Young Entrepreneur Soars To Great Heights With SA Premier Business Awards

DNA Brand Architects.
DNA Brand Architects

DNA Brand Architects is pleased to announce its win from the prestigious third annual South African Premier Business Awards that took place at the Sandton Convention Centre on Thursday evening.

 

Sylvester Chauke: Chief Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole - Limited Edition Collection.
Sylvester Chauke: Chief Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole – Limited Edition Collection.

Scooping away the award in the Young Entrepreneur of the Year category, Sylvester Chauke, Chief Architect at DNA Brand Architects, said that this award was confirmation that the company was headed towards an upward trajectory and that the company was indeed contributing to the building of the South African economy.

 

Jay Badza: Senior Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole x Nelson Makamo Limited Edition Collection.
Jay Badza: Senior Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole x Nelson Makamo Limited Edition Collection.
Zoe Msutwana
Zoe Msutwana: Senior Architect. Dressed by Tuelo Nguyuza.

 

“I know many young entrepreneurs who wake up every morning to open doors to their enterprises. I thank the SA Premier Business Awards for this category. It recognises the efforts of young entrepreneurs across the land and the role they play in the fight against youth unemployment in our country. I thank my super awesome team that relentlessly support the vision as well as big business that support our business daily”, said Chauke.

 

Katya Guerra: Associate Architect. Dressed by Tuelo Nguyuza.
Katya Guerra: Associate Architect. Dressed by Tuelo Nguyuza.
Siya Ngcobo: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole - Limited Edition.
Siya Ngcobo: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole – Limited Edition.

DNA Brand Architects is a Marketing and Brand Consultancy that has shown in its very short time of existence, that Young Entrepreneurs can not only start business entities but also punch way above their weight in terms of working at a high level with Blue-chip corporations.

Mandla Dakada: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole.
Mandla Dakada: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole.

 

Khangelani Dziba: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole.
Khangelani Dziba: Associate Architect. Dressed by House Of Ole.

A fundamental issue for Sylvester is how South Africans can win the war against Youth Unemployment in our country. On a daily basis, South Africans are faced with the depressing facts of the high unemployment rate in our country.  However, Sylvester is not someone to regurgitate on the doom and gloom of these facts, but rather sees this as an opportunity for a societal change and in particular, youth involvement in solving this major challenge.

Seo Mothibe. Brand Coordinator. Dressed by Tuelo Nguyuza.
Seo Mothibe. Brand Coordinator. Dressed by Tuelo Nguyuza.

“Youth Unemployment is a disturbing factor in South Africa, however with the power we have as youth owned businesses, we can start reversing the trend by building sustainable small enterprises across our land. This award confirms that we are doing just that and we are keen for the future”, he concludes.

 

Obakeng Ntong: Brand Assistant. Dressed by House Of Ole.
Obakeng Ntong: Brand Assistant. Dressed by House Of Ole.
Marius Vos: Brand Assistant. Dressed by House Of Ole.
Marius Vos: Brand Assistant. Dressed by House Of Ole.

The night was ostentatiously graced and supported by scores of top business leaders some of which included Life Time Award winner Dr Anna Mokgokong, Chairperson of Brand SA, Chichi Maponya and renowned Brand Strategist, Thebe Ikalafeng. Government ministries were also present including Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies and the Honorable Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa, who urged businesses to look beyond self-beneficiation and instead towards contributing towards social cohesion in their business models.

Lawrence Manypaelo: Associate Creative. Dressed by House Of Ole x Nelson Makamo Limited Edition Collection.
Lawrence Manypaelo: Associate Creative. Dressed by House Of Ole x Nelson Makamo Limited Edition Collection.

The SA Premier Business Awards recognize business excellence and honours enterprises that promote the spirit of success and innovation as well as job creation, good business ethics and quality.

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Miss SA Rolene Strauss wins Miss World!

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Miss South Africa Rolene Strauss has been crowned Miss World, becoming the first Miss South Africa to take this prestigious title since Anneline Kriel’s reign in 1974.

An ecstatic Rolene beat 124 contestants from around the globe and justified the faith thousands of South Africans had that she would win.

This fourth year Volksrust medical student was also the bookmakers’ favourite to win the title and she didn’t disappoint.

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In her acceptance speech Rolene said she was both proud and humbled to have won and that her dreams had become reality: “My country is my pride and my purpose has and will always lie within it.”

When Rolene won the Miss South Africa title in March this year she said in her acceptance speech that she had goose bumps thinking just thinking about the title.

“In my country we are all here from different backgrounds and cultures but we have one thing in common – we are South Africans. I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am to represent such a diverse nation.”

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Rolene is remembered for her drive, what she brought to the title and how she has represented South Africa not only nationally, but also internationally.

She says: “Not only has the Miss South Africa title taken me places, but I have also learnt from the women who walked this path before me.  Together with my visions and dreams, I can catapult the meaning and relevance of the Miss World title to an even higher level.”

Throughout her reign Rolene has emphasised her passion for health and fitness. “It’s is all about living, loving and giving.”  She has emphasised the importance of women’s health and its empowering effect on our everyday lives. “We are capable of so much more when we are healthy; physically, mentally and emotionally.

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“As I stand before you my dream is now a reality, my journey now at its beginning. I am part of something bigger, part of a beautiful picture painted with different colours, cultures, backgrounds and dreams. We are all part of the painting.”

Say Chief Executive Officer, Jose Dos Santos of sponsors Cell C: “We at Cell C are delighted with Rolene’s amazing win at the Miss World Pageant. As Miss South Africa she has shown the resilience and determination to make a difference in the world and we are convinced that she will prove a wonderful ambassador for the Miss World brand. We also know she is carrying the South African flag with pride. Congratulations!”

It was a sentiment echoed by Graeme Stevens, CEO of Sun International: “Sun International would like to congratulate Rolene on being crowned the new Miss World which is a massive achievement. We are convinced that she will make as superb ambassador and inspire a generation of young girls who wish to reach for a dream.”

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Shopping redefined as Brutal Fruit announces Party Store ‘Products of the week’

Brutal Fruit Party Store

What could be better than shopping while you party? Well, Brutal Fruit has the answers… Party goers and fashionistas alike are in for a treat like no other this festive season, with Brutal Fruit’s newly launched Party Store, a platform that offers consumers an opportunity to own some enviable designer items and gain access to VIP experiences. Some of the listed designer items on www.brutalfruit.co.za include Christian Louboutin party heels, Louis Vuitton handbags, Sunglass Hut Vouchers, Revlon Hampers as well as Hair Extensions.

“The Brutal Fruit Party Store is a platform that will allow our Brutal Fruit family to engage further with the brand and redeem some Brutal Dollars which they earn whenever they purchase Mango-Goji triple fusion. We have stocked the store up with fabulous goodies that we know the Brutal Fruit woman will love,” explained Brutal Fruit Assistant Brand Manager, Lulama Mahanjana.

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Right on the heels of Brutal Fruit Ambassador and Mzansi’s Queen of all things fabulous, Bonang Matheba, unveiling her Best Picks exclusively for the Party Store, the platform has unveiled the “ rodents of The Week”, further showcasing the desirable rewards Brutal Fruit consumers and Matheba’s supporters alike get to enjoy on the Party Store, by simply earning and redeeming Brutal Dollars.

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Brutal Fruit has also hinted at a collaboration with its Brand Ambassador and SA’s leading Designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee. The designer, with an impressive resume, from dressing A-Listers such as Kelly Rowland, Kourtney Kardashian, Lee-Ann Liebenberg and most notably, Queen B*, is rumoured to be starting work on his limited edition range for the Brutal Fruit Party Store, to be unveiled in the new year. The store has been deemed the new hang out spot for South Africa’s “IT Girls” as they bid to redeem Brutal Dollars and own some of these fabulous goodies.

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Remember to keep the party going with Mango-Goji and simply – Buy. EarnShopParty this summer!

Products of the Week attached are:
Louis Vuitton Neverfull Bag – B$ 72000
Black Christian Louboutin Pigalle Heels – B$ 60000
Revlon Hamper – B$ 15000

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South Africa’s Top 10 Restaurants by Eat Out

Multitudes of Chefs, Students and Foodies across South Africa and other parts of the world were on the edge of their seats on Sunday 16 November ’14 as the 2014 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards was held in Cape Town. Finally the Eat Out Top 10 has been announced! Without further ado, here are this year’s winners, along with comments from the panel of judges.

  1. The Test Kitchen (Woodstock, Cape Town)
The Test Kitchen
The Test Kitchen

Local and international food lovers alike flock to this gem, often after a month-long wait to get a table – and what an exceptional meal awaits them. It’s no surprise that this celebrated eatery by chef Luke Dale-Roberts, the very deserving third time winner of Restaurant of the Year, is now featured on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

“Luke is a genius chef who excites and challenges the palates of his diners through flavour, ingredients, innovation and attitude. Every year it gets better and better.” – Abigail Donnelly “Luke’s cooking feels almost effortless, even when you know it’s anything but.” – Kate Wilson

  1. Five Hundred (Sandton, Johannesburg)
Five Hundred
Five Hundred

Although there’s outstanding technique and presentation on show here, chef David Higgs’s produce-driven menu is all about allowing individual ingredients to shine, and giving diners a fine time. It’s not wacky or concept-driven – it’s delicious food taken to a new level.

“Interesting ingredients, expert techniques and beautiful plating make this an unforgettable meal.” – Andy Fenner
 “There’s great flavour here; an excellent experience all round.” – Reuben Riffel
 “Quite simply, some of the best food and service on the continent.” – Arnold Tanzer

  1. The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français (Franschhoek, Western Cape)
The Tasting Room
The Tasting Room

So much of what chef Margot Janse does defies description, but one thing is certain: she’s pushing the envelope in showcasing unique South African flavours. This is culinary storytelling at its best. The African surprise menu is a playful, innovative feast of visual surprises.

“Margot is at the top of her game and is clearly having a lot of fun.” – Reuben Riffel
“Consistently genius food dazzles and thrills with a magical element of surprise.” – Abigail Donnelly

  1. Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient (Elandsfontein, Pretoria)
Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient
Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient

Chantel Dartnall, our 2014 San Pellegrino Chef of the Year, reigns supreme at this flamboyant restaurant. Inspired by her travels and showcasing a strong botanical theme, the menu reads like a playful, floral ode to the senses.

“Amazing attention to detail, radical technique on display, and surely some of the most beautiful plating in South Africa.” – Andy Fenner

  1. Jordan Restaurant (Stellenbosch)
Jordan Restaurant
Jordan Restaurant

Chef George Jardine’s seasonal menu captivates with outstanding flavours, textures and techniques. Sensitively sourced ingredients are prepared with complete confidence, and the end result is food that is unpretentious but delicious and beautiful to behold.

“This is easy-going fine dining at its best.” – Arnold Tanzer
 “George has a wonderful aesthetic all of his own. It’s less about the pomp, more about creating the perfect mouthful.” – Kate Wilson
 “One of the most exciting menus I’ve seen this year.” – Andy Fenner

  1. Overture (Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Overture
Overture

There’s no doubt about it, chef Bertus Basson is leading the pack when it comes to cooking South African heritage food. He’s putting traditional ingredients and techniques back on the plate. His focus on fresh, natural flavours, use of top-quality produce and precise technique results in intense, delicious dishes.

“This is brave, simple, vibrant food with masses of flavour and personality.” – Abigail Donnelly
“Delicious, accessible dining.” – Arnold Tanzer.

  1. Rust en Vrede (Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
Rust en Vrede
Rust en Vrede

Everything you’ve heard about this restaurant is true: the service is excellent, the space captivating and the attention to detail unparalleled. From the magical bread course of mini Guinness loaves and goat’s butter to petits fours at meal’s end, it’s an enchanting experience.

“This is exciting food cooked with confidence, often leading to moments of awed silence.” – Abigail Donnelly
“ A journey of art, flavour and texture.” – Reuben Riffel

  1. DW Eleven-13 (Dunkeld West, Johannesburg)
DW Eleven-13
DW Eleven-13

Marthinus Ferreira is an extremely passionate chef who’s worked with the likes of Heston Blumenthal – and it shows. This is a man striving for constant improvement, and his contemporary menu with hints of bistro classics offers a feast of note.

“Marthinus’s food is both precise and hearty, with big flavours and delicious combinations.” – Kate Wilson 
“This chef’s sincerity, passion and commitment are very inspiring.” – Abigail Donnelly
 “Truly, Marthinus is cooking up a storm in the City of Gold.” – Arnold Tanzer

  1. The Restaurant at Newton Johnson (Hemel en Aarde Valley)
The Restaurant at Newton Johnson
The Restaurant at Newton Johnson

Eric Bullpit’s food has always been technically sound (as diners at his former establishment The Roundhouse would know) but now he’s cooking with more confidence, demonstrating fantastic balance of flavours. Dishes are bursting with flavour and show a clear and uncluttered focus on the core ingredient.

“Eric’s food is honest and simple, with an innate sense of purity.” – Abigail Donnelly
 “Dishes impress with deep, intense flavours and a nice surprise here and there.” – Reuben Riffel

  1. Terroir (Stellenbosch)
Terroir
Terroir

Michael Broughton uses top quality produce and winning flavour combinations, and puts his own touch on the classics. Plating is gorgeously uncluttered and every dish shows a mastery of technique. The portions are generous and the flavours wonderfully layered, leading to a marvelous, memorable experience.

“Michael’s love for depth of flavour and sauces shines through.” – Arnold Tanzer 
“Simply superb. If I could eat here every week, I would.” – Kate Wilson 
“There’s a very clear direction to Michael’s cooking: classic dishes interpreted in various ways, just this side of cheeky.” – Andy Fenner

– Article by Eat Out

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Pierre Fitch to headline Manhunt Fireman’s Ball 2014

The Fireman’s Ball has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 2007 and has officially become the biggest proudly gay party in Jozi – and this year it’s bigger than ever.

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The party has seen some of the biggest local and international acts taking the stage and has become synonymous with the local gay market as the event of the year of the year. This year, after an incredibly successful party last year, the Fireman’s Ball will be hosted at Sandton’s trendiest club, The Sands, which will be enlarged to ensure the party is as epic as ever. The venue will see two dance floors, a fantastic sound and lighting display and five-star service.

This year, international gay icon, porn star and DJ, Pierre Fitch, will be hitting the decks. Pierre has been dominating the international gay space for over 15 years and has made a big name for himself.

Pierre has always been a fan of music and decided to pursue this hobby professionally. Therefore, Pierre has gone through extensive training with experts from the industry, spending the past two years learning all technical aspects of becoming a DJ. Pierre will be bringing some of the best music, production and sound to his performance which promises to be something spectacular.

“I can’t wait to come and experience all that South Africa has to offer,” Pierre told us. “The Fireman’s Ball seems like a load of fun and I’m so excited to be a part of this year’s event. I am looking forward to meeting my South African fans as well!”

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Pierre will be joined by some of the best local DJs ensuring one of the most star-studded parties of the year. The line-up includes Anele (94.7), Catherine Grenfell (5FM), Alex Caige (94.7), Mika Stefano, Vic Naidoo (5FM), Stuart Hillary (Therapy), DJ Sam, Dizzy and the winner of the Fireman’s Ball GAY DJ Search competition.

As always, the Fireman’s Ball has always been known to deliver the best VIP experience and this year is no different. For a reasonable R220, each VIP party-goer will receive the following:

  • Access to the VIP balcony overlooking the main dance floor
  • Our famous “Fire Starter” welcome drink
  • Delicious canapés
  • The sexiest waiters around

As a proud sponsor of the 2014 Fireman’s Ball, Manhunt is offering unlimited access to their site for a full week. Simply use the promotional code ‘FIREMANSBALL’ to unlock the magic.

Event Details
Date: Friday, 28 November 2014
Venue: The Sands, 58 Wierda Road East, Sandton.
Time: 20h30

Tickets:
General Access: Early Bird (Available until 10 November 2014) – R80
Pre-Sale – R100
Door – R120 (If Available)
VIP: R220 (Presale only)

 

Tickets available from Computicket.

 

Social Media
Fireman’s Ball
Twitter: @FiremansBall
Facebook: www.facebook.com/firemansball

 

Pierre Fitch
Twitter: @pierrefitch (18+)
Facebook: /www.facebook.com/DJPierreFitch
Web: www.djpierrefitch.com

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Star Studded Frenzy As Vodacom Launches iPhone 6

iPhone 6 fever swept through Mzansi like a hurricane as local celebrities and fans alike arrived at Vodacom World in Midrand, ahead of the highly anticipated launch of Apple’s latest creations. The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, which went on sale on Friday, 24th October  2014 at 12:00am, convinced hundreds of enthusiasts to leave their cosy beds behind and descend on Vodacom World to get their hands on these highly sought after gadgets. The crowds obviously included Mzansi’s top trendsetting personalities who refused to be outdone by their fans and had to be the first to purchase the new phones.

MTV VJ Nomuzi Mabena and Lynn Jasmin Martin
MTV VJ Nomuzi Mabena and Lynn Jasmin Martin
Strictly Come Dancing Winner Jonathan Boyton Lee
Strictly Come Dancing Winner Jonathan Boyton Lee
V-Entertainment VJ Denise Zimba and The Link's Lerato Kganyago
V-Entertainment VJ Denise Zimba and The Link’s Lerato Kganyago

“iPhone launches are always a big deal in the smartphone world and this year is no exception. It was truly amazing to see the Joburg “It Crew” embracing the midnight launch and popping into Vodacom World to get their devices first,” said Vodacom’s Managing Executive for Retail Operations, Sam Botha.

Terry Petto, Allegro Dinkwanyane and Mampho Brescia
Terry Pheto, Allegro Dinkwanyane and Mampho Brescia
Selfie Queens 5FM Poppy Ntshongwana and Leading Lady Terry Pheto
Selfie Queens 5FM Poppy Ntshongwana and Leading Lady Terry Pheto

To add to the dazzle, Vodacom also enlisted Mzansi’s sought after DJ Fresh as well as comedians Goliath and Goliath, and Tats Nkonzo to entertain and keep the hundreds of iPhone devotees who had been queuing for hours tapping.

The Big Dawg in Action
The Big Dawg in Action

“I have personally been a huge fan of the iPhone and when I realised that Vodacom was launching it at midnight I had to be one of the first people to get my hands on it, it’s my obsession,” said Long Walk to Freedom Actress, Terry Pheto. “I’m an Apple lover at heart, and when I heard of the iPhone 6 launch at Vodacom, I traded my pajamas for my stilettos. A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do for epic selfies”, added Roxy Burger.

The lovely Lerato Kganyago waiting in line for the sexy smartphone
The lovely Lerato Kganyago waiting in line for the sexy smartphone
The gorgeous Terry Pheto in the queue to get her hands on SA's latest phenomenon
The gorgeous Terry Pheto in the queue to get her hands on SA’s latest phenomenon
The Hunky Jonathan Boynton Lee
The Hunky Jonathan Boynton Lee
The lovely Poppy Ntshongwana and Pearl Moodie after a night of tech shopping
The lovely Poppy Ntshongwana and Pearl Moodie after a night of tech shopping
What's a party with no selfie RIGHT
What’s a party with no selfie RIGHT

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