COMPILED BY: BONTLEFEELA MOGOYE PHOTOGRAPHY: MOTLABANA MONNAKGOTLA ART DIRECTION: LUCY NKOSI



THE HIGH-END LUXURY MARKET HAS NO DOUBT TAKEN A BACK SEAT DURING THE PANDEMIC, BUT FINE AESTHETICS CAN TRAVEL ACROSS TIME, SPACE AND BOUNDARIES. HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO REVISIT OPULENCE AND LUXURY OVER THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME.



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49434 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1761-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
Lungile Radu (South African media personality)



Printed suit R6,500 ($422,10); Imprint ZA



Kefilwe Mabote (A digital creator and luxury lifestyle enthusiast in South Africa)



Blue and black printed loungewear and Corset belt; both designed by Gert-Johan Coetzee (Price on request)
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49427" width="360" height="539" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1470-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></figure></div>



Black tuxedo jacket R2,800 ($181,83), Black pants R1,050 ($68,19) and Shirt R695 ($45,13), all Carducci Slip-on shoes R3,500 ($227,29)&#8211; Relevance for Men from Africa Rise, Sandton, Johannesburg



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49429" width="434" height="650" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1534-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px" /></figure></div>



Black two-piece: Pants R7,437 ($482,95) Top R8,437 ($547,89) all Taibo Bacar Cars supplied by: Zebra Square Gallery Hyde Park Furniture by Ligne Roset (www.lignerosetsa.co.za)



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49431 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1631-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
Over the years, I’ve invested in a few beautifully designed and custom-fitted suits that have stoodthetestoftime. Theseare significant purchases that I can still appreciate the value of.



– Lungile Radu



Nguni Cow Suit R6,800 ($441,58) By Imprint Za
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49438 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_1859-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
I have noted that luxury is something one needs to do for oneself. Whether I shop online or in-store, the experience is the same.



– Kefilwe Mabote



Alex lime green dress R18,000 ($1168,90) Taibo Bacar
</div></div>

IMG_1694

Luxury Gift Guide: The Luxe Factor

Our tech guru rounds up the coolest tools for 2021 and beyond. 



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-lifesmart-magic-mirror">1. LIFESMART MAGIC MIRROR</h4>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-1024x894.png" alt="" class="wp-image-49412" width="508" height="443" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-1024x894.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-300x262.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-768x671.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-1536x1342.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror-600x524.png 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LifeSmart-Magic-Mirror.png 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px" /></figure></div>



The Magic Mirror merges fashion with technology. It can be mounted at a central location like the entrance to the home, the bedroom or the bathroom. It has smart features that let you control supported home appliances, similar to a smart speaker. It features an auto-wake-up function, health management, voice control, entertainment functions, and has a built-in camera. The Magic Mirror is Android-powered and runs on a MediaTek chip with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of memory. You simply scan a QR code to set up and select personal preferences. 



R29,995 ($1,915) from Mikrotech.co.za



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-samsung-galaxy-z-fold-2">2. SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD 2</h4>



The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the gadget to own for early adopters. Samsung’s newest folding screen device is an incredible piece of tech, boasting an ultra-thin glass top over last year’s plastic one. The Infinity-O display, 120Hz refresh rate and multi-tasking capabilities make it a pleasure to use. Add to it a triple lens camera, 5G support, a massive fast-charging battery and what more could you want? If this is the future of mobile, we’re excited.



R46,995 ($3,000) from Samsung stores.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-ipad-air-64gb-cellular">3. IPAD AIR (64GB CELLULAR)</h4>



The new iPad Air takes Work From Anywhere to another level. Weighing just under 500g, it runs on Apple’s fastest A14 Bionic chip and is more powerful than most PCs. Plus, the pencil and keyboard accessories give you flexibility on what you can do or how creative you get to be. It has a 10.9-inch display, narrow bezels and 12MP camera; ideally suited for today’s environment as a result of the global pandemic. Work or play, it has an excellent battery life. This sleek tablet now comes in pastel hues like blue, green and pink, in addition to silver and grey. 



R14,999 ($958) at the iStore.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-ring-video-doorbell-3">4. RING VIDEO DOORBELL 3</h4>



Amazon’s popular Ring Video Doorbell 3 is now available in South Africa for the first time. For added peace of mind, it has motion detection and live view, above its two-way talk system. It features a 1080p full HD camera, enhanced dual-band 2.4-5Ghz WiFi connectivity and Alexa support. It works with the user-friendly Ring app, accessible from a mobile device. The adjustable Near Zone feature detects motion within 1.5m to 4.5m from the front door. Privacy features support areas that can be excluded from the camera’s field of view and the ability to turn off video or audio recording.



R3,999 ($255) from Takealot.com



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-smeg-d-g-espresso-machine">5. SMEG D&amp;G ESPRESSO MACHINE</h4>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-1024x955.png" alt="" class="wp-image-49414" width="377" height="351" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-1024x955.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-300x280.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-768x716.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-1536x1432.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso-600x559.png 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Smeg-DG-Espresso.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 377px) 100vw, 377px" /></figure></div>



The Smeg Dolce &amp; Gabanna manual espresso machine is for serious coffee-lovers who also appreciate a touch of luxury. This retro statement piece with its Sicilian-inspired geometric pattern deserves a special spot in the kitchen. It has a removable 1L tank, adjustable coffee temperature and supports three cup sizes (Ristretto, Espresso and Lungi) with a milk froth function. Other features include an anti-drip system, descaling indicator and adjustable stand-by times between nine minutes to three hours. The 1350W espresso machine is made in Italy. 



R24,699 ($1,576) from Yuppiechef.com



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-jekyll-hide-montana-backpack">6. JEKYLL &amp; HIDE MONTANA BACKPACK</h4>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-784x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-49411" width="336" height="438" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-784x1024.png 784w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-230x300.png 230w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-768x1003.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-1176x1536.png 1176w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-300x392.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack-600x784.png 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jekyll-Hyde-Backpack.png 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 336px) 100vw, 336px" /></figure></div>



The Montana overnight business backpack from Jekyll &amp; Hide is stylish and durable, made from full-grain leather available in a beautiful colt shade. The layout is organized with compartments for a laptop, tablet, travel documents, business cards, cables, pens, etc. Its dimensions are 31 x 15 x 45cm and have secure fastening straps; a front zipped pocket, and a secure RFID slot to protect bank cards and passports from identity theft. The main zipped pocket has dedicated 15” laptop and tablet slots. As an overnighter, the middle compartment accommodates a change of clothes or shoes.



R6,999 ($447) at JekyllandHide.co.za



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-under-armour-hovr-machina">7. UNDER ARMOUR HOVR MACHINA</h4>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-1024x633.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49415" width="380" height="234" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-1024x633.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-300x186.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-768x475.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-1536x950.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-2048x1267.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/UA-Hovr-Machina-600x371.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px" /></figure></div>



If lockdown had you turn to fitness, check out Under Armour’s Hovr Machina running shoes. The Bluetooth-powered sneaker connects to a smartphone app to provide stats like step count, cadence, stride length, foot strike angle, etc. It also acts as a real-time running coach with personalized guidance, and how to better manage the risk of injury while improving performance. The Hovr Machina provides a ‘zero gravity feel’ through its responsive carbon-plated propulsion soles and has the right amount of cushioning. It’s comfortable to wear when not training and suitable for marathons and long distances. Available in sizes for men and women in various shades.



R2,999 ($191) at UnderArmour.co.za



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-sony-playstation-5">8. SONY PLAYSTATION 5</h4>



Sony’s much-anticipated next-generation gaming console has landed in time for the holiday season. The PlayStation 5’s futuristic design has gained a lot of attention since its reveal but given the uptake in gaming during lockdown globally, it’s a no-brainer. There will be two variants available, one with an optical drive and one without. The PS5 supports graphics up to 4K, a high-speed 825GB SSD, and 3D audio on its wireless controller. Exclusive titles at launch include Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Sackboy A Big Adventure, and Horizon Forbidden West. Digital Edition:



R9,999 ($638) and Blu-Ray: R11,999 ($766) via Raru.co.za



Dollar prices are approximates as per the exchange rate at the time of going to press.



 &#8211;BY NAFISA AKABOR

Black Friday

Luxury Gift Guide: A Mirror With Memory?

There’s no longer a reasonable doubt that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackomalleygreenburg/2020/04/09/jay-z-net-worth-1-billion-in-2020/?sh=29f4c20439de">Jay-Z</a>&nbsp;is now a player in the cannabis industry.



Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter’s high-end cannabis brand, Monogram, launches its first products in California on Thursday with a four-strain line of craft, indoor-grown cannabis flower and joints.



The company’s flagship product is the “OG Handroll,” a 1.5-gram joint rolled by “highly trained artisans,” the company says, that use a technique Monogram developed over a year. The joint is made with small-batch flower and is supposed to burn like a premium cigar. And it retails for nearly twice as much at $50.



Monogram’s cannabis strains—named No. 88, No. 96, No. 70 and No. 01 and developed by veteran grower DeAndre “De” Watson —come in three strengths: “light,” “medium” and “heavy.”



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-49294" width="502" height="334" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1.jpeg 950w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-600x400.jpeg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 502px) 100vw, 502px" /><figcaption>(Photo: PRNewFoto/Monogram)</figcaption></figure></div>



Michael Auerbach, the founder and chairman of Subversive Capital Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company that announced a deal to acquire Jay-Z’s Monogram and California cannabis company Caliva last month, says Jay-Z is not just a front man for the brand.



“He’s a real executive, he’s not some ancillary ambassador who says something nice about us once a year,” says Auerbach. “He’s the tip of our spear who’s building out our house of brands, like he has done with Aces of Spades and D’Ussé.”



In 2019, Jay joined Caliva as its chief brand strategist, where he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/lindseybartlett/2020/10/23/rapper-jay-z-launches-his-own-cannabis-brand-monogram/?sh=2f58d626180e">developed Monogram</a>. In November 2020, Auerbach’s SPAC announced a deal to acquire Caliva and Monogram, which was a joint venture between Jay-Z and Caliva, and Left Coast Ventures, which owns musician cannabis brands like Marley Natural and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2020/10/22/carlos-santana-talks-cannabis-its-all-about-consciousness-man/?sh=535b8f4f7b64">Carlos Santana’s Mirayo</a>. The new name for Auerbach’s company is “The Parent Co.” It raised $575 million when it went public on Canada’s microcap stock exchange NEO last summer. &nbsp;



The name “The Parent Co.,” which Jay came up with, might sound like a joke, but Auerbach says its serious.



“We are looking at building the first 100-year company in cannabis, and he was looking at it in the same way,” says Auerbach. “What does the first 100-year company in this industry look like? How do we create a generational company that will dominate the industry globally? And ‘The Parent Co.’ is a meta name that represents what we’re trying to do.”



The all-stock deal to acquire Jay-Z’s 50% of Monogram has not closed yet, but he is supposed to receive 5 million shares in The Parent Co. and the right to 1 million more. The Parent Co. also struck an exclusive agreement with Jay’s Roc Nation to become its cannabis brand partner. The deal, which will pay Roc Nation $25 million in stock after the transaction closes and $7.5 million each year, gives The Parent Co. access and rights to Roc Nation’s roster of artists and athletes.



Auerbach says the “pipeline of artists and athletes” under Roc Nation, including Rihanna, will play a crucial role in the development of future brands. &nbsp;&nbsp;



In addition to developing brands and business strategy, Jay will also lead the company’s social justice program. The venture fund has been seeded $10 million and the company will give 2% of its net income each year in order to invest in Black and other minority-owned cannabis business.



To be sure, this is only Jay-Z’s latest business venture. In 2019, he became the first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackomalleygreenburg/2019/06/03/jay-z-billionaire-worth/#c7e93173a5f0">hip-hop artist turned billionaire</a>. Jay-Z, who grew up in the Marcy housing projects in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, built a fortune thanks to his music catalog—he’s amassed 14 No. 1 albums and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/jay-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">22 Grammy awards</a>—and also owns Armand de Brignac champagne and part of D’Ussé cognac, not to mention his music streaming platform Tidal, Roc Nation and sizable stakes in companies like Uber and Robinhood.



Warren Buffett once&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/forbes/2010/1011/rich-list-10-omaha-warren-buffett-jay-z-steve-forbes-summit-interview.html#254450666480">said</a>&nbsp;about Jay: “For a young person growing up, he’s the guy to learn from.”



Auerbach describes Jay succinctly: “He’s a hands-on creative genius.”



For The Parent Co., Monogram is just the first brand out of Jay-Z’s head and there’s more to come. In the world of celebrity-built brands, Auerbach says the strategy around Monogram is more Casamigos—George Clooney’s tequila company that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2017/06/21/george-clooney-is-expected-to-make-up-to-233-million-from-casamigos-tequila-sale/?sh=1ead73943ff8">Diageo bought for $1 billion</a>—and less&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/katieshapiro/2020/12/09/martha-stewart-cbd-goes-coast-to-coast-with-first-national-retail-expansion/?sh=42ac0a6841cb">Martha Stewart CBD</a>.



“My preference is for celebrities to associate with brands instead of name brands after themselves. There’s no way I’d drink it if it were called ‘Casa Clooney’—people would think it’s crap, people would think it’s a gimmick,” says Auerbach. “Many people don’t know Ace of Spades is Jay-Z’s champagne company, but it’s the fastest-growing champagne company.”



As for what Jay-Z thinks about it all, in a statement, he said Monogram is here to celebrate craft cannabis.



“Cannabis has been around for thousands of years, yet it is still an industry whose legacy of skilled craftmanship is often overlooked,” said Jay. “I created Monogram to give cannabis the respect it deserves by showcasing the tremendous hard work, time and care that go into crafting a superior smoke. . . . We’re just getting started.”



-By Will Yakowicz, Forbes Staff

SOMETHING IN THE WATER – Day 2

Jay-Z’s Cannabis Brand, Monogram, Launches With $50 Hand-Rolled Joints

African theater in the United Kingdom is reaching out to the creative community in robust and valuable new ways, dispelling stereotypes and adding to the value of the African story.



In the Yorùbá folklore of south-west Nigeria, the Iroko tree is a symbol of ferocious spiritual power. Cut the tree down, and imperil your fate. Cultures across the African continent venerate great trees as places of shelter and communion, the theaters of the precious in human life.



In the United Kingdom (UK), two theater companies with Nigerian roots are weathering the coronavirus storm with the defiant resilience of African hardwood.



The London-based IROKO Theatre Company was founded in 1996 by Alex Oma-Pius, who had trained on a scholarship from Nigeria at the National Academy For Theatre and Film Arts (NATFA), in Sofia, Bulgaria, in the 1980s. During the collapse of the Soviet Union, the scholarship program was dissolved, leaving Oma-Pius stranded in the UK; after an internship with the African theater company, Zuriya, he was inspired to strike out on his own.



“My professor in Sofia had always told me, ‘Alex, tap into your culture. Folklore, folklore, folklore’,” he says. “My childhood memories of traditional stories just came alive with that internship. But it had always been my dream to move what we were doing away from just drumming. Although they loved the stories, it’s the jumping up and down that people like.” He laughs at the memory. “With IROKO, we started to find a way to let people know there was more to what we were doing. What is the value of an African story? How do we want this story to impact their lives?”



For nearly 25 years, IROKO has toured all over the country, using the tools of African storytelling to not only teach life skills to the young, but also bring comfort to sufferers of age-related conditions such as arthritis and dementia, in ways that western storytelling techniques are perhaps less well-equipped to deliver. “African storytelling is a performative art, a combined art-form,” Oma-Pius says. 



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">“In African stories, there is no fourth wall. You, the listener, are a performer as well.”</blockquote>



Before the pandemic, the theater company was rolling out an ambitious and innovative project called Speaking without Voice, to “research, identify, record and present four Nigerian precolonial nonverbal communication systems”: the ideographic symbols of Nsibidi (one of the vivid cultural markers featured in the film Black Panther); the aesthetic cultural practice Uli; the semiotic code of Aroko objects; and the tonal ‘language’ of the talking drum.&nbsp;



The project was inspired by a chance encounter with a group of young men in east London. “I was at a church event, and I saw a group of young Nigerian boys beatboxing, but replicating the talking drum,” says Oma-Pius. “I asked if they knew the meaning of the sounds. They didn’t &#8211; and that set me thinking. So we created a new music theater piece to share the learning about the research we had done, in a theatrical form. It’s mainly about heritage, but also an indirect way to explore generation gap issues about how we Africans have abandoned our culture.”



Oma-Pius says the pandemic has hit the company hard, and that 95% of confirmed bookings in the UK have been cancelled, including the intensive programming attached to Britain’s Black History Month celebrations in October. In response, he says they are now pivoting to supply the demand for IROKO online content. The long-lived Iroko tree has deep, irrepressible roots. “On the whole, we are still confident,” he says.&nbsp;



The Sheffield-based Utopia Theatre company “aims to produce high-quality cross-cultural content that enhances the value of the African community, and promotes its recognition and its integration.” Its founder and artistic director is Moji Elufowoju, whose experience at drama school in Britain led to an epiphany about where her own directing career might lead.&nbsp;



“I’ve spent a lot of time in Nigeria and was exposed to Nigerian theater traditions, so when I first went to drama school here, I noticed the difference in the way stories are told in the western context,” she says. “I realized the only way I will be able to add something to the industry is to actually bring something of my own. I started spending more time going to Africa, seeing more theater. What you see in Nigeria is people rehearsing on the street. I’ve never read about a painter that waits around and says, ‘until I get a commission I’m not going to start painting’. If you’re an artist, you’re an artist. And that’s the way I started my career. I didn’t wait around for funding.”



“I’ve spent a lot of time in Nigeria and was exposed to Nigerian theater traditions, so when I first went to drama school here, I noticed the difference in the way stories are told in the western context,” she says. “I realized the only way I will be able to add something to the industry is to actually bring something of my own. I started spending more time going to Africa, seeing more theater. &#8220;



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">&#8220;What you see in Nigeria is people rehearsing on the street.&#8221;</blockquote>



&#8220;I’ve never read about a painter that waits around and says, ‘until I get a commission I’m not going to start painting’. If you’re an artist, you’re an artist. And that’s the way I started my career. I didn’t wait around for funding,&#8221; Elufowoju says.



Utopia Theatre was registered in 2015, and developed a fruitful collaborative relationship with Sheffield Theatres, who provided the company with rehearsal space and opportunities to perform. It aims at “dispelling stereotypes and encouraging authentic voices from the African diaspora”, in a synthesis of African and western performing traditions.&nbsp;



“A lot of the stories of black people on stage are quite stereotypical,” Elufowoju says. “Stories of slavery, or about knife crime, deprivation. What the company tries to focus on is the positive aspects of the lives of black people. That is why Sheffield Theatres have supported us, because they know we can also change some of the perceptions of who the audiences are that come in to that building. Theater is for all. It’s about ensuring the work that we make is for regular theatre-goers, but at the same time opens up a whole avenue for a different audience.”



Elufowoju’s latest production is Here’s What She Said to Me, a semi-autographical, inter-generational story of “that complex relationship that mothers and daughters have,” she says. “But it’s also about the journey of these women’s lives, the story of migration, and all the different challenges these women have faced.”&nbsp;



Sadly, the indomitable challenge of the coronavirus saw Utopia lose its rehearsal space, and the production is now on indefinite hold. But through its online Creative Hub, which runs until the end of the year, the company has reached out to the creative community in robust and valuable new ways. “We have been able to create paid opportunities for over 50 freelance African theater industry practitioners,” Elufowoju says, “who are delivering masterclasses, workshops, and mentorship projects. The Hub has been accessed by participants from all over the world, averaging 18,000 viewed minutes per publicly available session.” &nbsp;



There are also wider, systemic challenges faced by black and African-Caribbean theater practitioners which go beyond the devastating effects of the pandemic in the global arts sector. Sophia A Jackson is the founder of afridiziak.com, an online publication celebrating African-Caribbean theater. A former listings editor for the black British newspaper New Nation, Jackson says that while there are now a greater number of black theater actors and directors, there is still enormous under-representation in the sector as a whole (the 2018 Equality, Diversity and the Creative Case report estimates representation of people of color in the industry to be as low as 7%.)&nbsp;



“What you want is the people in lighting, set design, stage production, because obviously that’s more consistent work,” Jackson says. “And that’s hugely lacking in diversity; there are definitely more directors and producers than there were, but in terms of those technical roles it’s an area that needs developing.”



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48624" width="285" height="427" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-1366x2048.jpg 1366w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Utopia-Theatre-production-Heres-What-She-Said-To-Me-photographed-by-George-Ayo-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 285px) 100vw, 285px" /></figure></div>



She says the media-popular, catch-all term BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) is unhelpful in discussions about arts diversity – she prefers ‘Black theater’ or ‘African-Caribbean theater’ – and that more still needs to be done to encourage an increase in black audiences; her website offers discounted tickets to her members when theaters make these available.



“But that doesn’t happen with every show and it doesn’t happen with every theater,” she says. “Some theaters care about the demographic of their audience. And some theaters don’t.”



Jackson is encouraged by the fact that several mainstream theaters in the British capital now have black artistic directors, and believes black theater will continue heading in a positive direction when we emerge into the world of the ‘new normal’, whatever that comes to mean for the theater industry.



“We’re there to make important decisions about the narrative of theater in London,” she says, “and that’s ground-breaking, really,&#8221; Jackson says.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">&#8220;There’s hope now as theaters reopen. I’m excited again, and looking forward to seeing how the sector adapts.”</blockquote>



That mighty Iroko tree, albeit worn and weathered, remains rooted. “I know in my heart we’re a long way off from theater going back to how it used to be,” Jackson says. “But in some ways – such as in the Black Lives Matter movement – maybe that’s a good thing.”



&nbsp;



-Alastair Hagger

Utopia Theatre performance Iyalode of Eti photographed by George Ayo

The Deep Roots And Shelter of Theater

The coronavirus outbreak has spawned more meaningful connections online, say experts. Romantic dinners have moved to Zoom and no one worries about who is paying the bill. 



Slide or swipe. That’s what it takes to find a date online. And in these Covid-infected times, it seems, the love bug is also in the air.



Popular dating app Tinder reported that “quarantine became the world’s largest icebreaker” with 52% more messages being sent between users since early March.&nbsp;



“The combination of being stuck at home and the fact that we were all going through the same thing at the same time led folks on Tinder to get chattier than ever,” Tinder said in a press statement. &nbsp;



There are other platforms that echoed this reality through lockdown.



DatingBuzz Africa is an online dating site primarily used in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Namibia but is very popular in South Africa, in three of its big cities: Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. The site saw a spike in its activity on the app as well as in the duration of time people are staying online. Pre-Covid, the app saw about 60,000 to 70,000 active users online a month. CEO and Founder of DatingBuzz, David Burstein, says since the beginning of lockdown, there has been a 25% increase.&nbsp;



“Within a few days of the initial lockdown being announced, we suddenly started seeing a rapid rise in numbers. So on the first day or two of lockdown, people were wondering what is happening with the world. And shortly thereafter, we noted a definite upward trend,” says Burstein.&nbsp;



So what do these figures suggest about online dating during Covid-19, when social interaction has been at an all-time low worldwide?&nbsp;



“Some of the potential criticisms in the past [for] online dating is that it becomes very rapid that you exchange messages online, and then people want to meet, and that the slightly old-style of courtship has disappeared,” Burstein explains. “So, what we see now is greater messaging volumes, which implies that people are exchanging more messages with each other. And that’s because it’s not easy to now just say ‘okay, we&#8217;ve chatted online for a week, let’s do coffee’.”&nbsp;



The figures for Lisa50, an online dating site for people over the age of 50 primarily based in Africa and the United Kingdom, also show there has been a significant increase in the number of people using the system and that could be due to several factors.&nbsp;



The first is that internet usage around the world has soared as more people have had to stay home for longer periods. The second is being isolated for months. The final factor that CEO and Founder of Lisa50, David Minns, notes, is that there is less pressure for people to date.&nbsp;



“As many people are restricted in physically meeting people, there’s less pressure to arrange a date and meet up. Making that transition from chatting to someone online to meeting [them] is difficult, even for the most confident people. With this pressure removed, I feel it makes online dating sites less intimidating,” Minns says.&nbsp;



“There is now a tendency for a lot of people to be cautious. They don’t want to just rush into meeting someone and therefore, chatting online makes sense. It&#8217;s a comfortable, safe space,” Burstein adds.



According to Cape Town-based relationship expert, Dr Marlene Wasserman, the rise in the usage of dating websites and apps could be because those who are single “were cut off from their usual behavior”. Dating apps in the last few months have become the only safe and social place to gather publicly without fear of catching a deadly virus. She further elaborates that people are more inclined now to talk more than before as this unpredictable time has left them wanting to form more meaningful connections.&nbsp;



“So instead of just swiping, going to have a drink, going back, swiping, have a drink, what people are doing is lingering for longer with one person. And not only do they linger longer, but they also found that the levels of conversation got deeper. So it wasn&#8217;t just like, ‘what are you wearing?’ It&#8217;s more about ‘how are you feeling now, especially during this time of Covid-19’, which is profound,” Wasserman says.&nbsp;



Dr Letitia Smuts, a lecturer of sociology at the University of Johannesburg, whose research interest is (Hetero)Sexual Identities, Heteronormativity and Gender, agrees. She, however, adds that because human beings crave and need social interaction, having it taken away can be difficult. This difficulty has led to people finding innovative ways to connect with other individuals.&nbsp;



“For instance, a lot of people are trying to help those people who never wanted to join online dating sites. We have seen an upsurge,” Smuts says.&nbsp;



Those used to frequently meeting at restaurants or nightclubs, are now trying new things like Zoom dinner dates or going to the botanical gardens where they can ‘social distance’.&nbsp;



“They are finding other ways of dating. One of my female participants actually said ‘now, we don&#8217;t have to worry about who pays the bill’,” Smuts laughs.&nbsp;



Both experts state that intimacy has found new meaning.&nbsp;



“The intimacy is about a connection. So, in many ways, what’s happening now is people are establishing a connection through communication, through action, getting to know each other rather than rushing into any type of physical relationship. So in many ways, it&#8217;s actually contributing to a more healthy type of intimate connection,” says Smuts.&nbsp;



“It has now gotten to a deeper level of intimacy and that&#8217;s been very positive for many people who now feel like they are being held and being seen and noticed in a place and time which can be extremely lonely,” Wasserman adds.&nbsp;



This closeness has also increased between those already in relationships, according to Wasserman. She adds that this period has proven that people just want raw honesty when it comes to having or making connections.&nbsp;



“There was this fear of the unknown, but I think we all started looking and reflecting a little more and saying, ‘what is it that we really want out of life, out of a relationship and what is our purpose’,” says Wasserman.&nbsp;



Hinge, another dating app, notes their statistics show users want to form long and meaningful connections with people before meeting them, especially with their video chatting options.&nbsp;



“Hinge Labs uncovered from their first study that 44% of Hinge users have been on a video date, and of those users, more than 52% say they are likely to continue incorporating video chat into their dating process even when they can meet safely in real life,” Hinge says in a press statement.&nbsp;



It may be a while before the cozy candlelight dinners return to an offline world.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="704" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21-1024x704.png" alt="" class="wp-image-48558" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21-1024x704.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21-300x206.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21-768x528.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21-600x413.png 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Screenshot-2020-10-23-at-14.22.21.png 1056w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption>(Illustration by Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>

PAKISTAN-MARRIAGE-DATING

Cupid Versus Covid: Not Lovelorn During Lockdown

The ‘fast’ fashion industry is responsible for abominable levels of water consumption, pollution, and waste. Enterprising entrepreneurs in South Africa are looking to natural materials and upcycling to make every-day clothing more sustainable. 



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-730x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-48498" width="313" height="439" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-730x1024.jpeg 730w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-214x300.jpeg 214w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-768x1077.jpeg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-1095x1536.jpeg 1095w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-1460x2048.jpeg 1460w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-300x421.jpeg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-600x842.jpeg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Atlas-Label-Wetsuit-3-scaled.jpeg 1825w" sizes="(max-width: 313px) 100vw, 313px" /><figcaption>Atlas Label uses material that can be repaired many times over</figcaption></figure></div>



What are you wearing? Examine your outfit as you read this. Maybe a T-shirt or a trendy new dress. Denims, perhaps? Or more likely a stretchy pair of sweatpants and socks now that we&#8217;re all mostly working from home. 



‘Fast’ fashion makes clothes-shopping more affordable but at an increasingly environmental cost. According to a 2018 United Nations report, “the global fashion industry produces 20 percent of global wastewater and 10 percent of global carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping”. Then there’s textile dyeing, pegged as the second-largest polluter of water globally. Did you know it takes around 7,570 liters of water to create a pair of jeans?&nbsp;



Step one in sustainability: Reduce. Then reuse and recycle. One antidote to fast fashion is to shift away from seasons. Pre-pandemic, big-name brands would launch collections between four and six times year, with fashion houses like Zara reportedly introducing more than 20 different collections a year.&nbsp;



Cristina Rovere is the founder of environment-friendly swimwear and wetsuit brand, Atlas Label. “We do not make any seasonal collections&#8230; and we encourage everyone who owns an Atlas Label product to consider repairs as a first option. We believe in making better choices and in taking responsibility for what you purchase. Use it, love it, care for it. Repeat.”&nbsp;



A love for surfing (and thus the ocean) led Rovere to create wetsuits that are better for the planet. “As surfers, we see the amount of rubbish first-hand on the beach. It’s a push to start making better choices,” she tells FORBES AFRICA. Typically, wetsuits are made from a kind of rubber called neoprene, a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum, but her Japanese-inspired suits use limestone neoprene (rubber derived from crushed limestone) instead. “It has incredible technical properties and can be repaired many times over.”  



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48499" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-2-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48505" width="346" height="518" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-300x450.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-600x900.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HempLove-1-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 346px) 100vw, 346px" /><figcaption>HempLove uses natural materials for its garments.</figcaption></figure></div>



Generally speaking, natural materials are better for the environment, but it’s not a straightforward argument. Cotton, for example, is not a prominent pollutant but has downsides in terms of labor and land. Lorè Botha co-founded HempLove in April 2019. “Based on our research, hemp requires ten times less the amount of water and half the amount of land than cotton. Our slow collection entails that all the garments and textiles are dyed using plant waste sourced from farmers and restaurants in South Africa.”&nbsp;



Such natural materials are not new on the fashion scene, but they are increasingly being used from head to toe. Launched in 2014 by a family of milliners, Simon and Mary hats are made from 100% wool felt and hemp. (They are also part of a tree-planting project with South African reforestation organization, Greenpop and use rainwater to save roughly 30,000 liters per month). 



Laduma Ngxokolo has also been using local mohair, and merino wool since 2012 for luxury knitwear brand, Maxhosa Africa, and Davie Hutchison founded bamboo-blended Sexy Socks in 2014. “Sexy Socks was, I think, one of the first social enterprise brands in the South African market, and we have always been eco-conscious.” The colorful socks are not only made from sustainable and biodegradable materials but also have social impact. For every pair of Sexy Socks bought, one goes to a child in need. 



When natural materials aren&#8217;t used, clothing clogs the system. According to American Vogue, “an estimated 50 million tonnes of clothing is discarded every year, and most of it will not biodegrade in a landfill”.&nbsp;



Makhosazane Rosa Sekgwama, has come up with an innovative way to combat such fashion waste. “We use recycled materials from the local clothing industry that would otherwise be discarded. Local factory offcuts become the yarn that we use to crochet all our products,” Sekgwama tells FORBES AFRICA.&nbsp;



Her brand, ROSA Handmade in SA, made The V&amp;A Waterfront&#8217;s ‘100 Beautiful Things’ list and consists of woven rugs, lovingly-made baby baskets and handbags. However, being green comes with its challenges. &nbsp;



“We rely on yarn wholesalers who directly source from the clothing factories making upscaling impossible as there is a limit of each color we get from them. We also avoid dyeing materials ourselves, which would enable us to make more products of the same color range but pose an environmental hazard.”&nbsp;



Back in Cape Town, growing interest in Atlas Label wetsuits led Rovere to investigate a more affordable offering for ocean-lovers. “Our swimwear is made of Econyl, regenerated Italian nylon made from post-consumer waste, including ghost fishing nets removed from our oceans. Econyl is a certified product, and we have a signed communications agreement with them, which keeps us in constant contact and sets us apart from many other businesses.”&nbsp; &nbsp;



Nombuso Nomzamo Khanyile from Afrikan Passions Designs tells FORBES AFRICA that footwear also springs from waste. “We upcycle discarded car tyres and use them as sandal soles, reducing car tyres as environmental pollutants. The majority of our customers are attracted to us mainly because we upcycle.”



Indeed, this kind of thinking is no longer niche. Sekgwama says: “The competition is high. Both new and existing retailers are changing to be more eco-friendly, attract discerning consumer attention and gain preference. The scourge of Covid-19 [also] opened more eyes to the need to support local businesses and authentic products manufactured locally.”&nbsp;



Rovere agrees and says “South Africa is still catching up, but with the internet being such an open asset to everyone, the global movement for consumerism has definitely shifted towards more conscious purchases. We even see changes in the companies that used to create fast fashion, so overall knowledge around sustainability is increasing”. &nbsp;



South African Fashion Week (SAFW) has 600 local designers on the database, according to the event’s founder and director Lucilla Booyzen. “There are a lot of grey areas around sustainability for our SA Fashion Designers. None of them, as far as I know, are fully sustainable, as it is very difficult for any company to be fully sustainable.”&nbsp;



Zippers, underwires, buttons and packaging can all hamper sustainability efforts, but has there been a rise in eco-conscious clothing on the runways? “Yes, definitely,” Booyzen says. “This season, all the designers at SAFW are showing what we call slow fashion collections based on up-cycling, recycling and no waste&#8221;.&nbsp;



Likewise, the winter collections of more accessible household brands prove traditional retailers are catching on too. Both K-Way and Woolworths revamped their fashionable puffer jackets, filling them with recycled plastic fibers instead of duck down. Buyers at K-Way note, however, that the adoption rate to sustainable wear in South Africa is generally lower than the rest of the world and recycled synthetic has had a slow start.&nbsp;



Conscious fashion has become increasingly important in South African retail, and waste reduction on a large scale would help to close the loop and create a better circular economy. If local fashion can become more sustainable and effectively reduce the load on South African landfills, all the better. Especially given that the City of Johannesburg’s Environmental, Infrastructure and Services estimate the city has three years before landfill sites reach full capacity.&nbsp;



“Once you dip into sustainability, it becomes a part of your life,” says Rovere, likening the movement to a continuous journey. “It&#8217;s about making better choices. One item of sustainable clothing might just lead to better choices at the supermarket. It leaves a lasting impact on your purchasing decisions going forward.”



By Melanie van Zyl

AfrikanPassionDesigns_NiamhWalsh-Vorster-1

Conscious Couture: Swimwear From Fishing Nets And Soles From Tyres

Some of the best looks in Beyoncé’s 2020 album, Black is King, have come from designers from the African continent. FORBES AFRICA seeks out Queen B’s top picks.



Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s brand-new new visual album Black is King that released on July 31 on Disney Plus, boasts an African touch, with many designers from the continent showcasing their work in it.



Out just a little over a year since the release of the live-action version of The Lion King where Beyoncé played the female lead, Nala, Black is King was originally filmed as a companion piece to The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack inspired by the movie, but the singer explains in a post on Instagram that the events of 2020 (specifically, the Black Lives Movement protesting police brutality in the United States) made the message in the film more relevant.



For the “passion project”, Beyoncé spent over a year filming, researching, and editing it as a love letter to celebrate the breadth and beauty of black ancestry.&nbsp;



“I believe that when black people tell our own stories, we can shift the axis of the world and tell our REAL history of generational wealth and richness of soul that are not told in our history books,” Beyoncé said in a post on Instagram.



Since its release, she has been praised for how she has celebrated people of color as a whole in Black is King through the representation of artists (like Pharrell Williams, Naomi Campbell and Lupita Nyongo), background dancers, and African designers. &nbsp;



To help enrich those visuals, Beyoncé’s stylist and wardrobe curator, Zerina Akers, made sure she found the right talent who would create looks that aligned with Beyoncé’s vision.



Akers wanted to reference different traditions, cultures and tribes but with a modern touch. Although she used a majority of black designers, such as Destiney Bleu and Jerome Lamaar, the stylist also sought the artistry of African designers.&nbsp;



One of those African designers is Lafalaise Dion, based in the economic capital of Côte d&#8217;Ivoire, Abidjan, who designed the shell headpieces seen throughout Black is King.



“Although I had a big vision for [my work], and the faith that I’d be able to take it far beyond Côte D’Ivoire, I never imagined I would get to this level in such a short time,” says Dion. “I am deeply honored, to say the least.”



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-1024x1009.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-48322" width="286" height="281" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-1024x1009.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-300x296.jpeg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-768x757.jpeg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-80x80.jpeg 80w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5-600x591.jpeg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-5.jpeg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px" /><figcaption>(Photo supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>



Known to her followers as the ‘Queen of Cowries’, Dion’s creations were closely aligned with Beyoncé’s inspiration for Black Is King: wanting black Africans to reconcile and embrace African heritage, culture, and spirituality.



“They are artworks in a way, a material representation of dreams I had way before I started the brand. I wanted to do something that emanated from African spirituality,” she says.



Dion designed over 20 pieces for the project and had each piece made by hand in collaboration with local artisans. A dozen of those pieces feature in a song in the film: Brown Skin Girl, My Power, and Water.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">“I feel very grateful&#8230; It means a lot to a young African designer like me. It’s a sort of confirmation that my art has power and that many creatives around the world connect with it,” Dion adds.</blockquote>



The pearl and cowrie statement Lagbaja headpiece created by Dion and worn by Beyoncé in her Spirit music video retails at $270.40. Dion describes this particular piece as a “celebration of women as creative, divine, mystical, protective beings”.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-1024x1012.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48320" width="318" height="315" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-1024x1012.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-300x297.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-768x759.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-80x80.jpg 80w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-600x593.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3-100x100.jpg 100w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/dion-3.jpg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 318px) 100vw, 318px" /><figcaption>(Photo Supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>



Senegalese-born designer and founder of Dakar Fashion Week, Adama Amanda Ndiaye, wanted to make sure Beyoncé was adorned in a yellow as bright as the African sun in Brown Skin Girl.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Oshun-Beyonce-Black-is-King.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48327" width="377" height="251" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Oshun-Beyonce-Black-is-King.jpg 1000w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Oshun-Beyonce-Black-is-King-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Oshun-Beyonce-Black-is-King-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Oshun-Beyonce-Black-is-King-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 377px) 100vw, 377px" /><figcaption>(Still from Black is King)</figcaption></figure></div>



“African fashion is for sure more out there now. As a designer and fashion entrepreneur, it’s always a pleasure to expand our brand name and vision. So being able to collaborate with an iconic superstar does help shine light on us and is uplifting,” Ndiaye says. &nbsp;



Coming from a West African country known as vibrant and colorful, Ndiaye emphasizes she wants nothing more than to “promote female entrepreneurship in Senegal and Africa”.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-1012x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48329" width="281" height="284" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-1012x1024.jpg 1012w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-296x300.jpg 296w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-768x777.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-80x80.jpg 80w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-300x304.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-600x607.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH-100x100.jpg 100w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SKETCH.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 281px) 100vw, 281px" /><figcaption>Sketch by Loza Maléombho (Photo Supplied) </figcaption></figure></div>



“I feel great, of course, because Beyoncé is an icon not only in the music industry but also for the fashion industry,” she says.



Also basking in the glory of the success of Black is King is Abidjan-born designer, Loza Maléombho, who designed a piece dubbed by Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best looks in the visual album.&nbsp;



The graphic, black-and-white ensemble with gold hardware worn by Beyoncé in Already (part of the film) has received much praise from social media.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">“I am grateful for the visibility&#8230; It happened with a spike of sales of well over 300%, which is why gratitude is a prominent feeling overall,” Maléombho says.</blockquote>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image0.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48324" width="457" height="527" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image0.jpg 555w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image0-260x300.jpg 260w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image0-300x346.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 457px) 100vw, 457px" /><figcaption>Jacket by Maléombho. Earrings by L’Enchanteur. (Photo Supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>



It’s not difficult to see where Beyoncé may have had her inspiration from to use Maléombho in this project, as former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland, who also featured in Black is King, had worn a Prussian-blue geometric structured ensemble by Maléombho in June 2019.



“The future of my brand is going to depend on the structure of the industry in Africa overall. Because with growing sales, I need to find solutions for sourcing and production. I don’t want to produce outside of Africa,” Maléombho adds.



She remains hopeful that even with Covid-19, it has provided an opportunity for the fashion industry in Africa to grow collective and collaborative initiatives.



“We [the fashion industry] are more connected, more communicative amongst ourselves. We are engaging in more conversations to find solutions for the future of our industry,” she says. “Africa has a young labor force capacity that if directed intelligently can help propel the fashion industry in the right direction.”



Maléombho’s piece in Already was paired with jewelry pieces created by L’Enchanteur. The mastermind behind this brand are the identical twins, designers Dynasty and Soull Ogun, whose accessories were also seen in the Mood 4 Eva part of the film. Though born in Brooklyn, New York, the twins say their pieces are inspired by their Nigerian and Caribbean heritage.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1-1024x532.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48325" width="485" height="252" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1-1024x532.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1-300x156.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1-768x399.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1-600x311.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image1.jpg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 485px) 100vw, 485px" /><figcaption>(Photo Supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>



“Our brand is a lifestyle that encompasses mysticism, science, fairy tales, and a lot of folklore. And this is inspired by our parents’ background,” Soull says. “My dad is Nigerian and his tribe is Yoruba and our mother is Caribbean from the West Indies&#8230; And we were born in Brooklyn, Flatbush. So there&#8217;s all of this mixture. And I think there&#8217;s like a little bit of folklore within that mixture for us.”



The twins created the pieces for Black is King and sent them over to Akers in 2019, unaware of when the film would come out and what pieces would be used.



The ‘unknown’ was the most exciting part of this process for the Oguns because when finally the project was released, they got to watch the final product for the first time like any viewer. The only difference was that not everyone who viewed it got to see how their jewelry was curated into multiple looks in the film.



And they are still in disbelief.



“It comes in waves for me. I was in the car the other day and a Beyoncé song came on and I was like ‘yo, there is this whole film and Beyoncé is really wearing our stuff’,” says Soull.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">“When we were creating the work, I don’t think any of us anticipated the climate we would find ourselves in [the Black Lives Movement] but that being said, I think when we were creating these pieces, it feels like it was almost a foreshadowing without any of us knowing it.”</blockquote>



“With this visual album, I wanted to present elements of black history and African tradition, with a modern twist and a universal message, and what it truly means to find your self-identity and build a legacy,” Beyoncé said.



The ode to African fashion continues, transcending borders, even in these Covid times.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="640" height="370" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-48326" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image2.jpg 640w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image2-300x173.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/thumbnail_image2-600x347.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption>Jewelry pieces by L’Enchanteur (Photo Supplied)</figcaption></figure>

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King And Queen: Beyoncé Takes Africa To The World

Remote and flexible working policies are increasingly popular, but put companies at huge risk when it comes to cyber security. If starting your own business, these pointers could be useful.



IF YOU’RE A MODERN, PROGRESSIVE COMPANY, IT’S highly likely you’ve got some sort of flexible remote working policy. Unfortunately, with this greater freedom comes greater risk, and remote workers are often the brittle link in a business’s security chain. Employees in general, according to beleaguered IT professionals, are lackadaisical about security software, lackluster about the Wi-Fi they use, and apathetic about their physical security too; writing their passwords on Post It notes and sticking them blatantly on their laptops.



And cyber security is not something to be ignored.



“Cyber-attacks are increasing exponentially,” explains Lukas van der Merwe, a specialist sales executive for security at T-Systems South Africa. Working globally, T-Systems picked up a peak of four million cyber-attacks in 2017. In 2019, this number was a breath-taking 53 million. Every IT security expert interviewed for this article viewed a cyber breach as a matter of when, not if, for most companies.



Remote work is also on the rise. Says Johnny Kromer, a technology executive at Nashua Communications: “We have definitely seen an increase in remote workers, almost all customer solutions today have to be installed with a different percent of mobile access.”



So, how do remote workers open you up to ransomware, phishing, hacking and general cyber security lawlessness?



There are two broad divisions to be made here: digital and physical.



DIGITAL



Remote workers make you vulnerable simply by taking their devices out of the safe online space your IT department has set up in the office, and recklessly using the free Wi-Fi available at most coffee shops. Nothing that’s free is really free, as they say, and the cost of using free Wi-Fi to access your email, client information and more means you open the fence and share your online picnic blanket with a bunch of randoms who might have their eyes on your data. Since public Wi-Fi is unencrypted, it’s easy for hackers to target the individuals using it.



Remote workers are also at a risk of falling for email phishing scams, as generally most of their communication is done via email with their company.



Van der Merwe has helped clients recover from cleverly crafted phishing mails that made it all the way to the CFO for sign-offs on large amounts of money, authentically copying documents and even signatures from the inboxes they had access to. One client lost R1 million ($69,000) to such a scam.



There are some simple things that companies and individuals can do to reduce hacking risks – a) setting up a VPN, or virtual private network, which allows workers to safely access the internet from any Wi-Fi connection; b) Ensuring workers have adequate anti-virus software. This is a bit of a pain point as many remote workers use their own devices and are reluctant to give their companies access to their computers, but this should be a non-negotiable requirement. c) Password documents that list every login are a huge no-no – with most corporates not realizing that these documents are available to anyone on the internet (if saved incorrectly on the Cloud). It is recommended you rather use an online password program that is encrypted; d) 2-factor authentication for logins is one of the easiest ways to secure access, and you can set it for most online programs through their security settings (including social media like Facebook); e) Set up BYOD (bring your own device) policies with strict rules around security measures and the ability to remotely wipe a device, whether a phone or laptop.



PHYSICAL



The other risk is taken far less seriously, with most companies focusing on their digital perimeter rather than any physical one. Some physical risks include:



a) Open laptops when heading to the loo: best practice is to enable auto-locking after a certain period of inactivity; b) Over-the-shoulder hacks: don’t, for example, work on vulnerable files in a public space like the Gautrain (rail service in Johannesburg) where people can peer over your shoulder;



c) Eavesdropping: ever said your ID number or password out loud in a coffee shop? Yeah, don’t do that; d) Unshredded documents: you could have your identity stolen through unshredded documents – this is a real risk; e) Passwords physically written down: the Post It note password on your laptop is a terrible idea.



BEHAVIOR CHANGES



“Train staff, then train them some more! Most companies could do more security training and still be unprepared,” says Jon Tullett, a senior research manager for IT services sub-Saharan Africa, at IDC South Africa. “An employee who sees security as an impediment is on the side of the attacker, since they’re likely to circumvent safeguards in the name of productivity.” Businesses need to make security a priority with clear policies in place, and regular training of staff. Overall, internet security is something companies should take far more seriously. Every expert interviewed was horrified at the belligerent indifference most businesses take to their vulnerabilities, and everyone viewed breaches and security scares as a certainty in the next few years. South Africa has already had its taste of this,



with government departments, newspapers and ISPs (internet service providers) alike all coming under fire in 2019 alone. As Van der Merwe says, “Most people trade off convenience for security.” But be one of those people at your own risk.



<h4 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading">IF THE WORST HAPPENS… BUSINESS (CYBER) INSURANCE</h4>



Vera Nagtegaal, executive head of Hippo.co.za, says that your insurance should look at the following aspects:



REPLACEMENT COST: Insure your tech items for the value of replacement and not necessarily what you paid for it.



WHAT’S INCLUDED IN COVER: Should you insure your laptop, enquire whether there will be cover provided for software as well, as this can be quite costly, and find out what kind of damage is covered.



CLAIMS TURN-AROUND TIME: Some providers can authorize and/or pay out a claim within two to 24 hours, others take a few days and some could take even longer.



REPLACEMENT PROVIDERS: Enquire about the service providers they use to replace your cell phone and research reviews to ensure they are reputable and have good warranties on new devices.



-by Samantha Steele

Afro american young man typing on laptop

REMOTE WORKING: PROGRESS AND PERILS

Designer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rebeccaminkoff.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rebecca Minkoff</a>&nbsp;transformed the four corners of the rooftop terrace at Spring Studios into a completely furnished diorama yesterday evening, each scene reminiscent of New York City’s once vibrant nightlife.



One backdrop mimicked a late-night dress rehearsal at CBGB while another evoked after-hour vibes typical of a swanky lounge in a Tribeca hotel.



“It was all about this boho-rock sensibility that we’re known for,” said Minkoff at her New York Fashion Week presentation. “And it’s about celebrating the cultural institutions that I love that are part of New York City’s fabric.”



The still-life and still-masked models were dialed up in embellished layers and detailed accessories that screamed more badass than boho. Overall, with comforting animal prints, plaid and houndstooth for day, and glitzy sequins and leather for night, her Fall 2020 ready-to-wear collection stayed true to her signature aesthetic.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="47764" data-full-url="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://www.forbesafrica.com/?attachment_id=47764" class="wp-image-47764" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-scaled-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-scaled-600x400.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272713112-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-item__caption">A Model poses during the Rebecca Minkoff Spring 2021 Presentation at Spring Studios Terrace on September 15, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Randy Brooke/WireImage)</figcaption></figure></li></ul></figure>



But she pulled out some surprises. In the sea of clutches and crossbody bags was an unsuspecting accessory.



With a long, black military coat draped over it, a model sported the new&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.rebeccaminkoff.com/products/medela-tote?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpcafruTs6wIViIjICh3vCQ-4EAQYASABEgJ-KPD_BwE" target="_blank">Rebecca Minkoff x Medela Pump and Baby Bag</a>. A breast shield and valve peeked right above the zipper, but even if you have nursed, you likely would’ve never noticed it.&nbsp;



“I wanted to showcase the tote at Fashion Week since a breast pump tote is an essential item for any mom,” says the mother of three. “We moms need a way to keep all our pump parts organized as we’re out and about.”



With the fashion industry in flux, IMG (the event producers of NYFW) and individual designers had to forge partnerships to make fashion shows a reality this season, especially if it was a live show.



In addition to Lowe’s furniture, which provided the furniture and decor for the event, Minkoff tapped Medela as another ally.



“We’ve always admired Rebecca for her passion in supporting breast milk feeding, working parents,” says Melissa Gonzales, executive vice president of the Americas for&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.medela.us/" target="_blank">Medela</a>. “She has been a Medela mom since her first child, so the collaboration was a natural fit for both of us to develop something.”



The versatile limited-edition bag was designed to fit Medela’s personal-use breast pumps. Says Minkoff, “We’ve been working together the last three seasons and I was like, can I design something for you guys? Something that I would love to wear and when I’m done pumping it can be my diaper bag; then when I’m done with diapering it can be my gym bag. Something with multi-functionality.”&nbsp;



She highlights her favorite features: “There’s a removable pouch that you can put dirty parts in that I wish I had because I would always put them in gross Ziploc bags. And there are a ton of compartments to keep your pump parts upright so you don’t have the milk leaking out of the caps.” And there’s nothing worse than spilt milk.



<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-47768" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-scaled-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-scaled-600x400.jpg 600w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/GettyImages-1272710108-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption>(Photo by Randy Brooke/WireImage)</figcaption></figure></div>



Minkoff acknowledges that many workers no longer have to trek into the workplace, but that doesn’t mean working moms are sitting idle. She also predicts that the massive layoffs, remote schooling and childcare crises that arose from the pandemic will spur a new movement of entrepreneurs.



“You’re going to see a boon of founders and those are going to be the moms who are so sick of what’s going on right now that they’re going to come up with solutions to make their own businesses, go to work, and homeschool their children,” says Minkoff. “So I wanted to design something that was stylish and that would work for them.&#8221; 



Minkoff has teamed up with Medela in the past but this bag marks the first time she has created a physical product for the breast pump company. In her NYFW show last fall, Minkoff featured a digital campaign starring a Medela pump and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.romper.com/p/rebecca-minkoffs-nyfw-show-paid-tribute-to-pumping-breastfeeding-moms-in-inspiring-way-18734391" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mara Martin</a>, the Sports Illustrated model who made headlines when she walked the swimsuit runway while breastfeeding her newborn. The fact that this isn’t a first-time partnership with Medela suggests this collaboration is Minkoff’s most personal fashion statement yet.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“So much of motherhood is about taking care of other people and not focusing on yourself,” Minkoff says. “I wanted to create something specifically for moms to help them look and feel their best amidst the messy, beautiful, chaotic experience that is being someone’s mom.”



-Tanya Klich, Forbes Staff

Rebecca Minkoff – September 2020 – New York Fashion Week: The Shows

Rebecca Minkoff’s NYFW Fall 2020 Presentation Was An Ode To Manhattan And Motherhood

Young adults are the most likely demographic to have signs of negative mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic while older Americans at highest risk of the virus have the least stress and anxiety, a new <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.norc.org/PDFs/COVID%20Response%20Tracking%20Study/Rates%20of%20Mental%20Health%20Symptoms%20Unchanged%209Sept2020.pdf" target="_blank">Covid Response Tracking Study</a> poll from the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) finds, as the coronavirus continues to take a large mental health toll on Americans months into the pandemic.



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">KEY FACTS</h5>



The number of Americans reporting psychosomatic symptoms of stress and anxiety like trouble sleeping, feeling nervous and tired, headaches, and crying largely steadily decreases with each age bracket, the poll finds.



The number of Americans reporting psychosomatic symptoms of stress and anxiety like trouble sleeping, feeling nervous and tired, headaches, and crying largely steadily decreases with each age bracket, the poll finds.



Symptoms of stress and anxiety are also highest among women, those with less education and income, those who had been exposed to someone with Covid-19 and those who frequently read, watch or talk about the pandemic.



The percentage of respondents reporting symptoms and who report negative mental health are largely unchanged from previous polls in May and June/July, showing how the mental toll of the coronavirus pandemic has not improved as it stretches on.



51% of Americans read, watch or talk about the pandemic “often” or “most of the time,” and Democrats and those who are more educated are more likely to pay attention to and discuss the pandemic than Republicans, Independents and those with less education.



Though younger Americans are statistically at less risk of serious Covid-19 complications and death than older Americans—and have drawn the most scrutiny for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/07/23/as-coronavirus-infections-spike-among-young-new-yorkers-cuomo-warns-against-partying/#33f1ac6e389e">continuing to socialize</a>&nbsp;during the pandemic—they are also among the most likely groups to have been affected by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/06/09/hispanic-women-immigrants-young-adults-those-with-less-education-hit-hardest-by-covid-19-job-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">job losses</a>&nbsp;during the pandemic.



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">BIG NUMBER</h5>



2 in 10. That’s the number of respondents who say they “frequently suffer from anxiety, depression or irritability,” while five in 10 respondents say they at least sometimes experience those issues. The poll also found that the average person experiences approximately five out of the 15 symptoms associated with stress and anxiety.



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">KEY BACKGROUND</h5>



The negative&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/nazbeheshti/2020/05/28/10-eye-opening-statistics-on-the-mental-health-impact-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic/#385af6052df0">mental health toll</a>&nbsp;of the coronavirus has been a serious issue since it began, as lockdown measures, the virus itself and the vast economic fallout has had a negative impact on a broad swath of the population. An&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/04/02/coronavirus-36-of-americans-say-pandemic-has-made-a-serious-impact-on-their-mental-health/#58c2f2ec6c8e">April poll&nbsp;</a>from the American Psychiatric Association found that 36% of Americans believed the pandemic had taken a “serious toll” on their mental health, while an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/08/06/americans-are-more-anxious-and-economically-battered-from-coronavirus-than-citizens-of-other-wealthy-countries/#bdb3ec96a8ca">August survey</a>&nbsp;from the Commonwealth Fund found that approximately one-third of Americans reported negative mental health issues—far more than in the other countries surveyed. A previous NORC Covid Response Tracking Study poll in June also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/06/16/in-coronavirus-pandemic-americans-are-unhappier-than-theyve-been-in-50-years/#2b9b09da6255">found</a>&nbsp;that only 14% of those surveyed felt very happy, marking the lowest response recorded in nearly 50 years.



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">FURTHER READING</h5>



<a href="https://www.norc.org/Research/Projects/Pages/covid-response-tracking-study.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID Response Tracking Study</a>&nbsp;(NORC)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/09/04/more-young-people-living-with-their-parents-than-in-the-great-depression-report-says/#5581b32c51a3">More Young People Living With Their Parents Than In The Great Depression, Report Says</a>&nbsp;(Forbes)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/08/06/americans-are-more-anxious-and-economically-battered-from-coronavirus-than-citizens-of-other-wealthy-countries/#bdb3ec96a8ca">Americans Are More Anxious And Economically Battered From Coronavirus Than Citizens Of Other Wealthy Countries</a>&nbsp;(Forbes)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/nazbeheshti/2020/05/28/10-eye-opening-statistics-on-the-mental-health-impact-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic/#385af6052df0">10 Eye-Opening Statistics On The Mental Health Impact Of The Coronavirus Pandemic</a>&nbsp;(Forbes)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/04/02/coronavirus-36-of-americans-say-pandemic-has-made-a-serious-impact-on-their-mental-health/#58c2f2ec6c8e">Coronavirus: 36% Of Americans Say Pandemic Has Made A ‘Serious Impact’ On Their Mental Health</a>&nbsp;(Forbes)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/06/16/in-coronavirus-pandemic-americans-are-unhappier-than-theyve-been-in-50-years/#2b9b09da6255">In Coronavirus Pandemic, Americans Are Unhappier Than They’ve Been In 50 Years</a> (Forbes)



-Alison Durkee, Forbes Staff

Re-opening Continues Across Densely Populated New York And New Jersey Areas

Coronavirus Pandemic Affects Young Adults’ Mental Health More Than Older Americans: Poll

My cell phone lights up with a coronavirus joke: “After years of wanting to thoroughly clean my house but lacking the time, this week I discovered that wasn’t the reason.”



Laughter, it’s said, is the best medicine. And there’s plenty of evidence to prove it. Experts say cracking a joke can relieve mental and physical stress, reduce pain and allow us to tolerate discomfort.



It should come as no surprise then that as the world hunkers down in the face of the worst global health crisis in 100 years, gags, memes and funny videos are spreading almost as fast as Covid-19.



My cell phone lights up again: “Three hours into homeschooling and one child is suspended for skipping class and the other one has already been expelled.”



Black humour, explains Professor Arie Sover, a lecturer and researcher in communication and humour studies at the Open University of Israel, is a psychological means for coping with very difficult or impossible situations.



“It’s both a relief system and a tool which permits sharing one’s anxieties with the community.”



But many criticize making light of a serious subject. With more than half a million people who’ve already died from the virus, it doesn’t seem like the most appropriate time to be making jokes.



“Everyone has his own line,” agrees Professor Sover. “It depends on culture, psychological traits and education… One has to be smart using humour, but humour should not be restricted or forbidden.”



“I think many things provoke anxiety at a time like this,” says comedian Yisrael Campbell.



“When it comes to dealing with anxiety and coronavirus, for some people, staying at home is soothing and for others, it’s the opposite. Some people will be comforted to wear a mask outside, some people will be more anxious. I don’t think we can blame humour for this, or tag it as an anxiety provoker,” he says.



Benji Lovitt, another comedian, says if someone is watching stand-up comedy, or reading jokes, and getting stressed out, there’s nothing that can be done.



“You can’t please everyone. If there are a thousand people and someone is getting offended, what are we saying, that we should shut down comedy? Forget coronavirus, should we not have stand-up comedy about relationships because someone got dumped? This is the problem with today and the masses on Twitter, the loud minority. They represent everyone. If we are worried about people getting offended, then we have no more freedom of speech. The judges say if a reasonable person would find this not offensive then that’s what we should go by and not by the crazy one percent.”



“By definition, racist jokes aren’t funny,” insists Lovitt. “The comedian should be smart and that’s why comedy is tough. It often takes a professional to know where the lines are and what is appropriate. Once you start saying ‘this person cannot tell this joke’, it’s a dangerous and slippery slope and you can’t have comedy anymore. What we do know is that a person in a certain group is going to be more successful telling a joke about that group than someone who is not in the group.”



With Covid-19, we are all in the same group which makes the jokes universal.



Especially now as the virus seems to be growing with no vaccine on the horizon, joking gives people a sense of being in control of an uncontrollable phenomenon. We laugh also to connect with others – something we have lost in our fight against the virus. Many people find that the joke is their warmest companion against what’s happening.



– By Paula Slier, the founder and CEO of Newshound and the Middle East bureau chief of Russia Today.

Multi ethnic group of people in the movie theater

Comedy In The Time Of Crisis: Is Laughter The Best Medicine?

What birthed the civil rights movement? The question is still widely debated, but within this decades-long fight to eradicate racial discrimination, there’s one event not found in most history books—the horrific lynching of Emmett Till. Just a few months before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus, the brutal murder of a 14-year-old Black boy was already making an impact.



On August 28, 1955, the Chicago-born teenager was visiting family in Money, Mississippi when he was accused of flirting with a white female cashier, Carolyn Bryant, at a local grocery store and targeted by local white men. The group—including the husband of the cashier, Roy Bryant, and his half-brother, J.W. Milam—would later kidnap, bludgeon and shoot Till in the head before tying his lifeless body to a cotton gin fan with barbed wire and throwing him in the Tallahassee River.



This wasn’t the first time a Black man would be a victim of racially motivated lynching—and it certainly wouldn’t be the last. But Mamie Till-Mobley didn’t want her son’s death to be in vain. Despite being so horribly disfigured that he was barely recognizable as a human, Mrs. Till-Mobley insisted on a funeral with an open casket. “Let the people see what they did to my boy,” she famously declared.



For the 100,000 people who attended Till’s funeral, viewing his body “was like looking into a mirror,” says filmmaker Keith Beauchamp, who made a 2005 documentary about the case. If that wasn’t chilling enough, two Black publications,&nbsp;Jet&nbsp;magazine and the&nbsp;Chicago Defender, later published graphic photos of Till’s deformed face alongside a handsome portrait of the martyred teen.



But the momentum behind Till’s death didn’t last. A month after Till’s lynching, Bryant and Milam were tried before an all-white, all-male jury, and quickly acquitted. Until her death in 2003, Till’s mother fought tirelessly to get politicians, law enforcement, journalists and other activists to help find justice for the crime, but she never received redemption for her son in her lifetime.&nbsp;Now 65 years later, Till’s death has found new meaning with the killing of George Floyd.



“We should never forget that we’ve never had justice in his case,” says former United States Secretary of Agriculture Mike Espy. He certainly won’t. Espy’s family, which owned Century Burial Association in Greenwood, Mississippi, was involved in the initial process of recovering Till’s body before it was eventually sent to a white-owned funeral home and later flown to Chicago, where the funeral services took place.



Espy, echoing the late <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/30/opinion/john-lewis-civil-rights-america.html" target="_blank">John Lewis’ sentiment</a> that “Emmett Till was my George Floyd,” has also woken up to the fact that he’s been alive for two seemingly disparate eras that somehow are not too different. The parallels between the deaths of these two Black men, Espy says, are undeniable.



To Beauchamp, Floyd’s death brings even more meaning to Till’s. “I’ve always known that Emmett Till was the [civil rights movement] catalyst, but I didn’t know the importance of this case until now,” he says. “We have never put the story into context and identified it in the same manner that we see today. When I saw Emmett Till [in that&nbsp;Jet&nbsp;magazine], I felt vulnerable. I felt that way again when I saw George Floyd. These people are unintentional martyrs.”



For many, the two are also undeniable heroes. Much of what happened to Till helped form the basis of Espy’s current campaign to represent Mississippi in the Senate. A big part of his agenda is addressing the state’s racist history still reflected in existing monuments, like the statue of James Zachariah George, a prominent member of the Mississippi Constitutional Convention of 1890 who stripped voting rights for Black people. “I want to take that statue down,” says Espy. “He was the architect of doom in Mississippi.”&nbsp;



Meanwhile, in response to vandalism that destroyed various Emmett Till landmarks in 2014, the leaders behind the Emmett Till Interpretive Center helped launch the Emmett Till Memorial Project, a virtual tour led by executive director Patrick Weems and University of Kansas professor and Remembering Emmett Till author Dave Tell.



The center also enlisted architects to convert the Tallahatchie County Courthouse where the murder trial took place into a museum and educational center. The ongoing $7.5 million restoration project, led by Belinda Stewart Architects, began in 2007. Financial support came from former Mississippi Senator Thad Cochran, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History and Morgan Freeman’s Tallahatchie River Foundation.



“The courtroom was a literal standing example of injustice,” says Benjamin Saulsberry, the museum’s director. “We wanted it to have functionality. It gives that juxtaposition of where we have been and where we’re trying to go. We have the responsibility of taking truth and using truth to come together and build new narrative and new stories.”



It might have been “a story that was supposed to be forgotten,” says Beauchamp, but the filmmaker is proud to be among the people preserving it. His relentless efforts to uncover the truth about Till’s case in the early 1990s helped him form a close relationship with Mamie Till-Mobley before she passed. She gave him her blessing to conduct a series of in-depth interviews with some of the murder witnesses, including Till’s family members, Reverend Wheeler Parker Jr. and Simeon Wright, which Beauchamp would eventually compile for his 2005 documentary, The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till. Filmmaking was never part of his long term plan—“my parents gave me the funds they set aside for me to go to law school with,” he says—but the urge to tell Till’s story sparked the new passion.



In 2004, the Department of Justice tapped Beauchamp to help assist in the investigation tied to the first reopening of Till’s case, forcing Beauchamp to turn over much of his findings and omit them from documentary inclusion. His participation in the case failed to yield any new charges, but Beauchamp isn’t ready to quit: Along with Whoopi Goldberg and producers Frederick Zollo, Barbara Broccoli and Thomas Levine, he’s now coproducing a feature film based on Till’s saga. “I’m using as it my activism tool,” Beauchamp says, and this time he’s not holding anything back.



Till’s cousin Deborah Watts, cofounder and executive director of the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation, welcomes champions like Beauchamp. “Emmett’s murder impacted so many people,” says Watts. “Bob Dylan did a song. The NAACP used his story to tie in to voting rights. This is a huge part of the legacy and we appreciate the different efforts across genres as long as it’s honorable and as long as it’s the truth.”



Watts was just a toddler when Till was killed and the truth about her cousin’s death was originally too much for her to face. She recalls ripping up commemorative journals of Till, created by photojournalist Ernest Withers, out of anger and grief. Now, in some original copies spared from her rage, she recognizes the significance. “It’s a valuable piece of history right now.” It’s also a reminder of the work she still needs to accomplish and the promises she made to Till’s mother to keep his legacy alive. That vow inspired the birth of the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation in 2005 and its continuing efforts to preserve his memory.



Watts acknowledges that little progress has been made since 1955. The recent Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act her foundation bolstered is making its way through Congress, but not much has changed about the case that was reopened for the second time in 2018 following Carolyn Bryant Donham’s admission that the allegations she made against Till were false, in Timothy Tyson’s 2017 book, The Blood of Emmett Till.



Despite this new revelation, one very bitter reality remains: Till’s actual murderers were never convicted. (They are protected by the double jeopardy clause, which precludes them from being tried again.) Donham, the white female cashier considered to be an accomplice to his death, is still alive (had he lived, Till would be just 79 today), and her record remains clean. Can she even be charged 65 years later? Some experts say an obstruction of justice charge could still be viable.



Ahead of the 65th anniversary of Till’s murder, on August 28, Watts and the team at the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation are hard at work. The group is behind a year-long #JusticeForEmmettTill campaign and petition supported by many celebrities, most notably actor Taye Diggs. It encourages the public to press for indictment and charges linked to Till’s case as it remains open and unresolved.



Watts, of course, wants full justice. But she also has a plan that doesn’t require litigation: “We&#8217;re asking for an apology to our family from the federal government, the Department of Justice, the state of Mississippi and its local authorities,” she says. And perhaps, above all, an apology from Carolyn Bryant Donham.



Even if that happens, she says, there will still be work to be done. The fight for Black justice didn’t begin with Emmett Till—and it doesn’t end with him. But his undeserving death that galvanized a civil rights movement warrants the resurfaced attention during a new, budding awakening. Black Lives Matter is only strengthened by holding his legacy close.



“Emmett Till is Anne Frank to Black America,” says Beauchamp. “His death serves as a reminder of injustice as well as hope and change.”



&#8211;Brianne Garrett, Forbes Staff

Emmett Till

‘Emmett Till Is Anne Frank To Black America’

She has had a life of struggle and adventure, and even before being known as the mother of South African-born tech billionaire Elon Musk, was a star sashaying down the runway at the New York Fashion Week at the age of 67, rewriting the rules of the modeling industry. Maye Musk speaks to us from her home in Los Angeles about her new memoir, A Woman Makes A Plan, released by Jonathan Ball Publishers, and how Elon was always her ‘genius boy’ and is now set on exploring Mars. Excerpts from the interview:



You are 72 years old and a grandmother to 12 grandkids. How do you manage to look great and also be a model, dietician, author and entrepreneur? Women can do anything and everything… I have to eat very well to maintain a healthy weight and have a lot of energy. I have also never smoked, which is great and I wear a hat in the sun and sunscreen. You need to look after yourself and stay healthy and then, of course, the world is the limit. And then there’s Mars…



You grew up in Pretoria (South Africa) and in your book, recount your trips traveling with your parents across the Kalahari Desert every winter. Your family motto was ‘live dangerously — carefully’. Have you always been adventure-seekers? With my parents coming from Canada, from a small town, to South Africa, they just wanted to explore Africa and the world in a single engine plane. They did a lot of that and then they took all five children to the Kalahari Desert… with a compass and we would map it out and we would map the hills… [when] all my friends went to the beach… but it’s so weird my parents were so adventurous, it was wonderful!



Your older son Elon Musk, as the founder of Tesla, makes electric cars and launches rockets into space. Your second son Kimbal is a food entrepreneur and your daughter Tosca a filmmaker. What was it like raising three successful kids as a struggling single mother? How did you navigate great sadness and stress along the way?



Funny enough, when I told my children my book agent wants me to write about my life and the lessons I’ve learned and they said, ‘you’ve got to bring your struggles into your book’, and I said, ‘oh you know, I never complain’, so they said, ‘no, people need to know what you’ve been through’. So I put the struggles in and then when I read it with my editor, I said ‘oh, I have got to take some of these chapters out’, and she said, ‘no, women will relate to them’, and that’s why my struggles are in there.If you are in a bad situation, you just have to get out; you have to get out quicker than I did. You have to find a way and share your problem with your family and friends. Interestingly, my twin sister and my two brothers had no idea what I was going through. I never came across as struggling as I never complained. I was always happy. My point is, if you complain all the time, then you’re not interesting or fun or beautiful because you are just miserable. That’s why I never told anyone what I had been through, but nowadays, if you need help, you need to tell people.



What is your advice for overcoming stress and depression? I never went through depression. Depression means you can’t get up in the morning. I had to get up, get the kids to school and be at work at 7.30AM. So I didn’t have depression but I had a lot of sadness and rightly so, because I was scared and had to feed the kids. And then my ex-husband, after my divorce for 11 years, had me in lawsuits. That was exhausting and you live in constant fear. When it comes to depression, because I’m a dietician, and I’ve counseled patients for 45 years, and many of them were depressed and some had a reason, sometimes poor health, and I could help them eat better. If there is a reason for the depression, you need to talk it out. If it is because of things that have happened in the past, then I recommend they don’t continually complain about their past, because it just makes them less interesting.When it came to dating, every time I met a man, he would tell me about his miserable life and I would say, ‘I feel like I’m counseling, I am getting out of here!. When they want to date someone, men also need to be fun and have some kind of interest other than their miserable lives.



You have called Elon your ‘genius boy’ in your book. He got his first computer at 12, and learned to use it and wrote a computer program, BLASTAR. He published it at the age of 13. How did you see that interest in technology in him bloom? I told people when he was three that he was a genius and people were like, ‘oh, you are such a mother’, because all mothers think like that. Then, I would say, ‘no, really’. He would read the encyclopaedia and remember everything in there, so he really was our encyclopaedia. I mean I can read a book and I would forget it soon afterwards but he does not forget those things. It was when he was 12 [that] he showed me his computer program when I was teaching modeling to university students. I showed it to some of the computer students and they said, ‘oh, he knows all the short cuts, it looks great’. So, I told him he had to submit the program to a magazine and he did. I don’t think they knew that he was only 13, and he got R500 for it; how cool is that?



What does it take to raise a billionaire? I did not raise a billionaire – [Elon] was sleeping on the floor on a mattress. And that wasn’t his aim [to become a billionaire]. His aim is to save the planet and he also loves the thought of going to Mars. I raised all three of my kids the same way my parents raised me, to be independent, to make your own choices and be responsible for them, and also to take on work that will benefit other people. For example, Tosca has a platform called Passionflix and she takes best-selling romance novels and makes them into movies. In these movies, the women are paid as much as the men and they are strong, and confident and successful. They aren’t beaten up, violated and abused and there are always happy endings. It makes me feel good she is making movies that make people happy. With Kimbal, besides his farm-to-table restaurants, which helps the farmers, he does vegetable gardens in underserved schools. He has built 650 vegetable gardens in schools; he wanted to do 1,000 by the end of the year, but of course, everything’s got delayed with the lockdown. The children get so excited to plant seeds and water them and pick them out of the ground and prepare them and eat them. I mean to get kids excited about vegetables; well, it makes a dietician like me very happy.



Your son Elon’s pioneering work is to one day inhabit Mars. Did you always see that interest in him for space? Do you share that with him? I get very excited every step of the way. We all do. Kimbal and Tosca and I go to the main launches, we can’t go to all the launches, as Elon has launched, how many now… 50 rockets? I’m not sure. I lose track. But we go to the main ones, and we are anxious beforehand and excited afterwards and we are very proud of him and support him with all this. He just feels that we should be inter-planetary, starting with Mars. Mars seems to be the most friendly [planet], and that is what he would like to explore.



What do you call Elon Musk’s youngest son (whose name is X Æ A-12)? I call him ‘X’. We are all still in quarantine so we are Covid-free. We see each other when we can but not as often we used to.



What next for Maye Musk? I am just getting started and once the airports open up and will accept Americans into other countries, my book launch will go into all the major countries, hopefully South Africa too, and then I can give talks in [all these] different countries. The goal of my book is to inspire people to have happier lives.



What is the strength of South Africa’s women according to you? I have always found South African women to be strong, confident and fun. I miss their sense of humor. They just need to support each other, and the men need to support women so they can advance, because when women advance, the country does better.

Musk_1976_Maye__Elon__Kimbal__Tosca_rt-(1)

‘I Am Just Getting Started’: Maye Musk On Her New Book, Modeling, Mars And Her ‘Genius Boy’ Elon

<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">&#8220;We have grown past the stage of fairy-tale. As women, we have one common front and that is to succeed. We have to take the bull by the horn and make the change happen by ourselves.<cite>&#8211; Folorunso Alakija, Billionaire Businesswoman</cite></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">&#8220;The best view comes after the hardest climb.&#8221;<cite>&#8211; Unknown</cite></blockquote>

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