Feb 26

BALLITO • UMDLOTI • UMHLANGA

Summer

recipes to

try at home

TASTE

& STYLE

Discover a foodie

gem in Umhlanga

FOCUS

ON KIDS

Books, decor

& education

WIN!

A Kate Spade

fragrance

Meet Bianca Rungasamy

BOLD & BRIGHT

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD

FEBRUARY 2026

GETBALL0226cv001.indd 1

14-Jan-26 1:31:30 PM

YOU’LL CLOTHING LOOK FOR GREAT

THE IN WHOLE OUR PRICES FAMILY

www.jamclothing.co.za

www.jamclothing.co.za


14-Jan-26 1:31:54 PM

GET IT

Editorial

Phone 032 946 0276

Email jennifer@getitnc.co.za

Ballito Business Centre • Ballito Drive

Ballito • KwaZulu-Natal

Like and Follow us

Get It Magazine Ballito.Umdloti.Umhlanga

@GetItMagNC

@getitmagnc

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

Editor Jennifer Campbell

jennifer@getitnc.co.za

Layout and Design

Jessmica Depalal

Triveshni Poonsamy

ads@northcoastcourier.co.za

Advertising

Natalie Bertram

natalie@getitnc.co.za | 082 434 3442

Lisa-Marie Beard

lisa-marie@getitnc.co.za | 083 335 8204

CONTENTS

THIS MONTH

3 Dates to diarise this month

4 Our must-read books

6 Things we love this month

8 See who we’ve spotted out

and about

PEOPLE

14 Meet our cover star:

Bianca Rungasamy

16 We chat to musician

Ijay Swanepoel

20 Hairstylist Drew Christie

shares his passion

KIDS

32 Lizzie Mlongo offers

equine assisted learning

in Ballito

36 Discover Steven Smith’s new

books for kids

38 Meet Miss Ballito Teen,

Zara Ramautar

40 Beautiful kids’ decor

from MOVA

42 How to choose a

tertiary institution

Online / Sales Support

Lisa Smith

lisa@getitnc.co.za

GET IT NATIONAL

National Group Editor and Sales

Kym Argo

082 785 9230 | kyma@caxton.co.za

Distribution

12 000 copies monthly

Get It Ballito • Umhlanga is distributed

free of charge in Ballito, Salt Rock, Umhlali,

Umdloti, Umhlanga Rocks, Umhlanga

Ridge, Gateway and La Lucia

Published by The North Coast Courier

Competition rules

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton

employees or their families. Get It Magazine

reserves the right to publish the names of

winners, who will be contacted telephonically

and need to collect their prizes from Get it Ballito

branch within 10 days or they will be forfeited.

Prize winners’ names are published on our

Facebook page monthly.

Cover details:

Bianca Rungasamy

Shot by: Wylde Creative;

084 535 3497; @wylde.creative

Makeup: Michelle Haywood,

061 492 2321; @brush_makeupbymich

Location: Next Level, Ballito Lifestyle

Centre; www.nextlevelballito.co.za;

087 460 0451; @nextlevel_ballito

FEBRUARY 2026

BEAUTY

22 Find your favourite fragrance

FOOD

24 Cooking with cheese and

stone fruit

26 Chocolate and coffee:

the perfect combo

28 Enjoy a lazy lunch at Bardot

TRAVEL

46 Slow down at Nambiti

Hills Lodge

WIN

48 Our February spoil:

a fragrance from Kate Spade

46

11975 copies distributed

(JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2025)

February 2026 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga 01

GETBALL0226pg001.indd 1

15-Jan-26 11:54:05 AM

19

YEARS

R 35 000 000

TRI-MANDATE

ZIMBALI ESTATE | LIVE LIFE AT ANOTHER LEVEL

Uniquely positioned and designed is this architecturally sound gem

overlooking the fairway. The aspect of the home allows for the interior being

reasonably warm in winter and cool in summer. Benefit from a self-contained

flatlet or Teenpad with en-suite bathroom.

4 3.5 2

TINLEY MANOR | REST, NEST OR INVEST

Fully furnished including invertor. Private and secure location in an area

which is fast becoming an attractive option.

4 2 2 200m 2

650m 2 R 5 000 000

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE

R 5 495 000

NO TRANSFER DUTY

SHEFFIELD BEACH | DESIGNED FOR AN EASY LIFESTYLE

Level living in a sought-after environment with loads of amenities.

A multi-generational estate with access to unspoilt beaches and much more.

3 2 2 265m 2

Invest. Intelligently.

032 946 1439 / 082 551 2607

073 106 6010 - Rental Specialist

www.fionacrago.co.za


15-Jan-26 11:55:23 AM

A hot date!

Try a coffee rave, get active and have some Valentine’s fun this February.

05

Music duo Veranda Panda are shaking

things up with their Wake & Shake coffee

rave, teaming up with Now Coffee Umhlanga

for an early-morning burst of caffeine,

connection and seriously good vibes. Think

beats before emails, dancing before deadlines

and coffee that fuels it all. It’s free, it starts at

6:30am sharp on 6 February, and everyone’s

invited, whether you’re dressed to impress or

heading straight to the office afterwards.

Details: Follow @nowcoffee_dbn on Instagram

for updates.

The next race in the Balwin Properties Nite Run series takes

place on Wednesday, 4 February at 6:15pm from Pearls Mall

in Umhlanga. This fun, community-focused 5km run/walk

is open to all fitness levels and offers a scenic evening route.

Registration and goodie bag collection take place from 4:30pm

to 6pm inside Pearls Mall near Planet Fitness/Food Court.

Participants can look forward to discount vouchers, lucky draw

prizes, and fun awards for the best dressed. Entry is R80 online

or R100 on the day. Grab your friends, lace up and join the fun!

Details: Enter on www.racepass.com

04

14

Get ready for the first-ever live recording

of the Love, Marriage & Family Podcast

with Mo & Phindi at Radisson Blu, Umhlanga.

This Valentine’s evening features a 3-course blacktie

gala dinner, live music, dancing and inspiring

conversations with some of South Africa’s mostloved

couples. The night kicks off with a red carpet

at 5pm, followed by formalities from 6pm. Dress to

impress and celebrate love in style!

Details: Tickets cost R1500 per person and are available

on www.webtickets.co.za



15-Jan-26 1:00:37 PM

Book club

Books passionate readers will adore.

Compiled by: KYM ARGO

“When you think of everyone you love,“ said

the fox “I hope you include yourself.” Charlie

Mackesy’s Always Remember - The Boy,

The Mole, The Fox, The Horse and The

Storm is page after gloriously thoughtful

page of his drawings and sentiments about

being brave, being loved, being kind and

patient and gentle. With others, but mostly

with yourself. “Be patient with yourself.

Shouting at a flower won’t make it bloom.” If

you, or someone close to you, is struggling,

it’s a gem. It’s a gem even if you aren’t.

Penguin

The purpose of A Beautiful World

is not, says author and artist James

Norbury, to make you happy. It’s

simply to give you a little poke and

help you remember that the world

can be beautiful if you choose to look

at it that way. In the book, Big Panda

and Tiny Dragon look at loss, fear,

anxiety, anger, finding peace, selfdoubt,

depression, feeling incomplete

and recognising beauty where you

are right now. You can read it as a

story, or open it on a random page

each day to see the wisdom of how to

face a challenge. Micheal Joseph

All these, and more exciting new

releases, available in store and online

at Exclusive Books.

Light aromas of berries, orange blossom and grapefruit, with fresh, lively and

fruity flavours ... serve Lillet Rose as a long cocktail ... pour 50ml of Lillet Rose and

100ml premium tonic water over ice in a tall wine glass, add a slice of citrus and

happy days. R389 from Takealot.

04 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga February 2026


15-Jan-26 11:57:14 AM

Freida McFadden has a

bit of a cult following ...

with fans snapping up her

new titles as they hit the

bookshelves. Look out for

Dear Debbie this month.

And if you haven’t already

read The Surrogate

Mother, it’s a humdinger ...

failed infertility, adoptions

falling through, surrogacy

and secrets. Poisoned Pen

A baby given

away by a

teenage mum. A

family estranged.

A secret kept

for more than

two decades.

And a carefully

constructed

new life that’s

about to unravel.

Grace by Chika

Unigwe is about

motherhood,

finding meaning

and fighting for

those you love.

Canongate

An abandoned house with a tragic history.

Threatening notes and unfriendly locals. A

daughter with increasingly erratic behaviour. And,

in Lauren Oliver’s What Happened to Lucy Vale,

a true-crime writer who may have decided to

investigate the wrong story! Hodder & Stoughton

What’s book club without

a cocktail? Not much fun

at all. This month, before

we get all librarian, we’re

going to up the glam

stakes with creations from

Thea Engst’s Sex and the

City Cocktails. We’ll go

Manhattan glitzy party

vibes ... with step-by-step

recipes curated to fit the

show’s chic spirit. There’s a

recipe for every character

and key scene, including

some spirit-free options

... cocktails sure to bring

a touch of the wit and

glamour Sex and the City is

famous for straight to your

bar cart. Insight Edition

All We Once Had ... an emotional,

heartfelt contemporary YA

romance from Katy Upperman

(author of Everything I Promised

You), exploring the complicated

nature of grief, family, growing

up, and the beauty of second

chances. Penguin

One of Us Is Dead

by Jeneva Rose is

set in Buckhead - a

place of expensive

cars, huge houses,

and competitive

friendships. When the

queen bee position

becomes available,

it’s all backstabbing

and manipulation and

underhand tricks. And

things get seriously

deadly! Orion

In Anatomy of an

Alibi by Ashley Elston,

two women hatch

a plan to exchange

places for a night,

so as to find out the

truth about one of

their husbands, who

is hiding a secret and

tracking her every

move. But when the

husband is murdered,

they each need an

alibi ... and only one

has it. Headline



15-Jan-26 11:57:50 AM

Wish list

Rosé. Middle Eastern Food. Strawberry preserve. All the things we love the most.

In Persiana Easy, Sabrina

Ghayour shares more than

100 Middle Eastern-inspired

dishes ... all delicious, all

achievable, all easier than

you’d think. She has, she

says, used every shortcut to

create fuss-free recipes for

every mood, craving, occasion

and time frame. R810 from

Exclusive Books.

Victoria Gin is

turning up the

sunshine with two

limited-edition

striped designs

that embody the

joy of Summer

... fresh, stylish,

and ready to

elevate every

celebration. There’s

a Pink Edition,

as well as this

Orange Blossom

with rose hip ...

all sun-soaked

Mediterranean

charm. R379 from

Checkers Sixty60.

Compiled by: KYM ARGO

Delaire Graff Cabernet

Franc Rosé ... crisp and

fresh, this wine displays

flavours of cassis,

strawberries and ripe

cherries with a seductive

hint of spice. R219

from Woolworths.



15-Jan-26 11:58:32 AM

Strawberries and rose petals have been paired perfectly

for a preserve to posh up toast with cheese, or to use

as a cake filling. Strawberry & Rose Flower Preserve,

R95 from babylonstoren.com

All we need is love.

Quite right! These

Tavola luxe, large,

biodegradable

paper napkins add

a little romance

to your table

setting. R99 for a

pack of 24 from

yuppiechef.com

Meet your new body BFF. Sol de Janeiro’s Rosa Charmosa range

includes the Rosa Charmosa Dewy Cream - a dreamy water-whipped

cream that hydrates skin for up to 72 hours. Because who doesn’t want

to be luminous and feel confident? And the Cheirosa 91 fragrance

... think a refreshing cocktail made with Rio Pink Rose, passion fruit

and honey caramel. Bright, playful and totally addictive. Perfect for

any mood, any day. These Brazilian-inspired skincare rituals, with an

irresistible rose scent, are R560 and R610, at ARC, Woolworths, Edgars,

Takealot, Truworths, BASH, Foschini and Superbalist.

Sweet on

You plate for

treats, biscuits,

berries.

It’s locally

handmade

stoneware with a

satin glaze and 18ct

gold hand-painted rim.

R1200. And a little kiss

with every cup of coffee.

Bisou Mug, R750. Both from

madisonboutique.co.za



15-Jan-26 12:02:27 PM

Nirandhan Naidoo, Dristhi Ramsumer and Tayur Moodley, the top three students

from Crawford International North Coast

Reason to celebrate

Crawford International North Coast turned its matric results

celebration into a true moment of pride after delivering another

standout performance in the 2025 matric exams. The top 10 students

achieved an impressive average of seven distinctions each, setting the

tone for a day filled with applause and happy surprises. Stealing the

spotlight was top Crawford International student Dristhi Ramsumer,

who achieved an outstanding 94.38% aggregate and was thrilled by

a surprise visit from East Coast Breakfast presenter Darren Maule

during the celebrations. Adding to the excitement, Dristhi also emerged

as the top achieving IEB student across schools on the North Coast.

Darren Maule and Dristhi Ramsumer


15-Jan-26 12:10:51 PM

Sunset

sessions

At Zimbali Lakes, the First Thursday

event has become a monthly

favourite, bringing together agents,

media and friends of the estate

for an easy-going evening of

connection and celebration. Guests

enjoy sunset views over the Ernie

Els Signature Golf Course, live

music and a generous buffet, while

catching up on the latest milestones

and exciting developments. The

most recent gathering toasted

record sales and offered a sneak

peek at the soon-to-open clubhouse.

Nicole Pivacic and Lesley Aitken

Afro-pop musician, Angel M

Dave McGregor, Christina Wiese, Neil Cocker, Nienke Burger and Sakhi Reddy


15-Jan-26 12:13:07 PM

A fresh

new arrival

The opening of Checkers at La Lucia Mall

was marked with a lively launch event as

shoppers and invited guests gathered to

explore the new FreshX store. The spacious

supermarket drew attention for its fresh

produce, bakery, deli and specialist sections,

with the event highlighting the addition of

another major retail offering to the mall’s

growing line-up.

Karen Brokensha, Nikita Smith, Colleen Turner, Lisa Doyle

and Jesse Ramnanan

Chris Duerden, Werner Strydom and Riaz Cotwal

Cindene Sheasby, Nikita Smith and Nazrana Premlall

Cindene Sheasby, Vanessa Blevins, Ashley Sukhlal

Anya Beekhan and Cindy Osman



15-Jan-26 12:16:22 PM

Gaming Gaming

seen seen AT SUNCOAST AT SUNCOAST

seen AT SUNCOAST

KEVIN FRASER KEVIN FRASER

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KEVIN FRASER

Zona Zikalala & Hlengiwe Mvuyana

FESTIVE FESTIVE LAUGHS LAUGHS

Jay and Anisha Jay and Behari Anisha Behari

FESTIVE LAUGHS

Jay and Anisha Behari

BEEGEES BEEGEES

Yegan & Sharlotte Yegan & Chetty Sharlotte Chetty

BEEGEES

Yegan & Sharlotte Chetty

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15-Jan-26 12:16:34 PM

Competition, community

and celebration

The annual Innova Haus

Golf Day was held at

Simbithi Eco Estate

towards the end of last

year, bringing together

leaders from the property,

construction and real

estate sectors. Hosted

by property developer

Devmco Group, the

event provided a

platform for reflection

on recent achievements

and discussion of

emerging trends among

participants. Guests

enjoyed a beautiful

day out on the course,

followed by dinner and

drinks.

Kendal Bower, Gabriella Chellini,

Kyla Harman and Lindy Ruddle

Howick Oosthuizen, Derik Van Blerk,

Gavin Meyer and Herman Bosman

William Nichol, Mike Shaw, Stef Botha

and Devon De Lange

Greg Chaplin, Carly Bigby, Bruce

Ross and Warwick Lord

Gloria Ngidi

Sibaya team members with GM Virath Gobrie

Giving

back

Nokulunga Khumalo and Nomusa Khwela

Sibaya Casino and Entertainment

Kingdom celebrated its 21st birthday

in the best way – by giving back! Staff

packed 2 100 food parcels (that’s 100

for every year!) filled with groceries to

support local families.



15-Jan-26 1:03:44 PM

ADVERTORIAL

The value of

In the month of February,

we are often surrounded

by symbols of hearts and

associations with love.

Love is a core need of the

human soul, and yet it

remains one of the most

misunderstood concepts.

So, what is the quality of love that we

all seek, and yet that seems so absent

in our world?

Love is often associated with

emotions of attachment or romance.

However, love of a spiritual nature

offers something deeper: a feeling

of being genuinely cared for

and valued. It creates a sense of

belonging, of being protected and

safe. This love heals, transforms, and

nurtures. It becomes the foundation

for growth, balance, stability, and a

true sense of self-worth.

So what is love?

Dadi Janki’s teachings say, “To

experience true love, we should ask: ‘Is

my heart clean? Is it honest? Is it open?’

If it is not, if my heart is still broken, I will

not be able to experience true love. It is

honesty that shows us what love is, and

real love shows us what honesty is.”

This invites us to consider that love is

not simply an emotion, but an innate

quality of the soul - a value one chooses

to live by. Love expresses acceptance,

closeness, and above all, deep respect.

To develop such a quality of love

requires deep inner work. Often,

the obstacles are personal desires,

expectations, and the clash of egos.

One must be prepared to let go and

allow others to be as they are. Without

this inner work, dependencies are

often mistaken for love, leading to a

rollercoaster of possessiveness, jealousy,

insecurity, fear, and selfishness, patterns

that seem all too common today.

One tool for cultivating this awareness

is Raja Yoga meditation. This practice

begins by grounding the individual in

the awareness of one’s spiritual identity,

the core of one’s being. We often define

ourselves by the many labels and roles

we carry: race, gender, nationality,

religion, position, or possessions. These

identities are circumstantial and subject

to change, yet many of our emotions

remain tied to them.

Beneath these layers lies a spiritual core

imbued with the qualities of peace, love,

wisdom, power, and joy. It brings the

realisation that all I need is within me; I

am enough. From this understanding,

a natural love for the self emerges,

fostering contentment and reducing the

neediness that fuels the pursuit of the

elusive dream of ‘perfect love.’

As Khalil Gibran beautifully expressed,

“Love gives naught but itself, and takes

naught but from itself. Love possesses

not nor would it be possessed; for love is

sufficient unto love.”

From this awareness, I become more

open to the presence of Divine Love. The

universe and all creation are expressions

of that Divine Love - who is the One

Source of pure love. Through silence

and meditative practice, I learn to attune

myself to this subtle, pure love. It is like a

river meeting the ocean, expanding into

vastness and a sense of being unlimited.

This experience naturally translates into

care, compassion, kindness, generosity,

and a life of benevolence.

In silence, I look into the mirror of

Divinity and recognise my own truth

and beauty. The love I cultivate for

myself becomes the love I reflect in

all my interactions, with myself, with

others, and with the environment.

I am love.

DURBAN: 143 Belmont Rd, Durban

083 430 8926 | 0315633502 | durban@za.brahmakumaris.org

JOHANNESBURG: 28 Judith Street, Observatory

066 495 1367 | johannesburg@za.brahmakumaris.org

CAPE TOWN: 7 Dunluce Avenue, Claremont

077 374 1967 | captetown@za.brahmakumaris.org.


15-Jan-26 1:39:58 PM

Breaking the

cycle, softly

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL Photographs: WYLDE CREATIVE Makeup: BRUSH BRIDAL Location: NEXT LEVEL, BALLITO LIFESTYLE CENTRE

Umhlanga life coach and

founder of Conscious

Design, Bianca

Rungasamy, is redefining

what it means to be a

young Indian woman,

a leader and a

work-in-progress

- all at once.

Bianca’s favourite

local spots

Best start to the day: Early morning

walks along the Umhlanga Promenade.

Pocket of calm: Chris Saunders Park, her

go-to green escape.

Move & reset: FIT24 at Oceans Mall

keeps her feeling strong and centred.

Soulful catch-ups: Mitera for slow,

heart-filling girl dates.

Creative corner: The Press Club at Salta

- peaceful, inspiring and home to some

of her favourite breakfasts.



15-Jan-26 12:21:35 PM

When you meet Bianca,

you notice two things

almost immediately: her

gentleness and her grit.

Soft-spoken but fiercely intentional,

she carries the kind of quiet strength

that comes from doing the hard inner

work and then choosing to share it.

Finding her voice

Bianca has always been “the sounding

board friend” - the one people naturally

open up to. She knew she wasn’t

a “corporate girlie”, but a creative,

leadership-driven soul who wanted to

build something of her own.

A turning point came when she

joined the Miss Earth Leadership

Programme and discovered just how

powerful her voice could be.

“That programme was the springboard

for everything,” she explains.

“I started going into schools, giving

talks, creating programmes and

fundraisers. It showed me that

leadership was my actual passion.”

From there, Bianca launched her own

leadership initiative and realised she

needed deeper tools. Life coaching

felt like a natural extension, a way to

merge her purpose, her story, and her

love for people.

In 2022, Conscious Design was born.

Not as a neat overnight success, but

in the messy, very human way most

meaningful work begins.

“No brand just pops out of nowhere,”

she laughs.

“The last few years have been

about laying foundations, digging,

demolishing, rebuilding. There’s been

impostor syndrome, self-doubt, days

where I wanted to talk myself out of it

a million ways. It took grit and grace to

keep going. Like birthing a baby, you

have no choice but to see it through.”

Breaking the cycle

One of the things Bianca speaks about

with deep honesty is the experience

of being a young Indian woman

choosing a different path.

She grew up watching many women in

the Indian community, especially older

generations, live lives of quiet hardship.

“We saw our grandmothers and

mothers being heavily dependent on

their husbands, then on their children.

We are not turning a blind eye anymore.

We are naming the patterns, talking

about mental health, owning our stories.

That is worth celebrating.

“Their resilience was celebrated, but

often it meant swallowing pain and

staying silent. That filtered down

through generations.”

For women like Bianca, choosing to

break away from familiar expectations

– to speak up, prioritise healing and

set boundaries – can come at a cost.

“When you try to do things differently,

you can get labelled,” she says. “You’re

‘problematic’, ‘too much’, or seen

as someone who doesn’t fit the

traditional mould. And in a culture

where marriage is often viewed as a

key milestone, those labels can carry

real weight.”

Bianca also highlights the stigma

around speaking openly about

personal struggles.

“In our community, people don’t always

know what to do with vulnerability.

“Everyone talks, everyone has an

opinion. It can make you doubt yourself.

But I’m seeing a big shift, especially

among young Indian women, who are

saying, this cycle ends with me. That

takes massive courage.”

For Bianca, using her voice, and

encouraging other women to use

theirs, feels like both a responsibility

and a privilege.

“We are not turning a blind eye

anymore. We are naming the patterns,

talking about mental health, owning

our stories. That is worth celebrating.”

Conscious Design, in real life

So, what does life coaching with

Bianca actually look like?

Much of her current work is rooted

in group coaching, networking

sessions and facilitation, including her

involvement in a political leadership

school that focuses on empowerment

and active citizenship.

“I love group spaces. There is something

powerful about women hearing each

other say, me too. It dissolves shame.”

She plans to expand into one-onone

coaching and is developing a

podcast, a space to share the kinds

of deep, honest, slightly unfiltered

conversations she has off the record.

A life by design, not default

While her work focuses on others,

Bianca is clear: she is also her own

ongoing project.

A year ago, she says, she was

constantly ill and physically weak.

“I couldn’t even lift a weight. Now, I

am addicted to the gym. I feel strong,

energetic, like a completely different

person. It’s proof that you are never

the same person twice.”

Her vision for 2026 is simple

but deeply intentional:

“I just want to be the best possible

version of myself. The Bianca I’ll meet

next year must be better than the

Bianca I am now and then I’ll keep

going. I love that we get to evolve. We

are not stuck.”

For Bianca, Conscious Design isn’t just

a brand name, it’s a way of living. It’s

about small, consistent shifts: choosing

presence over autopilot, designing a

life that feels aligned, and courageously

breaking the patterns that no longer

serve you, even when your community

doesn’t always understand.

She’s not claiming to have it all figured

out. But she is committed to staying

honest, staying open and leading with

compassion.

Details: www.biancarungasamy.co.za;

083 283 4920; IG: @bianca_rungasamy



15-Jan-26 12:22:19 PM

Sweet sounds,

strong spirit

33-year-old Ballito musician Ijay Swanepoel, known in his music career as Stephen

Gawking: The Nuclear Lyricist, speaks about living with spinal muscular atrophy and

how music keeps him moving forward.

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL Photograph: PRECISION PHOTOGRAPHY BALLITO



15-Jan-26 12:23:05 PM

Ijay lives with spinal muscular atrophy type 2, a condition

that causes progressive muscle weakness and has left him

wheelchair-bound. Instead of letting it limit him, he has

turned his reality into music rooted in faith.

“Being physically limited forced my imagination to be

limitless,” he says. Diagnosed at one year old, SMA has always

been part of his life. What began as escapism through film,

music and TV eventually became his creative fuel. “Every

song I write comes from gratitude and the belief that even

our limits can become instruments of light.”

Among his career highlights are releasing Remember the

Dream, The Way and collaborating with producer Bobby

Johnson. But the real magic, he says, is the people. “Artists,

producers, interviewers, every single person who’s given me

the time of day means the world.”

Ijay hopes his work shifts perceptions of disability. “Disability

doesn’t mean limitation. It just means living life differently.

Strength isn’t about appearance; it’s about perseverance and

purpose.”

His latest single, Bubblegum Milkshake, features vocalist Eva

Morgan and plays with the idea of sweetness on the surface

and depth underneath.

“It’s fun and light-hearted, but there’s still meaning for those

who listen closely.” Eva flew from Cape Town to record with

Bobby Johnson in Bloemfontein. Ijay wasn’t able to be

there, but when he heard the vocals, “I was blown away. She

brought the emotion and attitude the song needed.”

Growing up in Mpumalanga and holidaying in Ballito

through the early 2000s, he eventually moved here

permanently in 2022 for health reasons.

“The coastal vibes and energy have been inspiring both

personally and creatively.”

Music became more than a hobby in 2018, when he reached

out to Johnson to help bring his ideas to life. Influences like

Jack Parow, Eminem and the Black-Eyed Peas taught him

the power of honesty and storytelling. Collaborations with

artists such as Nathan Blur and Clint Brink have pushed him

creatively and reminded him to “keep the art above the ego.”

Behind the scenes, Devographic Music Agency plays a key

role. “Without Devo’s guidance and support, none of my

recent progress would’ve been possible. Having a strong

team is everything.”

Although living with SMA makes travelling difficult,

technology has allowed him to build a music career

remotely. Still, he believes venues can do more.

“Accessibility basics like ramps, seating and other facilities go

a long way.”

Success, for Ijay, is no longer about numbers. “Messages from

people saying a song gave them hope: that’s everything.”

His advice to young creatives living with disabilities: “Don’t

wait for perfect conditions. Use what you have, where you

are. Your story matters, even if it starts small.”

As he looks ahead, Ijay plans to keep creating, collaborating

and connecting. “By the grace of Jesus, I’ll keep fighting the

good fight. And if you want to support me, listen, share,

reach out. I’d love to connect.”

Details: IG: @nuclearlyricist


15-Jan-26 12:23:31 PM

Feel the

Treat that someone

special with a beautiful

bunch of flowers from

the wide variety at

Love Laugh.

at Lifestyle

From fresh floral favourites

to thoughtful gifting ideas,

Lifestyle Centre has everything

you need to celebrate love this

Valentine’s Day.

Nothing says

it’s Valentine’s

Day like the

pop of a freshly

opened bottle

of a bubbles!

The romantic

Valdo Paradise

Rose Brut is

a delicious

sparkling wine

with intense and

pleasant fruity

undergrowth

aromas,

imported from

Italy. Available

from Tops at

Lifestyle for

R359.99.

At Me&B,

find vibrant

women’s fashion

and statement pieces

that make every

moment feel special.

From easy everyday

looks to standout

styles, find a gift

that feels thoughtful,

modern and

beautifully on trend.

Let Wedgewood Nougat help you create the perfect gift that

says “I love you”, with their bespoke and handmade gifting range.



15-Jan-26 12:28:04 PM

Give the gift of personality this Valentine’s Day

with something from Big Blue. From modern

men’s and women’s fashion items to quirky

accessories and unique gifts, you’ll find pieces

that speak to style and connection - perfect

for spoiling someone special with something

beautifully unexpected.

Discover beautifully

handcrafted linen apparel

and timeless leather

footwear from Sweet Peas.

Locally made with quality

and craftmanship at the

heart of every piece. Perfect

for gifting or treating the

one you love to something

truly special.

45 on Eat

Street offers

the perfect

setting for

a romantic

dinner,

where great

food, warm

ambience

and effortless

style come

together.

Celebrate the

month of love

with Château

Gâteaux’s Limited

Edition Southern

Red Velvet

Heart Cake.

WIN!

an assortment of spoils

from the stores

featured in this article.

Follow Lifestyle Centre s

social media for

competition details.

‘

www.ballitolifestylecentre.co.za

IG: @lifestylecentreballito

FB: @ballitolifestylecentre

T’s & C’s apply



15-Jan-26 12:28:52 PM

Hair, heart

& healing

For Umhlanga-based

hairstylist Drew Christie,

hairdressing has always

been about more than

scissors and colour. It’s

about transformation,

confidence and connection

- but one experience

shifted his focus to a very

special part of his craft:

supporting people facing

cancer.

Over two decades behind the

chair, Drew has learned that

hair can be far more than a

cosmetic concern, it can be a lifeline.

His salon has become a sanctuary for

clients navigating life's big transitions:

weddings, funerals, graduations,

heartbreaks and increasingly, the

challenges of hair loss during illness.

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL

"A salon becomes a sanctuary where

people can clear out the clutter of

their minds and souls," he says. "It is

often in those pivotal moments that

the stylist becomes a crucial part of

the journey. We are the transitional

coaches, helping people step

confidently into the next chapter of

their lives."



15-Jan-26 12:29:54 PM

But it was a single encounter that

changed the course of Drew's career.

Years ago, a 16-year-old girl came to

him ahead of chemotherapy, sitting

nervously with her mother.

"What can we do?" they asked.

Drew did not have an immediate

answer, but he promised to find a

solution. The first wig he sourced

became the start of a new chapter in

his work. "When her wig arrived, we

shared a deep bond as we cut and

styled it together. She was brave and

beautiful, and she changed my life."

Since then, Drew has dedicated

himself to customised wigs and hair

solutions, recognising that hair loss

- whether from cancer treatment,

alopecia or other conditions - affects

people regardless of age, race

or gender. He has studied under

mentors, attended courses locally

and internationally, and honed his

craft to ensure each client feels seen,

supported and empowered.

"As cancer rates continue to rise, the

prospect of hair loss during treatment

can be one of the most daunting

parts of the journey."

Drew approaches the emotional

side of hair loss with honesty and

compassion.

"Every hair loss story carries a unique

solution waiting to be uncovered," he

says. "Hair loss can be an empowering

catalyst, enabling you to create the

luxurious locks you have always

dreamed of, unconstrained by

genetics, age or health challenges. In

this journey, no possibility is off the

table. You hold the reins."

Recently, he cut off a client's ponytail

to create a wig for her best friend

undergoing cancer treatment, a

moment he calls "deeply moving" and

one he felt honoured to be part of.

Beyond hair-loss support, Drew also

offers expert hairdressing services

for all hair types and is proud to own

a fully inclusive salon. This has been

especially meaningful for multi-racial

families, as well as parents learning to

care for hair textures different from

their own.

Book a free consultation

Mention this article when booking,

and Drew will offer a complimentary

45-minute consultation to explore

your personal aesthetic goals and hair

options in a welcoming, empathetic

environment.

Details: Evolve Hair & Salon; Shop 23A,

The Lighthouse Mall, 14 Chartwell Drive,

Umhlanga Rocks; 065 674 7240;

IG: @evolvehairandsalon


15-Jan-26 12:30:27 PM

Find your match

Love is in the air ... with scents for him and her.

Revlon Fire & Ice Blaze for men -

fresh and sporty with citrus bursts

and a modern woody body. A

captivating everyday fragrance that

balances spicy, woody and musky

notes. From R380 from clicks.co.za

• Jimmy Choo Man Extreme ... a

potent fragrance signifying red

hot adventure. It is fiery at its

core,

with the intense piquancy of

red thyme and black pepper

making up its top notes,

combined with an aromatic

accord of fresh and

crisp geranium fused with

clary sage.

Vibrant amber woods, tonka

beans and punchy vetiver

linger afterwards. R1725 from

Dis-Chem • A little flirty and

aromatically fruity ... Club De Nuit

Intense Man is all lemon, pineapple,

bergamot, black currant and apple,

followed by birch, jasmine and

rose, ambergris, musk, patchouli

and vanilla. R1915 from Dis-Chem.

• Bergamot stands out. The spiced

cardamom and ginger add

depth. At the heart, an elegant

bouquet of lavender and

violet leaves. And the potent

patchouli, combined with

tonka bean and

amber amplifies the

intensity. Say a warm

and handsome hello

to Lacoste Original

Parfum where elegance

meets assertive power.

R1799 from Edgars. •

Dressed in a black sheathed bottle and

leatherevoking

the true spirit of

exploration is Montblanc

Explorer Extreme. . Vibrant

bergamot, woody patchouli

and fiery vetiver mingle

with sensual accords of

amber and leather. R2199

from Edgars.



15-Jan-26 12:31:42 PM

Defined by its floral ambery vanilla character, Montblanc Signature Elixir is a

love note to opulence and luxury. It’s all red orchid and vanilla absolute and is

sensational! R1999 from edgars.co.za. • Pure perfume. No spills. No spray. No Fuss.

Just a clean, natural, and alcohol-free perfume that goes where you do. SoyLites

Solid Perfumes are available in six variants.

This month, we are loving the Kindred ... a sweet wild-litchi profile that’s vibrant,

creative, and full of heart. R220 from

soylites.co.za • NUXE Prodigieux le Parfum ... a feminine blend of sunshine

and warm sand, with notes of orange flowers, magnolia and vanilla. R1250 from

Truworths. • Viva La Juicy. Think sweet, sexy and classic. Think bright mandarin

and wild berries meeting honeysuckle, gardenia, and jasmine, all wrapped in

caramel, vanilla, and sandalwood. R1990 for 100ml from Dis-Chem. • Bursting

with pear and ginger, jasmine and solar accord, and sensual vanilla and amber.

Lacoste Original celebrates timeless femininity with a touch of modern grace.

R1199 from superbalist.com


15-Jan-26 12:32:10 PM

Flavour & freshness

Cheese and stone fruit – a beautiful summer friendship

Peaches, nectarines and plums are at their peak of flavour and juiciness. But

they bring more than that to your table. These summer favourites are also

naturally rich in vitamins A and C, potassium and antioxidants, supporting

hydration and everyday well-being in this hotter weather. Cheese, too,

is packed with goodness. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein,

calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins, while adding those creamy, salty or tangy

notes that make stone fruit truly shine. We share delicious fruit and cheese

recipes that appeal to all ages.

Details: @juicydelicioussa on Instagram or www.juicydelicious.co.za and

@rediscoverdairy on Instagram or www.rediscoverdairy.co.za

SUMMER CHEESE & FRUIT BOARD

A cheeseboard that’s vibrant, fresh and indulgent. Juicy grilled nectarines

pair beautifully with creamy mozzarella, and the peach and ginger compote

brings out the best in mature cheddar and gouda. Add crisp slices of fresh

plums and a few simple extras, and you’ve got a stunning spread.

You’ll need: Peach and ginger compote, 4 peaches - peeled, pitted and cut

into chunks, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 1 Tbsp honey, 1 Tbsp lemon juice, 3 slices

of fresh ginger, 4 sprigs fresh thyme, grilled nectarines, 4 nectarines - halved

and pitted, 10ml olive oil, balsamic reduction for drizzling.

To assemble: 250g plain chunky cottage cheese, mixed olives, assorted

cheeses – white cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, camembert and chevin, 3

plums (cut into wedges), crostini or baguette slices, Italian cold meats like

prosciutto and coppa, fresh thyme to garnish.

Method: To make the peach compote

place all of the ingredients into a

saucepan. Stir over a medium heat to

dissolve the sugar. Bring to the boil, then

lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes,

stirring occasionally, until the peaches

are tender and the liquid is syrupy. Set

aside to cool. Brush the cut side of the

nectarines lightly with some olive oil. Heat

a griddle pan and cook the nectarines

cut side down for 5 minutes until charred

and slightly softened. Transfer to the

cheeseboard and drizzle with balsamic

reduction just before serving. Remove

the ginger from the peach compote

and transfer to a small bowl. Scoop the

cottage cheese into a bowl. Place the

olives in a small bowl and arrange on

a large serving board with the cottage

cheese and compote. Arrange the

cheeses on the board around the bowls.

Add the fresh plum wedges, crostini and

cold meats. Garnish with fresh thyme and

serve immediately.

Recipes: JUICY DELICIOUS and REDISCOVER DAIRY

A good

choice of wine to

accompany the cheese

and fruit board is the Beau

Constantia Pas de Nom Rosé.

A harmonious blend of Syrah

and Mataro, it offers a fine

line of acidity, supple

tannins and layers of

juicy fruit.



15-Jan-26 12:33:05 PM

HARISSA YOGHURT MARINATED CHICKEN WITH CHARRED NECTARINES,

FENNEL, TOMATO, FETA SALSA & MINT DRESSING ON CORN TACOS

You’ll need: 2 Tbsp harissa spice or paste, 80ml full cream yoghurt, 1 Tbsp lemon

juice, 800g chicken thighs, 2 nectarines or peaches - quartered, 1 fennel bulb -

sliced, 2 tomatoes - diced, 100g feta - crumbled

For the dressing, you’ll need: 2 Tbsp full cream yoghurt, 2 Tbsp mint, 1 Tbsp olive oil,

6 to 8 soft corn tacos.

To make: Combine the yoghurt, harissa, lemon juice, and salt, and mix until well

combined. Add chicken and coat with yoghurt marinade. Allow to rest, covered

for 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

Braai chicken on medium coals for 20 to 30 minutes, turning every 5 to

8 minutes. If the chicken was refrigerated, bring it to room temperature

before cooking.

Cut nectarines and fennel into quarters, char on the fire rotating every minute for

about 4 minutes. Dice nectarines once charred.

In a bowl combine tomatoes, feta, charred fennel and nectarines.

To make dressing: Add mint, olive oil, yoghurt into a food processor and blitz till

smooth. Add a teaspoon of feta brine to loosen the mixture up if needed. Slice or

shred chicken and serve in a warm taco with nectarine salsa and a drizzle of the

mint dressing.

NECTARINE AND PLUM GALETTE

For the dough, you’ll need: 280g allpurpose

flour, pinch salt, pinch sugar,

170g butter – must be cold and cut

into cubes; 4 to 5 Tbsp water – must

be cold.

For the pie filling, you’ll need: 4 to 5

fresh nectarines – thinly sliced, 3-4

plums (depending on the size) –

thinly sliced, 100g goat’s cheese, ±125

grams cream cheese, fresh thyme, 1

egg – beaten, honey.

To make: Pulse the flour, salt, sugar

and butter in a food processor until

you have coarse crumbs. Add the

cold water a tablespoon at a time

until the dough comes together. Turn

it out onto a floured surface, lightly

knead into a ball, wrap and chill for

at least 1 hour. Preheat the oven to

180°C and line a baking sheet with

baking paper. Roll out the chilled

dough into a rough circle and place

it on the baking tray. Spread cream

cheese over the centre, leaving about

a 5cm border all around the edge.

Layer the sliced nectarines and plums

over the cream cheese, sprinkling

goat’s cheese as you go.

Add a sprinkling of fresh thyme to the

top of your fruit layer.

Gently fold the 5cm border over the

filling before brushing the pastry

border with the egg wash.

Bake for about 30 minutes, until

golden and the stone fruit is soft.

Remove from the oven and drizzle

honey over the warm fruit.



15-Jan-26 12:37:47 PM

Sweet cravings

Chocolate and coffee. All you need to kick start the month of love.

FIVE INGREDIENT CHOCOLATE POTS

You’ll need: 125ml milk, 250ml cream, 3 Tbsp castor

sugar, 5 egg yolks, 200g dark chocolate - chopped

To make: Heat the milk and cream in a small

saucepan over medium heat to just before boiling

point. Remove from the heat. Whisk the sugar

and egg yolks in a heatproof bowl. Slowly add

the cream mixture to the yolks, while beating to

prevent the eggs from scrambling. Return the

custard to low heat and cook, while stirring, for

about 5 minutes or until the mixture coats the

back of a spoon. Strain the custard through a sieve.

Stir through the chocolate until melted. Spoon

into 6 x 125 ml bowls. Set in the fridge.

Optional: Place 2 egg whites and 125 ml (½ cup)

castor sugar in a medium heatproof bowl, set over

a small saucepan with simmering water. Beat with

a hand beater on medium speed until the sugar

has dissolved and the mixture is heated. Take off

the heat and continue beating until the meringue

reaches room temperature and soft peaks form.

Spread dollops onto the chocolate pots. Char with

a blowtorch. Serve with berries and shortbread

biscuits/cigars.

NUTTY MOCHA MOUSSE

A bold, no-bake dessert made to impress.

You’ll need: 500ml fresh cream, 60g Babylonstoren Dark Chocolate

with Rye - finely chopped, 125ml Babylonstoren Coffee Nut

Butter, 60ml Babylonstoren Salted Caramel, Maldon salt to serve,

Babylonstoren koffiekoekies to serve

To make: Heat half a cup of cream in a small saucepan over

medium heat or in the microwave until just below boiling point.

Stir in the chocolate until melted and smooth. Cover

directly with plastic wrap and set aside to cool.

Whisk the remaining cream in a bowl until medium

peaks form. Add the nut butter and salted caramel

and whisk until smooth. Pour into six ramekins

or glasses (about 160 ml each) and place in the

fridge to set.

Divide the cooled chocolate ganache over the

mousse and place in the fridge until needed.

Serve with a pinch of flaky salt and koffiekoekies.

Details: Visit babylonstoren.com to order the coffee

and chocolate treats needed for this recipe.



15-Jan-26 1:03:58 PM

29981 FHC Get It Magazine Advert FA.indd 1 2023/08/18 16:15

ADVERT GETBALL0226pg027.indd Franshhoek.indd 12 15-Jan-26 2025/03/11 12:39:12 12:03:39 PM

The art of the

lazy lunch

There is something about a weekday lunch

at the coast that immediately feels like a

holiday. You can blame the sunshine, the sea

breeze or, in our case, Bardot in Umhlanga.

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL Photographs: ACE CONSULTING

Perched just above the

hum of the promenade,

Bardot is the kind of spot

that gives you permission

to slow down. We chose

a table outside, shaded and

breezy, with uninterrupted ocean

views. It’s the kind of setting that

does half the convincing before

you have even opened the menu.

The other half? Well, that arrived

shortly after.



15-Jan-26 1:02:27 PM

Starting with the sea (and a little luxury)

We began as one always should when the sea is a few

steps away: with oysters. Fresh and topped with caviar,

they were a perfect little moment of luxury, especially

paired with a splash of mignonette and a squeeze of

lemon.

The squid heads followed, lightly crispy, piping hot and

dipped generously into lime aioli. But the surprise star

of the starters? Bardot’s glazed BBQ wings. Sticky, sweet

and absolutely not first-date food, but worth every

messy finger!

Mains with personality

Then came the mains, each with its own character.

The sirloin steak arrived perfectly done, a no-fuss, satisfying

classic you secretly hope every kitchen can get right.

The filleto pasta was the comfort dish of dreams: ribbons

of fillet steak tangled in a creamy pepper-and-mushroom

sauce, brightened with tender asparagus. It was an

unapologetically indulgent bowl.

On the lighter side, the sushi spread delivered freshness

and flavour. The salmon California rolls, salmon roses

and prawn crunch rolls were beautifully plated and

disappeared suspiciously fast.

Sip, relax, repeat

And because no seaside lunch is complete without

something a little cheeky on the drinks list, we toasted

the afternoon with shaken margaritas, icy, tart and

dangerously easy to sip.

Bardot hits that sweet spot between laid-back coastal

charm and grown-up dining. It’s the kind of place

you visit for a long lunch that turns into an afternoon,

where the food is generous, the view is endless and

the world feels just a little softer for a while.

Details: 5 McCausland Crescent, Umhlanga; 031 561 9999;

IG: @bardot.sa



15-Jan-26 12:43:25 PM

Grounding Values, Growing Minds

- Opening 2027 -

Seaton House is an independent, co-educational school with a Christian foundation, offering a continuous journey from

Grade 0000 to Grade 12. Situated just north of Salt Rock, with direct access to the N2 via the new interchange, our

campus is conveniently located for families across the North Coast. Our 25-hectare campus is a living classroom —

including 12 hectares of protected wetlands, discovery trails, outdoor learning pods and a terraced amphitheatre. We will

pair strong academics, sport and culture with intentional character formation and age-appropriate technology. Seaton

House provides a values-driven, holistic education for families who enjoy partnership, clarity and purpose in education.

Applications for 2027 are now open!

*Opening intake 2027: Grades 0000–6 & Grade 8. Full Grade 0000–12 pathway to follow.

Apply

Here

Join our Whatsapp

group for updates

Follow on

Instagram

FAQ’s

www.seatonhouse.co.za


15-Jan-26 1:40:53 PM

Kids

Children’s decor, alternative therapy

and local books for little ones.



15-Jan-26 12:44:08 PM

Where horses

heal


When Lizzie Mlongo first boarded a

plane from the UK to South Africa,

she imagined a year of adventure,

volunteering and sunshine before

returning to her “lovely life in England.”

What she didn’t expect was a

complete rerouting of her future, one

shaped by the North Coast, a small

herd of gentle horses, and a calling she

hadn’t yet recognised.


Today, Lizzie is the founder of Stable Steps, an

equine assisted learning programme just outside

Ballito. It’s a place where children who struggle in

mainstream settings, from anxiety and dyslexia to

ADHD and autism, learn, regulate, read, laugh, connect and

grow through the quiet magic of horses.

From classroom to countryside

A lifelong lover of children and teaching, Lizzie arrived in

South Africa in 2019 to volunteer at LIV Village. A short

visit the year before had already planted a seed. “I just fell

in love with South Africa,” she says. “It is the most beautiful

place and I had this feeling I was coming back.”

She signed on to teach at the village school, but soon

found herself in uncharted territory: homeschooling a

little boy who’d never been able to learn in a traditional

classroom. “It was all about creativity, trial and error, and


15-Jan-26 12:45:05 PM

Today her programmes include:

Horse Powered Reading

A hands-on, movement-based approach that helps

children build reading confidence without worksheets or

pressure.

Adaptive Riding

Gentle, therapeutic riding experiences focused on

regulation, movement and sensory input.

Horse Agility and Care

Obstacle courses, problem-solving activities, grooming

and groundwork that build confidence, curiosity and

responsibility.

But the real magic happens between the lines.

“Horses are incredible teachers,” she explains. “They

give non-judgemental feedback. If a child is unsure or

anxious, the horse will show it - maybe they won’t move

forward. So, the child learns to self-regulate, to try again,

to communicate differently. And when they succeed, that

sense of ‘I can do this’ carries back into the classroom.”

She tells the story of children who were once reluctant

to look at text now reading fluently. Others arrive

overwhelmed from a tough day and leave calm, centred

and smiling. “Even one hour can change everything,” she

says. “Parents will message me afterwards saying, ‘They’re

like a different child.’”

Meet the horses

Lizzie works with a small but special herd, including Solitaire

(Solly) and Lady, two horses who have lived side by side

their entire lives. Each brings something unique to the

arena. Temperament is crucial, as is willingness.

“Some horses just don’t want to participate. You need

horses who are curious, who enjoy people, who want to

connect.”

finding different ways to help him learn. That experience

sparked my passion for alternative learning.”

Alongside teaching, she began managing the therapy

department and spending more time around the village

horses, a childhood passion she hadn’t explored in 15

years. When an opportunity arose to travel to Canada for

an equine assisted learning qualification, Lizzie went. And

something clicked.

“This whole world opened up. The horses, the learning, the

life skills: it made sense in a way nothing had before.”

The birth of Stable Steps

After four and a half years at LIV Village, Lizzie faced a

crossroads: return to England or plant roots on the North

Coast. Faith, along with a friend’s horses, helped her choose

the latter. In April 2024, Stable Steps officially began.

A life she never planned - and

wouldn’t trade

While Lizzie never imagined living in South Africa longterm,

life had other plans, including meeting her nowhusband,

Rashid.

“He’d never been around horses,” she laughs, “but he loves

them now!”

Stable Steps is growing through one-on-one programmes,

group sessions and plenty of new ideas for 2026.

But her heart remains anchored where it began: with

children.

“My passion is working with children under 12. To give

them a place outside traditional structures, somewhere

peaceful and grounding, where they can learn, breathe and

feel brave.”

Details: 063 916 4026; IG: @stablesteps1



15-Jan-26 12:45:17 PM


15-Jan-26 4:07:24 PM

Ashton celebrates

outstanding

academic excellence

Ashton International College

Ballito has once again

affirmed its reputation for

academic excellence with an

exceptional set of results across the

2025 IGCSE, Cambridge AS & A-Level

and IEB National Senior Certificate

examinations. These outcomes

reflect not only strong academic

performance, but also the consistency

and depth of teaching and learning at

the school.

IGCSE excellence

In the IGCSE examinations, 23.5% of

all symbols awarded were A+ grades,

while 47% of students achieved an A

or higher. An impressive 93% of results

fell between A+ and C. Senior College

Head Belinda Boucher noted, “Our

students have once again delivered

exceptional results. Their hard work

Education is a

partnership…where

excellence thrives

and determination truly embody the

spirit of Ashton.”

Cambridge success stories

The school’s Cambridge AS & A-Level

results were equally noteworthy,

with multiple students achieving

distinction-rich aggregates and

progressing to competitive degree

programmes including Medicine,

Actuarial Science and Law. These

results, Boucher said, “reflect

the strength of our academic

departments and the unwavering

dedication of our teaching staff.”

100% IEB pass rate

The IEB class of 2025 maintained a 100%

pass rate, with 66 distinctions earned

by the top 10 students alone. CEO

Andre Buys highlighted the collective

effort behind the success, saying,

“Education is a partnership…where

excellence thrives.” Ashton International

College Ballito continues to produce

confident, capable graduates ready to

make a meaningful impact beyond the

classroom.


15-Jan-26 4:12:30 PM

Mystery, time

travel and fun

With a love for adventure and a strong connection

to his Scottish roots, Ballito author Steven Smith

has brought a new children’s series to life through

The Adventures of the Inverlochy Gang.


These are simple stories that

most kids can see themselves

involved in. There is fun,

a bit of history, and good

family values.


Adventure, mystery and a touch of humour come

together in this children’s series, taking readers on

journeys that stretch the imagination and spark

curiosity.

Steven’s writing journey began close to home. “My

son said that I have a depth of knowledge and a good sense of

humour, so why don’t I write a book,” he explains. That simple

suggestion planted the seed and before long Steven found

himself bringing characters and stories to life on the page.

The result was The Adventures of the Inverlochy Gang, a series

inspired by Steven’s Scottish roots and lifelong love of

adventure stories. Set in a small village in Scotland, the books

follow a group of young people who stumble into mysteries

that are exciting, relatable and just a little bit magical.

For readers discovering the Inverlochy Gang for the first time,

Steven describes the characters as familiar and easy to connect

with.

“They are typical young people from a small village in Scotland,”

he says. “Most children can relate to the stories, wherever they

live, because of the mystery and adventure. Throw in a bit of

time travel and you become one of the gang!” It is this sense of

inclusion that makes the books so engaging for readers aged

eight to sixteen.

At the heart of the series is a clear purpose. Steven hopes

children see themselves in the stories and feel inspired by

them.

“These are simple stories that most kids can see themselves

involved in. There is fun, a bit of history, and good family values.”

Although the stories are rooted in Scotland, Steven’s creativity

is now fuelled by life on the North Coast.

“The North Coast, and especially Ballito, is a very relaxed place

to live. Writing here has been so rewarding.”

Details: Steven’s books are available on Amazon, with plans to

expand to Takealot soon. Local readers can also contact him

directly for a copy. Visit www.stevesmith-author.com for more

information.


15-Jan-26 12:46:09 PM

SHOWCASE

DAY

7 March 2026

9h00 - 12h00

OPENING DOORS to

OPPORTUNTIES

UMHLANGA

BALLITO

Early Learning School | Preparatory | College


15-Jan-26 4:35:27 PM

The year to

shine

Meet Zara Ramautar, recently crowned

Miss Ballito Teen.

As she steps into her new role, Zara is on a mission

to inspire other teens to step out of their comfort

zones, find their confidence and use kindness to

create real change.

Why did you enter Miss Ballito Teen?

I am incredibly passionate about creativity, community and

personal growth. I entered Miss Ballito Teen to challenge

myself, step out of my comfort zone and, hopefully,

inspire other young people to do the same. I truly believe

confidence and kindness can create real change. I’d love

to use this platform to uplift others, especially through

initiatives that support youth empowerment and mental

well-being.

Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL Photograph: BARRY BOWDITCH

What has the experience been like, and what do

you hope for in the year ahead?

It’s been absolutely unforgettable.

The journey has been filled with

learning, friendship and so much

personal growth. I have gained

confidence, developed new

skills and met many inspiring

people. In the year ahead, I

am excited to get involved

in community projects,

represent the Miss Ballito

organisation with pride and

continue growing as a positive

role model for other teens.

What is your go-to way

to relax?

I love spending time with my family and

friends, singing and listening to music. Sometimes, just

having a quiet moment in my room with a comfort show

and a cup of chai latte is the best way to recharge.

Miss Ballito Teen

is a pageant for young

women with a heart for

community. The competition

is a Rotary Zimbali fundraising

initiative that aims to empower

young women, raise funds

for charity and uplift the

less fortunate in our

community.

If you could spend a whole day

anywhere locally, where would

it be and what would you do?

Definitely The Market at Ballito

Lifestyle Centre. It’s the perfect place

to relax, soak up the lively atmosphere,

listen to live music and enjoy amazing

food, especially sushi! I also recently loved

wandering through the art gallery at Lifestyle.

Describe your style in three words.

Simple yet elegant.

Details: IG: @missballitoteen



15-Jan-26 12:46:41 PM


15-Jan-26 12:47:23 PM

Making

magic

When Ballito mom Meg Cardwell

found herself craving a creative outlet

beyond the pressures of corporate life,

she had no idea a dream – literally –

would spark her next chapter.

Formerly a buyer for Mr Price and

later an interior stylist, Meg loved

design but longed for something

more personal. Enter MOVA –

the newly-launched children’s decor,

furniture and toy brand she co-founded

with long-time friend Georgie Dekker. “I

actually dreamt that Georgie and I started a

company together,” laughs Meg. “I woke up

and thought, this is crazy, but she’s the one.”

A month later, Georgie quit her job, and

together they began building MOVA from

scratch – before they even had a name!

MOVA blends curated imported children’s

decor with proudly South African furniture

and textiles. From beautiful wall tapestries

and washable rugs to locally crafted

furniture that grows with your child, the

brand is a stylish breath of fresh air in the

kids’ interior space.

MEG’S TIPS FOR DESIGNING A KIDS’ ROOM

· Invest in one hero piece

Choose one standout item – a

tapestry, a statement rug, or a

beautifully crafted feature element

– to anchor the room and set the

mood.

· Add personality with texture

and layers

Wall hangings, playful rugs, and

tactile accessories instantly elevate

a space and make it feel warm and

imaginative.

· Balance style with practicality

Opt for washable, durable items

(hello, cotton rugs that go in the

washing machine!) and smart

storage baskets to keep the room

calm and clutter-free.

· Choose pieces that grow with them

Furniture that adapts beyond the

nursery years means more value

and less waste.

Details: www.movaliving.co.za;

IG: @mova.living

Childhood spaces, reimagined

With Meg’s background in design and

buying, and Georgie’s gift for finance

and logistics, MOVA is positioning itself

as a go-to for parents seeking elevated,

timeless pieces for their little ones’ spaces.

Designed to grow

A product philosophy close to Meg’s

heart? Adaptability. “We’ve really focused

on interchangeable pieces that grow with

the family,” she explains. Think a curvy kids’

table that doubles as a coffee table later,

or an occasional chair that works just as

beautifully in the nursery as it does in your

lounge.

Local and global touches

MOVA blends South African craftsmanship

with curated international finds.

From handcrafted

wooden furniture

made right here on

the North Coast to imported

imaginative toys like MODU

building blocks, it’s a mix that sparks

creativity while staying practical.



15-Jan-26 12:48:06 PM


15-Jan-26 1:40:41 PM

Choosing a tertiary institution:

Four key questions

Shireen Chengadu, Chief Academic Officer

at Richfield, shares four incisive questions

to ask when choosing a tertiary education

institution.

More than 900 000 candidates wrote their exams in

2025. Yet the Department of Higher Education and

Training (DHET) projects that only around 235 000

first-year spaces will be available across South Africa’s 26

public universities.

For first-time and returning students, this provides an

opportunity to explore the many alternative options

available, including over 130 registered private tertiary

education institutions.

1. Are your interests guiding your qualification? They should.

Start by identifying what genuinely interests you. Research

shows a strong correlation between personal interest

(intrinsic motivation) and academic performance. Once you

know where your interests lie, check your Admission Score

Points to see which programmes you qualify for.

Take time to explore the study paths that align with

your interests. Look at job advertisements from leading

employers to determine whether a degree, diploma, or

higher certificate is needed for your dream career.

2. Is the qualification accredited?

All tertiary qualifications, whether public or private, must

be accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE),

and recognised by the South African Qualifications

Authority, and the DHET, so that’s the first thing to check.

Accreditation ensures that your qualification carries weight

with employers and professional bodies.

3. Contact vs distance learning: which is right?

If you’re a Gen Z matriculant who can study on campus,

contact learning offers a rich experience with structured

academic and peer engagement. It also provides

access to societies, student-led clubs, entrepreneurship

opportunities, new venture creation, and social capital

that’ll set you up for ongoing career success.

If you’re going to start a job after matriculating, or you're a

working professional who didn’t have the opportunity to

study formally or wishes to upskill through post-graduate

qualifications, distance learning offers valuable flexibility.

Choose an institution that has a proven track record of

delivery, and that provides the same academic rigour across

both models – including access to lecturers and resources,

and holistic student support.

Whichever model you choose, remember that the

student experience extends far beyond academics, so

ask about accessibility, safety, inclusivity and diversity

and wellness support.

4. Will the institution prepare you for the world of work?

A qualification alone isn’t enough to guarantee

employment, so check which graduate attributes an

institution promises and delivers on. Ideally, you should

have exposure to varied business sectors through work

integrated learning, guest speaker activities and project

collaborations. You should also gain an understanding

of the technology that powers businesses, and develop

intentional, lifelong learning habits.

Ensure that the curriculum is regularly updated in

consultation with industry experts to meet new market

needs and future career opportunities. And, be intentional

about choosing an institution that has a solid and ethical

reputation, where the leadership and staff act with integrity.

Details: www.richfield.ac.za



15-Jan-26 12:48:38 PM

RICHFIELD UMHLANGA CAMPUS

DISCOVER WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION IN THE HEART

OF UMHLANGA RIDGE

Situated in Park Square, our state-of-the-art campus offers IT and Business

degrees, diplomas and higher certificates designed for today's digital economy.

With free Wi-Fi, modern facilities, and the perfect blend of academic excellence

and lifestyle convenience, Richfield Umhlanga provides the optimal environment

for student success.

Ready to shape your future?

Contact Richfield Umhlanga today.

031 834 7500 | umhlanga@richfield.ac.za

A learning experience of a lifetime

Get started Today


15-Jan-26 12:49:46 PM

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15-Jan-26 12:50:32 PM

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15-Jan-26 12:51:03 PM

Slow safari living

Game drives, long dinners, lazy pool days and unforgettable wildlife

moments - a stay at Nambiti Hills Lodge is a gentle reminder of

how good it feels to slow down and let the bush set the pace.


We arrived at Nambiti Hills

Lodge in that in-between

hour of late afternoon,

when the light softens

and the bush seems to hold its breath.

As we drove into the reserve, the

skies cracked open with a proper

thunderstorm, rain drumming down

as our guide, Lebo, greeted us and

whisked us off towards the lodge.

The lodge reveals itself slowly - and

then all at once. You step inside, and

the view opens up over the reserve,

with rolling hills stretching into the

distance. Even with the rain still falling,

it was impossible not to pause and

take it all in.

Where comfort meets the wild

The decor is understated but luxurious.

Natural textures, soft neutral tones,

leather and wood are layered with

carefully chosen African details that

feel thoughtful rather than themed.

The shared spaces invite you to linger,

while the rooms feel calm and private.

Each room has its own bathtub framed

by floor-to-ceiling windows, making

it easy to soak quietly and watch the

bush go about its business.

A reserve with a story

Nambiti Big 5 Private Game Reserve

may feel timeless, but it is one of

KwaZulu-Natal’s newer conservation

success stories. Established in the

early 2000s, the reserve was once

a patchwork of cattle farms and

agricultural land. A long-term vision

saw fences removed, alien vegetation

cleared and indigenous wildlife

reintroduced, allowing the landscape

to return to its natural state.

Today, the reserve spans more than 23

000 acres of malaria-free bush and is

home to the Big Five, abundant plains

game and prolific birdlife. Importantly,

Nambiti is rooted in community

conservation - it is owned by a local

trust and managed in partnership with

conservationists, ensuring the land is

protected for generations to come.



15-Jan-26 12:52:18 PM

with lemongrass and coconut milk.

Mains strike a satisfying balance

between comfort and refinement.

Linguine Neapolitan comes tossed

in a homemade tomato sauce with

ricotta and Parmesan, while the grilled

kingklip is light and fresh, served with

baby potatoes, seasonal vegetables and

lemon-garlic sauce. The herb-crusted

lamb rack is a standout, served with

creamy pea risotto.

Dessert is simple and comforting: apple

crumble with whipped cream, poached

pear in red wine with vanilla ice cream,

or a classic cheese board.

Our first game drive

We visited Nambiti in early summer

and the reserve felt alive with new life.

We spotted cheetah and elephants,

while the birdlife alone would keep any

birder happily occupied. Everywhere

we looked there were babies, from

impala lambs and wildebeest calves to

hippos with tiny ears just visible above

the water.

Sundowners and long,

lingering dinners

As the sun dipped low, we stopped for

sundowners, sipping gin and tonics

with biltong in the bush while the sky

softened into evening. Back at the lodge,

dinner was a relaxed three-course affair

and very much part of the experience.

The menu changes daily and includes

starter options such as a creamy

butternut soup with sage and toasted

pumpkin seeds, a fresh caprese salad

with basil pesto and balsamic reduction,

or rich peri-peri chicken livers cooked

Early mornings and slow days

The next morning began early, as

safari mornings should. We headed

out with blankets and coffee,

stopping along the way for a proper

coffee-and-rusk break as the bush

woke up around us. Breakfast back

at the lodge was served on the deck,

with giraffes moving slowly in the

distance. The spread was generous

and fresh, with granola, fruit, yoghurt

and a cooked breakfast made to order.

The rest of the day unfolded at an

unhurried pace. We spent hours by the

pool, listening to the quiet hum of the

reserve, before heading out for another

afternoon game drive and dinner.

A final thrill before farewell

Nambiti saved something special for our

final morning. We were lucky enough

to witness lions chasing a warthog - a

dramatic burst of action that ended with

the warthog narrowly escaping. It was

the perfect reminder of just how alive

this place is and the kind of sighting that

stays with you long after you’ve left.

Details: www.nambitihills.com

THE DETAILS

Nambiti Big 5 Private Game Reserve is located

near Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, about 3 hours

from Durban or 4 hours from Johannesburg. Rates

range from R6 180 to R7 900 per person sharing

per night. Prices vary by season and availability.

What’s included:

· Two game drives daily with an expert guide

· Brunch, afternoon tea and dinner daily

· Selected beverages and snacks on drives



15-Jan-26 12:52:52 PM

Spoil

February

Kate Spade POP

A joyful blend of blood orange and raspberry, a blossoming floral heart

of jasmine and lily of the valley, with delicate cedarwood and musks,

Kate Spade New York Pop fragrance is a whirlwind of radiance and

playful modernity. This floral, fruity, woody eau de parfum was inspired

by the bright colours of the Kate Spade universe.

From R999 from stores including Woolies,

Edgars, Dis-Chem, Takealot, Superbalist.

For a chance to win a bottle, pop over to

@getitmagnc on Instagram

or Facebook and follow the prompts

on our February Spoil post.



15-Jan-26 12:53:13 PM

since 1994

Exclusive Finishes +150

Kitchens Installed +50 000

Production & warehousing area

Showroom area

24 380 m2

4250 m2

Staff 420

Service & Delivery Vehicles 75

CAPE TOWN MIDRAND FOURWAYS DURBAN

UMHLANGA HILLCREST TANZANIA

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

076 331 7446


14-Jan-26 4:23:22 PM


14-Jan-26 1:33:05 PM

Feb 26 - Ballito Umhlanga

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