Shashi Naidoo
South African businesswoman, model, actress and TV presenter, who recently became one of the founding members of Fashion with Feeling, a non-profit organization in the fashion industry.
HAPPINESS TO ME IS…Having the freedom and access to realize one’s potential and worth.
WHAT I FEAR THE MOST: Living a life without purpose.
WHAT I HATE IN OTHERS: Hate is such a strong and negative emotion. There are differences in others, which we find difficult to qualify with our own values and principles. I try to keep away from any negative behavior that is of no benefit to others or me.
I ADMIRE: My mother and sister have always been inspirational; they have always pursued their passions, and look for the best potential in everyone. One woman who is a great inspiration for me is Navi Pillay; she has gone where many women have not been able to, due to her dedication and commitment to human rights. She was the first woman of color to be a judge of the high court in South Africa; she was a judge of the international criminal court. It’s very important for us to speak up for those who are being deprived of their rights, and I find there is nothing nobler than pioneering one’s life to preserving human rights and equality.
MY LUXURIES: Shoes and handbags. I always remind myself that one day, my daughter will get to enjoy them as heirlooms.
WOULD YOU GO UNDER THE KNIFE FOR PLASTIC SURGERY? Plastic surgery exists for medical reasons and to help us enhance some of our features that we are insecure about. I prefer going to the gym than surgery, because the recovery period is not as painful as going under the knife. I am quite content with myself right now; maybe if gravity takes its toll one day, I will consider getting some work done.
MY THINKING: Keeping your focus is important if you want to make a success of anything. Sometimes we get really busy making a living and forget to make a life, which is detrimental to the mind. So always reward yourself for all your hard work, and take time out to say thank you.
Chantel Dartnall
Chef Chantel Dartnall is the culinary force behind Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient in Johannesburg that has one of the most diverse (and longest) wine lists this side of the Sahara.
Describe the food you create in three words?
Flavorful, botanical, artistic.
What makes a good chef?
Passion.
What make a terrible chef?
A chef who does not respect himself/herself or the people working with them.
What is your signature dish?
This season it has to be Birds of a Feather which is a trio of poultry. Fungi on the Forest Floor which features a beautiful combination of mushrooms. From previous seasons, Lobster Bisque, Duck leg Confit and Cambodian Butternut cream soup.
Your favorite restaurant in Johannesburg?
Chef Dario Di Angeli’s Cube Tasting Kitchen.
Whose cooking inspires you?
Chef Pieter Goosen at Hof van Cleve – Belgium, Chef Michel Bras – Aubrac, France, Chef Pascal Barbot – Paris.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Taste, taste and re-taste.
What or who is the love of your life?
My lovable black cat, Peanut, short for Peanut Butter.
What is your greatest achievement?
Opening the Restaurant Mosaic eight years ago.
Where would you most like to live?
Italy for the food and the beautiful ancient cities.
What qualities do you most admire in other women?
Self-confidence, self-assurance and being a great leader.
What would your last meal on earth be?
Creamy wild mushroom and black truffle pasta and a very big wild strawberry
Mille-feuille and a bottle of Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque champagne.