Body-Positivity Activist Siphokazi Veti on self-love and feminism

Body-positive activist Siphokazi Veti talks to us about online negativity, her meaning of self-love and what it takes to get there.

When we meet up with body positivity activist and writer Siphokazi Veti on set in Cape Town, she’s every bit as radiant as she seems on social media. And while her personality bubbles with enthusiasm and an undeniable optimism, we soon find there’s a depth to Siphokazi that is beyond her years. She opens up with the kind of refreshing honesty that is so rare in the age of social media.

Maintaining that level of positivity and energy isn’t always easy she admits, especially when it comes to the relationship she has with her body. Rather, it’s a journey and a process that needs daily practicing. So when Siphokazi revealed some of her daily mantras for happier living, we were all ears.

Why do you think it takes people so long to learn self-love? 

I think over time the world got lost in communication. Especially in media, and how it defined beauty and self-worth for so long. That kind of thing shapes young minds, and children lose something important at a young age.

What were your experiences growing up regarding self-love? 

I had an eating disorder and social anxiety. On top of that, my body started changing and maturing from an early age, but I didn’t feel comfortable to ask advice to find out more about what was happening to me. And so for a long time, I didn’t feel comfortable with myself.

When did you start feeling comfortable with your body?

Only when I got to university, and started exploring feminism. That was a major turning point. A whole new world opened up for me.

How did feminism help you through this? 

It taught me the importance of choice, individuality and fighting for who you are, and fighting to tell your story. It taught me to be proud of being a woman and the magic that is womanhood.

Do you find yourself looking to other women for guidance and inspiration? 

I am inspired by so many incredible women, but I’ve had to take the path to self-love alone. I’ve realised I am my own healer. Until you can look at yourself in the mirror every single morning and love what you see, nothing else matters.

And do you feel this way about yourself every morning? 

Definitely not every single morning. Every day is a new chapter. Every morning that I get up, I have to set my intention. I have to affirm my value and to affirm that I am enough. Self-love is a way to enjoy the journey with your body, without being hard on yourself. If I didn’t practice that and if I continued to pay attention to others’ perceptions of me, I think I would still be in a dark space. A space that never fulfilled my purpose.

Do you ever experience negativity from people online? 

Oh yes, all the time. Especially on social media. But I even experience hate in the supermarket or on the street. But these reactions come from a place of fear. People fear bodies that exist unapologetically. I try my best not to live in that moment of hate. It’s hard, don’t get me wrong. It’s why self-affirmation is especially important. And it’s why I also turn to people that inspire me. Like my grandmother. She was raised in a time when black women couldn’t thrive yet, against all odds, she did it. And so she has become the person who really drives me forward, no matter where I am in my life. My mother is another driving force for me. I am who I am because of women like my grandmother and mother.’

Siphokazi’s 5 mantras to live by

1. SELF-LOVE 
Practice self-love every day. Do not seek validation outside of yourself through instant gratifications. If you do that you will lose yourself, and you will stop telling your own story.

2. WELLBEING
Keep on learning, keep on questioning the world around you and what it’s telling you. You are your own healer, so trust your instincts and do not always turn to others to learn and understand. Have faith in your own perceptions.

https://mag.edgars.co.za/2019/02/congrats-youve-found-hidden-patchwork.html

3. PROFESSIONALISM 
Remain authentic, because your story is important. I studied accounting, which wasn’t who I truly was. I was on a path where I could easily have been lost, but I remained true to who I am and what I want in life and steered myself in the right direction.

4. SPIRITUALITY 
Spirituality is important for reconnecting to your deeper, inner guide. It helps make sense of – and deepens – your purpose on earth. I grew up in a religious home, but over the years my definition of spirituality has broadened to include many different practices, including yoga.

5. GRATITUDE
Be grateful for the time you – and your loved ones – have on this earth. My sister passed away several years ago. She helped me appreciate my own existence so much more. Her passing also made me realise that she had a powerful story, and it was never told… So her passing taught me to be grateful for the time we have, and to use that time wisely.

Check out Siphokazi’s Instagram
Photography: Instagram
Words: Edwain Steenkamp

READ IT, FIND IT, WIN IT!

Stand the chance to win your share of R15 000 in Edgars vouchers for a guilt-free shopping splurge on us! Find out more here to win.

You could win one of five Edgars shopping vouchers worth R3 000 each – here’s how
Edgars Mag is now online, so you can get your fashion, beauty and home trend inspiration 24/7!

What’s more, we’re giving away R15 000 in shopping vouchers to you, our Edgars Mag readers, so you can shop the trends you love.

How it works

We’re hiding one patchwork block every week for five weeks on Edgars Mag. If you want to win one of five R3 000 shopping vouchers, it’s your job to find it. Use the weekly clues posted here to guide you in the right direction.

This week’s clue: THIS BODY-POSITIVITY ACTIVIST SHARES WHAT SELF-LOVE AND FEMINISM MEANS TO HER

Now that you’ve got your clue, head to Edgars Mag and search through the articles until you find the patchwork block (see what it looks like below). When you find it, click on it to enter.

You’ll then be directed to a form to fill in your name and contact details (so we can get in touch if you’re the lucky winner!), and then hold thumbs. We’ll call and/or email you, should you be selected.

Remember: There will be a new clue every Monday, so bookmark this page and check back in next week to increase your chances of winning.

What can you buy with your R3 000 voucher? Well, anything your heart desires at any Edgars store – just imagine!

Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions below.
Competition terms and conditions

1. Edgars Mag competitions are not open to the directors, partners, sponsors, employees, agents, consultants, publishing, advertising and promotion agencies and associated companies of Edcon (Pty) Limited and their immediate families.
2. Participation constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of the competitions posted on Edgars Mag.
3. By entering any competition you also consent to your details being used for marketing purposes.
4. The competition closes on Sunday 4 May 2019, unless otherwise stated, and entries must reach us by no later than noon on the closing date. Prizes are not transferable and cannot be exchanged for their cash value. They will exclude any other expenses incurred by winning participants.
5. You can enter once for each of the five clues, but entrants can only win once.
6. The prizes on offer are five Edgars gift cards to the value of R3 000 each.
7. The Edcon (Pty) Limited auditors will randomly select the winners who will be notified by telephone or email. If winners are uncontactable for six weeks, their prizes will be forfeited.
8. Once the winner has been notified and the prize has been handed over, the winner must sign an Edcon acknowledgement of receiving the prize.
9. It is the responsibility of each entrant to ensure that his or her details are correct. Edcon will not be held liable in any way relating to incorrect information provided.
10. The winner must provide valid proof of identity (a green bar-coded ID book, passport or driver’s licence).
11. Prizes not claimed within three months will be forfeited.
12. Once contacted, the winners will be announced on the Edgars and Edgars Club Facebook page, once consent has been given.
13. Anyone choosing not to have their names published will forfeit the prize and another winner will be drawn.
14. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
15. Regrettably, only winners residing in South Africa are eligible for prizes.
16. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram or Facebook.
17. Sponsoring parties are not liable or responsible for any or all losses, rights, claims and actions in connection with, or resulting from, participating in the competition or accepting the prizes.
18. Promoter: Edcon Limited, 1 Press Avenue, Crown Mines, Johannesburg, South Africa.

3 ways to style your home like an interior designer

Update your home and give it a designer feel with modern geometric patterns, lush plants and metallic pastel shades.

Follow these styling tips when updating your home for a designer finish without the spend.

Style tip 1 Go with geometric accessories 

Geometric furniture, prints and accessories are big news right now. We’re seeing a move towards sculptural, precious-gem-like sidetables and furniture made from wire, which add interest and depth, giving the illusion of bigger space due to the open frames. If you’re keen to give your home an entire makeover, you can introduce the  geometric trend in small ways. Use diamond-shaped tiles to create an Escher-esque artwork for your kitchen or bathroom backsplash, go minimalist with geometric-print cushions or art prints, or add subtle dimension in the form of a matt black faceted vase or accessory. The trick here is to balance the scale of the design colours – if the pattern is busy, go for subdued colours, and vice versa. Create a sense of luxury without spending a lot of money by introducing gold accents on smalls and accessories.

Style tip 2 Bring in plant life

Indoor plants provide us with a connection to the outdoors that’s especially appealing to inner-city dwellers. The focus is on compact, sturdy succulents that are simultaneously water-wise and easy to maintain. The larger, leafier varieties still reign supreme. ‘Our most popular house plants are Monstera deliciosa and Philodendron selloum. Magnificently lush and leafy, both of these look amazing displayed in handwoven baskets, as kokedamas (moss balls), or in water instead of soil in beautiful vases,’ says Ashleigh Martyn, owner of online nursery Mother City Jungle. It’s also worth considering artificial plants to spruce up your space. Orchids, which are notoriously difficult to care for, can serve the right amount of class without all the hassle, and you get to enjoy the plant’s gorgeous blooms all year around.

Style tip 3 Add candy colours

On the other end of the colour spectrum, we’re seeing a resurgence of candy colours in interiors. ‘Pastel candy shades, which are traditionally quite feminine, have been reintroduced in soft metallic finishes, coloured glass and beautiful blush linens,’ says Melissa Lawrence, owner of Cape Town-based creative consultancy Studio Melissa Louise. ‘These elements are easily paired with a neutral colour palette and, when used in abundance, create visual intrigue.’ Consider bringing in woven textiles such as rattan, cane and wicker to balance out the fun pastels for a look that’s adult appropriate. In terms of paint, Plascon’s Glamour range fits the bill. Mermaid Jewel and Candy Tuft on a feature wall or ceiling will add character to any space, just be sure to use these attention-grabbing hues sparingly – your chosen candy colour should only make up about 30% of the colour in the room.

SHOP HOMEWARE

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

The 4 trendy men’s jackets keeping you stylish this winter

Baggy and warm clothes don’t mean a compromise in style. These four jackets will keep you warm and fashionable this season.

The jackets that are trending for 2019 are bold, stylish and easy to wear. Throw them over your favourite knits and shirts for a look that’s as cool and relaxed as you are.

THE BOMBER JACKET

The bomber gives an edge to your casual weekend outfits. Classic colours like navy and black are sleek and versatile, while bright, daring colours make a strong fashion statement. Olive works well with the utilitarian trend and is best paired with dark jeans and sneakers. Whatever your colour preference, the bomber jacket is an effortless way to up your cool factor this winter.

THE PUFFER JACKET

Seriously though, no winter wardrobe is complete without a puffer jacket. It does so much more than just keep you warm – durable, versatile and stylish without trying too hard, it’s the ultimate all-rounder. Wear it to the office over a printed button-up shirt with chinos and boots for a smart vibe, or go casual with vibrant shades that give your off-duty look some street cred.

THE PEA COAT

Minimal with a strong masculine feel is the best way to describe the ‘It’ coat of the season. Classic, sturdy and good looking, the pea coat will give your weekend wear a pulled-together look, and add a level of polished sophistication to your work wardrobe.

THE DENIM JACKET

It’s no surprise that the denim jacket is a perennial favourite for men and women alike. From cowboy to trucker styles it embodies a spirit of freedom that’s universally flattering and appealing. The best advantage of a denim jacket is its layering potential, allowing you to create multiple looks while keeping warm in casual style.

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Beauty trends you need to know about right now

We’re always on the lookout for new beauty trends, and these make our must-have list for the new season. 

We round up the biggest beauty trends seen on runways for the upcoming season. From glitter to grunge, here’s what’s hot for autumn/winter 2019.

COLOUR SHOTS

 Soft pastel washes and bright primary hues lit up eyelids on all the major runways for 2019. If you’re not accustomed to wearing  bold shades, start with soft, complementary colours. We matched blue eye shadow with blue mascara for this fresh, pretty look. The trend is all about experimenting with colour, so don’t be afraid to try different shades as your style evolves.

POLISHED SKIN

Creamy, dewy skin with a natural-looking glow is always on-trend. Get the look by layering moisturisers, primers and strobe creams as opposed to heavy foundations and concealers that tend to cake on the skin, leaving your complexion looking dull and flat. Select products that offer plenty of hydration, as a lack of moisture is one of the biggest contributors to a lacklustre complexion. 

GLITTER MAKE-UP

Glitter make-up is having a moment. Edgy and striking, it’s a fun way to bring a sparkle to your look and draw attention to your favourite features. Although we don’t want an OTT full face of glitter a la models at Giambattista Valli, Paris Fashion Week AW18, we do like a little! Stick to one area (such as the outer and inner eye) and keep the rest of the face neutral with a healthy glow, for a polished finish that won’t compete with the glitter.

ROCK ‘N ROLL GLAM

Punk is back! Think smudgy haloed lids, imperfect water-lined eyes and glossy, textured black pigment – all these make-up looks lend themselves to the ’80s’ grunge look. Pair with clean, polished skin for a modern and sophisticated spin on trend.

ARTY EYES

Graphic make-up effects are so hot right now. From drawing outside the lines to floating cat eyes and sharp, polygonal edges, there are a variety of ways to interpret the trend. In this look we contrasted bright purple shadow with a graphic negative space cat eye, which makes the exaggerated shape even more striking.

METALLIC LIPS

 Metallic shades are a powerful way to draw attention to your lips and give your look a bold, dramatic edge. Here, we created a cool contrast of metal hues giving the illusion of a bigger and fuller pout. The metallic effect packs a punch, so keep the rest of your make-up minimal for a sophisticated look with the focus firmly on your lips.


Photographer: Katinka Bester. Hair: Gilbert Mofubelu. Make-up: Renee De Wit. Model: Gina/The Circle Model Management. Production: Leila Petersen. 
All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Top travel trends for 2019

Broaden your travel horizons with tailor-made adventures to satisfy your wanderlust.


If you’re stuck in a holiday rut, or just looking for new adventures, it helps to keep an eye on the new and exciting ways people are exploring the planet.
Lower Lake Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
There’s a definite appeal to visiting global urban hotspots like New York, London or Paris. But with that, come hoards of other tourists, high prices and oversubscribed ‘experiences’.
On the other hand, there are plenty of beautiful places in the world that you can visit without standing in queues, or having to leave a TripAdvisor rating. Theresa Richardson, Travel Corporation Managing Director for South Africa, lists places like Scandinavia, Peru, the Amazon and Croatia as the trendiest nature-inspired tourism destinations for 2019.
Scandinavia offers the opportunity to witness one of the world’s most astonishing spectacles – the Midnight Sun – where the sun shines for almost 24 hours of each day during the summer months. ‘Scandinavia’s fjords and glaciers, the Midnight Sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter, are out of this world,’ says Richardson. ‘The Flam Railway in Norway – one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world – is a great way to explore the country’s stunning scenery.’
Hamnoy Village, Norway
While Machu Picchu is still one of the world’s most beautiful sites to visit – and it shows, with a ticketing system introduced recently to try to curb the damage done by high visitor volumes – there are plenty of other places in South America that’ll take your breath away. Peru’s Sacred Valley boasts snow-capped mountain peaks and scores of other ancient ruins to explore, and the chance to feast on traditional Peruvian cuisine in one of the region’s ‘forgotten villages’ is soul-enriching travel at its best. Adding a responsible, sustainable trip to the Amazon is simple from there, where licensed operators will help you tread lightly through the million-year-old jungle in the hope of spotting scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, and even a sneaky jaguar along the way.
‘Search for #krkawaterfalls on Instagram to see why Croatia makes the list,’ says Richardson. ‘The cascading waterfalls are so turquoise and clear that the pictures look as if they have been Photoshopped…’ She advises visitors to take a two-day Busabout tour in combination with a Croatia Island Hopper Tour, to get the best of the Krka and Plitvice National Parks – and you’ll even enjoy a Croatian-style ‘braai’ along the way.

Co-living

If you’re a solo traveller, hotels can be a little unfriendly, hostels, a little rough around the edges, and suburban Airbnb properties can be quite isolated from the inner-city action.
Enter the new trend: co-living – essentially a form of modern commune for young professionals. Companies like WeLive hosts travellers in apartment blocks in New York and Washington DC offering trendy, shared social spaces that bring people together. The arrangement includes a permanently-staffed front desk at each location, communal spaces like residents’ lounges, chef’s kitchen, gaming centres and 24-hour fitness studios.
You’ll get hotel-like creature comforts, including fresh linen and towels with coffee and tea service, sophisticated décor and top-tier tech with state-of-the-art security, smart climate control and ‘deluxe entertainment systems’. Their automated e-billing system makes it easy to stay for as little or long as you want, and take advantage of the amenities at will.

Digi-travel

Tech in travel is nothing new – it’s now possible to research, book, check-in and explore without interacting with an actual human being. In an ‘always-on’ world, connected consumers expect to be connected travelers, no matter whether they’re travelling for business or leisure.
‘Digital access has altered all aspects of our work and personal lives – from shopping to social interaction, entertainment, banking and fitness, connectivity drives the way we act, choose and spend,’ says Nicole Adonis, FCM Travel Solutions South Africa GM. ‘We talk about a connected consumer being the same as a connected traveller. Consumers who use travel technology in their personal lives, expect the same convenience in their work lives, which places corporate travel stakeholders under pressure to deliver new technologies that simplify the travel process,’ says Adonis.
Millennials and Generation X travellers have a keen interest in Artificial Intelligence and are comfortable using digital assistants on a regular basis, which is why many agencies and operators are adding the functionality to their booking processes. ‘When it comes to travel booking, we’ve seen our own chatbot, Sam, commonly fulfilling this need using a simple and intuitive chatbot-based interface, much the same as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, and speeding up processes,’ says Adonis.

Homeware hotels

Do you love a particular brand so much that you’d pay to stay in a hotel inspired entirely by their philosophy and products? ‘Homeware hotels’ are a growing trend, with the double-edged sword of ‘brand heaven’ for enthusiasts – and a chance to sell brand products that catch guests’ eyes, while in situ. Made.com pioneered the concept in Manhattan in 2017 before opening a floating hotel at the Boathouse in London last year.
Japanese lifestyle brand Muji opened two branded properties in China last year, where guests could buy everything from oak chairs to toothbrush stands, shampoo bottles, duvets and even the feather pillows on which they lay their heads each night. It’s convenience shopping at its best!

Edgars Club members can go further for less with exclusive savings on everything from flights to car hire and all-inclusive packages. Whether it’s a local bush break or a relaxing beach holiday you’re after, we’ve got it all, just for you. Read more about our travel savings here.
By Trevor Crighton
Images Getty Images

How men’s suits are different this season

Look your sharpest this winter in the latest styles in men’s suits.

Forget all you (think you) know about dressing in suits. This year, there’s a different take on suiting up and we’ve got the ultimate edit on all the styles and trends that are guaranteed to set you apart from the rest. 

Go for a fun colour

Instead of the normal navy or grey, try something a little different and opt for a deep red or plum. These standout, colourful suits are a fun take on the classic styles and will show you’re a man who’s confident, daring and unique. Keep it classic in the fit, though; a well-fitted suit will ensure your overall look is sophisticated and polished, no matter how colourful.

D66 suit jacket 1199.95; D66 checked shirt 399.95; D66 suit trousers 449.95; Guess leather-strap watch 1995; JX sunglasses 149.99; Falke printed socks 130; Signature suede loafers 799; ring (worn throughout) stylist’s own

D66 suit jacket 1199.95The Watermelon Social Club printed shirt 599.95D66 suit trousers 1149.95; JX sunglasses 149.99; T.M. Lewin bumblebee lapel pin 399.99; double-prong buckle leather belt 399.95

Go for print

We love suits in unexpected and fun prints (think checks in all forms). The key is to stick to the same colour palette throughout to keep the look cohesive and expertly stylish.

D66 check suit jacket 1399.95; Holmes Brothers printed shirt 620.95; D66 suit trousers 549.95; rings & necklace (worn throughout) stylist’s own

D66 vintage check suit jacket 1399.95; JX crewneck knit 299.95; D66 vintage check suit pants 549.95; Signature suede loafers 450

Try out the double-breasted style

It may seem at home in your grandad’s wardrobe but the double-breasted is having a moment. Trendy, with a nod to tradition, the double-breasted suit is versatile and can be dressed up or down – perfect for work or a suave weekend event like a wedding.

D66 double-breasted blazer 1399.95; JX crewneck knit 299.95; D66 slim-fit trousers 549.95; Steve Madden dad sneakers 1099; Signature chain-link watch 499; moon bag stylist’s own

 Mix casual with business

Mix your smart suit pieces with casual clothing for street style cred; in other words, ditch the shirt and tie for a T-shirt and sneakers.

D66 colour blocked collar blazer 1399.95; JX printed T-shirt 129.95; D66 textured trousers 549.95; sushi-printed socks 59.95; Puma Court Breaker Flag Sneakers 999.95; T.M. Lewin robot lapel pin 399.99

All items subject to availability. Prices may change. 

Fashion direction & production: Brittany Penebre. Photography: Paulo Touriero/Hero Creative. Styling: Rusuhana Burton. Hair & make-up: Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch/SNCM. Model: Andrew/Ice Genetics

The ’90s trends that are back in style

Find out what the must-have recycled ’90’s trends are, how to wear them and what makes them so cool and stylish.

Trends in fashion come and go… and come back again. It’s no surprise then that those made popular in the 90s are being recycled. From chunky sneakers to sports-inspired pieces, these are the must-have trends in your winter wardrobe.

PUFFER JACKETS

Remember when your mom forced you to put on that big puffy jacket you didn’t want to be caught dead in? Well, the revival is real, and they are back by popular demand. Go for tartan prints or graphic colour blocking for a modern edge.

Free 2BU puffer jacket 499.95; Free 2BU striped jumpsuit 349.95Free 2BU earrings 59.95Free 2BU chunky chain necklace 99.95

Free 2BU tartan puffer jacket 499.95
Free 2BU colour-blocked puffer jacket 499.95

Girl power

Expressing yourself through your clothing with words and slogans was popular during our favourite decade. And with the focus on feminism over the last couple of years, the slogan trend has modernised itself.

Free 2BU printed slogan long-sleeved shirt 199.95; Free 2BU paper bag trousers 299.95Free 2BU dad sneakers 349.95

The ‘dad’ sneaker

Dubbed the dad sneaker for its ‘ugly’ appearance, chunky sneakers are right on-trend. They scream comfort and effortless style. Wear with socks and a dress for that cool-girl look.

Free 2BU oversized denim jacket 499.95; Free 2BU bodycon dress 259.95Free 2BU dad sneakers 349.95

Free 2BU dad sneakers 399.95

Hip-hop fashion

Don the sporty hip-hop style and you’ll be perfectly on-trend. Think oversized, loose-fitting silhouettes in casual fabrics featuring sporty-like details. Perfect for fashion and comfort, not to mention Instagram!

Top left: Free 2BU printed slogan sweatshirt 299.95; Free 2BU striped mesh skirt 299.95; Steve Madden clash-print sneakers 1399 
Top right: Free 2BU printed slogan sweatshirt 199.95; Free 2BU side-stripe denims 349.95;
Bottom: Free 2BU anorak jacket 399.95; Free 2BU paper bag trousers 299.95

Free 2BU side-strip leggings 299.95
Free 2BU slogan colour-blocked three-quarter zip top 399.95

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Photography: Stan Klaplan. Stylist: Francois Ferreira. Hair & Make-up: Lindsey Stewart. Models: Kyung Hwang/My Friend Ned, Njabulo Mthembu/My Friend Ned, Robyn Wolf/Boss Models

Meet the world’s youngest (and coolest) DJ

From music to fashion, here’s everything you need to know about DJ Arch Jnr and his incredible rise to fame.

Just shy of seven years old, Oratile Hlongwane seems like any regular boy, but there is a lot more to him than meets the eye. Just mention music and he sits up straight, his face lighting up with the biggest smile imaginable.
Better known by his stage name, DJ Arch Jnr, Oratile won South Africa’s Got Talent in 2015 at only five years old, becoming one of the country’s brightest young stars. And with the Guinness World Record for the world’s youngest DJ already under his belt, the future is bright for this young music-maker, who stole the hearts of millions of people when he performed on stage at America’s Got Talent earlier in 2019. And while the young star is a musician through and through, it turns out he also has a love of fashion and takes apparel seriously. A few short moments before stepping in front of the camera for his shoot, with an infectious smile, he points out his favourite items, including Chuck Taylor All Stars and a classic denim jacket. From his love of music to his keen fashion sense, here’s what makes him tick.

What does it feel like being South Africa’s beloved DJ?

(Laughs) South Africa’s coolest DJ?




Yes, that’s you!

It feels really cool! And it makes me happy.

What’s the best part about being a DJ? 

I like seeing all the people that like my music.

What was it like performing on stage?

It’s very nice. I like it so much.

You even went overseas to America’s Got Talent!


Yes, and I want to go again!

How much time do you spend on music every day?

Lots of time! But, I only make music after school. I’m in Grade 2.


Do you like school?

I love school. All my friends love my music.

Who taught you music? 

My dad taught me music, he loves music too. I also have music lessons. I have two music teachers. My second music teacher teaches me guitar.

You also play guitar? 


Yes, I love it!

Is music one of your subjects at school? 

Yes, it’s my favourite.

When you grow up, do you still want to make music?

I want to be a DJ that plays the piano and guitar. And also the PlayStation.

Do you listen to lots of music?

Yes, I listen on my earphones. I listen to the radio, or to music on the computer.

Who are your favourite DJs to listen to?

I love Black Coffee and DJ Fresh!

Why do you love them so much? 

They’re cool and I like their style!

What are your favourite things to help you look stylish?

Sneakers and jackets.

What do you like doing for fun? 


I love PlayStation. I like soccer games; I like playing soccer at school too. I also like superheroes.

And if you could be any superhero, who would you be? 

Batman. I like his costume.


Fashion direction & production: Brittany Penebre, Photography: Katinka Bester/Hero Creative, Styling: Rushana Burton, Hair & make-up: Shahnaz Cola-Wrensch/SNCM, Talent: Siphokazi Veti