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Spring is underway, and SKYY Vodka is turning up the vibe with cocktails that capture the magic of the season. As the days get longer and the nights warmer, it's the perfect time to sip on drinks that turn every moment into an experience. Whether you're hosting a poolside party or a sunset braai, SKYY Vodka is ready to break free from the ordinary and bring a fresh twist to your spring. Born in San Francisco, SKYY Vodka has always been about elevating life’s bold moments. Made with water enriched by Pacific minerals, it’s as pure as the spring days it was crafted for—making it the ultimate premium base for your signature spring cocktail. At SKYY, we know every cocktail has its own unique personality, just like you. Check out your perfect match below: The Showstopper: SKYY Thunderstorm For those who bring bold energy wherever they go, the Thunderstorm, created in collaboration with Mr Thela, sets the mood for any occasion. Crafted with SKYY Infusions Blood Orange and Peach Vodka, this cocktail is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ingredients: 25ml SKYY Infusions Blood Orange Vodka 25ml SKYY Infusions Peach Vodka 25ml Sir Fruit Cloudy Apple Juice 25ml Rose's Lime Cordial 100ml Rose's Ginger Ale Method: Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the vodkas, apple juice, and lime cordial. Top with ginger ale. Stir well and garnish with dried peach slices, orange zest, and fresh mint. The Party Starter: SKYY Disco Daddy Highball If you're the one always bringing the vibe, this cocktail is your go-to. The Disco Daddy Highball blends tropical coconut with the bittersweet kick of Campari, making it the perfect cocktail for those who love to live in the spotlight. Ingredients: 1.5 parts SKYY Vodka 0.5 parts Campari 0.25 parts Coconut Liqueur 120ml club soda Garnish with a mint sprig and an orange twist. Build in a Collins glass and top with club soda. The Zen Master: SKYY Sparkling Lavender Lemonade Cool, calm, and collected—that’s you. The SKYY Sparkling Lavender Lemonade is your perfect match, pairing delicate lavender with a citrus twist to create a drink that’s as serene as a spring breeze. Ingredients: 1.5 parts SKYY Vodka 1 part lemon juice 0.75 parts lavender syrup Top with soda water Garnish with a lavender sprig and lemon wheel Add the first three ingredients to a shaker tin and shake with ice. Strain into a Collins glass. Top with soda water and garnish. The Outdoor Explorer: SKYY Garden Mule If you’re at your happiest surrounded by greenery and sunshine, the Garden Mule is your go-to this spring. The addition of mint and cucumber make this cocktail as fresh as the season itself—perfect for long, laid-back days outdoors. Ingredients: 1.5 parts SKYY Vodka 0.5 parts ginger beer Fresh mint leaves and cucumber slices Garnish with a mint sprig and cucumber round. Muddle the mint and cucumber in glass. Add ice and combine remaining ingredients. Top with ginger beer, then garnish with cucumber and mint. From sun-soaked afternoons to nights under the stars, it’s time to break free from the ordinary and create your next unforgettable moment.   Follow SKYY Vodka   for more.

This Día de los Muertos , Espolòn invites you to join the fiesta of life and legacy in honour of loved ones who have passed. More than a time to remember, El Día de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”) celebrates the reunion of spirits with those who loved them, and Espolòn is here to help you mark the occasion in true Mexican style. El Día de los Muertos spans three days from October 31 to November 2, bringing families together in Mexico and beyond. It’s not about mourning but celebrating. Each day holds special significance:  31 October:  This is the starting point, when spirits begin their journey to the world of the living. 1 November ( Día de los Inocentes  or “Day of the Innocents”):  This day is dedicated to the spirits of children, often called Angelitos  (little angels). 2 November ( Día de los Muertos  or “Day of the Dead”): Families welcome the spirits of adults, setting up elaborate ofrendas  (altars) with photos, candles, food, and favourite items of the deceased. For Espolòn, this holiday resonates deeply. In October 2020, Espolòn lost Cirilo Oropeza, the visionary Maestro Tequilero who revolutionised tequila-making. Cirilo’s passion built a spirit embodying courage, creativity, and authenticity—all qualities deeply celebrated in Mexican culture.  To honour Cirilo’s memory and embrace the lively spirit of Día de los Muertos, Espolòn has introduced three new cocktail recipes: the Espolòn Old Fashioned, Grand Margarita, and Mexican Mule.  Espolòn Old Fashioned 60ml Espolòn Añejo 1 bar spoon agave nectar 2 dashes Angostura bitters Stir ingredients with ice until well-chilled, then strain into an Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist and a maraschino cherry for a warm, rich finish. Grand Margarita 45 ml Espolòn Reposado or Espolòn Blanco 30ml fresh lime juice 15ml agave syrup (adjust for sweetness) 15ml Grand Marnier or Cointreau Shake ingredients with ice, then strain into a salt-rimmed margarita glass or rocks glass with ice. Garnish with a lime wheel to add a zesty flair. Mexican Mule 45 ml Espolòn Blanco 15ml fresh lime juice Ginger beer to top up Fresh mint and lime wheel for garnish In a mule mug or highball glass, combine Espolòn Blanco and lime juice over ice. Top with ginger beer, then garnish with fresh mint and a lime wheel for a refreshing and spicy kick. Join Espolòn’s community and keep up with the latest cocktail creations, celebrations, and more. Follow Espolòn on Instagram and Facebook for a front-row seat to all things tequila.

We were gifted the Cricut Starter Bundle to try out and "man oh man", creativity central has arrived. If you are starting to think about those festive gifts for Christmas, THIS IS THE ANSWER! The Cricut Joy is a versatile and user-friendly cutting machine that has captured the hearts of DIY enthusiasts and crafters alike. This compact device, while smaller than its bigger counterparts, packs a punch, offering a wide range of crafting possibilities. In this in-depth review, we delve into the features, performance, and overall experience of Cricut Joy, exploring its strengths and limitations. Design and Portability The Cricut Joy is a marvel of compact design, making it highly portable. Its sleek and modern aesthetic fits seamlessly into any crafting space, and its lightweight nature allows for easy transportation. The intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies navigation, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced crafters. Features and Functionality The Cricut Joy boasts a range of impressive features: Precision Cutting:  The machine excels at intricate cuts, perfect for creating personalized labels, stickers, cards, and more. Its fine-point blade ensures clean and precise cuts, even on delicate materials. Write Functionality:  The built-in pen holder enables the Cricut Joy to write messages, draw designs, and add personalized touches to projects. This feature opens up a world of possibilities for creating unique cards, invitations, and home decor. Heat Transfer:  With compatible materials, the Cricut Joy can create custom iron-on transfers for clothing and accessories. This allows you to personalize t-shirts, tote bags, and other items with ease. Wide Material Compatibility:  The machine can handle a variety of materials, including vinyl, cardstock, iron-on, patterned paper, and more. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of crafting projects. Design Space Integration:  The Cricut Design Space software offers a vast library of pre-designed projects, templates, and fonts, making it easy to bring your creative visions to life. You can also import your own designs or create custom projects from scratch. Performance and Ease of Use The Cricut Joy delivers impressive performance, cutting through materials with precision and speed. The intuitive software and clear instructions make it easy to set up and start crafting. Even novice crafters can quickly master the basics and create stunning projects. Pros and Cons Pros: Compact and portable design:  Easy to store and transport. User-friendly interface:  Simple to navigate and use. Versatile features:  Cutting, writing, and heat transfer capabilities. Wide range of compatible materials:  Suitable for various crafting projects. Precision cutting and writing:  Clean and accurate cuts and writing. Design Space integration:  Access to a vast library of designs and templates. Cons: Limited cutting mat size:  May require multiple cuts for larger projects. Some complex projects may require additional tools and materials:  For example, weeding tools for vinyl projects. In-Depth Analysis One of the standout features of the Cricut Joy is its ability to cut intricate designs with precision. This makes it ideal for creating personalized labels, stickers, and cards. The writing functionality adds another dimension to crafting, allowing you to add handwritten messages and drawings to your projects. The Cricut Joy's compatibility with a wide range of materials is another significant advantage. Whether you're working with vinyl, cardstock, or iron-on, the machine can handle it with ease. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for crafters of all skill levels. However, the limited cutting mat size can be a drawback for larger projects. You may need to make multiple cuts or use a larger machine for more extensive projects. Additionally, some complex projects may require additional tools and materials, such as weeding tools for vinyl projects. The Cricut Joy is an excellent choice for crafters seeking a versatile and user-friendly machine. Its compact size, impressive features, and ease of use make it ideal for both beginners and experienced crafters. While it may have limitations in terms of cutting mat size, its overall performance and versatility make it a valuable addition to any crafting toolkit. If you're looking to explore the world of DIY crafting, the Cricut Joy is a fantastic starting point. Available at Takealot retailing at R4 299.00 - the perfect gift for Christmas.

Just in time for summer, Jack Black Brewing Co. is now pouring in Nederburg Wine Estate . With the launch of The Jack Black Taproom at The Courtyard, craft beer lovers have a new go-to spot for good brews and even better vibes. It’s a laid-back, family-friendly space and everyone (including your on-leash four-legged friends) is welcome. Whether you join in for a casual pint, wine tasting, or an afternoon of gourmet pairings and lawn games, The Courtyard delivers. Think casual eats like pizzas, self-service bites, and pre-booked picnic boxes from The Manor restaurant, Nederburg’s elegant restaurant led by chef Linda Trautmann.  For those with kids or looking to mix things up, there’s no shortage of entertainment. From croquet to family-friendly play areas, the fun spills out into the sprawling lawn, which stretches all the way to The Manor. Situated in the historic manor house dating back to 1800, it offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere perfect for hearty breakfasts (only on weekends), lunches, and special events, including weddings.  “We’ve always been a family-friendly destination, but our revamped facilities are really next level,” says Thembi Ndwandwe, Nederburg’s destination manager. “We want everyone to make the most of the moment. We’re here to delight our regulars, locals, and visitors from far and wide with authentic flavours in an atmosphere of warm and gracious hospitality.” The Courtyard trades from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 to 18:00 (public holidays included). The Jack Black Taproom operates from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 to 17:00 (public holidays included), and The Manor is open from Wednesday to Friday, 12:00 to 15:00, and on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, from 9:00 to 15:00.     Please note that dogs are most welcome in the exterior spaces if they are leashed, non-aggressive and if their owners agree to clean up after them (for which waste bins have been provided). Nederburg retains the right to ask dog owners to remove their pets from the property if they pose a problem to guests or other dogs. https://www.jackblackbeer.com https://www.instagram.com/jackblackbeer/ https://www.instagram.com/jackblackstaproo https://www.nederburg.com/visit-nederburg-paarl

In a world saturated with heavy, calorie-laden beers, Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale emerges as a refreshing oasis. This light and crisp brew is the perfect companion for those balmy summer days. With its low-calorie count and balanced flavour profile, it's a guilt-free pleasure that won't weigh you down. A Taste of Summer You're transported to a sun-drenched beach when you take a sip of Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale. The beer's pale golden hue hints at the light, refreshing character within. A delicate aroma of citrus and floral hops fills the air as you bring the glass to your lips. The initial taste is a burst of crisp, clean malt, followed by a gentle wave of bitterness from the noble hops. The balance between the sweet malt and the bitter hops is expertly crafted, creating a harmonious flavour profile that's both satisfying and refreshing. Low Calories, High Flavor One of the most impressive aspects of Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale is its low-calorie count. This makes it a guilt-free choice for those who want to enjoy a beer without the extra calories. But don't let the low-calorie count fool you. This beer is packed with flavour. Every sip is a delightful experience that leaves you wanting more. The Perfect Summer Companion Whether you're lounging by the pool, having a barbecue with friends, or simply relaxing at home, Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale is the perfect beer to accompany you. Its refreshing taste and low-calorie count make it the ideal summer drink. So, the next time you're looking for a light and refreshing beer, reach for a can of Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale. It's a summer sipper that's sure to please. What we loved: Light and Refreshing:  This beer is perfect for those warm summer days. Its low alcohol content makes it easy to drink without feeling weighed down. Crisp and Clean:  The beer has a crisp and clean taste, with a subtle hop bitterness that balances out the malt sweetness. Citrus Notes:  The subtle citrus notes add a refreshing twist to this classic pale ale. Low Calories:  At only [insert calorie count] calories per can, this beer is a guilt-free way to enjoy a cold one. Our Verdict: Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a light and refreshing beer. Its low-calorie count and balanced flavour profile make it the perfect summer drink. Whether you're enjoying it by the pool, at a barbecue, or simply relaxing at home, this beer is sure to hit the spot. Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale is a refreshing and flavorful beer that's perfect for the summer months. Its low-calorie count and balanced taste make it a guilt-free pleasure that won't disappoint. So, the next time you're looking for a light and refreshing brew, reach for a can of Jack Black's Original Cape Pale Ale.

The global denim lifestyle apparel leader is focused on its direct-to-consumer and brand-led strategy to continue winning with fans in the market. In November, Levi Strauss & Co. (LS&Co.) celebrated its 30th anniversary since entering the local market. Over three decades, it has grown from operating a single store to owning and operating over 34 brick-and-mortar locations across the country. Today, Levi’s® is at the center of culture in South Africa, and as a direct-to-consumer (DTC), denim lifestyle leader, focused on its long-term ambition of becoming a $10 billion company globally. “Thirty years ago, LS&Co. was one of the first multinational companies to establish a presence in post-Apartheid South Africa. We created job and economic opportunities, planting what would be the seeds of our DTC-first presence in this market. Since 1994, the LS&Co. presence has grown as we stood alongside our fans during milestones such as Levi’s® Original Music and the Red for Life HIV/Aids awareness program,” said Amisha Jain, SVP & Managing Director, South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Levi Strauss & Co. Winning with women through the strength of the brand Over the past 30 years, Levi’s® has extended its offerings and developed new lines, including Levi’s® Curvy, which speaks to the deeper role of fashion in enhancing South African women’s identities. Actress Nomzama Mbatha was chosen to be the face of the line in South Africa, representing the brand’s efforts to speak to the local market and advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance.  This year, Levi’s® Curvy grew by 42% in terms of revenue compared to the previous year and helped us increase our overall women’s share of business in South Africa. The Levi’s® Curvy line demonstrates the brand’s commitment to remaining at the center of culture, understanding of its South African fans, and speaks to the focus the brand puts on its customers. Focusing on the fans The brand continues to double down on its DTC-first strategy, and is committed to delivering the best shopping experience. Beyond the 11 NextGen Indigo stores across South Africa, LS&Co. is also driving digital growth with a seamless online and offline customer journey. This is also reflected in the Sandton and Rosebank stores, which are spaces centered around bringing together the fashion, art, and creative communities. Looking ahead As LS&Co. celebrates three decades in South Africa, the company remains dedicated to becoming a true fan-obsessed, world-class retailer by continuing to partner with its employees and loyal fans. About the Levi’s® brand The Levi’s® brand epitomizes classic American style and effortless cool. Since their invention by Levi Strauss & Co. in 1873, Levi’s® jeans have become one of the most recognizable garments of clothing in the world—capturing the imagination and loyalty of people for generations. Today, the Levi’s® brand portfolio continues to evolve through a relentless pioneering and innovative spirit unparalleled in the apparel industry. Our range of leading denim and accessories are available in more than 110 countries, allowing individuals around the world to express their style. For more information about the Levi’s® brand, its products and stores, please visit levi.com . About Levi Strauss & Co. Levi Strauss & Co. is one of the world's largest brand-name apparel companies and a global leader in denim. The company designs and markets jeans, casual wear and related accessories for men, women and children under the Levi's®, Dockers®, Levi Strauss SignatureTM and Beyond Yoga® brands. Its products are sold in more than 110 countries worldwide through a combination of chain retailers, department stores, online sites, and a global footprint of approximately 3,200 brand-dedicated stores and shop-in-shops. Levi Strauss & Co.'s reported 2023 net revenues were $6.2 billion. For more information, go to http://levistrauss.com , and for company news and announcements go to http://investors.levistrauss.com .

Vans is rewinding the clock with the return of the Upland, a classic skate shoe straight from the brand’s archives. First launched in 2000, the Upland stood for progression in skate culture, style, and creativity. Now reimagined for the present, this throwback favourite is officially available in South Africa. Inspired by the energy of the late '90s and early 2000s, when the future was full of possibilities, Upland represents a generation that doesn’t ask, “Why?”—they say, "Watch me." The reimagined Upland retains that fearless spirit, honouring the past while meeting the demands of modern life.  Classic Look, Future-Ready Famed for its bold, chunky silhouette and signature V-logo, the Upland returns as part of the Vans' Always Out There collection, which includes bomber jackets, tees, accessories, and baggy pants. With its oversized tongue, padded collar, and retro design, the Upland delivers the vibes that define an era.  But this isn’t just a trip down memory lane. Upgraded with modern materials and construction, the Upland combines the best of the past with the performance of today. Available in three colourways (White/Black, Black/Black, and Vintage Sport Douglas Fir), this reimagined classic is an all-new take on an icon. Globally Inspired & Locally Rooted In a world that feels more uncertain than ever, the youth of today are doing what they’ve always done: turning cynicism into creativity, building their own paths, and challenging the status quo. The Upland’s relaunch is grounded in the communities that Vans has always supported.  Globally, the brand has partnered with culture-shapers in New York, London, and Tokyo who represent the next generation of the Off the Wall spirit. Locally, Vans is collaborating with rising stars who share this energy. K Keed , a boundary-pushing rapper from Cape Town, lordkez , a genre-bending musician with an unmistakable sound, and Francesco Mbele (AKA Franadilla) , an innovative multimedia artist and DJ, are bringing their energy to Vans’ local campaign. Together, they embody what it means to be Always Out There. Become part of a culture that never stops moving. Shop the Upland collection in-store or at Vans online and keep up with the brand on Instagram and Facebook .

While wine pairings tend to follow tradition (think Bordeaux with lamb or Chablis with oysters), Bisquit & Dubouché invites you to play by different rules. Pairing cognac with food is a journey into the unexpected—a chance to elevate your dining experience with nuanced flavours that tell new stories with every sip. With its complex layers and surprising versatility, cognac moves easily between savoury and sweet meals. Its rich notes of dried fruit, spice, and oak weave through unexpected dishes, daring you to explore bold and adventurous combinations.  Whether balancing the heat of spice, cutting through fattiness, or intensifying the flavours of rich chocolate, Bisquit & Dubouché’s V.S., V.S.O.P., and X.O. cognacs add an element of intrigue to any dish. The Art of Pairing Cognac When it comes to pairing cognac with food, the rules are less rigid than wine, which gives you the freedom to explore a wide range of flavours and textures.  Here are a few tips to guide you, but remember—it’s as much about discovery as it is tradition: Balance Richness & Spice Cognac’s deep, warm notes of oak and spice work beautifully with rich, fatty dishes. Think roasted duck, braised meats, or charcuterie. Cognac’s complexity cuts through richness, balancing the dish while enhancing its depth.  Play with Flavours Cognac shines when paired with cheeses like Brie or Camembert, where its fruity notes complement the creaminess. On the sweeter side, its hints of vanilla and caramel make it a natural partner for desserts. Dark chocolate, crème brûlée, or even a spiced apple tart all reach new heights with a glass of cognac. Serve it Neat or With a Twist Unlike wine, which might need precise temperature control or decanting, cognac is more forgiving. Serve it neat for a classic experience, or add a drop of water to release new aromas and flavours.  Elevate Your Dishes with Bisquit & Dubouché Founded in 1819 by Alexandre Bisquit in the heart of Cognac, France, Bisquit & Dubouché has long been celebrated for its dedication to craftsmanship and its innovative approach to cognac making.  With a heritage spanning over 200 years, it’s renowned for its distinctive distillation method that allows for an extended extraction of aromas, resulting in smooth, complex, and deeply flavourful cognacs. Every bottle of Bisquit & Dubouché tells a story of patience and precision, making it the perfect partner for pairing with a wide variety of dishes.  Bisquit & Dubouché V.S. Bisquit & Dubouché V.S. is defined by the vanilla fragrance of its Fins Bois base, refined through slow ageing in oak barrels for 3 to 5 years.  Expect bright aromas of fresh pear and plum, accompanied by delicate floral notes and a whisper of spice. On the palate, its fruity core is elevated by lavish notes of cinnamon and oak.  The fresh, smoky notes of salmon or trout create a delightful contrast to the Bisquit & Dubouché V.S., allowing the fruit and spice to shine.

Nowadays, we have access to a wealth of information. Yet, there is so much misinformation available at our fingertips that even the most sceptical of us are at risk of being fooled. This is particularly true when it comes to skincare and sun protection.   From ‘old wives tales’ to uninformed advice being punted on social media, most of us are at risk of being exposed to a sun protection myth (or ten!) this summer.   Leaders in the skincare industry – Lamelle Research Laboratories – have debunked a few of the most common sun protection myths to ensure we stay protected this season and beyond:   Myth: You only need to use sun protection when it’s sunny outside Truth: While we are more likely to get a painful sunburn when it is sunny outside, did you know that the sun’s UV rays can damage our skin even on overcast and rainy days? UVA rays are responsible for accelerated ageing and cellular DNA damage, and unfortunately for us, they are present all year round – regardless of the weather. This means you must apply a good quality, broad-spectrum SPF product daily, irrespective of the season.   Myth: The higher the SPF, the stronger the sun protection Truth: The sun protection factor (SPF) number on your sunscreen tube applies to time – not to strength. Let’s say you can spend ten minutes outdoors before your skin starts to burn. An SPF 30 would then protect your skin for thirty times longer, which, in this case, is 300 minutes. If you were to apply an SPF 50, it would protect your skin for 500 minutes. The SPF number is directly proportional to the amount of time you are protected rather than the strength of the protection.   Myth: Sun protection products are not safe for babies and children Truth: Many skincare products are unsuitable for children, and this may include some sun protection products, but plenty of available sunscreens are safe for young skin. Babies and young children are extremely vulnerable to sunburn, so it is imperative to protect their skin with a suitable SPF from around the age of six months and up. If you are unsure whether a sun protection product is suitable for your child, consult your medical practitioner or the brand in question.   Myth: Darker skin tones do not need to apply SPF Truth: A common misconception is that only very fair and Caucasian skin tones need sun protection. Even though it is not always visible, people with darker skin tones can still get sunburnt, and even worse, they are also vulnerable to developing skin cancer. The truth is that all skin types, from the very lightest (Fitzpatrick 1) to the very deepest (Fitzpatrick 6), need SPF protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.   Myth: Sunscreen is toxic and contains harmful chemicals Truth: Modern sunscreen formulations have come a long way. Not only have their textures, efficacy, and scents improved, but brands have also worked tirelessly to improve their formulations to be beneficial and safe. Sunscreen is safe. This is one of the most important myths to debunk because when people do not use sunscreen out of fear, it is incredibly detrimental to their health. If you are concerned about the safety of sun protection products, we recommend researching to find a brand you can trust. Look for a credible skincare brand whose formulas are backed by science and clinical trials and who have a strong reputation. If you have questions, ask them. Ask your doctor, your therapist or the brand in question. It’s important not to stay silent if you have concerns.   Myth: You don’t need to reapply waterproof sunscreen Truth: The terms “waterproof” and “water-resistant” are somewhat misleading because they imply that your sun protection product remains on the skin even after being in the water. There is no such thing as actual “waterproof” sunscreen, as all SPF products will wash off from the skin eventually. Experts recommend reapplying your SPF after every swim or every two hours if your skin stays dry.   Lamelle’s ground-breaking Helase 50+ is a multi-functional anti-ageing sun protection product that transcends SPF by providing better protection against the entire spectrum of sunlight.   In short, this is the ultimate upgrade from your regular, everyday SPF 50. Helase 50+ protects against the full spectrum of sunlight while the super-antioxidant Pycnogenol® destroys harmful free radicals to decrease the number of harmful enzymes that cause thinning and sagging of the skin. On top of this, it decreases the damaging and ageing inflammation in the skin while actively stopping the effects of ageing on the skin and keeping the skin's immunity intact when exposed to sunlight.   If you have yet to try it, this summer is the time to do so. It is suitable for the whole family, all skin tones, and all skin types.   For more information, visit www.lamelle.co.za

A pair of endangered African Egyptian Vultures have made the final leg of their 16 600km journey from San Diego and are now in their permanent Eastern Cape home. This marks the end of a long and complicated relocation process and the start of a planned breeding programme by African vulture conservation project to reintroduce the birds to their native habitat. It’s hoped the well-travelled new arrivals will quickly settle in their new enclosure at VulPro@Shamwari, a purpose-built vulture rehabilitation, breeding, research and education facility on Shamwari Game Reserve about an hour outside Gqeberha. According to Kerri Wolter, VulPro CEO, initial signs are good: “The two are getting on very well. They feed and roost together which is a good sign for eventual pairing when the young female reaches maturity.” The pair, which have grown up in captivity, are not releasable and will join VulPro@Shamwari’s breeding programme. Should this be successful the offspring will join a captive breeding population. Once this is viable, future offspring will be released at Shamwari in keeping with its ethos of restoring indigenous fauna and flora on the 250 km2 reserve to what it once was. The birds will be fitted with tracking devices. Egyptian Vultures have faced a catastrophic population decline due to poisoning, electrocution from powerlines and poaching for traditional medicine. Wild vulture populations on the continent have plummeted by more than 90% over the past 30 years. Records of the species in South Africa date back to 1680 but it is now considered extinct in this country. In a rare sighting, a juvenile was spotted in the Mpumalanga Highveld in 2020. There have been other sightings of vagrant visitors. Before these, the species was last seen on the Wild Coast in 1923. The two Egyptian Vultures’ move to their bespoke enclosure coincided with the arrival of a larger contingent of birds. These included two young Cape Vulture fledglings which will be released with other captive-bred vultures. Two non-releasable breeding pairs of Lappet-faced vultures, one pair of White-headed Vultures, nine African White-backed vultures and seven Cape vultures will join the captive-breeding programme. “We hope the non-releasable birds will establish additional pairs enabling us to expand the existing captive-breeding population and maximise our supplementation programme,” explains Wolter. Cape vulture offspring are released on Shamwari while those from the tree-nesting species are sent to release sites that the National Vulture Breeding Steering Committee identifies as areas where these species need bolstering and support. Wolter says transporting the vultures is an immense logistical undertaking. The birds have to be captured, loaded into bespoke crates and monitored during the journey to ensure they are not stressed. Security has to be provided throughout. “As always we’re hugely grateful to DHL which sponsors the relocations, Chery SA for sponsoring the two support vehicles and WeWild Africa which paid for the special crates we use. Gauntlet Conservation Trust, Humane Society International/Africa and the Olsen Animal Trust provided the funding to build the enclosures for the newcomers” “The Egyptian Vultures are another milestone in this programme which is as important as any other which has brought a species back from the brink of extinction. To see vultures flying over Shamwari again after so long is a testament to VulPro’s success against remarkable odds,” says Joe Cloete, Shamwari’s CEO.   For more about VulPro@Shamwari visit: https://www.shamwari.com/conservations/vulpro-shamwari/ The two Egyptian Vultures were relocated to South Africa in collaboration with the World Bird Sanctuary and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. They were in quarantine before arriving at Shamwari. Vultures face many threats including drowning in concrete dams, trapping, intentional and unintentional poisoning, killing for food or belief-based uses, electrocution and collision with energy infrastructure such as wind turbines and power lines. Human encroachment has particularly impacted African savanna raptors. Species in unprotected areas face declines that are more than double that of birds in protected areas. For more information see Dr Phil Shaw et al’s study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution : https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-023-02236-0

adidas Originals and BAPE ® are back. This time, continuing the trailblazing partnership with a collaborative first – a bold take on the 2000s-inspired Orketro silhouette which was designed in Tokyo. Drawing on an era defined by undeniable attitude and BAPE®’s unmatched influence on pop culture, the label’s take on the Orketro sneaker features contrasting three stripes on the left shoe and an iconic BAPE STA™ on the right. Bringing a fresh new look to the silhouette, the collaborative look mixes mesh and enamel leather with the signature BAPE STA™ Y2K colourway as well as a 1ST LINE CAMO update to the upper overlay. In addition, co-branded ‘A Bathing Ape®’ and adidas Originals details punctuate the look throughout to cap it off in style. Inspired by bold Y2K color palettes, the BAPE® Orketro arrives in two colorways – one in yellow, blue, white and green, and the other in tonal purple with white accents. Each pair arrives in a custom co-branded box with a blue mesh bag.   The BAPE® Orketro sneaker will be available on 23rd November 2024 at adidas.co.za , Sandton, Gateway and V&A waterfront flagship stores.

If there's one thing we know about South Africa, it's that our passion for rugby runs as deep as a Springbok scrum. Whether it's a weekend game or a lengthy conversation about that last-minute try, we live and breathe the sport. This year, Siviwe ‘Shakes’ Soyizwapi has been a powerhouse on the field, giving us every reason to celebrate the game. In the world of rugby success, it’s not just about the strong tackles and hard hits – it’s the grit, determination, and commitment that make legends like Shakes. However, reaching the top requires not only muscle but also the right gear to support your game. Looking to up your game this Christmas? Shakes has put together the perfect wish list to help you make 2024 your best year yet!   Power meets stability   A good rugby game relies on the ability to make explosive moves – whether quick direction changes or tough tackles – stability is key. The UA TriBase Reign 6 is Shakes’ top choice for training because it provides everything he needs. The grip allows players to pivot, explode, and change direction without worrying about slipping. Additionally, the low-to-the-ground design offers enhanced stability, which is important for quick sidesteps and powerful scrums. RSP: R2, 899.00 Fit for a performance with no distractions   The festive season isn’t just about slowing down—it’s a chance to reflect on the grind, take a breather, and get ready to crush it in 2024. If you want to step into the new year with a fresh mindset and the right gear, Shakes recommends the UA Vanish Seamless Grid SS . It gives you that perfect compression-like fit for muscle support whilst keeping you free to move however you need. RSP: R899,00 Stay locked in!   Pushing yourself to the limit is ingrained in every rugby game, and it demands gear that can keep up. The UA HeatGear® Printed Long Shorts are designed to give you the support you need to perform at your best, no matter how intense it gets. Made with HeatGear® fabric, these shorts feel like a second skin, keeping you cool under pressure. The compression fit helps support your muscles, speeding up recovery so you're ready for the next round - whether that's on the field or in the gym. Shakes adds, “These shorts give you the support you need to push through and get the most out of your game, no matter how tough it gets.” RSP: R999.00 Speed is the foundation of the game   The UA Core+ Tech SS is built for speed, support, and breathability – also known as the key elements for every game. From the design  to the fabric, the UA Tech is Under Armour’s original go-to training gear. Shakes adds that, “Rugby’s about playing hard from start to finish. That’s why you need gear that works as hard as you do. The UA Core+ Tech SS keeps you cool, comfortable, and ready to go.” RSP: R599.00 Shakes has shown us that success on the rugby field isn’t just a result of raw talent; it’s the determination, grit, and commitment that truly set champions apart. With the right gear, you can show up like a winner, whether you’re training hard, recovering fast, or hitting the field with everything you’ve got.   Want to find something for the lady in your life, or someone with other interests? Find more gifts with game here: https://shorturl.at/MYZ3t