JHB North - Feb 26

JOBURG NORTHERN SUBURBS
Flower power ...
we’ve found
the prettiest
vases in town
Meet the lunch lady
... Roxanne Proctor’s
creative and healthy
lunch options
LOVE AFFAIR
We’re lusting over chocolate, strawberry & rose preserve,
our gardens, his & her scents ... it’s love all this February
SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
FEBRUARY 26

NEW STORE NOW OPEN - FOURWAYS MALL
YOU’LL CLOTHING LOOK FOR GREAT
THE IN WHOLE OUR PRICES FAMILY
www.jamclothing.co.za
www.jamclothing.co.za

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Editorial
Caxton House • 368 Jan Smuts Avenue
Craighall, Joburg
Instagram: @get_it_joburg_north
Facebook: Get It Joburg North Magazine
Website: getitmagazine.co.za/
joburg-north
National Group Editor & National Sales
Kym Argo
kyma@caxton.co.za
Facebook and Instagram:
@getitnationalmagazines
Website: getitmagazine.co.za
Workflow & Studio Manager Megan Brett
Contributor: Lisa Witepski
Sales: Karen Hardman
karenha@caxton.co.za
010-971-3640
Distribution
Get It Joburg Northern Suburbs is
distributed free of charge. For a full list of
where it is available phone 010-971-3605
Published by CTP Limited
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 Caxton
Northern branch within 10 days or they will be
forfeited. Prizewinners’ names are published on
our social media pages.
CONTENTS
THIS MONTH
04 A month filled with sensational events
06 Book Club ... passion fills the pages
08 Lust List ... all that our hearts desire
PEOPLE
10 Lunch lady Roxanne Proctor makes your life simpler
12 Karina Marais’ unconventional love story and memoir
20 Nicolas Thoenen shares his sweet success story and love for chocolate
BEAUTY & HEALTH
14 Fragrance picks for him and her
16 Top reasons to embrace rooibos
FOOD
22 A fix for your sweet cravings
24 Cheese and stone fruit – a beautiful Summer friendship
DECOR & GARDENING
26 The prettiest vases in town
28 Let love grow in your garden
TRAVEL
30 Highlighting the marvellous Magalies Meander
32 Slow safari living at Nambiti Hills Lodge
WIN
20 A Valor Valentine’s Day hamper
34 A bottle of Kate Spade POP
COVER PHOTO CREDIT
MEGAN BRETT
FEBRUARY 26
28
February 2 Get It Magazine 03

A hot date!
Sweet love. Sensational shows. And a sparkle of entertainment.
01
Wander between more than
30 curated dessert makers and
explore the Global Bites Pavilion for
savoury options at the Sweet Fields
Market. The Honeyed Table Café will
be open should you fancy a proper
coffee, kids can get hands-on at the
build-your-own dessert bar while
you explore or picnic on the lawns,
and you’ll enjoy live acoustic music
throughout the afternoon. 9am until
4pm at James & Ethel Gray Park,
Melrose on January 31 and February 1.
Free tickets through quicket.co.za
07
The Nobody Told Me play is a tribute to the selfless service of the author’s
grandmother, Dr. Halina Rostein, who risked her life during World War II to
save others in the Warsaw Ghetto, working at the Stawki Street hospital by the
Umschlagplatz. Her daughter, Wanda, clung fiercely to her mother as Halina’s
friends and colleagues confronted wrenching questions of identity, faith, duty,
love, and betrayal in the darkest days of the Holocaust. Theatre on the Square
until February 7. Tickets cost from R180 to R220 through webtickets.co.za
07
Dash of Deliciousness is throwing the ultimate girls’ day out!
Cake & Sip: Galentine’s Edition will celebrate friendship, laughter and
love with your besties as you decorate your very own cake masterpieces while
sipping on mocktails. With step-by-step guidance, all tools and ingredients
provided, and plenty of sweet vibes. 1.30pm to 4.30pm at 8 Tyrwhitt Ave,
Rosebank on Saturday, February 7. Tickets cost from R250 through quicket.co.za
08
Get ready to rock. The hit tribute
Queen – It’s A Kinda Magic
returns bigger, better and louder than
ever. Big sound, big screens, crazy
lighting and outlandish costumes for
a night of non-stop rock anthems,
including Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will
Rock You, We Are the Champions and
more. Starring Warren Vernon-Driscoll
reprising his role as Freddie Mercury.
Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre
until February 8. Tickets cost from R180
to R390 through webtickets.co.za
22
12
Joburg Ballet’s sublime
Giselle, a richly romantic
story of a love so powerful it reaches
from beyond the grave, is a tale of
passion, betrayal and forgiveness
showcasing South Africa’s finest
dancers in an event of breath-taking
beauty that will be difficult to forget.
Produced and staged by Angela
Malan. From February 12 to 15 at
Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre.
Tickets cost from R250 to R670
through webtickets.co.za
Let the memory live again with a sparkling fusion of music, dance and
verse in the musical CATS. The show features a magnificent musical
score composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, including the timeless hit song
Memory. Together with a fantastical oversized set, inspired choreography, and
mischievous costumes, CATS is a brilliant song-and-dance spectacular not to be
missed. No under 3’s. The Teatro, Montecasino until February 22. Tickets cost from
R280 through webtickets.co.za
FALL IN LOVE
WITH REAL FOOD.
Indulgence made
wholesome - find it
at Jackson’s.

Three sweet symphonies
Discover the dynamic sound of The
Charl du Plessis Trio: Crossover
Brilliance, blending classical precision
with jazz flair. Featuring pianist Charl
du Plessis, bassist Werner Spies,
and drummer Peter Auret, the trio
captivates audiences with innovative
arrangements spanning Bach to
Billie Joel. This concert is a part of the
Johannesburg International Mozart
Festival 2026. 7.30pm to 8.45pm on
Tuesday, February 3.
Recital with pianist Gustavo Romero,
hailed as ‘a pianist of genius’ by The
Washington Post. In a career spanning
decades, Romero has explored
the works of Mozart, Beethoven,
Chopin and many more. This recital
promises a journey through the piano
repertoire with artistry, precision,
and an interpretive depth that has
enthralled audiences across the
Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The
concert is a part of the Johannesburg
International Mozart Festival 2026.
4pm to 5.15pm on Saturday, Feb 7.
Enjoy the sheer joy of music-making
with Take 4: Mozart and Fauré
Piano Quartets featuring violinist
Zanta Hofmeyr, violist Jeanne-Louise
Moolman, cellist Susan Mouton, and
pianist Elna van der Merwe. Together
they form a dynamic ensemble of
rare cohesion and expressive depth.
The programme combines classical
masterpieces with contemporary
works, and highlighting the richness
and versatility of the piano quartet
format. This concert is a part of the
Johannesburg International Mozart
Festival 2026. 4pm to 5.15pm on
Sunday, February 8.
Catch these three shows at Villa
Arcadia, Parktown. Tickets cost R292.71
through quicket.co.za
Pilates & Prosecco - A Galentine’s Party for the GRLS. An
energising pilates session followed by bottomless bubbles,
brunch-style bites awaits. Meet strangers, move your body,
lift your mood and enjoy a morning that feels equal parts
productive and indulgent. Your ticket covers an hour pilates
session, bottomless prosecco (plus alcohol-free options) and
light breakfast. Pilates mat not included so take your own.10am until 1pm at
Studio Alora, 235A Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North on Saturday, February 14 R400
through quicket.co.za
• Sip & Paint: A Celebration of Self Love is where women will come together to
create art, share positive energy, and uplift one another. It’s self-care, sisterhood,
and creativity - all in one. Your ticket includes all painting materials, plus enjoy
complimentary drinks and finger foods. Expect a special guest appearance by
author Precious Khosi Mazibuko, who will share inspiring words to uplift and
empower. No under 13s. Noon until 5pm at Johannesburg Botanical Gardens on
February 14. Tickets cost from R300 through quicket.co.za
MALL
relationships, family, and everything in between. With a panel of experts, they
Mashabela Galane presents Re Imetswe Valentine Edition. After decades of
cracking jokes, Mashabela is tackling life's big changes with a twist of humour.
Get excited for a special edition where comedian Mashabela reflects on
dive into the good, the bad, and the hilarious sides of divorce, marriage, kids,
and more. 6pm on February 15 at Mall of Africa Ster Kinekor. Tickets cost R200
through sterkinekor.com
FIND A STORE
NEAR YOU
011 463 1598

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 and
living with the past, fear and anxiety,
anger and finding peace, self-doubt,
depression and feeling incomplete,
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.
06 Get It Magazine February 26

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
February 26 Get It Magazine 07

Lust 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.
08 Get It Magazine February 26

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
February 26 Get It Magazine 09

The lunch lady
Get ready to thank Roxanne Proctor ...
she’s removed one more thing from your to-do list.
For those of us who lament the sandwiches with curling
crusts returned, uneaten, seven hours after they were
packed, it’s hard to imagine that there is someone who
enjoys packing a lunchbox.
But there is. That person is Roxanne Proctor, and her
creative (some might say life-saving) brainchild, the
Little Lunch Co, is removing some of the hassle from
school mornings.
That’s because Roxanne has taken away all the pain of
trying to find snacks that have enough protein, aren’t full
of empty calories, don’t have too much sugar, aren’t too
processed, won’t be too messy. Oh, and which your kids
like, too.
Roxanne admits that her business is pretty niche. In fact,
there’s nothing quite like it in South Africa. She’s also
candid about the fact that she didn’t exactly grow up
dreaming of packing lunchboxes for other children. Rather,
the Little Lunch Co was, like many good ideas, born out of
a moment where inspiration and circumstance aligned.
Those circumstances weren’t exactly happy ones. First
Text: LISA WITEPSKI. Main image: MEGAN BRETT
10 Get It Magazine February 26

came a series of health issues. Roxanne’s appendix
burst, then she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. The
experience was a huge eye-opener, leaving her with
a mission to find meaning. This quest continued after
Roxanne left her corporate job, where she had excelled for
a decade.
It was a difficult time, says Roxanne. “I found myself
increasingly unsatisfied. I just felt that there must be more
to life. But I’ve always said that in order to grow, the earth
must shake. I didn’t establish the Little Lunch Co because
life was perfect, but because it wasn’t.”
In her pursuit of purpose - “there are only so many gym
classes you can attend in a day” - she started tinkering in
the kitchen. Roxanne had been paying increased attention
to nutrition and its role in wellness since her cancer
diagnosis and applied her new learnings to her children’s
lunchboxes. “I was very particular about what I packed
them. I realised that most tuckshops offer food I’d only give
my children on a lazy night, and I didn’t want to rely on
that to fuel them throughout the day.”
Roxanne started posting pictures of her lunchboxes to
her socials, and was thrilled when she received positive
feedback from her followers. “It takes just one cheer to
build your confidence,” she points out. She was even more
encouraged when some of her followers told her they’d
pay her to make up similar packs for their children.
And so, when life pushed her into a moment of deep
reflection, she realised that turning her lunchboxes into a
business was her path forward. “I didn’t know exactly how
I’d do it, but I knew I would,” she says. “I needed to feel that
I was adding value to the world, and this was it.”
Although Roxanne’s husband assured her that he knew
she’d be able to pull it off, and she herself knew that the
challenges she’d faced had been placed in her way for a
reason, she admits that there were several occasions when
she was tempted to throw in the towel. It took ages to
make a profit, she says, until she got a big break ... making
party packs for influencer Mc Clauds. After that, orders
started climbing. “I couldn’t have done it without my
support structure,” she acknowledges.
The Little Lunch Co recorded a record month during
November. By that stage, Roxanne had returned to her
corporate career, but not before handing over the reins
to an equally passionate cook and employing both a
driver and a pastry chef to take the company forward.
She also introduced the Mom Box, which she is especially
enthusiastic about. “It’s so hard for women to get all the
protein and fibre they need, but this box does it all for
you. You just need dinner.” Next up is a move to a kitchen
in Parkmore, which is more centrally located and allows
access to more schools.
In the meantime, Roxanne continues to work out menus,
sneaking veggies into muffins and making chicken
nuggets seem like a very sorry second.
And she’s enjoying every second. “Everyone has a tough
story, but I think I’m proof that you can either be a victim
of your tough times – or do something about them. Your
story doesn’t define you.”
Setting up your hustle
Here are Roxanne’s go-to tips for helping your small business
grow into a bigger business:
• Find a helper who is as crazy as you are, and as passionate as
you are – but make sure you can work with them.
• Make sure the people in your life balance you. I’m high
energy, so I partner well with people who bring me calm.
• Trust your gut – if something feels right (or wrong), it
probably is.
The Little Lunch Co delivers packed lunchboxes to your
home or your child’s school reception, within a 15km radius
of its Sunninghill headquarters or Parkmore kitchen. To find
out more about the company’s subscription model,
visit @little_lunch_co or info@littlelunchco.co.za
February 26 Get It Magazine 11

Love, laughter,
and a pink staircase
When Karina Marais set out to write
Upstairs Downstairs, she quickly
realised that words alone wouldn’t
capture the life she had lived. “I
needed music, video, design, food,
and drink to express myself fully.” One
bath-time day, music softly playing
in the background, the idea struck
... why not create a multi-sensory
memoir, one that brings emotion,
memory, and imagination to life in
ways words alone cannot?
The result is Upstairs Downstairs,
a memoir that doesn’t just tell
Karina’s story; it invites readers to
experience it. It isn’t just about love;
it’s also about passion and daring
to dream. Some of her dreams took
flight, others fell short, but she didn’t
want to leave this world without
chasing them. From tales of personal
heartbreak and triumph to playful
video snippets from her faceless
Instagram influencer days, the
book combines song, storytelling,
and design to create something
completely original.
CHASING DREAMS
For Karina, the memoir isn’t only
about reflection. It’s about courage.
She revisits her divorce in 2003, a
painful chapter that inspired the
song Wings of Words. “My exhusband
gave me a poem and an
abstract bird sculpture ... a symbol
of freedom. That’s when I realised I
was free to pursue the life I’d always
dreamed of.”
Entrepreneurial spirit pulses through
every chapter. From board games
pitched on Wall Street to running
daring projects, Karina’s mantra is
simple: “Failure isn’t the end. It’s a
chance to reassess, learn, adapt, and
keep moving forward.”
LOVE THAT THRIVES APART
Perhaps the most intriguing thread
12 Get It Magazine February 26
Upstairs, downstairs,
and every magical
moment in between ...
Karina Marais’ love story
isn’t conventional, and
neither is her memoir.
From daring to dream
big to cooking, singing,
and creating a fairytale
dome restaurant,
she proves that
love, adventure, and
independence can thrive
side by side.
in Karina’s story is her 20-year Living
Apart Together (LAT) relationship.
Her husband, Hendrik, lives in his
bachelor pad upstairs, she in her
retreat downstairs, and they’re
connected by a whimsical pink
staircase. No unannounced visits, no
dull routines, just passion, freedom
and a love story shaped on their
terms. “We’re emotionally connected
and completely devoted to each
other, but we value personal space
and independence,” Karina explains.
When asked why she chose LAT, she
laughs softly. “People ask, ‘Why not
move in? Why not marry?’ I’d already
lived through the challenges of when
my parents got divorced. I didn’t
want to repeat their mistakes. Even
after we got married 18 years in,
nothing changed.”
What makes this kind of relationship
remarkable is its ability to keep
monotomy at bay. “It keeps the
romance alive because we don’t
see each othere everyday. He
has been dating me for over two
decades and we invite one another
for romantic dinners at our places,”
Karina says. Their LAT model has not
only preserved their love but also
created space for growth, creativity,
and independence. “We raised our
children separately, supported each
other without control, and learned
that respect is the secret ingredient,”
she adds.
A DOME OF DREAMS AND
ROMANCE
The love story continues in the
Dare2Dream Dome restaurant, a
“story you can eat” experience at
Forum Homini Boutique Hotel. Karina
envisioned a fairytale forest inside
the conference venue – alcoves for
couples, lush greenery, chandeliers,
and colour-changing lights. But her
husband, ever the dreamer and doer,
took her to a fallen tree clearing
across a little bridge and said, “This
is your fantasy forest. Let’s build your
dome restaurant here.”
Four months later, Dare2Dream
opened it doors for the Upstairs
Downstairs show which features an
11-course fun-dining menu, enjoyed
in different locations — from the
lounge area of Forum Homini, to the
entrance of the fantasy forest, to a
red-lit spot deep in the forest, before
crossing a bridge to the new Dome
restaurant.
Each dish is inspired by her memoir
and presented as a tale, a song, and
a taste — with matching colours to
heighten the mood. For example,
guests enjoy the “Purple Pears”
dessert under purple lighting,

accompanied by an original song
about the dish. All five senses are
engaged — touch, taste, hearing,
smell, and sight — creating an
immersive experience that’s truly one
of a kind.
THE HEARTBEAT OF HER STORY
For Karina, the memoir is also about
joy, empowerment, and the courage
to chase dreams. Chapter 11, Chasing
Entrepreneurial Dreams, recounts
her successes, failures, and lessons
learned along the way. “I’d rather
die with a hundred failures than
never have tried,” she says. And the
Dare2Dream Dome restaurant is a
natural extension of that philosophy,
inviting guests to step into a space
that celebrates imagination, love, and
bold action.
Music and cuisine are her love
languages. On mornings together,
she spoils her husband with coffee
and homemade rusks in their custom
swan cups.
DREAMS, LOVE, AND INSPIRATION
Karina’s story is a reminder that
love doesn’t have to conform to
convention. Whether it’s daring to
dream big, chasing entrepreneurial
passions, or crafting a marriage
that thrives apart yet together, the
memoir and Dare2Dream Dome
restaurant are testaments to a life
fully lived. “Chasing a dream is what
makes life worth living. If you fail,
learn and try again. Don’t be afraid of
failure. Just do it.”
At its heart, Upstairs Downstairs is a
love story, unconventional, playful,
and deeply committed. Karina and
her husband’s journey shows that
romance isn’t just about living under
the same roof. Sometimes, it’s about
building pink staircases, dreaming
together, and letting love flourish in
every space you inhabit. Together,
yet apart.
Step into the Dare2Dream Dome
restaurant at Forum Homini Boutique
Hotel for a dining experience inspired
by the memoir, complete with songs,
stories, and immersive settings, by
heading over to forumhomini.com
Upstairs Downstairs: A Musical Memoir, R295
from karinamarais.com. Reach Publishers • The
Dare2Dream Dome restaurant.
Text: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG. Images: HENDRIK MARAIS.
February 26 Get It Magazine 13

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
leather-sheathed bottle
and evoking 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.
14 Get It Magazine February 26

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
February 26 Get It Magazine 15

12
REASONS TO
LOVE ROOIBOS
Think rooibos is only good for a cosy cuppa? Think again. This homegrown hero is
basically the Swiss Army knife of ingredients ... soothing, flavourful and versatile.
We’ve rounded up the top reasons it deserves a permanent spot in your home.
IT MAKES THE PERFECT
PINK SMOOTHIE
Bright, berry-packed and full of
goodness, this rooibos smoothie
bowl is as pretty as it is nourishing.
Early research suggests rooibos
may offer protective benefits
when it comes to breast health –
while more studies are needed,
it’s a delicious way to toast to
wellness. Simply blend some
frozen berries, a banana, a dollop
of Greek yoghurt and a cup of
rooibos for a refreshing, nutrientpacked
smoothie bowl. Garnish
with seeds and fresh fruit.
IT UPGRADES BREAKFAST
WITH EASE
Cooking oats with strongly brewed
rooibos tea instead of water adds a
subtle, earthy sweetness and a gentle
antioxidant boost. Finish with honey or
maple syrup, nuts and berries. Or make
your own muesli by mixing oats, nuts,
coconut flakes, a splash of Rooibos
tea, maple syrup and toast in the oven.
Decant into glass jars and store for
when the craving hits!
IT BRINGS DULL HAIR BACK TO LIFE
When your hair starts looking a little
tired (we’ve all been there), a simple
rooibos rinse can work wonders. A
strong, cooled brew poured over
your hair once a week adds shine,
soothes a dry or itchy scalp, and gives
your locks that soft, healthy feel we
all love. It’s one of those old-school
tricks that actually works - thanks to
rooibos’ natural antioxidants that help
strengthen the follicles and boost
overall hair health.
IT TURNS INTO THE ULTIMATE
COMFORT DRINK
When the day calls for something
warm and soothing, rooibos delivers
without the caffeine kick.
Rooibos hot chocolate... Brew a
strong cup of rooibos, add dark
chocolate pieces or a teaspoon
of cocoa powder and a drizzle of
honey while hot. Stir in warm milk
until smooth and creamy. For extra
indulgence, top with marshmallows
or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
IT FRESHENS UP YOUR HOME
Dried rooibos leaves work
beautifully as a natural deodoriser.
Place them in a small bowl in the
fridge, or pop some into a sachet
for shoes or cupboards to absorb
unwanted odours.
16 Get It Magazine February 26

IT TURNS BATHTIME INTO
A MINI SPA MOMENT
If you need a little TLC, rooibos bath
bombs are a good way to unwind.
Packed with antioxidants, they help
soothe tired skin while the warm
scent instantly melts away the day.
They’re ridiculously easy to make too
and once you’ve tried them, you’ll
wonder why you ever bought bath
bombs in the first place.
You’ll need: 1 cup bicarbonate of soda;
½ cup citric acid; ½ cup Epsom salt; ¼
cup cornstarch; 2 Tbsp dried rooibos
leaves; 2 Tbsp coconut oil; 10 drops
essential oil (lavender or vanilla work
perfectly.)
To make: Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
Stir in the melted coconut oil and
essential oil until the mixture looks
crumbly. Press into moulds and let
them set for 24 hours.
Drop one into your bath and let the
stress dissolve.
IT SUPPORTS A
ZERO-WASTE LIFESTYLE
Rooibos proves that loving well also
means wasting less. Used leaves
can be repurposed as natural dye
for fabric or paper or even dried
and used as a fire starter for braais,
fireplaces or camping.
IT TREATS YOUR LIPS
WHILE YOU SLEEP
If your pout needs a little extra love,
a DIY rooibos lip balm is the sweetest
way to keep dryness at bay.
You’ll need: 1 Tbsp beeswax; 1 Tbsp
coconut oil; 1 tsp shea butter; 1 tsp
strong, cooled rooibos
To make: Melt the beeswax, coconut
oil and shea butter in a double boiler
until smooth. Remove from the heat
and stir in a tsp of strong cooled
rooibos. Pour the mixture into small
containers or tins and let it set. This
nourishing balm keeps lips hydrated.
IT LOVES YOUR FUR BABIES
Rooibos isn’t just kind to humans – it
can be gentle on our furry friends too.
Plain, cooled rooibos tea is generally
considered safe for dogs and may
help soothe itchy skin, mild allergies
and digestion issues thanks to its
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties. You can use it as a cooled
rinse for irritated skin or offer small
amounts to drink. Just remember,
rooibos should always be plain (no
milk, sugar or flavourings), and it’s best
to check with your vet first – especially
for cats or if your pet has an existing
health condition.
IT MAKES A GENTLE SKIN STEAM
A rooibos facial steam helps
open pores, refresh skin and clear
congestion. Brew a strong batch of
rooibos, pour into a bowl, lean over
with a towel and steam your face for
5 to 10 minutes. Follow with your
favourite moisturiser while skin is
still warm.
IT SOOTHES ITCHY BUG BITES
Summer brings sunshine … and
the occasional pesky bites. Instead
of harsh chemicals, try this simple
hack. Place a cooled rooibos tea bag
directly onto the bite. Its natural antiinflammatory
properties help calm
irritation and ease itching fast.
IT FEEDS YOUR GARDEN
Before you toss those used rooibos leaves, take them outside – your plants will
thank you. Add used rooibos leaves or sachets to compost.
Sprinkle dried leaves around plants to improve soil quality. Brew a weak rooibos
tea, cool it, and use as liquid fertiliser. It’s especially beneficial for acid-loving
plants like roses, azaleas and ferns. Follow @sarooiboscouncil on Insta and
@rooiboscouncil on Facebook for more Rooibos-inspired ideas.
February 26 Get It Magazine 17

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.

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CHOC SHOCK
Text: LISA WITEPSKI. • Photo: DEBBIE YAZBEK
We’ve got a
sweet surprise for one
lucky reader. Visit
@get_it_joburg_north on
Insta or Get It Joburg North
Magazine on Facebook, find
the Valor Valentine’s Day
competition, follow the
prompts and you can
win a hamper
worth R1000.
20 Get It Magazine February 26

You might not know it, but
Nicolas Thoenen is probably responsible
for some of your most delicious moments.
That’s because Nicolas is the mastermind behind the
Swiss Diversitas Group, importers of premium chocolate
brands Valor, from Spain, and Italy’s Witors. He’s also
cooked up a lot of kitchen envy, having recently started
to focus on bringing innovative kitchen appliances to
the country.
While this is set to become a growing niche for the
business, Nicolas admits that chocolate is his first love.
That’s not surprising, given that he grew up in Zurich.
“When you’re Swiss, chocolate is very much a part of
life,” he reflects. That makes sense, when you realise that
the country has one of the highest rates of chocolate
consumption in the world, with the average Swiss person
tucking into around 8.8kg of chocolate per year. “It’s part
of our heritage, our tradition – it’s there every Easter and
Christmas,” Nicolas says, adding that one of his most
entrenched childhood memories is winding down the
window as his parents drove past the Lindt factory to
breathe in the richly scented air. “The whole area smells of
chocolate,” he reminisces.
Imagine his delight, then, when he found himself working
at the company, first in its Dubai office before he was sent
to Cape Town in 2011 to set up Lindt and Sprüngli South
Africa (Pty) Ltd as Lindt’s youngest-ever founding CEO.
Nicolas’ time here was enough to convince him that he
wanted to invest in the country, and so, after returning
to Switzerland to establish Swiss Diversitas in 2018, he
maintained an ongoing relationship with the retailers he
had already met during his time helping South Africans
hone their taste for fine chocolate. His connection
with the country, and his focus on introducing more
premium brands, was so strong that when lockdown was
announced, he caught the last plane out of Switzerland
to settle in Cape Town. “It was a wonderful time,” he says.
“People were so intent on what they were doing. We were
able to really fast-track the business. I was able to achieve
in three months what would usually take a year.”
One of those achievements includes ensuring Valor
gained a foothold in the South African market. The brand
stands out not only for its heritage (Valeriano Lopez Lloret
started producing chocolate in 1881) but also because it is
a bean-to-bar producer, controlling the entire chocolatemaking
process. It is also well known for its sugar-free
range – a range that, Nicolas says proudly, is challenging
people’s perceptions of sugar-free chocolate with its ‘no
compromise-in-taste’ recipes.
He has a personal soft spot for the brand because it is in
line with his own chocolate preferences. “I’m not a milk
chocolate person – for me, chocolate has to be at least
50% cacao.” When chocolate has a cacao content this high,
it pretty much qualifies as health food, full of minerals
and antioxidants with very little sugar. That makes it the
perfect snack, Nicolas says. “I don’t drink coffee, so I often
have a chocolate in the late afternoon, especially if it’s
been a long day – it’s a great pick-me-up. It’s a perfect
dessert, too.” Most South Africans agree, he adds ... Our
countrymen have a rather sweet tooth.
That’s slowly changing, though, as Gen Z have made
clear their preference for health foods. That’s why, even
though premium chocolate is still seen as an indulgence
– a treat to be savoured slowly – sugar-free, gluten-free
and vegan snacks are increasingly taking up space on our
pantry shelves.
Nicolas has noted the trend, and is moving to take
advantage. Moving forward, Swiss Diversitas will be
partnering with more health-conscious producers.
The company’s latest venture, which sees it importing
a brand of sugar-free biscuits from Spain, is a case
in point. Once again, Nicolas will be working with a
family-owned company steeped in heritage – which is
exactly the kind of relationship he likes. “You know that
a company like that thinks hard before handing over
their business to you, so it means a lot. That’s the key to a
long-lasting relationship.”
As an entrepreneur, that’s something he values -
indeed, any business owner will agree that sustainable
relationships are the building block of a small company.
That’s especially important, because doing business in
South Africa isn’t easy, especially for a foreigner. There’s
a lot of bureaucracy to be navigated, for instance. “You
need to be committed and driven, and you must have
that Mzansi love.”
Lucky for us, Nicolas certainly has it – which means that
we can look forward to even more tasty treats making
their way to our shores from the world’s snack capitals.
Details: @tokit_africa, @valorchocolates_za,
www.swissdiversitas.com
NICOLAS’ EASY PEASY FOUR INGREDIENT
NO-CHURN CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM
You’ll need:
500ml (2 cups) fresh cream, 385g condensed milk,
125ml (1/2 cup) cocoa powder, sifted, 100g 70%
Valor dark chocolate, finely grated or chopped into
small pieces
To make:
In a large glass or metal mixing bowl beat the
cream using an electric hand mixer till it has formed
stiff peaks.
Pour in the condensed milk and mix on low speed for 2
minutes to incorporate into the cream.
Add the cocoa powder and mix on low speed for 2-3
minutes to mix through.
Add the finely grated or chopped chocolate and mix
through the mixture using a large metal spoon.
Don’t overmix.
Pour into a 2 litre container with a lid and freeze for
atleast 6 hours or overnight.
Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving.
Spoon into cones or serve in bowls and enjoy.
February 26 Get It Magazine 21

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 (optional).
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.
22 Get It Magazine February 26

We’re loving Lady Eclipse, a chocolate–orange glitter
liqueur crafted to bring indulgence, elegance, and
a touch of sparkle to every celebration. A blend of
velvety dark chocolate and bright orange citrus, it’s
rich and luxurious and vibrant and smooth. And the
glam factor’s high ... the addition of edible shimmer
elevates every pour. Serve neat, poured over ice,
stirred into cocktails, or used as a dessert drizzle.
Launched by the Bush Whisper Foundation where
a portion of proceeds will support anti-poaching
initiatives and the fight against human trafficking.
R600 per bottle. Details: Order on 082-377-0085 or
email talitha@bushwhisper.co.za
CHERRY & CHOCOLATE COFFEE CHARLOTTE
Serves 6 to 8
You’ll need: Some oil for the mould, 175g Boudoir finger biscuits,
2–3 Tbsp brandy, 1 small cup of strong Jacobs coffee, 300ml
cream, 200g mascarpone cheese, 2 Tbsp cocoa powder (plus
extra for dusting), 2 Tbsp powdered sugar (plus extra for
dusting), 300g cherries, pitted and halved (plus 3 cherries for
garnish), 100g dark chocolate, melted
To make: Lightly brush a deep bowl with oil and line the base
with baking paper. Set aside 5 biscuits. Mix brandy and Jacobs
coffee, soak the remaining biscuits briefly. Line the bowl with
halved biscuits at the bottom and whole biscuits around the
edge (sweet side facing out).
Whip cream until stiff and fold in mascarpone. Divide into two
bowls - mix cocoa and powdered sugar into one, and cherries
into the other.
Alternate layering cream mixtures in the biscuit-lined bowl. Add
spoonfuls of leftover soaked biscuits on top and press down
firmly. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight to set.
Before serving, invert onto a plate. Dust generously with cocoa
and powdered sugar, garnish with cherries, and drizzle melted
dark chocolate. Serve and enjoy!
Whether enjoyed at a long family lunch, shared around a
sparkling table, or gifted to someone special, the Jacobs Festive
Cherry & Chocolate Coffee Charlotte elevates every moment.
Infused with the signature bold flavour of Jacobs coffee, it’s
more than a dessert; it’s a celebration of meaningful moments
shared with loved ones.
Here’s a new way to get
your iced caffeine fix.
Nescafé Espresso
Concentrate is made
from a rich Arabica blend.
All you need are a few
cubes of ice in a glass,
add 250ml of water,
milk or plant-based
alternatives, and then add
50ml of Nescafé Espresso
Concentrate. There are
two options ... Sweet
Vanilla for a soft, smooth
and creamy finish and
Black for a more bold,
deep and intense flavour.
R119.99 from Pick n Pay.
February 26 Get It Magazine 23

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.
24 Get It Magazine February 26

PARKTOWN HIGH SCHOOL FOR FOR GIRLS
PARKTOWN HIGH SCHOOL FOR FOR GIRLS
PARKTOWN HIGH SCHOOL FOR FOR GIRLS
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.
Collaborative
Collaborative
Collaborative
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Creative
Creative
Confident
Confident
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Compassionate
Compassionate
Place Place of
Place of
of of
of
of
Possibilities
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Possibilities
Open Day
14 14 March 2026
14 14 14 14 08h30 March March
- - 11h30 2026
2026
08h30 - 11h30
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Courageous
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Curious
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www.parktowngirls.co.za
www.parktowngirls.co.za
www.parktowngirls.co.za

I can buy myself
f lowers
Glass vase, R191 from
Sixth Floor at Superbalist
Small stoneware
vase, R99 from
H&M at Superbalist
Tall vase with decorative
handles, R990 from
netdecor.co.za
Strawberry bud
vase, R59.99 from
Mr Price Home
Bold striped planter,
R299 from bedbathhome.co.za
Lemon leaf vase,
R299.99 from Mr Price Home
26 Get It Magazine February 26

Ribbed glass vase,
R34.99 from Pep Home
Coral round vase,
R1380 from netdecor.co.za
Mervyn Gers
ceramic jug, R475
from perfect
hideaways.co.za
Embossed lemon
ceramic urn, R499.99
from Mr Price Home
Pink Ceramic Vase
R 830 from netdecor.co.za
Lissa Claassens’ aqua
glazed vase, R895 from
shop/perfecthideaways.co.za
February 26 Get It Magazine 27

Let love grow
Romance in the garden. Vivid red flowers. The herb of love. And exotic Curcuma.
Text: ALICE COETZEE
Herb of the month
Did you know that Summer Savory
(Satureja Hortensis) was known as
the herb of love during Roman times?
They believed this aromatic herb was
a natural aphrodisiac and used it to
make love potions. While we don’t
have the recipe for the potions, you
can still work culinary magic by using
this herb to flavour roast chicken, slow
cooked stews, and to season grilled
meat on the braai.
The small, delicate, light green leaves
have a peppery, thyme-like flavour
with a hint of marjoram. Use it fresh or
dried, but in small quantities so that it
doesn’t overpower the dish. It can also
substitute for sage.
To grow: Sow seed directly into the
ground or in seed trays or pots.
Transplant when seedlings are big
enough to handle and space or thin
out seedlings 20cm apart. Summer
Savory thrives in full sun in fertile, welldraining
soil. The aromatic leaves deter
pests and it is a good companion plant
for garden beans.
The first leaves can be harvested
within 60 days from planting, or the
whole plant can be harvested in the
bud stage. Leave some plants to flower
for the bees and butterflies. To dry,
hang the plants in a warm, dark room.
Details: kirchhoffs.co.za or buy seed
online from www.gropak.co.za
Indoor plant of the month
Exotic and romantic, Curcuma, also
known as Siamese Tulips, are the
perfect gift plant for Valentine’s Day.
Their unusual pink, white or purple
flowers are carried on tall stems above
the spear-shaped green leaves. To
keep curcuma flowering for the rest
of summer, cut down faded flowers
at soil level to encourage new flowers
and feed with a liquid fertiliser once
a month. Place plants where they
will receive bright indirect light and
keep the soil consistently moist but
not soggy. When they go dormant in
winter, put the pot in a cool, dry place
and let the soil dry out. Start watering
again in spring for new growth.
Details: lvgplant.co.za
We’re planting … Dipladenia Diamantina (Jade Scarlet) in pots or hanging
baskets for the patio. This is the first really compact, bushy Dipladenia that fills
its container with bright red trumpet-shaped flowers. Plants perform best with
plenty of morning sun and some afternoon shade, so don’t position them
against a hot, west facing wall. Water when the topsoil feels slightly dry. Fertilise
monthly in summer and trim to keep neat. Details: ballstraathof.co.za
Garden tasks for February
• In very hot weather set the lawnmower on its highest setting so that the grass is
higher to shade the roots. • Watering in the evening helps plants to start the day
moist and they will be less heat stressed. • If it is very hot, delay fertilising until it
gets cooler. This puts less stress on the plants. • Succession crops of bush beans,
beetroot, carrots, Swiss chard and rocket can still be sown. • If annual herbs have
gone to seed, sow a new crop of basil, rocket and coriander. • Keep birdbaths
filled with fresh water.
28 Get It Magazine February 26

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Lovin’ Magalies
You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a day out in the country … the marvellous Magalies
Meander is about an hour’s drive away. Wherever you travel along this route, expect to see
spectacular, sweeping views of the beautiful Magaliesberg mountains. There are so many
things to do and see …We’ve highlighted six of our favourite stops.
Pour yourself a little happiness
If you’re looking for the kind of place where
you can really slow down, Black Horse
Brewery is a gem. Picture yourself settling
in with a cold craft beer or a smooth gin,
sunlight on your face, mountain views
stretching out in every direction, and that
easy, open-air feeling that makes you just
… breathe. The brewery has a relaxed,
welcoming vibe with long tables, tasty bites
to match your drink, and a way of making
even a quiet afternoon feel special. If you’re
curious, you can also pop into their tasting
room or take a behind-the-scenes tour to
see how the beers and spirits are made,
but honestly, just soaking up the scenery
with a drink in hand is enough to make
the day unforgettable. Take friends, take
family, or enjoy a peaceful solo sip – either
way, it’s a proper escape from the city.
Details: blackhorsedistillery.co.za
30 Get It Magazine February 26
A taste of farm-life bliss
If you ever need a day out that just fills your cup, you
have to pop into The Donkey Dairy. It’s honestly the
ultimate farm experience. The moment you arrive,
you’re greeted by the cutest crew; donkeys (of course),
llamas, alpacas, guanacos, dwarf goats… and that’s
only the start. And go hungry, because their farmstyle
dining is ridiculously good. Think famous Wagyu
boerie rolls and burgers, or even a veggie braai-style
boerie, all sizzling away with a proper Magalies view.
Then wander over to the farm shop ... it’s packed with
handmade jams, rusks, sweet treats and their iconic
Donkey Milk skincare range (the perfect spoil-yourself
moment). You can do gentle donkey or horse rides, sip
on a donkey milk tasting (yes, it’s nature’s liquid gold),
nibble a donkey-milk brownie, bottle-feed baby goats,
and head out on one of their scenic trails, Jack’s Trek
or Brayer’s Eye. Trust us … it’s pure countryside joy. Oh,
and if you’re not ready to leave? They’ve got lovely
accommodation options too. Booking is essential.
Details: thedonkeydairy.com

Up, up and away
If you’re after a larger-than-life moment, the kind you’ll talk about for years, then
Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris should be on your Magalies must-do
list. Tucked in the heart of the valley, this is where adventure meets absolute
tranquillity. Picture it. It’s sunrise, the world is still waking up, and you’re floating
effortlessly above the treetops. The only sounds? The whoosh of the burners and
the distant call of a bird somewhere far below. It’s peaceful, surreal … a little bit
magical. One minute you’re skimming the Magalies River Valley, the next you’re
drifting high above the mountain range as the sun spills gold over the horizon.
It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you have to try. And once you’re
back on solid ground, a delish breakfast awaits at the Clubhouse Pavilion patio, the
perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure. Details: balloon.co.za
For the love of cheese …
This may sound cheesy (we had
to!), but a trip to Van Gaalen
Kaasmakerij is truly something
special. Start with a tour of the
cheese farm, a relaxed, behind-thescenes
look at how their famous
cheeses are made, complete with a
tasting that’ll have you saying ‘just
one more bite’ more than once.
Prefer to linger? Grab a spot under
the trees at the Terrace Restaurant,
where those gorgeous Magaliesberg
views pair perfectly with gooey,
creamy, crumbly cheeses and
beautifully cured meats. Sip on a
glass of wine, slow down, and just
enjoy the farm atmosphere. They also
offer so much more than cheese …
Think tractor rides, hiking trails, farm
animals, and a jungle gym to keep
the little ones happy. Picnic hampers
are available too. And before you
head home, pop into the Farm Shop
for a lineup of Dutch favourites.
Details: vangaalen.co.za
Elephants, bush and bliss
African Hills Safari Lodge & Spa
situated on the Plumari Private Reserve
has a gentle, easy charm, wide open
bushveld, gorgeous silence, and little
moments that just settle your soul. The
elephant experience alone is worth
the drive. Damara and Nzewe are
absolute sweethearts, and standing
that close to them … it’s something
you don’t forget. Then there are the
game drives, the spa treatments that
make you want to cancel the rest of
your day, and the guided walks where
you stumble on ancient rock art like
it’s the most normal thing in the world.
And the lodge? Lovely rooms, proper
good food, beautiful views ... the whole
package. It’s only an hour from Joburg
or Pretoria, but it feels like you slipped
away to somewhere special.
Details: africanhillslodge.co.za
Nature, thrills and views
If you’re in the mood for something
a little wild and wonderfully out
of the ordinary, the Magaliesberg
Canopy Tour is such a rush. Imagine
this ... eleven platforms tucked
high into the kloof’s rock faces, ten
ziplines stretching up to 140 metres,
and you, soaring 30 metres above
streams, waterfalls, and lush forest
canopies. The air is fresh, the trees
are calling, and the views across the
Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve
are just wow. Trained guides keep
you safe while sharing fascinating
snippets about the mountains,
wildlife, and the area’s 2 500-millionyear-old
history. It’s fun, it’s familyfriendly,
and it’s one of those
“why didn’t we do this sooner?”
experiences. Details: canopytour.
co.za/locations/magaliesberg/
February 26 Get It Magazine 31

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.
Text: JENNIFER CAMPBELL
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 décor 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.
32 Get It Magazine February 26

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 cheetahs 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
with lemongrass and coconut milk.
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 R6180 to R7900 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
February 26 Get It Magazine 33

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
@get_it_joburg_north on Instagram
or Facebook and follow the prompts
on our February Spoil post.
34 Get It Magazine February 26