Author: Melanie Ramjee

Amiri, the pioneering international luxury fashion brand, is delighted to announce the opening of its first South African store at Sandton City Malls’ prestigious Diamond Walk last night.

Celebrated as one of the fastest-growing businesses in the luxury fashion market, the brand continues to expand its global influence with an unwavering commitment to integrity, authenticity, and a dedication to quality that defines every facet of its operations. From fostering a distinctive company culture to pursuing creative endeavors, Amiri is the vanguard of modern luxury.

Operated exclusively by YAWA, the brand sees a special formal partnership with retail pioneer Arie Fabian, grammy award winning artist Nkosinathi ‘Black Coffee, Maphumulo and DJ entrepreneur Themba Nkosi. The high end luxury store officially opened it’s doors with an intimate gathering on Monday evening. Situated in the heart of Sandton City Mall, the Diamond Walk store promises an immersive and luxurious shopping environment that encapsulates Amiri’s distinctive aesthetic. Carefully curated interiors and a fusion of contemporary and classic design elements await fashion enthusiasts seeking the epitome of luxury.

  

At the heart of Amiri’s narrative is its deep-rooted commitment to denim craftsmanship. Denim, a core element of the AMIRI story, is meticulously designed and constructed, showcasing bespoke, in-house fabrication processes. Tonal gradients, patchwork, and repair techniques evoke a homespun charm, with standout examples such as the AMIRI Jacquard, a custom-woven textile milled in Italy.

Men’s and women’s jean silhouettes, ranging from extra wide to kick-flare, reflect Amiri’s innovative approach to denim wear. The production of denim styles is deliberately limited to ensure each piece meets the highest quality standards. Collaborations with skilled craftspeople in the L.A. Arts District and Italy, where fine tailoring and leather goods are produced, maintain Amiri’s superior standard.


 
 

Speaking at the opening last night, Arie Fabian stated, “We are very proud about the grand opening of global luxury brand Amiri’ first store in the Diamond Walk. This marks a bold synergy where style meets innovation, embodying a fusion of cultures, bringing forth a unique narrative in fashion that resonates with the spirit of the African landscape while redefining global trends. The Amiri store experience is immersive, harmonious and captures their distinctive aesthetic.”

His business partner Nkosinathi ‘Black Coffee’, Maphumulo added “In music, beats harmonize; in fashion, style resonates. Collaborating with Amiri brings rhythm to couture, merging the pulse of sound with the allure of design, creating a symphony of style and substance. The opening of the store in South Africa is massive for the team and we are honoured to share it with everyone today.”
 
The boutique’s design reflects the brand’s blending modernity with elements inspired by AMIRI’s Los Angeles roots. The space embodies an atmosphere of refined elegance, providing clients with an intimate environment to explore the brand’s iconic pieces, including ready-to-wear collections, coveted accessories, and exclusive limited editions.
The opening of AMIRI’s Sandton City Mall boutique aligns with the brand’s commitment to providing unparalleled customer service. Clients can expect personalized attention and expert guidance from the brand’s knowledgeable staff, ensuring an exceptional shopping experience.
 
Founder and Creative Director, Mike Amiri, expressed his enthusiasm about this milestone: “Bringing AMIRI to South Africa has been a vision close to our hearts. The energy and style of this vibrant country resonate deeply with our brand ethos. We’re thrilled to introduce the AMIRI experience to Johannesburg, the fashion hub of the country, offering a luxurious unique retail journey for the discerning shopper”.
As AMIRI continues to expand its global footprint, the launch at the Diamond Walk in Sandton City Mall marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s journey, solidifying its presence in the African luxury retail landscape.
 
The AMIRI boutique in Sandton City Mall officially opens its doors to the public today, inviting fashion aficionados to discover the epitome of luxury and sophistication.

Howdy! Howzit! Hola! Hafa! Aweh! Hello there, Neighbour!

Buckle up, neighbours! The trailblazing team at Glen21 Entertainment, South Africa’s leading event maestros, are beyond excited to bring you the first-of-its-kind three-day music and lifestyle festival, HEY NEIGHBOUR. 

Created, curated and sprung from South African soil, this event is destined to make waves in the African entertainment scene, come this December 2023 in Pretoria.

HEY NEIGHBOUR is not just another festival. It’s a global gathering, a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and most importantly, community. It’s where the unfamiliar face in the crowd becomes the friend you dance with. It’s where diversity isn’t just welcomed, it’s celebrated. It’s where music, the universal connector, weaves a tapestry of shared experiences, creating memories that last a lifetime

Hold on to your festival hats, folks! With a lineup brimming with a blend of local and global music powerhouses, HEY NEIGHBOUR promises a sonic journey unlike any other. From the freshest, most exciting talent on the scene, to the chart-topping legends, we are committed to showcasing artists who are making waves and shifting paradigms in the music world. Stay tuned for the Phase one line-up announcements kicking off from Monday, 15th May

Glen Netshepise from Glen 21 Entertainment shares the excitement, “We’re absolutely buzzing to launch this incredible new festival. We’ve put heart, soul and a whole lot of rhythm into planning this event, and to finally share this news is a truly special moment. We’re confident that the world-class production and diverse lineup will create an experience that leaves an indelible mark on every attendee, fostering friendships that echo across the globe.”

HEY NEIGHBOUR is more than a festival. It’s about creating a neighbourhood that keeps the music playing long after the final note. It’s about building bridges that span across borders and time zones.

Nestled in the heart of Legends Adventure Farm in Pretoria, the festival will boast awe-inspiring stages, complete with dazzling lights, mesmerising visuals, and sound that will make your heart skip a beat. Beyond the music, the festival offers a sensory feast of food, drinks, merchandise and much more. With a range of entertainment activities, activation stations and accommodation options, we’ve got your festival experience covered!

HEY NEIGHBOUR FESTIVAL ESSENTIALS

DATE: 8-10 December 2023

VENUE: Legends Adventure Farm, Pretoria

TIMES: Gates open at 12h00 / Venue closes at 00h00

TICKETS: Phase 1 Tickets launch on Friday 19th May. Strictly for the 18 and over crowd only.

For all the latest HEY NEIGHBOUR festival updates, visit our official website and social media platforms:

Website –  www.heyneighbour.co.za 

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/heyneighbourfest/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086670110342

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@heyneighbourfest

Twitter – https://twitter.com/HeyNeighbourFes

Snapchat – https://www.snapchat.com/add/heyneighbourfes

YouTube –  https://youtube.com/@HeyNeighbourFest

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/heyneighbour/ 

Come be a part of our neighbourhood. We can’t wait to meet you, neighbour!

Special Olympics South Africa (SOSA) officially launched the  “Adopt an Athlete” campaign in January this year to help to raise funds to get the 2023 SOSA National Team to the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin,Germany.

The “Adopt an Athlete” campaign was created by SOSA in 2016 to help raise funds for international participation for their athletes.

Fortunately, as in previous years a number of corporates and individuals have already stepped up to “Adopt an Athlete” and support the team in various ways.

These include:

Rossimoda (via Sole Agents) – providing bespoke Team branded tracksuits

African Bank – Adopted 5 Athletes

SOSA Chairperson Dr Mathews Phosa – Adopted 2 Athletes

Stabus – Adopted 2 Athletes

The Booth Group Foundation – Adopted 2 Athletes

Duma Collective – Adopted 1 Athlete

Amtronix Diagnostics – Adopted 1 Athlete

Intercape – Adopted 1 Athlete

Kool-a-Chem – Providing Novelty Items

Gift of the Givers – Providing Toiletries and other support

The Sneaker Shack – Running a sneaker donation drive for the National team and other Special Olympics Athletes

Lahers – Providing T-Shirts

With less than 5 weeks to go before the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games kick-off, SOSA is relying on additional financial support to help get the National Team to the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

       “ We have successfully implemented our “Adopt an Athlete” campaign for the last two World Games and the support form corporates and individuals has helped us to ensure that our National Teams are able to compete and represent SA with pride on a global stage. ” said SOSA CEO, Ancilla Smith. “It is an ongoing struggle to get the recognition and funding that our athletes deserve and we are incredibly grateful to the corporates and individuals that stepped up so far to support the 2023 Special Olympics National Team. Our athletes will be competing against 7000 athletes from over 180 countries and we know that they will do us proud.  With a medal tally of 35 Gold, 15 Silver and 12 Bronze from our last World Games we know that our athletes can, and will, succeed when given the opportunity”.

The Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 will be broadcasting to hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide, showcasing athletic performance and highlighting stereotype-defying stories – changing minds and opening hearts through transformational inclusion.

The Special Olympics World Games are the world’s largest inclusive sporting event that acts as a catalyst for inclusion building a lasting legacy of improved health, education, and opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

The approximate cost per athlete to compete in the World Games is R40 000. This nominal amount will cover training camps, sports/casual attire, sport equipment, toiletries and all other needs for the team. Corporates and individuals keen to assist can either make a financial contribution via link below https://www.backabuddy.co.za/The-Road-to-Berlin-2023 or contact info@specialolympics.org.za.
 

 Picture Credit: Mr Michael Tau

Rubicon, the iconic award winning South African fashion clothing brand, is thrilled to announce its exclusive availability at Jenna Clifford Collective in Pretoria.

With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, Rubicon is known for its unique and exquisite pieces that embody African fashion with modern sophistication.

This exciting partnership between Rubicon and Jenna Clifford will provide fashion enthusiasts with an exclusive opportunity to access the latest collections of Rubicon. The Jenna Clifford Collective store will feature a wide range of Rubicon’s unique pieces, from elegant evening wear to chic work attire, catering to all fashion tastes and styles.

Rubicon has been a prominent figure in the South African fashion industry since its inception in 2002. Its founder, Hangwani Nengovhela, has a strong passion for design and is dedicated to promoting the African fashion industry. Her vision has led Rubicon to become a leading fashion brand in South Africa, with a loyal customer base and a strong presence in the fashion industry.

 “We are thrilled to partner with Jenna Clifford and bring our brand to a wider audience at a physical location,” said Hangwani Nengovhela, founder of Rubicon. “We believe that our unique pieces will also resonate with Jenna Clifford’s customers and showcase the beauty and elegance of African fashion.”

Jenna Clifford, a leading luxury jewelry and lifestyle brand, is known for its impeccable quality and attention to detail. The store offers a premium shopping experience, and the addition of Rubicon’s fashion line will further enhance its offerings.

 “We are delighted to partner with Rubicon and offer our customers a new and exciting fashion offering,” said Jenna Clifford, founder of Jenna Clifford. “Rubicon’s commitment to quality and design is evident in their collections, and we are proud to have them exclusively available at our store.”

Rubicon’s exclusive availability at Jenna Clifford in Pretoria is a must-visit for fashion lovers and enthusiasts. With the latest collections on display, customers can expect a premium shopping experience with personalized attention from Jenna Clifford’s expert staff. 

Rubicon’s latest collection will be showcased at South Africa Fashion Week this Friday at the Mall of Africa.

Check out Rubicon’s social media platform for updates and more information: 

Instagram  @RubiconClothing 

Website     Rubiconclothing.co.za

The countdown to the most anticipated annual horse racing event in the country is already underway, and organisers of the most popular lifestyle experience at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, today officially opened ticket sales.

Back for the 13th season, BOOMTOWN presented by Heineken®, is famously known for its consistency in providing the ultimate hospitality every year. Offering world class sound & lighting, complimented by live entertainment from the hottest artists in the country, this year promises to be no different!

The annual fashion and lifestyle extravaganza that attracts the country’s most sociable personalities takes place at Greyville Race Course on Saturday the 1^st July 2023 and will feature some of the biggest names in the South African entertainment industry.

The event has proved to be one of the most coveted July weekend experiences, delivering the ultimate gathering for horse racing, fashion and music lovers alike. With the various lavish tiered hospitality decks and lounges, a scenic trackside viewing area and exciting experiential activations, it is the ‘town’ that hosts the who’s who of the South African entertainment, sport and business world.
 

     “BOOMTOWN presented by Heineken® is all about celebrating life. We are very excited to be back for our 13th year, and currently securing some of the biggest local Amapiano, House and Hiphop artists to perform at the Hollywoodbets Durban July,” affirmed event organiser Stuart Scott and adds “Over the past decade, we have prided ourselves in creating the ultimate hospitality experience for our loyal guests. From the world class entertainment to great racehorse viewing platforms, easy accessible betting stations, a huge selection of food and fully stocked bars. Various hospitality packages serve to cater for different audiences, making everyone feel like VIP.”

Tickets go on sale today at Ticketpro. Limited Phase One (Early bird) tickets start at R590, so be sure to snap them up quickly to secure your spot at this must-attend event.

IMPORTANT BOOMTOWN INFO
 

DATE:                         Saturday, 1st July 2023

VENUE:                      Greyville Racecourse, Berea, Durban

TIMES:                       Gates open at 11am and close at 10pm 

TICKETS:                   GA R590 Phase 1

                                   GA R690 Phase 2

                                   GA R790 Phase 3

                                   VIP R2900

                                   VVIP R3900

                                   BOOK HERE 

 

African Fashion Spaces Redefines The Runway And Channels a Unique Fashion Experience From The Norm With Their Fashion Exhibition

The African Fashion Spaces Exhibition took the fashion world by storm this past week, showcasing an innovative experiential take on traditional runway shows. Instead of a traditional ramp, the exhibition took place in a unique unexpected environment, creating a dynamic and exciting immersive experience for all attending guests.

Held on Thursday, 27th April at Beachwood Gardens in Hyde Park, the event featured some of South Africa’s dopest fashion creatives and models, aimed to showcase the diversity and richness of African fashion and heritage within the culture. The serene setting conceptually drew out the essence of each designer by showcasing each brand in their own respective curated runway stage settings as well as creatives to match the brands aesthetics.

The event was hosted by none other than social media maven, Shamiso Mosaka, who led the audience through a 2-part show that was nothing short of spectacular. The two brands for the evening were ‘Long Season’ and ‘OffMankind’, who were both impeccable in their presentation in creativity, garments display and conceptual exhibition.

Opening the show, LongSeason’s apparel delivered a breath-taking offering that took place at the venue’s tennis court boasting a modern slick black matt as a runway, lit up with orange bright beams, wonder and suspense. The atmosphere was electric, and guests were eager to see what LongSeason – a clothing brand dedicated to family, experimental construction and comfort had in store for them.
 

The second exhibition by the garden walkway was OffMankind, a brand that represents the rebellious, non-conformist spirit of South Africa’s inner-city kids. The collection was a mix of urban streetwear and traditional African elements, creating a unique and bold fashion statement. The OffMankind collection reflected the brand’s philosophy of embracing individuality and breaking away from the norm.

The African Fashion Spaces experience, also known as AFS was not just a fashion show, it was an exhibition documenting the movement of African creativity and talent. The event provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work and connect with industry leaders. It was a night of networking, inspiration and celebration.
 

Commenting on the event, Jay Kayembe, the creative director, said, “We wanted to create an experience that was more than just a fashion show, an exhibition platform that would empower the greater creator economy. We want to showcase African fashion in a unique and dynamic approach within South Africa & going into the broader countries within Africa all of 2023. By taking the show off the traditional runway and into unique and unexpected spaces, we were able to create a one-of-a-kind experience that truly highlighted the creativity and diversity of fashion creatives that is inclusive of all subculture genres, that have a talent & passion within fashion.” 
 

       “Overall, the African Fashion Spaces exhibition experience was a resounding success, garnering praise from attendees and media alike it is no wonder a global tech brand like DJI – who are world leaders in camera technology and drones have partnered with African Fashion Spaces (AFS) in sharing the vision on empowering the creator economy across genres with the brand ethos ‘Unlocking Creativity and Adventure”  affirmed Ben Siyotula, Core Group Marketing Manager.