The Midlands community is proud of its talented members who all contribute their expertise, and one such individual is Sabelo Xaba, who has gone from strength to strength in building his practice as a Physical Therapist and finding his way as a Zulu man. Read more about how he finds meaning within healing. Sabelo has always been a gentle soul, the peacemaker amongst his peers. “My father had a calm demeanour, there was no shouting...
In a world that often asks women to shrink, soften, or second-guess themselves, these voices rise in quiet defiance. This is a celebration of women owning their journeys. Each answer reveals a deeply personal moment of strength, resilience, or clarity. Together, these seven women form a powerful portrait of what it means to live with courage, trust your gut, and stand tall in your truth, unapologetically. What lesson did life teach you the hard way...
The scene is set—a crackling fire with a hot toddy in hand, a chilly, but clear countryside night, and a few friends keeping the cold at bay with warm conversations and insights. Come and join us as we sit with four local men and hear about their treasured memories, dreams, and lessons. John Roff Greatest role model: I grew up a bit later than usual (and parts of me still are, I suppose). As a...
Luxury is more than a label—it’s a lived experience shaped by passion, precision, and personal commitment. Owned and operated by Andrew and Liesel Norton, the Fine & Country KZN Midlands office is a standout in South Africa’s prestigious property sector. With an unrelenting obsession for real estate and a deep understanding of what it means to own, manage, and grow property portfolios, the Nortons have built a brand that is synonymous with excellence. A Team...
Meet Alex March, a gardening expert with a passion for all things indigenous. The first tree name Alex March learned when studying horticulture was Erythrina lysistemon. The second was Citharexylum quadrangulare (a.k.a Fiddlewood). However, the indigenous coral tree had more appeal, and in a short time Alex became, by his own admission, an ‘indigenous nut’. “Trying to get my tongue around the botanical names took a while, but after a few months, I realised that...
In honour of Father’s Day, we thought we’d share a few insights from three local dads and how they have navigated their parental roles. David Allen The Kids I have two wonderful daughters, aged seven and 11. I thoroughly enjoy being a dad. Navigating Your Role as a Father There’s a wonderful quote by Abigail Van Buren: “If you want your children to turn out well, spend twice as much time with them and...
Shaped by faith, tested by loss, and inspired by love—Carol Sacke Landscaping’s story is one of strength and growth. In places where mist rolls over hills and the soil breathes with life, there is a team of gardeners who don’t just landscape—they craft living works of art, rooted in purpose, faith and perseverance. At the helm is Carol Sacke, a woman whose journey is a testament to resilience and the beauty that grows from hardship....
Meet the Malawian mom who built a thriving local agriculture business. This is her inspiring story of family, farming, and the power of seeds. From the moment Chisomo Bean was born, agriculture was sown into her life. Growing up in a small village in Malawi, she spent her earliest years strapped to her mother’s back while they worked the land. Every harvest season, her family carefully selected the best seeds for the next planting—pumpkin seeds,...
At 88-years-old, few can look back on a life as rich and adventure-filled as that of David Cook. A retired yet steadfast advocate for effective wildlife conservation management and biodiversity policy, he has spent decades immersed in the rugged landscapes of Southern Africa. From pioneering efforts in the Natal Parks Board to battling the scourge of rhino poaching, his life’s work has been dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural world. A passionate endurance sports...
This Easter, indulge in a culinary adventure with our local chef JJ Pretorius! He shares two delectable dishes to make at home, and don’t worry, there is something sweet in the mix too! You’re probably familiar with the esteemed Fordoun Farm in Nottingham Road. It had humble beginnings as a dairy farm in the mid-1800s and was converted into a hotel and spa, successfully run and managed by the Bates family for over 20 years....