleasant
0242 301 495
0867 700 0269
Fire Brigade
994
0242 700 950
Borrowdale Trauma Center
Borrowdale Lane
0242 886 921/4
0773 333 691
Monson Funerals
19 Key Gardens,
Kensington
0772 685 601
0772 368 418
0783 883 111
Road Angels
0242 334 418
0772 122 122
0732 122 122
0713 122 122
0714 122 122
AA (Automobile Association)
0242 776 760
0782 783 691
0712 406 033
Central Police Station
0242 748 836
0242 777 777
Avondale Police Station
0242 336 361
0242 336 632
Highlands Police Station
0242 495 504
Marlborough Police Station
0242 301 802
0242 301 853
Milton Park Police Station
0242 799 298
0242 708 113
Snake Handlers
0772 275 550
0775 707 118
0772 269 647
Miracle Missions
112 Enterprise Rd,
Highlands
0774 136 239
admin@miraclemissions.co.zw
Childline
0716 116 116
0732 116 116
116
reception@childline.org.zw
Belvedere Vet
128 Rudland Ave
0772 732 940
0718 932 940
128
Borrowdale Vet
12 Kings Row,
South Gate
0242 883 099
0712 451 328
0774 166 065
Chisipite Vet
303 Harare Drive
0242 494 862/3
0732 252 318
chisivets@gmail.com
Drive Zimbabwe
303 Harare Drive
0242 494 862/3
0732 252 318
chisivets@gmail.com
ZNSPCA
156 Enterprise rd
0242 497 574
0778 844 196
Baines Intercare
15 Baines Ave
0242 700 950
ZESA 24 Hours
0242 704 040
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 65
Design, Advertising, Social Media
CONTACT
Stacy - 077 225 9619
Kyle - 078 391 0295
Kinsley - 0778069826
7 Cam road,
Graniteside
Harare
SIGNAGE GE & BRANDING
CONTACT
Terry - 077 992 5698
terry@paragon.co.zw
7 Cam road,
Graniteside
Harare
C
M
PRINTING & PACKAGING
CONTACT
muni@paragon.co.zw,
tinashe@paragon.co.zw
primrose@paragon.co.zw
sibi@paragon.co.zw
lynn@paragon.co.zw
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Head Office
17035 Cedora Road,
Graniteside, Harare
JAN - MAR| ISSUE 9 66
CONTACT
Jonathan - 077 294 9949
jonathan@paragon.co.zw
Suite ZB,
Sam Levy’s Village
Borrowdale
Harare
CONTACT
Mariah
mariah@paragon.co.zw
Paddington Square
Harare
CONTACT
Steve - 077 214 3307
steve@paragon.co.zw
Arundel Village,
Harare
THE PARAGON HUB