Construction of the 22-hectare Serenity Gardens, which includes a world-record labyrinth and a series of immersive garden experiences, is well underway and set to redefine the Midlands landscape. Alongside this landmark project, Brahman Hills is also launching the next phase in its journey of refinement and elevation: the introduction of 5-star Premium Signature Villas.

Four of the estate’s most cherished villas — Oribi, Duiker, Eland and Wildebeest – are currently undergoing comprehensive refurbishments. Each is being carefully reimagined to reflect a higher standard of luxury, intimacy, and personalised care, while remaining deeply connected to the natural environment that defines Brahman Hills. According to Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, the project is a natural extension of the property’s long-term vision to deliver world-class experiences grounded in serenity, wellness, and excellence.

“At Brahman Hills, we do not pursue luxury for luxury sake,” says Cottle. “We pursue meaning, intention, and care. These Premium Signature Villas are being created as true sanctuaries; spaces where thoughtful design, natural textures, and elevated comfort come together to allow guests to rest deeply, reconnect, and leave transformed.”

Each 5-star Premium Signature Villa will offer generous interiors, world-class finishes, and uninterrupted views that draw the outdoors into the living experience, really showcasing Brahman Hills’ commitment to harmony with nature and attention to detail at every touchpoint.

The Signature Villas will sit at the pinnacle of the Brahman Hills experience, offering a curated range of included and optional experiences, thoughtfully designed to anticipate guest needs and create a seamless, deeply personal stay.

Included experiences may feature:

• Dedicated butler service
• Private chef for in-villa dining (available by arrangement)
• Daily breakfast with speciality coffees and fresh juices
• Thoughtful guest gifting
• A complimentary bottle of Moët
• Selected beer, cider, and soft drinks
• A spa experience for each couple
• Exclusive access to the Serenity Gardens (once completed)

Cottle adds, “When we say that Brahman Hills is a Sanctuary of Serenity, Wellness and Excellence it is more than a promise, it is a responsibility we carry in every guest experience.”

He says that Brahman Hills has never aspired to be ordinary, and never will. “We believe that to truly stand apart – in the Midlands, in KwaZulu-Natal, and in South Africa – one must be brave enough to think long-term and act with intention. When we elevate Brahman Hills, we elevate the region. When we raise standards, tourism rises with us. Our guests benefit, our communities benefit, and South Africa benefits.”

“This is not about scale. It is about legacy. It is about building something meaningful that will continue shifting lives today, tomorrow, and for generations to come,” he concludes.

To follow the Brahman Hills journey and witness this next chapter unfold, visit: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/stories/an-extraordinary-world-class-sanctuary—launching-2026

Ghanaian sensation MOLIY takes centre stage as the Spotify EQUAL Africa artist of the month of January 2026. Also gracing the cover of the EQUAL Global playlist, she stands as a powerful symbol of the women representing Africa’s creative expansion and global musical dominance.

Known for her hypnotic blend of Afro-pop, Afro-fusion and dancehall, MOLIY’s sound is playful yet intentional, soft yet powerful. Her music lives where emotion meets movement, earning her a rapidly growing global audience.

Born and raised in Ghana, MOLIY’s journey into music evolved from curiosity into calling. Raised on the sounds of Ghanaian legends like Daddy Lumba, Rex Omar, R2Bees and 4×4, alongside fearless female voices such as Ebony, Eazzy, Itz Tiffany and Sister Deborah, she was shaped by artists who championed confidence, freedom and individuality.

In December 2024, MOLIY released her breakout single “Shake It To The Max (FLY)”, a defining moment in her career. The track quickly went viral, becoming an international anthem and cementing her place as part of a new generation of African women with unapologetic global ambition, a rise reflected in Spotify Wrapped 2025 where she topped the list of most-exported Ghanaian artists.

Beyond the music, MOLIY represents a shift in how African women are seen and heard. Her visuals, performances and personal brand celebrate femininity, individuality and freedom, inspiring young women to take up space boldly.

Spotify’s EQUAL AFRICA initiative remains focused on elevating women’s voices, and MOLIY’s recognition underscores the role African women continue to play in shaping global sound and culture.

“MOLIY sits comfortably at the intersection of African pop and global culture,” says Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa. “Her music reflects a generation that’s fluid, expressive, and unbound by borders, making her a powerful voice within EQUAL Africa.”

We sat down with MOLIY to talk Music, Purpose, and Finding Peace.

What’s one surprising thing fans might not know about you?
I’m actually quite introverted. I love performing and creating, but off stage I really value quiet moments  being at home, spending time with family and friends, watching movies, playing online games and enjoying my peace.

When did you realise music was your destiny?
In 2018, something clicked. I was searching for purpose and felt stuck in other areas of my life, but at the same time I was creating music intentionally for the first time and falling in love with how it felt. I also saw African music becoming a global movement and realised I had something new to add. That’s when I knew there was space for me.

Which African artists shaped your sound growing up?
I grew up on a mix of Ghanaian music and global pop. Artists like Daddy Lumba, Rex Omar, R2bees and 4×4, alongside female voices such as Ebony, Eazzy, Itz Tiffany and Sister Deborah, really inspired me. They all embodied confidence, freedom and individuality.

How would you describe your sound to a first-time listener?
Afro-pop and Afro-fusion at the core, with a bit of dancehall. It’s bold and playful, but still emotional. Soft yet powerful music you can dance to and still feel seen by.

Any advice for someone afraid to follow their dreams?
Do whatever is in your power right now and do it consistently. For me, it started with freestyling online. Every positive message mattered. I believe strongly in affirmations, speaking life into your goals and turning fear into belief.

How do you navigate the industry as a woman?
I stay grounded in who I am. There’s pressure to fit into boxes, but I let my perspective stay fluid. My artistry is shaped by confidence, vulnerability and the freedom to exist in multiple moods at once.

What does being part of EQUAL mean to you?
Being a woman in this industry has taught me to trust my voice even when the room is loud. There’s real power in women supporting women. EQUAL represents visibility, support and opportunity and I’m grateful to be part of it.

In 2026, travellers will swap bucket list backdrops for trips that revolve around what they love most. Whether that’s chasing tulip blooms across Holland or baking (eating and sipping) your way through Paris, hobby‑led holidays are turning wanderlust into a way of life.

Marriott Bonvoy, which coined the term “passion pursuits,” reports that 72% of global travellers have already taken a trip to follow a personal hobby, a number that soars to 84% among Gen Z. And closer to home, Flight Centre’s latest Global PR Survey reveals that 83% of South Africans name food and gastronomy as a key driver of their travel choices. In short, purpose and passion have become the new passport stamps.

According to Zay Ferguson‑Nair, Flight Centre South Africa’s Customer Experience Leader:

“Travel will remain deeply personal in 2026. People want journeys that mirror what lights them up, whether that’s yoga, photography, gardening, or baking the perfect croissant. Travel is no longer only about where you’re going, but why you’re going there.”

6 ways to let your passion pick the place

1. For the gardeners and flower fanatics

There’s something grounding about watching the world in bloom, and these destinations turn petals into poetry.

Go global:

• Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands (March–May 2026): A living rainbow of over seven million bulbs, where tulips carpet the countryside and cycling paths meander through fields of colour.

Stay local:

• Namaqualand, Northern Cape (August–September): South Africa’s most magical transformation: the desert reborn into a painter’s palette of wildflowers.

2. For the yogis and wellness seekers

When the world spins too fast, the best reset comes from a deep breath and a change of scenery.

Go global:

• Ubud, Bali (March–June): Sunrise yoga and plant-based feasts in a landscape made for mindfulness.

Stay local:

• Magaliesberg, Gauteng (April–May or September): Eco‑lodges and forest retreats offering weekend digital detoxes with aerial yoga and hiking interludes.

3. For the photography obsessives

Passionate photographers can make almost any landscape look extraordinary, but these destinations make getting that shot perfectly effortless.

Go global:

• Iceland’s South Coast (late February–April): The blue hour over glaciers, black‑sand beaches, and northern skies that shimmer in time exposure.

Stay local:

• Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu‑Natal (June–August): Golden peaks and crystal‑clear air – one of the southern hemisphere’s greatest natural studios.

4. For the readers and dreamers

For the bookish traveller, there’s poetry hidden in every cobblestone if you choose the right destination.

Go global:

• Bath, England (March 2026): The Jane Austen Festival dresses the city in Regency charm, complete with bonnets, fancy balls, and live readings.

Stay local:

• Franschhoek Literary Festival (May 2026): Where vineyards meet verse, and South Africa’s leading authors gather for fireside panels.

5. For the bakers and foodies

The scent of sugar, spice, and travel. For those who dream in recipes, the world’s kitchens are the ultimate atlas.

Go global:

• Paris, France (June): Champagne picnics, legendary patisseries, and baking workshops led by award‑winning chefs.

Stay local:

• Cape Town & Stellenbosch (March–May harvest season): Artisanal bakeries, chocolate ateliers, relaxing picnics, and seasonal food festivals that celebrate local craftsmanship.

6. For the gamers and pop‑culture fans

The adventure doesn’t end at “Game Over.” These events turn fandoms into full‑scale frontiers.

Go global:

• Tokyo Game Show (September): Where gaming and innovation combine, and every console lover’s dream feels real.

Stay local:

• Comic Con Africa, Johannesburg (September): Panels, e‑sport tournaments, cosplay, and a community that celebrates every kind of quest.

Travel Expert tips for planning a hobby‑led holiday

Here are Ferguson-Nair’s top tips for planning the perfect ‘passion pursuit’ in 2026 and beyond:

1. Track global calendars before flight prices
   Before you even shortlist destinations, find out when your passion peaks: cherry blossom or truffle season, a major e‑sports championship, a big concert, or a chefs’ congress. Great fares are useless if you arrive a week after the magic ends.
2. Book the experience first, the flight second
   For hobby-led holidays, the event or experience defines where you go, not the other way around. Ferguson-Nair recommends securing limited‑access tickets (festivals, masterclasses, etc.) before locking in accommodation through your Flight Centre Travel Expert.
3. Pack with purpose
   That means prioritising kit over clothes. Photographers should check voltage compatibility for battery chargers; yogis should bring their own eco‑mat or strap rather than relying on studio gear.
4. Leave a day for “creative drift”
   Hobby‑led travellers tend to over‑schedule, says Ferguson-Nair. Build in one blank day without an agenda to follow unplanned inspiration. That’s often where the best discoveries happen.
5. Match local expertise to your niche
   Ask your Travel Expert to pair you with local guides who share your interests. It will transform an itinerary into camaraderie – or even a mentorship!

“The map expands in unexpected directions when you follow what makes you feel most alive. Passion becomes both the journey and the destination. And that’s a trend worth packing for,” Ferguson-Nair concludes.

The class of 2025 at St Mary’s School, Waverley, has achieved a remarkable set of results in the National Senior Certificate examinations, further strengthening the school’s reputation as one of Johannesburg’s leading independent schools.

Established in 1888, St Mary’s School, Waverley, is known for its strong academic foundations and its focus on preparing pupils for success beyond school. The 2025 matric results reflect this enduring commitment to excellence.

The class achieved a 100% pass rate, with 99% of candidates qualifying for Bachelor’s Degree studies.

Academic distinction was a defining feature of the cohort’s performance, with 99% of candidates obtaining distinctions, resulting in a total of 455 distinctions. This equates to an average of 4.14 distinctions per candidate, underscoring the consistently high standard achieved across the class. In addition, 106 candidates, representing 96% of the cohort, achieved an average of 60% or higher.

At St Mary’s School Waverley’s, academic excellence forms part of a broader educational journey that nurtures young women to become confident, compassionate and capable individuals.

Guided by the school’s Anglican faith and core values, and supported by a strong pastoral care framework, pupils are encouraged to develop integrity, resilience and independence, while engaging thoughtfully with the world around them. Intellectual curiosity is cultivated through a rigorous and enriching curriculum, complemented by meaningful opportunities beyond the classroom.

Through a balanced programme that embraces academics, sport, culture and service, the class of 2025 leaves St Mary’s well prepared for the next stage of their lives. Equipped with academic confidence, a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose, these young women are ready to think critically, lead with courage and contribute positively to their communities and society at large.

As 2026 begins, many South Africans are once again setting intentions to move more, stress less, and commit to healthier, fitter lifestyles. There’s a significant range of options when it comes to deciding on physical activities and setting goals for new and improved fitness routines. Affordability and accessibility, our personal abilities and preferences all play a role in what physical activities we choose to shape our fitness routines. But, this year, there’s another factor that has come to the forefront.

In a world where our ‘third spaces’ are decreasing, and where digital connection too often overrides in-person engagement, we are becoming increasingly aware of how important social connection is to our overall wellness. In its landmark report, From loneliness to social connection: charting a path to healthier societies, the WHO Commission on Social Connection has highlighted compelling evidence that loneliness and social isolation are as bad for our health and longevity as smoking and obesity.

Recent research has also shown that people who exercise together have higher rates of social health – better connections and more quality relationships. Evidence reveals that group exercise activities also improve motivation and result in more sustainable fitness routines.

Co-founder of One Flow Yoga and Wellness Social Club, Jeanae Dumas says, “On average, we should be aiming to spend 5 to 7 hours a week exercising. If we choose solo pursuits or uncomfortable, socially disconnected spaces for our fitness routines, then our physical activities will only be adding to the hours when we are socially isolated. Also, there’s no accountability when you are exercising alone, and more chance that your good intentions to become fit or improve your fitness in 2026 will fall by the wayside like most New Year’s resolutions.”

Why social wellness makes the difference

Situated in Green Point, One Flow is an industry leader in social wellness offering a range of yoga classes, Sauna Journeys and bespoke fitness classes such as Kettle Bell and the low-impact Sculpt LIIT classes. But what sets it apart is that social wellness and community is at the heart of everything – from the design of the actual spaces to the carefully curated group fitness experiences.

Jeanae says, “In 2026, the question for many will not only be what activity to choose, but where and with whom they choose to do it. People don’t just need a workout. They need connection, engagement and a true sense of belonging. These elements are what keep wellness habits alive and bring balance, enrichment and fulfilment into our lives. At One Flow, our promise to our members is an authentic personal experience of being immersed in a vibrant, like-minded community.”

Jeanae’s practical advice for shaping your 2026 fitness routine:

• Prioritise your social wellness – Your fitness routine should not only enhance your physical health, but your emotional wellbeing and your social wellness. Choose group activities and spaces where community is part of the experience and where you feel genuinely connected to others.
• Choose activities that your being needs – For instance, if you need flexibility or grounding, choose yoga; stamina, choose Parkruns, strength, choose Sculpt Kettle Bell, emotional release or resilience, choose a Sauna Journey, toning, choose Sculpt LIIT.
• Start small — but start – To begin, pick one to three group activities per week rather than attempting a full schedule. Remember that for practices such as yoga, you don’t need any required level of fitness from the start. Ease into each class, focus on what you can do, and give yourself time to find your rhythm.
• Pair physical activity with social connection – Schedule classes, saunas, walks or stretching sessions with a friend – or simply arrive open to meeting new people. Interactions before, during and after sessions help build a sense of belonging and make it easier to stay consistent and committed to your goals.
• Create simple weekly rituals – Anchor your week with repeatable habits: a favourite yoga class, a weekly Sculpt Kettle Bell or Sculpt LIIT session, a regular walking group or Saturday afternoon game of Padel. Add a recovery ritual, such as One Flow’s Rest & Restore Sauna Journey every Sunday to create a grounding rhythm in a busy year.

• Pay attention to mood, not only metrics – Consistency isn’t only about tracking steps or hours. Notice how your fitness routine affects sleep, stress, clarity, productivity, and resilience. These indicators tell you whether your routine is genuinely supporting your wellbeing.
• Join a community-based movement – Free and accessible options like Parkruns, community walking clubs and public outdoor gyms help you build consistency without financial strain. The collective energy keeps you accountable and motivated. Many of these initiatives, like Parkrun, have apps so that you can easily meet up at regular events in your area.
• Try cold-water ocean swimming with a group – Cold-water swimming has grown across South Africa’s coastline for a reason – the shared challenge is bonding, and the mood boost is immediate. Going with a group enhances safety and motivation. You can find cold water swimming groups near you on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. You could try contrast therapy, alternating sauna heat with cold plunges – but choose a space that enhances social connections and encourages the communal experience.

• Turn social time into movement time – Swap static catch-ups like coffee dates for active ones. Invite a friend for a beach walk, an early-morning training session, or a weekend bike ride. You’ll strengthen both fitness and friendships without needing extra hours in your week.
• Choose psychologically safe spaces – Community only matters if you feel comfortable and welcome. Explore different groups and spaces until you find those where you feel supported, valued, and motivated to return. That sense of belonging is often the missing element in long-term wellness.

Visit www.oneflow.co.za

The 165^th edition of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate returned to Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday, 10 January, with its winning combination of storied heritage, high fashion, three elite Grade 1 races, and unparalleled global prestige.

Instantly recognisable by its iconic blue-and-white identity, this L’Ormarins-sponsored extravaganza (in its 22nd year of partnership) stood as one of the most elegant and internationally acclaimed racedays on the South African race calendar, and further elevated Cape Town’s summer social scene to world-class heights.

Triple the Thrill with Three Grade 1 Races

The day featured a stacked racecard, including three Grade 1 races that delivered back-to-back action.

First up was the Cartier Paddock Stakes WFA Gr 1 over 1,800m, which saw Wish List prevailing in a hard-run and enthralling race. “I said to her ‘Go Girl’, and three strides later she told me it’s race over!” said veteran jockey, Andrew Fortune, who narrowly outdueled Reet Petite and Rainbow Lorikeet to lead Wish List to victory.

In one of the most moving moments in South African racing history, young trainer Dean Smith delivered a Grade 1 victory in the World Pool Cape Flying Championship (Race 7, 1000m) – his first Gr 1 runner under license – just months after the heartbreaking death of his father, legendary Eastern Cape champion trainer Gavin Smith.

Dean, Gavin’s assistant, successor and son, stepped into the spotlight with a trainer’s license to honour his father’s legacy. Racing the family’s speedster Kingdundee, Dean secured the prestigious sprint – now a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the November Turf Sprint with subsidised US travel.

“Dad prepared this horse perfectly; his eye for talent was unmatched. This win is for him, Mum Marilyn, sister Abbi, and everyone who loved him,” Dean said post-race with tears in his eyes. The Smith stable’s hallmark of reviving horses and ferocious work ethic shone through, turning family heartbreak into Grade 1 glory.

2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July winner, The Real Prince, took a photo finish win in the thrilling headline race, the Gr 1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate over 1,600m. The Real Prince ultimately edged out Questioning and a charging See it Again after Dave the King set a cracking pace ahead of Legal Counsel and 3YO Jan van Goyen, which teed things up for the stretch runners.

Sail the Seas raced back in fourth and was an ever-present threat, but when Richard Fourie set Questioning in full flight down the centre and Craig Zackey unleashed The Real Prince down the inner, the entire race changed. They went through the line virtually together, with the spectre of a rejuvenated See It Again jinking past tiring horses before launching a dramatic late surge towards the middle of the track ensuring a three-way photo finish.

“I was looking for a bit more of a spark, and I must say, when I cantered him down, the spark came at the right time!”, said jockey Craig Zackey about his heart-stopping victory.

A Winning Day for Justin Snaith

Premier trainer Justin Snaith had a fantastic day out, with six wins out of 10 races, including the Gr 2 Cartier Sceptre Stakes and the Gr 1 Cartier Paddock Stakes – both with Andrew Fortune at the helm.

Premium Lifestyle Elevated: Couture, Culture, and Elegance

Beyond the thunder of hooves, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate was a masterclass in polished guest experience, where fashion reigned supreme. The unmistakable blue-and-white dress code inspired tailored suits, elegant dresses and headpieces, with Cartier-sponsored Best Dressed competitions (Woman, Man, Hat) awarding coveted Juste un Clou bracelets, handbags, card holders, fragrances, and a Cartier pen. High-end social culture pulsed through live jazz from the Cape’s finest premium cocktails, gourmet food stands, and a vibrant after party under the stars.

“The L’Ormarins King’s Plate was a fusion of 165 years’ of racing heritage and contemporary elegance, and we were proud to stage another blue-and-white spectacle where elite Group 1 racing met world-class fashion, live jazz, and Lipizzaner beauty. With World Pool’s global debut, three Breeders’ Cup qualifiers headlined by the historic mile, and Cartier’s Best Dressed competition, this day reaffirmed its place as one of South Africa’s most prestigious, internationally celebrated racedays that delivered unforgettable moments for every guest,” said Katherine Gray, Lead Planner, Coordinator and Event Manager, L’Ormarins King’s Plate.

The Lipizzaner display at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026 at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth featured majestic white stallions performing graceful classical dressage movements, including levades, courbettes, caprioles, and the intricate School Quadrille. These elegant displays captivated crowds with their centuries-old Viennese equestrian artistry.

Global Reach for Racing

The three Gr 1 races – the L’Ormarins King’s Plate, World Pool Cape Flying Championship (newly shifted from the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met), and the Cartier Paddock Stakes formed the powerhouse trio of Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” qualifiers, granting automatic berths for SA stars to the US November Turf Mile and Turf Sprint. Winning horses are allowed to quarantine in Europe from as early as March, giving South African horses a real shot at that huge international prize.

“The L’Ormarins King’s Plate was a racing masterpiece, said Justin Vermaak, Race Coast Executive, Racing and Bloodstock. “Our runners peaked perfectly with World Pool’s global debut, and Breeders’ Cup qualifiers adding unprecedented prestige. From Champagne Castle’s juvenile fireworks to The Real Prince’s scorching run and photo finish in the L’Ormarins King’s Plate, this 165th edition delivered the season’s most elite fields, international raiders, and thrilling finishes that reaffirm its iconic status in South African racing.

In a groundbreaking milestone, the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s World Pool incorporated all 10 races in their Win, Place, Exacta, Quinella, and Swinger pools for unprecedented liquidity and stakes boosts, which cemented the day’s global allure.  The World Pool combines bets from racing fans worldwide into one massive shared pot, increasing the prize money for races across both the local and international horse racing industry, and attracting global attention to local events, like the L’Ormarins King’s Plate.

Over the coming weeks, the Summer Festival of Racing will continue with must-attend fixtures including the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met presents Symphony of Style on 31 January 2026, the Seafood & Jazz Festival feat the Lucky Fish Cape Derby on 28 February 2026. Tickets for the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met are currently on sale at Computicket.

For more information on the line-up of events, visit www.caperacing.co.za.