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Registrations for the ’24 George Tens Sport & Lifestyle Festival, is open!

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Kicking off in 2019 as a rugby only festival, the event has evolved to include Men’s and Women’s Rugby, Golf, Mixed and Women’s’ Netball, Touchies, Dodgeball, Color run and Fishing! All seriously cool events that worked well, but we’d like to amp the ’24 presentation up even more!

This year, we’re introducing a Summer Slam category, meaning, YOU CAN ENTER ON THE DAY!

No serious planning or training needed! With the exception of Rugby & Netball, this goes for all the above events BUT we’re adding Tug-of-War, Weightlifting, a Rubex Cube Championship, Darts, Line Dancing AND a Mystery Basket Super Chef challenge!

We also need to mention that our netball presentation this year, will allow school teams to consist of three different age groups! This means that your teams can consist of players from three consecutive age groups!

The majority of these events will be presented at Outeniqua Park, with the sole idea to offer a lot more, to a much wider audience. Hence the reason why we are moving the ’24 dates to 17 – 20 December, providing you with the perfect holiday offering, FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

Registrations for the Rugby, Netball, Touchies, Dodgeball & the Color Run is OPEN!

Co-founded by Heyneke Meyer and IG van der Merwe, the 2024 George TENS will not only feature top notch sporting activities, but the Festival Village, situated at Outeniqua Park, will be rocking. This year, local and emerging artists are invited to showcase their talents on the Festival Stage. So, if you and/or your band think you’ve got what it takes, you’re invited to register your willingness to perform at www.georgetens.co.za.

Visit www.georgetens.co.za to register your team, yourself, your band, to join as a festival partner, collaborator or, if you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, as a volunteer! We’re ready to welcome you.

2024 George TENS …here we come!

Registration information:

All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

Women’s and men’s rugby 17, 18 & 19 December Outeniqua Park

School:                U/9; U/11; U/13; U/16; U/19

Students:            Colleges, Universities

Social: Amateurs: (U/35), Veterans (Over 35)

Women’s and mixed netball 17, 18 & 19 December Outeniqua Park

School:                Mix of U/11 – U/13

Students:            Colleges, Universities

Social: Amateurs (U/35), Veterans (O/35)

Dodgeball 17 December

Outeniqua Park All Ages

Touchies 18 December Outeniqua Park All Ages

5 Km Colour Run, 19 December

Starting point – Outeniqua Park All Ages

Golf 20 December

TBC

Follow @George10s on Facebook and www.georgetens.co.za to stay up to date on all the latest details. We can assist with accommodation options if required.

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Santam Women of The Future Awards Celebrate a Decade of Inspiration, Innovation and Empowerment

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Santam, in association with FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE magazines, is thrilled to announce the launch of the 10th annual Santam Women of the Future Awards. Over the past decade, the awards have celebrated women entrepreneurs, and showcased the resilience, innovation and success of women who have dared to dream big.

For the second consecutive year, we are excited to welcome Lancôme as our official beauty partner. Lancôme shares our commitment to empowering women and recognises the importance of acknowledging their accomplishments.

We’re inviting all women entrepreneurs to enter or to nominate an outstanding businesswoman that they know.

There are three categories:

1. The Santam Woman of the Future titleis awarded to an entrepreneur whose business is older than 1 000 days and who is well on her way to establishing an extensive enterprise.

2. The Santam Rising Star titleis awarded to an entrepreneur between 16 and 35 years old who is still within her first 1 000 days but whose business, our judges believe, will flourish way beyond them.

3. The Santam Social Entrepreneur titleis awarded to an NPO/social enterprise or entrepreneur who is making a real difference in her community. Her business/NPO/social enterprise has survived the first 1 000 days.

This year, entrants could win their share of more than R692 000 in prizes! Winners also stand a chance of unlocking the 105-year-old business expertise of Santam, and the networking reach of FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE, all of which will elevate a business to greater heights.

‘Santam is committed to becoming valued partners of women-owned businesses,’ says Gugu Mtetwa, Santam Group Chief Operating Officer. ‘We see the Women of the Future Awards as a means to recognise and showcase the incredible role played by women in helping to drive sustainable economic growth. It is also about empowering future generations of trailblazers. Women-owned businesses create a ripple effect, stimulating economic growth and enhancing the well-being of communities.’

Introducing the judging panel

Professor Thuli Madonsela

Professor Thuli Madonsela has been on the judging panel for the past 10 years. The former Public Protector of South Africa and full-time commissioner on the South African Law Reform Commission is currently the director of the Centre for Social Justice in the Faculty of Law at Stellenbosch University, and a professor of law occupying the Law Trust Research Chair in Social Justice at the university.

She founded the Thuma Foundation for Democracy Leadership and Literacy, and is a member of the African Academy of Sciences. She was recently appointed to the UN Scientific Advisory Board and as chairperson of Cities Alliance, a global partnership fighting urban poverty. Additionally, Prof Thuli enjoys international recognition, including having being named one of Timemagazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2014, and being the recipient of more than 70 awards.

She believes it is often entrepreneurs who think outside the box and who contribute to solving problems in society.

What Prof Thuli will be looking for: ‘I’m looking for a woman who is building a just world that she’d want to live in. She also needs to be an environmentally conscious problem-solver who is leveraging technology, digitalisation and artificial intelligence to improve current and future life.’

Nondumiso Mabece, Santam Head of Brand

First-time judge Nondumiso Mabece is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience spanning business and marketing management, having worked for some of the best advertising agencies and corporate organisations in South Africa and Africa. Nondumiso holds a master’s in Business Administration and is pursuing a doctorate in the subject. 

Having successfully managed several diverse teams, she believes in the power of self-development and mentorship, especially for women entrepreneurs who might find the world of business challenging to navigate. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion makes her a valuable judge and mentor, poised to recognise and support emerging businesswomen.

What Nondumiso will be looking for: ‘Entrants who have the potential to create scale and employment opportunities within their businesses, as small businesses offer an opportunity to help alleviate unemployment among South Africa’s youth.’

Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe, CEO of Quadcare

Joining the judging panel this year is Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe, CEO of Quadcare and 2020 winner of the Woman of the Future Award. She holds an MBBCh degree from the University of Witwatersrand, a Master of Science in Sports Medicine and an MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science, among other academic accolades.

Dulcy is a social entrepreneur who is passionate about providing affordable healthcare and wellness solutions. In 2019, she co-founded primary healthcare network Quadcare, which has 13 clinics across South Africa as well as a virtual clinic. She is the recipient of several accolades, including the 2023 Digital Healthcare Innovator Award.

Dulcy serves on the boards of various organisations, and is the founder and CEO of the DDR Foundation, which provides entrepreneurship education and incubation to young people. She is also a keynote speaker, features as a regular guest on radio stations and contributes to The Citizen newspaper.

What Dulcy will be looking for: ‘I am looking for entrepreneurs who are led by love and driven by their passion. They need to know the importance of profitability to ensure that their business remains sustainable and can scale up.’

Dawn Nathan-Jones, entrepreneur and CEO of Over the Rainbow

Joining the panel for the seventh year is Dawn Nathan-Jones, an entrepreneur and CEO of Over the Rainbow, a social enterprise that provides entrepreneurs with training, mentorship and tools to assist them in building thriving businesses.

At the age of 21, Dawn joined the Imperial Group and spent 35 years growing the car rental and affiliate businesses. In 2016, she stepped down as CEO to immerse herself in multiple interventions to empower women entrepreneurs. Notably, she was the only female judge on the M-Net reality show Shark Tank South Africa.

In 2017, Dawn joined forces with Lesley Waterkeyn of Over the Rainbow. In 2021, they launched Smart Women, an online course developed in collaboration with FAIRLADY that guides women who want to start a business or side hustle.

Last year, Dawn, together with four strategic partners, launched the Entrepreneurs’ Network to develop sustainable businesses. ‘Entrepreneurs supporting and networking with one another is at the heart of everything we do.’

What Dawn will be looking for: ‘I am looking for women entrepreneurs who lead with a sense of purpose for themselves, their people, their communities and their companies. As women leaders, we have a moral obligation to uplift and encourage other women to overcome their fears and challenges, and leap into their own successful future.’

Suzy Brokensha, FAIRLADY Editor-in-Chief

A veteran of the magazine industry, Suzy Brokensha has always felt strongly about recognising and rewarding South African women who have started their own businesses. She has been at the helm of FAIRLADY through many transitions. FAIRLADY has always been written by, about and for South African women.

‘We understand their hopes, fears and dreams because we share them,’ Suzy says. ‘We know that every woman yearns to be in control of her time and her income because it gives her the economic freedom to make the independent choices she needs to make.’

She believes that female entrepreneurship can transform the South African landscape, both economically and in terms of gender equality.

‘The Santam Women of the Future Awards in association with FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE have gone from strength to strength over the past 10 years,’ she says. ‘The number – and quality – of entrants continues to be a huge source of pride to us. South African women are so resourceful and inspiring, I can’t wait to see what they’ll bring to the table in our special anniversary year. I’m sure it will be spectacular!’

What Suzy will be looking for: ‘I will be looking for a smart, tested idea that has the potential to grow exponentially with the financial input and wide-reaching publicity that winning a Santam, FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE Women of the Future Award provides. Bring it on!’

Mbali Soga, TRUELOVE/DRUM Editor-in-Chief

After a whirlwind year back at the helm of quarterly women’s glossy TRUELOVE, having enjoyed a stint as Head of Content at South Africa’s biggest fashion e-tailer, Mbali is now in charge of another heritage brand, DRUM.

When it comes to entrepreneurship, she has this to say: ‘I was raised by a single mother, a situation that’s very common in our country. One income stream was never enough; there was always something else my mother had to do for us to get by. She and many other women continue to fight for financial freedom for themselves and their communities. South African women have always been entrepreneurial.

‘It’s an honour to be part of the Santam Women of the Future Awards, which go beyond being an awards ceremony – this initiative is a movement for a call for change, a call for women to take their financial emancipation into their own hands. We look forward to many more years.’

What Mbali will be looking for: ‘I’ll be looking for an entrepreneur who has built a business out of a unique yet almost obvious idea, and which has not only afforded her financial success but has also solved a societal challenge.’

The prizes

  • R125 000 in cash to the Woman of the Future and R75 000 in cash each to the Rising Star and the Social Entrepreneur from Santam
  • A luxury beauty hamper worth R10 000 from our beauty partner, Lancôme
  • A full-page advertisement in FAIRLADY or TRUELOVE to promote the business, social enterprise or NPO
  • Invaluable mentorship with one of the judges
  • An online masterclass worth R4 100 from the Gordon Institute of Business Science
  • A hamper from the IV Bar, including a Jetfuel drip, worth R7 330
  • A ladies dress watch from Seiko worth R7 000
  • Business printing worth R5 000 from Lithotech
  • A STACKD spinner and Weekender cosmetic case worth R6 498 from Samsonite
  • A spa voucher worth R5 000 from Camelot Spa

To showcase your business or to nominate an entrepreneur you know and admire, head to www.womenofthefuture.co.za

Entries close on 3 June 2024.

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Moving? Here’s how to get your pets calm and settled in their new home

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Moving isn’t just stressful for people, it can be extremely stressful for pets too. The process introduces a variety of changes and new stimuli, such as unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells, which can lead to anxiety and stress. Each pet may react differently depending on their personality, past experiences, and the species and breed.

“Since the pandemic, many South Africans have chosen to change their lifestyles, and coastal towns from the Cape to the Kwa-Zulu Natal have seen an influx in new residents,” says Dr Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Lead: Companion Animals at Zoetis South Africa, a global animal health company. “It’s often an exciting, positive change, but as all pet owners know, moving to a new home—particularly if it’s in a new city—can disrupt a pet’s sense of security and territory. Fur babies may become anxious or stressed when their familiar environment changes abruptly.”

The actual process of moving, which may involve car rides or even flights, can be particularly stressful for pets not accustomed to traveling, with the confinement, noises, and motion causing discomfort.

“Pets thrive on routine, and moving disrupts their daily schedule of feeding, walks, and playtime,” says Dent. “Arriving at a new home doesn’t immediately end their anxiety either. New smells, sounds, and sights can overwhelm pets, creating sensory overload and making it difficult for them to feel settled and secure.”

To mitigate stress and help their pets feel safe and secure, there are several strategies pet owners can use:

  • Maintain as much of your pet’s routine as you can during the move.
  • Gradually acclimate your pet to their carrier or the mode of transportation if they are not used to it.
  • Set up a quiet, comfortable space with familiar items like toys, bedding, or their favourite blanket in the new home as soon as possible.
  • Give them plenty of attention and reassurance during and after the move.

Ask your veterinarian for advice

Over and above these strategies, discuss your moving plans with your veterinarian. “Veterinarians know their patients’ temperaments and what could trigger anxiety,” says Dent. “Start by explaining the specifics of your move, including the timeline, distance, and mode of transportation. This information helps your vet tailor their advice to your pet’s needs, considering factors like the length of travel and the type of environment you’re moving to.”

Your veterinarian can offer valuable insights into managing travel anxiety and motion sickness, which are common in pets during a move. They might suggest remedies ranging from prescription medications to alleviate anxiety and prevent motion sickness, to recommendations for over-the-counter calming aids like pheromones or supplements.

It’s also important to get your pet’s health and vaccination records. Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, especially if you’re moving to a new area with different health risks or if boarding will be part of your moving process. Your veterinarian can also provide a health certificate if required for travel, particularly for air travel or moving to a different country.

“Your current veterinarian knows your pet’s medical history,” says Dent. “This is particularly important if your pet is on any chronic medication as there are specific regulations around dispensing these medications. The last thing you want in the middle of a major life change is to disrupt your pet’s medical needs. Your veterinarian is the best person to guide you on this, and they can also recommend a new veterinary care provider in your new location or advise on how to choose a new vet. Pets benefit from a smooth transition in their healthcare and for dealing with any post-move health issues that may arise.”

Remember, your veterinarian is a valuable resource in planning a stress-free move for your pet. They can provide you with specific advice and support tailored to your pet’s health, temperament, and needs, ensuring they remain as comfortable as possible during the moving process and that you can focus on the big move without worrying about how it’s impacting your fur babies.

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How what we eat and drink (and when) affects sleep

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Nutrition is important to overall health yet many people overlook the significant role that diet plays in sleep quality. Tetley partner dietitian, Mbali Mapholi, has provided useful insight into the connection between diet and sleep – and tips on how to get a great night’s rest!

“What we eat and drink, and when, can profoundly influence our ability to get a good night’s sleep,” explained Mapholi. “This is because certain foods and beverages contain compounds that affect neurotransmitters and hormones involved in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Getting enough sleep isn’t just about being rested and able to function the next day – the role that sleep plays in our long-term health and well-being is absolutely key, and that is why understanding the link between what we eat and drink and our sleep is so important.”

She said foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan can aid sleep. Tryptophan, which is a precursor to the neurotransmitters serotonin and melatonin that promote relaxation and sleep, can be found in foods like turkey, milk, and bananas. Another example is chamomile which contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Here are Mbali’s top 5 tips to make counting sheep a thing of the past.

Mbali’s dietary tips for getting the best sleep

  1. Get the timing right

When we eat and drink can influence our sleep patterns. Consuming large, heavy meals close to bedtime can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep. Instead of having a big dinner right before bed, aim to eat at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Then opt for lighter, easily digestible snacks if you’re hungry later in the evening.

  1. Snack mindfully

When we’re tired, we can often end up bingeing on snacks without really feeling hungry. This can be exacerbated if we’re distracted – for example, snacking while watching TV or scrolling through social media. “Choosing snacks mindfully is even more important before bed, as what we snack on can impact sleep and also undo the benefits of healthy eating during the day,” said Mbali. Sugary snacks are the worst option as eating foods high in added sugar close to bedtime may promote insomnia or difficulty staying asleep. Rather opt for melatonin-rich snacks like a handful of walnuts or almonds, or some sliced-up kiwi fruit or banana.

  1. Limit caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can disrupt sleep by increasing alertness and delaying the onset of sleep. It’s important to be mindful of your caffeine consumption, especially in the afternoon and evening. Rather opt for a decaffeinated or herbal tea, ideally one that promotes sleep such as Tetley Pure Chamomile. “Incorporating Tetley Pure Chamomile tea into your bedtime routine may aid in improving sleep quality as it calms the central nervous system and facilitates the initiation of sleep,” said Mapholi.

  1. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep, but drinking large amounts of fluids close to bedtime can increase the likelihood of waking up to use the bathroom during the night. Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water or tea regularly, particularly caffeine-free ones like Laager Rooibos or Tetley Chamomile. However, try to taper off fluid intake in the hours leading up to bedtime, and sip slowly if you do drink tea before bedtime to minimise disruptions to sleep.

  1. Think before you drink

Having a drink to unwind in the evening is a common go-to for individuals with busy or stressful daily routines. However, drinking alcohol at night regularly can disturb your sleep cycle and affect sleep quality, leading to feelings of general fatigue and lethargy. While a glass or two of alcohol may help one fall asleep, this is negated by the adverse impact that drinking alcohol has on sleep quality during the night.

“Getting better quality sleep can drastically impact overall health and mood,” concludes Mbali. “It can be easy after a long, stressful day to fall into negative habits and patterns in the evenings. But being mindful about taking steps towards better sleep will reap noticeable rewards, and should be a priority for all individuals craving more balance in their lives.”

To discover more healthy tips and recipe ideas from Tetley Tea, follow @TetleyTeaSA on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.joekels.co.za. For more insightful dietary information, follow Mbali Mapholi @Urbandietitian.