HOW AI CAN

Coach You To
Better Health

NON-MONOGAMY
How To Navigate
The Latest Trend

THE KINGS
OF CRICKET
Wayne Parnell,
Kagiso Rabada &
David Miller

HACJIVAH
DAYIMANI
Dynamic, Daring
& Nonconforming

‘ T H E D E S I R E TO W I N A N D D O
G R E AT T H I N G S I S I N G R A I N E D I N M E ’

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ ON HIS NEW ERA

MARCH/APRIL 2024 R70 ( INCL VAT )
OTHER COUNTRIES R60.87
 CONTENTS

76
Kagiso Rabada,
David Miller and
Wayne Parnell
on cricket, ego
and fame

DEPARTMENTS
06 Letter from the
Editor-in-Chief

FEATURES
36 Hacjivah Dayimani
on fashion and rugby
76 The SA T20 Cricket
League shows us
how it’s done
85 A showcase of the
fabulous winners and
guests at the 2023
MOT Y Awards
94 The captain
himself, Kylian
Mbappé, chats
new responsibilities

ESSENTIALS
C R E AT I V E D I R E C T I O N & S T Y L I N G : L U K E D I VA

12 The absolute
must-haves for the
best gym workouts
20 Our Grooming
Editor’s favourite
gym bag essentials
28 The only protein
playbook you’ll
ever require
42 We unpack the
trend that is ethical
non-monogamy

0 2 GQ.CO. Z A |M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 P H OTO G R A P H BY Z ANDER OPPERMAN

 MARCH/
GEAR
APRIL
49 The newest 2 02 4
Mercedes-AMG SL
impresses with style THE SPORT AND
TECH ISSUE
and substance
52 After 50 years the
iconic Suzuki Jimny has
received an additional
two doors

WEALTH
57 The state of
cryptocurrency in 2024
– still worth it?

ST YLE
63 Denim’s new age –
The blue-collar icon
is hitting new
fashion heights
102 Directory

94
Kylian Mbappé
gets real

THE COLLETION
ON THE COVERS
KYLIAN MBAPPÉ
KAGISO RABADA, DAVID
S T Y L I N G : S T E L L A G R E E N S PA N

MILLER, WAYNE PARNELL

HACJIVAH DAYIMANI
Photography by
Malick Bodian. Zander
Opperman, Niquita Bento.
All prices quoted in this
issue are approximate and
subject to change.

P H OTO G R A P H BY MALICK BODIAN

 ED’S LETTER
It will and
does get
better
“KUZOLUNGA” (IT WILL BE
ALRIGHT). It’s a saying I often share
with those close to me, and even
with myself. I find myself repeating
it, even in moments when things
may not appear to be alright. Deep
down, however, I hold onto the
belief that it will indeed be alright.
In a way, it serves as a prayer,
reaching beyond the simplicity
of the words ‘it will be alright.’
0 4 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
As you read this, I’m aware that you
might be grappling with various
challenges – feelings of defeat,
anxiety, unease, brokenness, or
even despair, with no visible light
at the end of the tunnel. I am here
to reassure you “kuzolunga”. You
may question how I can make such
a statement without knowing your
specific situation or experiencing
your life. The answer lies in my own
life journey, filled with moments
akin to what you may be going
through. So, what gives me the
audacity to claim that it will be
okay? Here’s what does.
HISTORY
If you are old enough to read, this
isn’t the first time you have been in
a situation that has evoked these
emotions; you have experienced one
or two too many throughout life.
Did things not improve with that
situation? Yes, I know it wasn’t easy,
but it did get better for you and me,
so it will be okay. Trust history to
repeat itself and make it right;
it may take time, but kuzolunga.
SHIF T OF FOCUS
When I overtrain my arms at the
gym, there are occasions when
I wake up in the middle of the night
feeling sore. The intensity of
the pain consumed me initially,
and the more I fixated on it, the
more unbearable it seemed.
So, what did I do? I took a muscle
relaxant and watched something to
distract myself from the pain, and
it worked. This experience taught
me that what we focus on tends to
magnify. It’s crucial to find ways to
shift your focus away from what is
going wrong or doesn’t feel right
so it doesn’t consume you.
FIND THE SILVER LINING
After abruptly leaving my previous
job a couple of years ago without a
clear plan for my next appointment,
I became anxious about what
lay ahead. For several weeks,
I experienced intense nervousness,
even feeling like I was having panic
attacks. However, upon sitting
down and actively seeking the silver
lining in my circumstances, I found
it. The moment I identified those
small silver linings, they allowed me
to navigate each day with greater
ease, and I experienced happiness
during that phase of my life.
This occurred after I carefully
examined what aspects I could
control and what I couldn’t. Trust
me, it’s not easy to find a silver
lining in situations that make you
feel defeated, anxious, uneasy,
broken, or in despair. Discovering
the silver lining is crucial for your
mental and overall health.
HAVE FAITH
In Hebrews 11:1, faith is described
as the substance of things hoped
for, the evidence of things not
seen. It can be exceptionally
challenging to maintain faith
when facing difficulties, but
during those times, you need faith
more than ever. Whatever practice
strengthens your faith, be it music,
reading the Bible, or listening to
faith teachings, invest in it when
you feel too weak to do so. It
will provide you with strength,
even if it’s just enough to get
through each day.
Anything worth achieving
requires faith, even when the
odds are against you. Speaking
of overcoming odds, no one
understands this better than our
cover stars – cricketers Kagiso
Rabada, David Miller and
Wayne Parnell, footballer Kylian
Mbappé, and rugby star Hacjivah
Dayimani. Despite their success,
they have encountered and will
continue facing hurdles on their
journeys to be the best. Read their
stories on pages 36, 76 and 94.
VISUALISE THE GOAL
Right where you are now, you may
not see the beauty that lies ahead.
If you can’t, try this: envision what
it would look like if things turned
out as you wish. I assure you, this
will provide you with the strength
to face another day. As you
practise this, coupled with faith,
a day becomes a week, a week
a month, a month a year, and
before you know it, you have
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM GERGES
overcome challenges, and kwavela
kwalunga yonk’into (everything
turns out okay).
Let’s keep pushing, brothers.
Until next time!
MOL IFE
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF
 EDITOR-IN- CHIEF
Molife Kumona

EDITORIAL PUBLISHED BY CONDÉ NAST

Walter Hay ward MANAGING &
SY NDICATION EDITOR CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ROGER LYNCH
GLOBAL CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER & PRESIDENT, U.S.
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Luke Diva FASHION DIRECTOR PAMELA DRUCKER MANN
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ART
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FINANCIAL OFFICER NICK HOTCHKIN
DIGITAL
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DIGITAL ADVERTISING TECHNOLOGY MANAGER Viné Lucas
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ISSNs: 1562-4366
 COLLECTABLE | ESSENTIALS

COLLECTABLE

The Poetry of Living

Collection is so much
more than just a range
of furniture, textiles
and decor

The
Art of
Living
Words by Luke Diva

BE YOND T HE says, “We have collaborations

T HRE AD S OF embarked on a with artisans and
FA SHION’S journey of style and creatives, believing
E MBR ACE, self-expression, that craftsmanship
T HE P OE T RY one that brings you is necessary in
OF L I VING closer to the poetry a world that’s
C OL L EC T ION of life. As a fashion- dominated by
IS HERE ! led destination, it mass-produced
The expansion felt natural for us goods.
marks a pivotal to expand into a By utilising
moment in the full lifestyle brand, high-quality natural
brand’s evolution not only dressing materials, passing
from a fashion- our audience, but on generational
forward label to also adorning their wisdom, and
a comprehensive homes and living acknowledging the
lifestyle brand. environments. artisans who bring
Embracing the We understand these visions to
essence of “Poetry that a home is life, the Poetry of
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

of Life,” the an extension of Living collection’s

collection includes your style and commitment
furniture, decor, a reflection of includes both
textiles, and more. your innermost supporting local Explore The Poetry of Living
Asked about aspirations.” and international Collection on the Poetry website
its inspiration, Poetry craftsmanship www.poetrystores.co.za
the Poetry team prides itself on communities.

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 0 9
 Built for intensity
Words by Luke Diva Photography by Gabrielle Kannemeyer

guidance through personalised and private training

EliteFitt takes pride in providing physical well-being and mental

E L I T E F I T T I S A H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S objectives. With over a decade of experience Clint Sylvester: I started my career in

T R A I N I N G S T U D I O BA S E D I N CA P E in the fitness industry, certified personal bodybuilding at the age of 19, progressing
TOW N , established in 2014 by founder Clint trainer Clint Sylvester meticulously assesses to achieve numerous victories, including a
Sylvester. I first encountered fitness guru his clients’ strengths and weaknesses, and third-place finish while proudly representing
Clint four years ago during my “fitness era”. crafts customised workout plans. South Africa in the Natural Bodybuilding
His expertise, technique, and unwavering Integrating physical fitness with mental Association World Championships. The
dedication to his craft became evident the well-being, Clint accompanies clients on a triumphs in this discipline fuelled my desire
moment I entered his studio. Instantly, transformative journey of both physical and to assist others in attaining their fitness goals,
I recognised him as the mentor I needed mental growth, simultaneously redefining the leading me to pursue studies and embark on
to help me achieve my fitness goals. boundaries of fitness and establishing new a career as a personal trainer.
Embarking on a fitness journey with industry standards.
someone not only knowledgeable but also GQ: If you think back to the first
inspiring, instils confidence and significantly GQ: What was the inspiration behind moment EliteFitt started, how has the
contributes to attaining health and wellness your personal trainer journey? business evolved over the years?
 MAN ABOUT TOWN | ESSENTIALS

CS: My business began in Cape Town with the
support of one client who is also a very dear
friend (shout out to Mali – if it’s not burning,
it’s not working). We conducted our training
sessions in public parks, gradually building
a robust client base. Much of the business’s
growth can be attributed to the remarkable
insights and support from the clients I’ve
had the privilege to work with throughout
the years.
I have grown the business slowly and
steadily to ensure that the core values remain
steadfast. The business has always been
somewhat of a mirror to my aspirations
and values. I am grateful that it has attracted
some of the most talented, successful and
motivated people around.
GQ: What advice would you give to an
aspiring trainer just starting out?
CS: You are your greatest investment –
consistently spend time honing your craft.
Believe in your vision, and then follow through
and execute. Surround yourself with other
motivated and goal-oriented people. Focus
on building a strong foundation of knowledge
through reputable certifications. Stay up
to date with industry trends and keep your
approach to training fresh and adaptive.
GQ: As a body transformation
specialist, how do you motivate your
clients? What is the Clint way of
boosting morale and confidence?
CS: My clients’ goals are my goals, so I
spend as much of my energy as possible on
motivating them to push beyond mental
barriers. Providing a 100% private space for
my clients to make their own is a big part of
my practice and this boosts both confidence
and morale. While training each client, they
have over 100 square metres completely to
themselves – no interruptions, no wasted time
feeling self-conscious or spent thinking of
themselves through the eyes of others. I give
the space to you and guide you on the journey
towards your goal.
I firmly believe that freedom is on the other
side of discipline. Exercise as a discipline
is tough, so I try to make the environment
and training style as stress free, private and
productive as possible.
GQ: How long should an average client
train to achieve effective results in
weight loss or building muscle?
CS: Three to six months of consistent training,
lifestyle and dietary modifications will provide
astounding results. Ninety days of dedication
to your goals is all you need to completely
transform yourself.
GQ: If you could train one celebrity,
who would it be?
CS: I’m grateful to be training many of our
country’s talented artists and personalities,
but I’d love to work with Donovan Goliath,
Tyla and Trevor Noah.
GQ: When someone comes to you with
a body image problem, how would you
help them? Is this an issue you have
encountered with any clients?
CS: If a client expresses body image concerns,
“You are
your greatest
investment –
consistently
spend time
honing your
craft. Believe
in your vision,
and then follow
through and
execute”
I always make sure to listen empathetically
and provide a measured response based on
what they’ve shared. It’s extremely important
for me to provide a safe space for my clients.
I collaborate with a wide array of healthcare
professionals who also prioritise providing
a safe space for people within their practices.
Together we have a number of resources to
share with clients who are seeking a holistic
approach to their healthcare.
Where appropriate, I try to encourage
a positive self-image and emphasise overall
health. My practice is really about promoting
balanced lifestyle choices so I like to encourage
my clients to pursue a diversified support
community as far as possible.
GQ: How would you describe the Clint
Sylvester x Elitefitt experience in just
three words?
CS: Visualise, elevate and transform.

GQ: As far as training goes, do you have

a specific approach for all clients, or do
you design each programme based on
the individual’s personal requirements?
C L I E N T : N I C H O L A S VA N G R A A N

CS: Every person’s body and lifestyle is

unique, and every client needs and deserves
a bespoke training programme. I utilise the
FITT (frequency, intensity, time and type
of training) principles as a foundation
CLINT SYLVESTER
when approaching programme designs.
For more information,
The programme is then amended continually
visit elitefitt.co.za
over time to cater to the client’s specific goals
and challenges. @elitefitt_

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 1 1
Make
Me
Sweat
Gone are the
days when all we
needed was sweat
shorts, a wife
beater and body oil
to go to the gym.
Now, the fashion
industry is
launching new
sports styles
that are trendy,
comfortable and
suitable for the
most intense
1
PUT YOUR BEST
FOOT FORWARD
training sessions People who think gym shoes
remain in the gym when
they’re finished working out
Words by Luke Diva
are probably not familiar with
sports apparel shops.
With these workout kicks, you
can easily go from the gym to
the streets, or the office. When
can also leave a choosing gym shoes, it’s
positive impression important to consider
WHILE IT’S on others. Whether variables such as how you
T RU E T H AT T H E you’re looking to train and the shape of your
P R I M A RY goal of meet someone or foot. It’s normal to experiment
going to the gym is just want to feel with different shoes as you
to work out and get confident and discover what works best
fit, there’s nothing motivated during for you.
wrong with putting your workout, here Adidas Ultraboost
some thought into are a few tips on R2 999
your gym attire. how to dress stylishly
Dressing well at while you work out.
the gym not only
makes you feel good
about yourself, but
 A D V I C E | ESSENTIALS

3
A T-SHIRT FOR EVERY NEED
A moisture-wicking T-shirt helps keep
you dry by drawing sweat away from
your body. Go for a slightly loose fit at
the bottom with a snug fit on the
shoulders and arms. Workout tanks with
a longer and moderately tight fit offer
a balance between showing off muscles
and maintaining a tasteful look.
Under Armour T-shirt R599

2
KEEP IT LEAN
AND MEAN
Tights and leggings can
accentuate your muscle
definition, making it easier
to see the results of your
hard work. This visual
feedback can be
motivating and boost your
4
confidence during THE POST-WORKOUT
workouts. They are easy HOODIE
to wear, comfortable and The post-workout hoodie
suitable for both running is an essential part of your
and gym training. For a training outfit if you want to
sleek look, pair them with be fashionable and
shorts you already own, comfortable. It also enhances
or add new ones to create your arms and shoulders,
unique combinations. making it look as though
Tights R599, shorts you’ve been powering those
R899, both by Reebok shoulder presses.
H&M Hoodie R799

5
PHOTOGRAPHY: ADOBE SHUTTER STOCK; SUPPLIED

DIGITAL WEARABLES FTW!

Smart watches have evolved to become comprehensive fitness
companions. They can track your heart rate, monitor your sleep,
count steps, and even provide guided workouts. Additionally, many
smart watches offer customisable faces, allowing you to express your
style. When choosing fitness accessories, consider how they align
with your fitness goals, personal style, and overall workout routine.
The integration of technology into fitness not only provides valuable
data, but can also make your workout routine more engaging
and enjoyable.
Huawei FiT SE R2 199

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 1 3
 I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H M I T C H U M

A
united
front
SuperSport United FC, a top-four PSL
brand, aligns perfectly with Mitchum’s
goal to connect with the wider football
community and promote active, healthy
lifestyles through the sport

Words by Anele Geqiwe

Photographs by Simphiwe Mkhwanazi

T H E PA RT N E RS H I P action and create memorable

W I L L E N C O M PA S S
VA R I O US E N G AG I N G
I N I T I AT I V E S, such as fan
interactions, social media
campaigns, and community
outreach programmes. These
efforts are all designed to bring
fans closer to the football
experiences for all.
GQ spent the day with the
standout players of SuperSport
United, including Siphesihle
Ndlovu, Lyle Lakay, and Bradley
Grobler, in partnership with
Mitchum SA, a leading brand in
personal care and grooming. »

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 1 5
I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H M I T C H U M
BRADLEY
GROBLER
Age: 36
Position: Striker
@bradleygrobler
BRADLEY
G RO B L E R I S A
STRIKER FOR
PREMIER SOCCER
L E AG U E C LU B
S U P E RS P O RT
UNITED AND THE
S O U T H A F R I CA N
N AT I O N A L T E A M .
Grobler began his
professional football
career at Platinum
Stars. After a four-year
stint with Stars, he
moved to the Turkish
second division side
Göztepe A.Ş in 2011,
becoming their most
expensive signing
at the time.
GQ: What do 48
hours look like
before and after
the match?
Bradley Grobler:
The 48 hours before
and after the game
are probably the most
relaxed days of the
week. We undergo
pre-match training,
which is light. It
involves focusing
1 6 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
confidence and a
positive self-image.
So, I definitely think
it has an impact.
GQ: Does
the Mitchum
collaboration
influence your
training?
BG: I would say
yes, as a player, you
want to feel and look
good, and I’ve always
believed that football
is about confidence.
Having a brand like
Mitchum that can
provide assistance,
even if it’s just a 3%
improvement, gives
you the assurance
that you can go out
there and not worry
about smelling bad.
This boosts your
confidence, and I
strongly believe in
its impact. I think
SuperSport United
and Mitchum are both
exciting and ambitious
on eating well, brands aiming for
consuming plenty of greater achievements.
fluids, and mentally I have no doubt
preparing ourselves that a collaboration
to ensure we’re ready like this will have a
for the game. The days massive influence on
after the game are fans and strengthen
more about recovering our relationship with
and getting your body them. Mitchum has
back up and running. done an amazing
I must admit that job in giving you
these days are a bit the confidence that,
challenging for me. It’s no matter how hard
crucial to maintain a you’re working, it will
proper diet and take take care of that odour.
good care of yourself
during this time.
GQ: What does
sweat and odour
control do for
your confidence?
BG: I believe it’s
“It’s crucial
crucial for anyone, to maintain
especially for us
footballers, including
a proper
myself. When diet and
stepping onto the take good
field, the desire is to
both look and feel care of
good. A significant yourself
aspect of achieving
that is effective odour during
control, providing this time.”
 I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H M I T C H U M

GQ: How does connection media profile revolves

the Mitchum with fans and around showcasing
partnership followers? my best self because
influence your LL: I enjoy engaging that’s when I truly
training? with my fans and feel good. Mitchum
Lyle Lakay: It followers on social is undeniably my
not only impacts my media. I feel that by go-to product.
training by keeping sharing my authentic
me sweat free and experience of the GQ: How do
smelling good for an Mitchum product, you see this
extended period, but this will entice my fans partnership
also motivates me to and followers to go enhancing your
push myself to train out, try and purchase connection
longer and harder. Mitchum products. with fans and
followers?
GQ: How do GQ: What do SN: I absolutely
LY L E L A K AY I S you see this 48 hours look love interacting
A P RO D U CT O F partnership like in the life of with our fans as they
T H E S U P E RS P O RT enhancing your Lyle Lakay the consistently show up
U N I T E D ’ S YO U T H day before and in large numbers to
ACA D E M Y. He
was promoted to the
first team in 2009 but
after a match?
LL: Mostly relaxed
– trying to prepare
SIPHESIHLE support us, especially
during challenging
times. It’s not

NDLOVU
spent that season with physically and uncommon to receive
the National First mentally for the game. hugs and take pictures
Division side Cape Before the game after a demanding
Town. In the 2010–11 I won’t do much. 90-minute game.
season, he returned “I aim to I usually listen to Age: 27 Despite the potential
to SuperSport United. music, chill, and try Position: Midfielder discomfort from sweat
Following another
capture the to rest to get both my @s.p_ndlovu_8 and odours, with
loan spell with FC attention body and mind in the Mitchum, that’s not
Cape Town, Lakay of my right space. After the something I have
joined Bloemfontein game, it is all about SIPHESIHLE place finish in the to worry about.
Celtic in 2012. followers” recovery – relaxing, N D LOV U I S league, earning him I can wholeheartedly
probably doing an ice A N ACA D E M Y the Young Player of engage with our fans.
bath and stretching to G R A D UAT E O F the Season award in
help speed up the M A R I T Z B U RG recognition of his GQ: What does
recovery process. U N I T E D. He made outstanding form. sweat and odour
his professional debut Ndlovu has been a full control do for
GQ: What does in 2016 and went on international since your confidence?
sweat and odour to accumulate over 80 March 2018 and has SN: Triple odour
control do for appearances for the proudly represented defence is a turnkey
your confidence? club. In the 2017–18 South Africa at a solution, no matter if
LL: When you smell season, he played a COSAFA Cup. I’m at work sweating
good, you feel good, key role in the team’s hard or even at home
and that confidence record-high fourth- GQ: How do in the heat, I’m always
translates into a you incorporate protected.
belief that you can Mitchum into
accomplish what your public image
you set out to do and social media
on the field. presence?
Siphesihle
GQ: If you didn’t Ndlovu: As a
play football, “I’m always professional athlete,
what would you I’m always in the
be doing? in the gym, gym, dedicated to

LYLE LAKAY LL: If I wasn’t a player,

I think I would still
be within the football
and am
dedicated
improving my fitness
levels. Therefore,
it’s crucial for me
Age: 32 space and would to improving to have a product
probably be coaching that enhances my
Position: Midfielder
at junior level with
my fitness confidence as a public
@lalas__7
the kids. levels” figure. My social

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 1 7
 01 02 03

This year’s best

electric razors
The market has been flooded with electric razors designed to fit a wide range
of shaving preferences, skin types, and lifestyles. Whether you prefer precision
cutting or have sensitive skin, these razors are a must-try.
Words by Anele Geqiwe
 GROOM
IN
G
04

05

3
Braun
Series
9 Pro
Braun’s
cutting-edge
technology,
comprising five to increase visibility
shaving elements and while trimming, you’ll
a powerful motor, be sure to get a quality
ensures a close and trim every time. With
comfortable shave. wireless charging
07
The intelligent and a 90-minute run
SyncroSonic time, this trimmer fits
technology adapts to easily into your busy
the beard’s density, lifestyle.
making it suitable for R1 700 at Manscaped
both coarse and

1 6
Remington fine hair. Philips
F5-5800 R8 799 at braunshav- Norelco
Remington’s ers.co.za
intercept

4
shaving technology Andis OneBlade 360
pre-trims longer Slimline The unique OneBlade
hairs, while the Pro Li shaving technology
pivoting head adjusts Trimmer integrates a fast moving
06 to facial contours, This shaver is cutter (12 000x per
ensuring a close and perfect for trimming minute) with a dual
comfortable shave at necklines and light- protection system to
an accessible duty touch-ups. The give you an efficient
price point. improved motor comfortable shave on
R3 175 at Takealot increases speed, longer hairs.
power and run life. R1 199 at Takealot

2
Pana- The Lithium ion

7
sonic battery delivers up to Philips
Arc 5 two hours of Norelco
Equipped run time. 9000
with five ultra-sharp R2 400 at Hermanos Prestige
blades and a high- Its NanoTech

5
performance motor, precision blades
this razor delivers an guarantee an
incredibly smooth exceptionally close
shave in a single shave without creating
pass. Its adjustable Manscaped inflammation.
pivoting head ensures Lawn Mower 4.0 Furthermore, its
precision while The Lawn Mower elegant design and
catering to 4.0 is waterproof, ergonomic grip make
sensitive skin. powerful, and with it a delight to use.
R4 370 at Takealot an LED spotlight R6 689 at Takealot

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 1 9
 Our resident Grooming Editor
lists some of his favourite
gym bag essentials.

Words by Anele Geqiwe

can effortlessly shift from bench

press to boardroom, ensuring
a polished appearance. Explore
our comprehensive head-to-toe
grooming guide for the gym,
encompassing everything from
essential items to maximising
your limited time efficiently.
2
FACE FOR HIM
MOISTURISER
SPF50
This moisturiser absorbs
quickly, protecting you against the
whole spectrum of light attack
sources: UVA, UVB, HEV, and IR.
R325 at faceforhim.co.za

A F T E R C O M P L E T I N G YO U R

WO R KO U T and heading to
the locker room, reflect on
the importance of your post-
exercise routine, particularly
if you exercise before work
or during lunch. Successfully
transitioning from the gym to
the office demands the right
products and a well-thought-out
routine. With proper care, you
1 3
TOM FORD OUD
WOOD BODY SPRAY
With specially designed
360 spray technology, All
Over Body Spray can be ergonomi-
cally sprayed sideways, upside down
and any which way on neck, arms,
legs and torso. Formulated for
a concentration perfect for all
over the body.
R1 265 at Arc Store
CLINIQUE FOR
MEN EXFOLIATING
TONIC
A daily exfoliator designed
for normal to dry skin. It effectively
de-flakes and smoothens the skin’s
surface, revealing clearer skin and
preparing it for a smoother shave.
Additionally, it unclogs pores and
minimizes oil build-up.
R430 at clinique.co.za
 GROOM
IN
G

‘Successfully transitioning from the gym to the office

demands the right products and a well-thought-out routine’

reflecting a dynamic and athletic and renews dry skin with its

6
L’OCCITANE

4
AESOP SHINE HAIR
CAP CÉDRAT spirit. Experience a refreshing and wonderfully rich texture and a
& BEARD OIL
SHOWER GEL invigorating sensation, akin to a unique blend of retinol, peptides,
This silicone-free,
Enriched with cedrat breath of fresh mountain air. Blue Sea Kale, and antioxidants. It
hydrating oil nourishes and
essential oil, this shower gel R1 415 at Edgars can visibly soften and minimise
softens both hair and beard,
cleanses the skin and hair, while signs of aging on the face, neck, and
delivering essential fatty acids. It

8
revealing a zesty and aquatic scent, SEB MAN THE around the eyes while stimulating
imparts smoothness and lustre
set over an intriguing base of woody PROTECTOR and protecting stem cells.
without causing build-up or leaving
spices. Its scent is ideal for an SHAVING CREAM R1 870 at Skins Cosmetics
an oily residue.
adventurous, independent man This shaving cream is
R640 at Skins Cosmetics

10
looking to escape the daily grind. specially formulated for all beard and ACQUA DI
R290 at occitane.com skin types. It sets itself apart from PARMA

5
LE LABO HINOKI
the rest with exceptional perfor- COLONIA
SHAMPOO
mance and nourishing ingredients. DEODORANT

7
This plant-based formula is ISSEY MIYAKE
SPORT HOMME EDT R420 at partnershair.co.za This deodorant has a long-lasting
made with macadamia (to
An unmistakably masculine effect and is delicately scented with
repair), rosemary leaf (to stimulate),

9
fragrance that embodies the THE GREY 3-IN-1 the signature essence of Colonia,
rice extract (to strengthen), and is
essence of sportsmanship. The DAILY FACE guaranteeing immediate
also paraben-free, phthalate-free
design draws inspiration from CREAM freshness.
and artificial colourant-free.
technical and sports materials, This face cream revitalises R800 at Skins Cosmetics
R745 at Skins Cosmetics

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 2 1
A family
affair
Co-owned by siblings,
Fuata Moyo stands as a unique
fusion of art and fashion
Words by Anele Geqiwe
Photography by Matthew Berti

F UATA M OYO O F F E RS A
D I V E RS E R A N G E O F I T E M S,
E N C O M PA S S I N G FA S H I O N ,
AC C E S S O R I E S, A N D
A RT. Additionally, the brand
specializes in the customisation of
jackets, sneakers, and other items
tailored to the client’s preferences.
Collections are meticulously
crafted in capsules, through
collaborations with local brands,
designers, and an in-house
creative team.
Co-owned by siblings
Kabambi, Martine, Lucienn, and
Tshimaro Mbiola, Fuata Moyo
stands as a unique fusion of art
and fashion within a production
company. This distinctive
combination results in the
creation of individualised pieces
imbued with personality.
GQ recently chatted with
Kabambi ‘KB’ Mbiola to delve
into the brand’s heritage and
explore the elements that set
it apart.
GQ: What personal
connection do you have to
the Swahili phrase ‘Fuata
Moyo’ which translates to
‘follow your heart’ and what
inspired you to choose it as
your brand name?
Kabambi Mbiola: The influence
we wield can be traced back to
our roots in a Swahili-speaking
province, Lubumbashi, in the DR
Congo, where we were born. Due to
the instability the country faced in
the late ‘90s, our family decided to
relocate to South Africa, and for the
past 25 years, we have been residing
in the beautiful city of Cape Town.
Growing up in a family blessed
with exceptional talents in both
art and fashion, we have always
harbored a deep desire to establish
an African brand and production
company. Our vision is to
celebrate our family’s rich heritage
and pay tribute to the legacy of our
late father.
The heart of our brand lies in
cherishing the love for crafting
customised art on upcycled
garments, creating designs that
hold profound and meaningful
connections for both us and our
cherished consumers. We take pride
in fashioning collectible pieces of
slow fashion that will be treasured
for years to come. At Fuata Moyo,
we believe that art shouldn’t be
confined to hanging on walls;
with us, you can wear the art itself.
Additionally, we transform our fine
art paintings into textiles, producing
exceptional and wearable pieces of
art that are truly one-of-a-kind.
GQ: What sparked your
passion for fashion and art?
KB: At Fuata Moyo, we firmly
believe that love serves as the driving
force behind an artist’s journey, and
we hold the conviction that home is
where the heart resides.
Our brand is jointly owned by
siblings, who hail from a family
blessed with creative talents. Our
ultimate goal and unwavering
motivation lie in perpetuating our
family legacy and elevating it to
unprecedented heights.
Our brand eloquently narrates
the tale of an African family—a
poignant account of our heritage,
legacy, and journey conveyed
through art. At a tender age, we
experienced the heart-wrenching
loss of our father, and our family’s
‘We firmly
believe that
love serves
as the driving
force behind an
artist’s journey,
and we hold
the conviction
that home is
where the heart
resides’
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 2 3
F U ATA M OYO | ESSENTIALS
story became one of endurance,
sacrifice, survival, and unwavering
resilience. Faced with the challenge
of survival, we turned to the artistic
talents inherited from our late
father, giving rise to four budding
teenage artists. This single tragedy
set in motion a sequence of events
that ultimately led to the renaissance
of our family.
Art and design are ingrained in
our DNA, as our father, a talented
artist, shared this profession with his
older brother. Furthermore, on our
maternal side, our uncle excelled
as a fashion designer and tailor.
Therefore, art has always been
more than just a choice for us; it is
our birthright.
GQ: What sets Fuata Moyo
apart from other local
fashion brands?
KB: Fuata Moyo offers a
distinctive, endogenous silhouette
that beautifully highlights the
intersection of fashion and art. Our
offerings extend beyond clothing
to include accessories, providing
not only a product but an entire
experience. This immersive journey
involves the customisation of
jackets, sneakers, and hand-painted
textiles, allowing you to fully express
your artistic desires. Thoughtfully
designed in collaborative capsules,
our collections enhance the fusion
of creativity within each piece.
Fuata Moyo’s approach centers
around implementing a circular
economy, breathing new life and
character into old garments through
the customisation of upcycled
art. Our process utilizes locally
produced water-based paint,
allowing us to be environmentally
conscious while infusing creativity
into each piece. Furthermore,
our upcycling efforts extend to
furniture, including repurposing
old discarded mannequins into
exquisite lamps and art pieces
using paint.
With an unwavering focus on
delivering a well-curated offering,
we are committed to ensuring that
our product ranges remain local,
original, and authentic. Our brand
delights in forging connections
with customers, fostering personal
and meaningful experiences.
Additionally, we proudly organise
a monthly creative event called
“heART in session” to give »
 ESSENTIALS | F U ATA M OYO

back, inspire, and promote African

art and artists.
“He(Art) in session” offers
an enthralling journey into the
minds of Africa’s most talented
visual artists, both emerging and
established, within the vibrant South
African art industry. Our primary
goal is to establish an interactive
platform, allowing the audience
to engage, discuss, and explore the
artistic realm under the mentorship
of these distinguished artists.
Participants will have the
opportunity to learn various artistic
techniques, gain insights into the
inspiration behind renowned
masterpieces, and listen to the
genuine stories of these artists.
By bringing together ordinary
individuals with these brilliant
minds, we aspire to bridge the gap
between art and its consumers,
fostering a deeper connection
between the two.
Ultimately, our vision is to
transform the perception of fine
art, shifting it from a seemingly
exclusive construct for the bourgeois
to a universally cherished medium
that resonates with and unites us all.

GQ: What insights can you

share about the challenges
and rewards of running a
family-owned brand like
Fuata Moyo, considering the
common belief that family
and business don’t mix?
KB: We grew up in a family where
teamwork was an essential and
non-negotiable aspect of our lives.
Losing our breadwinner father at
a young age meant relying on our
single mom to support seven young
kids. Thus, collaboration within the
family became imperative for our
survival. Little did we know that
during those challenging times,
we were unknowingly laying the
foundation for what would later
become Fuata Moyo.
Authenticity and collaboration
have now become the cornerstone
of our brand, shaping our most
important ethos. However, entering
the industry has not been without
its obstacles, especially for small,
Black-owned businesses seeking
to challenge the status quo. In
the early stages, most startup
fashion businesses, including ours,
faced significant struggles with
production difficulties.
The country’s mass factory
closures and limited options
for manufacturing companies,
particularly those catering to
smaller quantities, put independent
designers and small brands at a
disadvantage. It was an uphill
battle when we initially launched
our brand.
In our pursuit of manufacturing
partners, we approached several
CMTs (cut-make-trim factories),
only to be turned away because
their standard minimum order
requirement was 50 pieces.
Additionally, securing funding
to start our brand posed another
significant hurdle.
Nevertheless, driven by our
passion and determination, we
persevered and took matters into
our own hands. Today, we proudly
own our manufacturing space, aptly
named House of Moyo (House of
heART). We firmly believe that
successful businesses are born from
problem-solving. By addressing the
challenges we faced, we not only
overcame them for ourselves but also opened up opportunities for young
aspiring designers. House of Moyo
is now a place where anyone can walk in and turn their creative visions
into reality.
Our journey has taught us that collaboration, authenticity, and resilience
are not just buzzwords but the essence of what we stand for. As we continue
to grow and thrive, we aim to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter
the barriers they encounter. Together, we can foster a thriving community
of designers and creators, making a positive impact on the fashion industry
and beyond.
GQ: How did your collaboration with Fabiani come about?
KB: The world serves as our canvas for imagination. Our grand ambition
is to showcase African fashion on the global stage, and to achieve this, we
must establish global standards for artistic expression, thereby making
fashion a medium of activism. Fuata Moyo is successfully transforming our
emotional connection to clothing, instigating a shift in the culture of mindless
consumption. It sparks inspiration, fosters creativity, and serves as a reminder
that clothing is, in essence, a democratisation of art.
A brand encompasses a collection of expectations, memories, stories, and
relationships that collectively influence a consumer’s decision to opt for one
product or service over another. Success is not solely defined by greatness;
consistency also plays a vital role. As a brand, we have consistently shared
our profound passion for art and fashion with the world. Our commitment
to maintaining a high standard of work garnered significant attention from
key industry figures. Additionally, it was serendipitous that someone from
the Fabiani team had been following Fuata Moyo since its inception, closely

2 4 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
monitoring our progress.
Within a year of launching Fuata
Moyo, two major local brands
approached us for collaboration.
We chose Fabiani because our heart
was fully invested in the partnership.
Furthermore, they wholeheartedly
believed that we were the perfect
brand to collaborate with, sharing
our passion for craftsmanship and
our significance in the industry. This
collaboration extended
beyond merely designing a
remarkable collection; it was a joint
celebration of what we represent
in the industry and our shared
dedication to our crafts.
GQ: How would you describe
your design aesthetic and
how does it reflect your
family heritage?
GQ: Are there any particular
design elements or motifs
that you often incorporate
into your work?
KB: Meaningful connections with
one another provide us with energy
that positively influences multiple
aspects of our lives. At Humana, a
strong sense of belonging enhances
the experiences of many individuals.
Deep human connections serve as
both the purpose and the outcome
of a meaningful life, motivating
incredible acts of love, generosity,
and humanity.
To convey this concept, we
introduced what we refer to as
“rooted lines” in our designs. These
line patterns were created for GQ
Editor-in-Chief, Molife Kumona’s
outfit during SA Fashion Week.
These patterns symbolise the
flexibility of our roots and the interconnectedness we all share through love
and our common human identity.
GQ: How did your concept of upcycling furniture come about?
KB: Art surrounds us constantly, waiting to be discovered when we adopt an
open-minded approach. Ideas and inspiration can unexpectedly emerge from
the most unlikely sources. Embracing this concept, the Fuata Moyo store
embodies the essence of an artist’s apartment, where our hearts find their true
home. By offering a lifestyle that resonates with our consumers, we provide
them with a unique opportunity to purchase a diverse range of items from
our studio apartment turned store, including paintings, decor, clothing, and
furniture.
While a house may consist of mere walls and beams, a home is truly built
with love and dreams, making it a place where the heart finds solace and
belonging.
GQ: What’s next for Fuata Moyo?
KB: A collaboration with Heineken promises to deliver a multitude of
exhilarating and innovative events. Additionally, there is the exciting
possibility of an international pop-up experience. While the negotiations are
still underway, we anticipate a fantastic outcome that will captivate
audiences worldwide

‘Art surrounds us
constantly, waiting to be
discovered when we adopt
an open-minded approach’

KB: Our designs encapsulate

the essence of functional artistic
clothing, characterised by
their gender-fluid nature and a
compelling theme or message in
every collection we release. Some
may refer to it as “Activist Art,” as
our designs not only inspire but
also engage with political and social
issues, grounding art in action.
Furthermore, our mission
extends beyond fashion; it’s about
leaving a legacy of African pride
and encouraging others to lead
and create from the depths of their
hearts, mirroring our own family
values. As the saying goes,
“Family is not an important thing.
It’s everything.”
In addition to our thought-
provoking designs, we offer bespoke
and customisation services that
enable our customers to actively
collaborate with us. By sharing their
ideas, we transform their visions
into reality, empowering everyone to
become a creator and achieve what
they dream of.

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 2 5
GQ PROMOTION

On the pulse
of Joburg
Mea Culpa – Johannesburg’s tranquil
oasis, perfect for your next big event

NE S T L ED IN T HE
VIBR AN T CI T Y S C AP E
OF J OHANNE SB URG,
equidistant from Sandton and
Rosebank, you’ll find Mea
Culpa – a haven of tranquility
and refined elegance. This
versatile venue seamlessly
blends modern design
with a serene ambiance,
offering an array of spaces to
accommodate your diverse
event needs.
HOST EVENTS WITH EASE
Whether you’re organising a
grand corporate conference,
a product launch infused
with elegance, or an intimate
gathering of cherished
friends, Mea Culpa offers the
ideal setting. Their versatile
GQ PROMOTION
spaces can easily adjust
to accommodate groups
of all sizes, from intimate
boardroom meetings where
ideas flourish to large-scale
presentations that make a
lasting impression.
P R OV I D I N G U N I Q U E E V E N T S
Escape the hustle and bustle
of the city and immerse
yourself in the serene
gardens of Mea Culpa. The
gentle murmur of water
flowing through cascading
fountains and vibrant Koi
ponds creates a soothing
symphony, while meticulously
landscaped greenery offers
a refreshing retreat from
the urban landscape. These
idyllic outdoor spaces serve
as the perfect backdrop for
team-building activities,
brainstorming sessions, or
simply a moment of quiet
reflection amidst nature’s
tranquility.
F R O M C O C K TA I L S
TO C O N F E R E N C E S
For legal professionals
in search of a serene and
conducive environment for
arbitration proceedings,
Mea Culpa offers the
perfect solution. Dedicated
arbitration rooms, designed
with neutrality and comfort
in mind, create a harmonious
atmosphere that fosters
productive discussions and
successful negotiations.
U N F O R G E T TA B L E
E X P E R I E N C E S AWA I T
Let Mea Culpa transform
your next event into an
unforgettable experience.
Their dedicated team is
committed to providing
exceptional service and
meticulous attention to
detail, ensuring that your
event runs seamlessly from
start to finish. Escape the
ordinary and embrace the
extraordinary at Mea Culpa.
Your next event awaits.
M E AC U LPA . J O B U R G
Mea Culpa
@meaculpakew
 ESSENTIALS | W E L L N E S S
Protein
We explore the role of protein
supplements in fitness
P ROT E I N I S A N E S S E N T I A L
M AC RO N U T R I E N T T H AT ’ S
V I TA L F O R VA R I O US
P H YS I O LO G I CA L
F U N C T I O N S I N T H E B O DY.
For fitness enthusiasts, its primary
role lies in muscle repair, growth,
and recovery. During intense
physical activity, muscle tissues
undergo microtears that require
repair and rebuilding, and protein
serves as the building blocks for
this process. Additionally, protein
plays a crucial role in supporting
immune function, maintaining
healthy skin, hair, and nails, and
contributing to the synthesis
of hormones and enzymes.
In the pursuit of optimal
physical performance, individuals
often turn to performance
enhancement supplements
to push their limits and
achieve greater results.
Supplements play a crucial role
in supporting exercise regimens
by addressing nutritional gaps,
enhancing performance, and
aiding recovery. In the realm of
fitness, individuals often face
challenges in meeting their
nutritional requirements solely
through whole foods, especially
when striving for specific fitness
2 8 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
Words by Shannon Manuel
goals. Supplements bridge these
gaps by providing concentrated
doses of essential nutrients
such as proteins, vitamins, and
minerals, ensuring the body
has the necessary building
blocks for optimal function.
People are drawn to using
supplements for various reasons,
with the primary motivation
being the desire to accelerate
fitness progress and achieve
specific goals. Whether aiming
for muscle growth, fat loss, or
improved athletic performance,
supplements provide a convenient
and efficient means of obtaining
nutrients in precise quantities.
The allure of supplements also
lies in their ability to offer a
competitive edge, allowing
individuals to push their
physical limits and recover
more effectively, ultimately
contributing to better overall
exercise outcomes.
Furthermore, the modern
lifestyle’s fast-paced and
demanding schedules can make
it challenging for individuals
to consistently maintain a well-
rounded and nutrient-dense
diet. In such cases, supplements
become a practical solution to
ensure that the body receives the
essential elements required for
optimal health and performance,
thereby contributing to the
widespread adoption of
supplementation within
the fitness community.
Workout supplements are
a popular category of dietary
supplements and are typically
taken before (“pre-workout”)
or after exercising (“post-
workout”), and are sold in a
variety of forms from pills to physician before adding them
powders and ready-to-drink to your fitness routine.
shakes. The global pre-workout
supplement market size alone was P R E-WO R KO U T
estimated to reach $13.98 billion S U P P L E M E N TS
in 2020 and will almost double in KEY INGREDIENTS
size to $23.77 billion by 2027. AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
Fitness gurus and blogs Pre-workout supplements
touting these products as crucial are meticulously formulated
for peak performance, fat loss, to provide the body with the
and explosive muscle growth in necessary elements to enhance
combination with complicated energy, focus, and endurance
scientific-sounding names and during exercise. Understanding
labels might have you believing the key ingredients is pivotal
you can’t effectively exercise for individuals seeking to
without them. But do these maximise their workouts.
supplements live up to the hype,
and are they even necessary – or CA F F E I N E
in some cases, safe? It’s a good THE CONTROVERSIAL
idea to research their effects and ENERGISER
ingredients and consult with your Caffeine is a staple in pre-
workout supplements due to the
stimulating effects it has on the
central nervous system.
Functions: Increases alertness,
reduces perceived effort, and
enhances endurance.
Debate: The controversy
surrounding caffeine revolves
around its potential side effects,
such as insomnia and increased
heart rate.
B E TA-A L A N I N E
DEL AYING FATIGUE
Beta-alanine is known for its role
in buffering lactic acid, thereby
delaying muscle fatigue during
high-intensity exercise.
Functions: Enhances
endurance, reduces muscle
soreness, and improves overall
“Supplements exercise performance. blood flow and nutrient delivery
to muscles.
become a C R E AT I N E Functions: Enhances
practical solution POWER AND STRENGTH endurance, reduces muscle
to ensure that BOOSTER soreness, and promotes overall
Creatine is a naturally occurring exercise performance.
the body receives compound that aids in the
the essential production of adenosine SCHEDULE
triphosphate (ATP), the primary TIMING AND DOSAGE
elements energy source for cellular CONSIDERATIONS
required for function. The effectiveness of pre-workout
Functions: Increases strength, supplements is not solely
optimal health power, and muscle mass. dependent on their composition,
and performance” but also on the timing and
C I T RU L L I N E dosage. Consider factors such
M A L AT E as individual tolerance, workout
BOOSTING NITRIC OXIDE duration and schedule, your
PRODUCTION specific fitness goals and to guide
Citrulline malate is recognised for you on when and how to take
its role in increasing nitric oxide pre-workout supplements for
production, leading to improved optimal results. »
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 2 9

P OS T-WO R KO U T
SUPPLEMENT
Once you’ve decided to add a
post-workout supplement to
your diet, it can be tempting to
buy the cheapest protein powder
you can find and be done with it.
But if you want to support your
body with optimum nutrition,
it’s worth finding the best post-
workout supplements for your
goals. We’ve highlighted key
ingredients that support post-
workout recovery to point you
in the right direction.
1
L-Glutamine
L-glutamine is one of the
most abundant essential
amino acids in your body.
It aids in muscle protein synthesis,
allowing you to get the most
from your protein intake. It may
also help stimulate the release of
natural growth hormones while
staving off muscle soreness.
L-glutamine can also provide a
healthy boost for your immune
system while reducing fatigue and
supporting intense training.
2
Leucine
Of all the BCAAs,
leucine may be the most
anabolic, operating
primarily through the mTOR
(mammalian target of rapamycin)
pathways. MTOR pathways signal
cell growth and proliferation,
which is beneficial for
bodybuilding and other activities
where increasing muscle mass
is the goal. In addition, leucine
supplements may help increase
muscle protein synthesis, stabilise
your blood sugar, and decrease
protein degradation.
3
Whey protein
Whey protein isolate is
rich in BCAAs, which
support healthy post-
workout recovery. A whey protein
supplement can flood your system
with amino acids after your
workout is complete, providing
easily assimilated building blocks
to help your muscles recover.
4
Creatine
Creatine is a time-
tested post-workout
supplement that can
aid in the increase of fat-free
mass (muscle) and strength.
You deplete the creatine stores
in your muscles as you exercise,
so taking this supplement after
an intense training session is
ideal. You’ll see different types
of creatine on the market, the
most common of which include
creatine anhydrous and creatine
monohydrate. Creatine anhydrous
is a dehydrated form of creatine
monohydrate, so it provides more
creatine per gram of supplement.
5
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is a valuable
chemical that protects
your muscles from
damage while assisting in the
process of turning fat into energy.
It may also help reduce muscle
degradation while allowing for
a quicker recovery after each
training session. L-carnitine may
“If you want to
support your body
with optimum
nutrition, it’s
worth your time
to find the best
post-workout
supplements
for your goals”
also assist with increasing muscle
mass, decreasing body fat, and
reducing mental fatigue.
6
Electrolytes
Electrolytes such
as potassium are
electrically charged
minerals that help your body with
work, such as muscle contraction
and nerve signalling. Extended
periods of high-intensity exercise
lead to a loss of hydration and
electrolytes in the body. Taking
electrolytes after your workout
can help support your body’s
vital functions and enhance
post-workout recovery. Many
electrolyte blends also include
vitamin C, and while vitamin C
isn’t an electrolyte, it may also help
reduce muscle soreness.

T YPES OF
PROTEIN
SUPPLEMENTS
Protein supplements come in various
forms, each with unique characteristics
and advantages. Understanding these
types can help you choose the one
that aligns with your fitness goals
and dietary preferences.
PROTEIN
Whey protein is one of the most
popular and rapidly absorbed protein
supplements. It’s derived from milk
during the cheese-making process
and contains a high concentration of
essential amino acids, making it an
ideal choice for muscle recovery and
growth. Whey protein is available
in three main forms: whey protein
concentrate (WPC), whey protein
isolate (WPI), and whey protein
hydrolysate (WPH). WPI, in
particular, contains a higher protein
content and lower levels of fat and
lactose, making it suitable for those
who are lactose intolerant.
CASEIN PROTIEN
Casein is another milk-derived
protein, but it is absorbed at a slower
rate than whey. This slow digestion
makes casein an excellent choice for
a sustained release of amino acids,
making it particularly beneficial for
overnight muscle repair and
recovery. Casein is also rich in
glutamine, an amino acid important
for immune system support.
SOY PROTEIN
Soy protein is plant-based and
suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
It contains all essential amino acids,
making it a complete protein source.
Soy protein is known for its
heart-health benefits and may help
reduce the risk of certain diseases.
It’s a viable option for those with
dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
PE A PROTEIN
Pea protein is another plant-based
option that is easily digestible and
rich in branched-chain amino acids
(BCAAs). BCAAs are essential for
muscle protein synthesis, making
pea protein an effective choice for
muscle recovery and growth. It is
also free from common allergens,
such as gluten and dairy.
“It’s crucial to
understand the
key ingredients
and their specific
purposes”
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 3 1
WELLNESS | ESSENTIALS
K E Y I N G R E D I E N TS
I N P ROT E I N
S U P P L E M E N TS
To maximise the effectiveness of
protein supplements, it’s crucial to
understand the key ingredients
commonly found in these products
and their specific purposes.
AMINO ACIDS
The body can’t produce essential
amino acids – they must be obtained
through supplements or diet.
Branched-chain amino acids
(BCAAs), are particularly important
for muscle growth and recovery.
ENZYMES
Enzymes help break down proteins
into smaller peptides and amino
acids, facilitating their absorption
and utilisation in the body. In protein
supplements they can enhance
digestion and nutrient absorption.
SWEE TENERS
AND FL AVOURINGS
Protein supplements often contain
sweeteners and flavourings to
enhance flavour. Choose ones with
natural sweeteners such as stevia
or monk fruit, and avoid those with
excessive added sugars or artificial
ingredients.
VITAMINS AND MINER AL S
Some protein supplements are
fortified with essential vitamins
and minerals to provide additional
nutritional support. Common
additions include vitamins B6 and
B12, calcium, and iron. »
 ESSENTIALS | W E L L N E S S
PLANT PROTEIN
Many people are choosing plant
protein as their supplement of choice.
Nadia Mulder, registered dietitian
at The Green Dietitian, gives us
more insight.
I N R EC E N T Y E A RS, T H E R E
H A S B E E N A N OTA B L E
S H I F T I N T H E WAY P EO P L E
A P P ROAC H N U T R I T I O N
A N D F I T N E S S, with an
increasing number of individuals
adopting plant-protein diets
and incorporating plant protein
fitness supplements into their
routines. This burgeoning trend
is not only driven by a desire
for a healthier lifestyle, but also
by environmental concerns and
ethical considerations.
Contrary to the misconception
that plant proteins are inferior for
building muscle, recent studies
have shown that they can be just
as effective as animal-derived
proteins. Plant-based protein
sources, including legumes,
nuts, seeds, and grains, provide
a diverse array of amino acids
necessary for muscle synthesis.
Fitness enthusiasts and athletes
are increasingly turning to
plant-protein supplements
as a convenient and effective
way to support muscle growth
and recovery without the
potential drawbacks of animal-
based proteins.
GQ: What are the key
differences between plant-
based proteins and animal-
based proteins? And how
do plant proteins compare
to animal proteins in terms
of nutritional value and
digestibility?
Nadia Mulder: Protein will
always be a hot topic when you’re
vegan or eat a mostly plant-based
diet. Plant protein bio-availability,
or digestibility, is often criticised
as animal protein is more easily
digested, providing the body with
protein more efficiently. The truth
is that even if plant proteins are
less bio-available, cooking and
processing will improve protein
digestibility sufficiently to be
able to meet protein needs on
a plant-based diet.
GQ: What do you say when
people complain that it’s
impossible to meet their
protein needs by eating
only plant protein?
NM: The main concern around
plant protein is usually around
meeting essential amino acid
needs or eating “complete
proteins”. The term “complete
protein” refers to the concept
that some protein sources have
an amino acid ratio very similar
to that found in the human body.
This means these foods contain
all nine essential amino acids. As
a result, plant proteins are often
labelled “incomplete protein”.
The idea that you need to
pair certain plant proteins to
achieve “complete proteins” is an
outdated notion as we now know
that all plant foods contain all of
the essential amino acids, but in
varying amounts. There’s no need
to pair foods as the body digests
all protein and breaks it down into
amino acids, which are fed into a
store or “pool” of amino acids. It’s
important to eat a variety of plant
foods to constantly feed this pool
of amino acids, allowing the body
to utilise different amino acids as
needed. This happens every day
as you include plant protein in
your meals and does not mean
you have to consume certain
combinations in one meal.
With that being said, it’s
interesting to note that animal
products and soybeans have an
amino acid ratio close to those of
human tissue, while other plant
“Plant-based
protein sources
provide a diverse
array of amino
acids necessary
for muscle
synthesis”
foods such as beans, nuts, grains,
etc., sometimes have a lower
percentage of certain essential
amino acids.
Some plant proteins are
lower in the amino acid lysine.
Lysine plays an important role
in human health, specifically
protein synthesis and collagen
production. It’s advisable to
include sources high in lysine
as part of a balanced vegan diet.
It’s quite easy, though. Beans,
lentils, soy products, mock meat
and peanuts are good sources
of lysine. This emphasises the
importance of including a variety
of plant proteins in your diet.
GQ: What are some of the
richest sources of plant-
based proteins?
NM: Soy beans and soy products
like tofu (10–20g per serving)
Mock meats and meat alternatives
like seitan and tempeh (15–23g
per serving)
Protein powders (18–23g
per serving)
Legumes in general (~7g
per serving)
GQ: Can you highlight some
of the nutritional benefits
associated with consuming
plant proteins?
NM: Plant proteins include
legumes, some ground nuts,
soy products, mock meat and
meat alternatives and protein
powders. These foods are lower
in saturated fat compared to
animal proteins. Saturated
fat is a known contributor to
cardiovascular disease and
promoter of inflammatory
pathways that can put you at
risk for developing diseases of
lifestyle. Plant proteins are also
higher in fibre, which keeps
your gut healthy and therefore
supports a healthy immune
system. Fibre also helps you feel

full at meals, keeps you regular,
and helps excrete cholesterol to
support metabolic health. Lastly,
the phytonutrient content and
benefits from plant proteins can’t
be denied. Phytonutrients are
powerful nutrients that are only
found in plant foods. They act as
scavengers for free radicals and
reduce oxidative stress. In other
words, they keep inflammation at
bay and help keep you healthy.
GQ: Are there any potential
challenges or considerations
for people who rely solely on
plant-based protein sources?
NM: If you follow a vegan or
plant-based lifestyle, chances
are that you are getting a whole
lot more fibre than those eating
an omnivorous diet. But not
all vegan diets are equal. Some
lean into the “junk food vegan
lifestyle”, others find a more
wholefood diet more attractive.
I usually suggest somewhere in
the middle of these two extremes.
The reason is energy density,
digestive discomfort, and
digestibility of food.
Energy density refers to how
much energy is stored in a given
substance per unit volume. A
high-fibre veggie has a lot of water
and fibre and a lot of energy, while
a tablespoon of oil is free of
protein and fibre, and is thus
very energy dense.
GQ: Are there any emerging
trends or innovations in the
field of plant-based nutrition
or plant protein sources
that you find particularly
interesting or promising?
NM: In general and unrelated
to protein, there has been talk
among athletes that sports
nutrition supplements have
become the closest thing to
doping. Athletes can draw on
multiple transport carbohydrates
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK, UNSPLASH
and special blends of slow-release
carbohydrates and electrolytes
such as hydrogels. Smart planning
for nutrition and training with
appropriate nutrition can be the
one variable needed to smash a
PB or claim a spot on the podium.
In terms of protein, eating a
variety of plant-based protein is
key to ensure optimal intake of
all essential amino acids. Some
plant proteins contain lower
amounts of the amino acid lysine.
Lysine plays an important role
in human health, specifically
protein synthesis and collagen
production. It’s advised to include
sources high in lysine as part of
a balanced vegan diet. It’s quite
easy, though. Beans, lentils, soy
products, mock meat and peanuts
are good sources of lysine. This
emphasises the importance
of including a variety of plant
proteins in your daily diet. Opting
for lower-fibre plant protein
options at least once a day is
also a good strategy to ensure
sufficient intake since fibre
can make you feel full faster.
Therefore, relying on wholefoods
like legumes may prevent you
from meeting protein needs
without causing discomfort.
GQ: What practical advice
would you give to individuals
looking to transition to a
more plant-based diet for
their protein intake?
NM: When transitioning, be
sure to swap animal protein for
plant protein. Don’t just cut the
meat and forget to replace the
protein. Variety is key! We want
diet diversity to ensure we’re not
missing out on any amino acids or
nutrients. And the best part is that
with this approach, you’ll get all
sorts of different fibres that feed
the good bacteria in your gut, too.
In short, get to know the
incredible world of legumes and
meat alternatives and start playing
with recipes!
GQ: Can plant-based
protein supplements
effectively support athletic
performance, endurance and
muscle-building or recovery
for both men and women?
NM: Yes. Preliminary findings
suggest that rice and pea protein
may be able to stimulate similar
changes in fat-free mass and
strength as whey protein.
Lean muscle mass maintenance
and building might require more
protein intake for those with
male biology, since there is more
testosterone and less estrogen in
the system, meaning less body
fat and more lean body mass to
maintain. In short, due to body
composition, those with male
biology require more protein, but
not different types compared to
those with female biology.
CHOOSING
THE RIGHT
PROTEIN
SUPPLEMENTS
Here are some key
considerations to guide
your decision.
Per s onal Goals
Different protein supplements cater
to specific fitness goals. If your
primary focus is building muscle and
recovery, whey or pea protein may
be suitable. For sustained protein
release and overnight recovery,
casein is an excellent choice.
Consider your fitness objectives
when choosing the type of protein
supplement.
Diet ar y Preferenc es
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan
diet, plant-based protein
supplements like soy or pea protein
are optimal choices. Those with
lactose intolerance or dairy allergies
may find whey protein isolate or
plant-based options more suitable.
Ensure that the supplement aligns
with your dietary preferences and
restrictions.
Ingre dient Transparency
A high-quality protein supplement
should provide clear information
about its ingredients, including
protein content, amino acid profile,
and any added nutrients. Avoid
supplements with excessive
additives, artificial colours, and
preservatives. Look for products
with transparent labelling and
minimal, natural ingredients.
Diges tibilit y
Consider the digestibility of the
protein supplement, as some
individuals may experience
gastrointestinal discomfort with
certain types. Whey protein isolate
and hydrolysate are often well-
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 3 3
WELLNESS | ESSENTIALS
tolerated, while plant-based options
like pea protein are known for their
ease of digestion.
Once you’ve selected the right
protein supplement, integrating it
into your daily routine is key for
optimal results. Consuming protein
around the time of your workout can
enhance muscle protein synthesis
and recovery. Aim to consume a
protein-rich snack or shake within
30 minutes to an hour after
exercising. Additionally, including
protein in your pre-workout nutrition
can help fuel your muscles for
optimal performance.
Rather than consuming all your
protein in one large meal, distribute
your protein intake across multiple
meals and snacks throughout the
day. This approach ensures a steady
supply of amino acids for ongoing
muscle repair and growth. Tailor
your protein intake based on your
individual needs, activity level,
and fitness goals.
While general guidelines suggest
a daily protein intake of 0.8 to 1.2
grams per kilogram of body weight,
athletes and those engaged in
intense training programmes may
require higher amounts. Consult
with a nutritionist or healthcare
professional to determine your
specific protein needs.
Protein supplements need not be
limited to shakes alone. Get creative
and incorporate them into recipes
such as smoothie bowls, protein
pancakes, or energy bars.
Experimenting with different recipes
can make protein consumption
enjoyable and diverse.
 Can

Intelligence

Coach You

to Better Health?
 HEALTH | ESSENTIALS

FOR CERTAIN PEOPLE, A FITNESS TRACKER

LIKE A WHOOP BAND, FitBit, Apple Watch,
Oura Ring, or Garmin smartwatch can provide
useful and actionable insights into their daily
behaviours. They might feel more dialled in
with their marathon training and sleep patterns,
or maybe they just like wearing some kind of
expensive reminder to live a little healthier.
Now, artificial intelligence is showing up in
those devices—whether that’s a feature or a bug
depends on who you ask.
Whoop’s new feature,
Whoop Coach, is powered “When increasingly
by OpenAI’s GPT-4 model.
This coach, in the form of a
fewer adults But some people are
chat interface, will attempt are meeting the into it, with positive
to answer the user’s open- recommended reviews ranging from
ended queries, based on “nothing to complain
the reams of health data amount for about” to a “dawning
that the Whoop band exercise, maybe a of an era of truly
collects, such as blood smart wearables.”
oxygen, skin temperature, little AI nudge isn’t When increasingly
heart rate, and respiratory so bad” fewer adults are meeting
rate. Users can now ask the recommended amount
“why am I tired?” or for exercise, maybe a
“what should I do at the gym today?” and it will little AI nudge isn’t so bad.
spit out an answer. If users cannot stop thinking Elsewhere, runners have been asking
about the Roman empire and want to work out ChatGPT to create training plans for them.
about it, Whoop Coach will gamely respond with One such plan left a positive first impression
some suggestions. on a senior researcher at Polar, calling it a
Whoop seems to anticipate that not all users “solid starting point for many runners.” That
will be AI-keen, as its product announcement impression might be the reason that AI takes off
also explains how you can turn the new feature in the training world: sometimes it matters to get
off, if desired. Emily M. Bender, a University instructions more than the actual instructions
of Washington professor, and one of Time themselves. Perhaps if people feel they’re getting
Magazine’s most influential people in AI, a tailor-made training plan, they’re more likely to
expressed scepticism, tweeting, “GPT-4 is adhere to it, even if a hypothetical TrainerBot has
inside this thing. So: are we talking days, hours, three templates that it chucks out to all users.
or minutes before we see the first reports of There is already plenty of interest and
physically dangerous advice coming out of it?” investment for AI in the world of cardiovascular
health. For one: earlier this month,
Cardiosense, a “digital biomarker platform,”
started enrollment in a nationwide study to
use its AI platform and FDA Breakthrough-
designated device to monitor heart failure, a
much higher-stakes endeavour than building a
couch-to-5k plan.
But there are also reasons to exercise caution.
Earlier this year, the National Eating Disorders
Association (NEDA) put Tessa—its own AI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK, UNSPLASH

chatbot that replaced a human-based helpline—

AI can now interpret your heart rate and
other data from your fitness wearable
on ice after it was found to give dangerous advice
around eating disorders.
AI in fitness trackers will seem like a
tremendous feature to some people, and more
like a pesky bug to others. I fall into the latter
camp—I’d already had an on-and-off relationship
with Whoop before OpenAI got involved. I’ve
found a fitness tracker can quickly become a
shackle to a bunch of metrics that occupy a
disproportionate amount of my mental real
estate. I’m not sure an AI model fixes that.
- ASHWIN RODRIGUES

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 3 5
 The dynamically talented
Hacjivah Dayimani, showcases his style
both on and off the rugby field

SCORING TRIES & TRENDS

– BROUGHT TO YOU
BY G-STAR
Interview by Anele Geqiwe Words by Shannon Manuel
Creative Direction and Styling by Luke Diva Photography by Niquita Bento
 I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G - S TA R

synonymous with disrupting the denim growing up with everyone aimed

industry by exploring art and culture within both Xhosa and to showcase their
fashion. It’s a perfect match for Dayimani, Nigerian heritage, success, originating
who asserts that their determination to push he reveals that it from a background
the boundaries of denim design and manifest was challenging due of poverty. This
their own future in denim mirrors their to the complexities contrast created
commitment to achieving greatness. This arising from a different
reflects the belief that one’s starting point in the clash of the environment for
life doesn’t always dictate the successes one two traditional me. It shaped my
can achieve. backgrounds. style, born out of
“Growing up as a not conforming to
A road paved with obstacles Nigerian Xhosa was any group, standing
Dayimani’s early life was challenging. He tough for me due out, and embracing
MAKING A faced a tough childhood marked by frequent to many cultural uniqueness. I aimed
S I G N I F I CA N T relocations and changes in schools. Born differences. For to create something
I M PAC T I N and raised in the informal settlement of Joe instance, being that made people
T H E WO R L D O F Slovo in Cape Town, he initially lived with his circumcised at exclaim, ‘Oh
RU G BY W I T H H I S mother. However, as a young boy, he was later birth, a norm in snap, I’ve never
E XC E P T I O N A L sent to live with his grandmother in Craddock, Nigerian culture, was seen this before’
SKILL S AND located in the Eastern Cape. It was during considered taboo or ‘This is cool.’
AT H L E T I C this period that he discovered his passion for in Xhosa culture. Embracing creativity
P ROW E S S, rugby, inspired by watching the 2007 World Adopting your and challenging
Hacjivah Dayimani Cup, with Brian Habana as his hero. dad’s clan name is conservative norms
has swiftly ascended “I used to watch replays of rugby games late customary, but since became my mindset.
through the ranks at night on SABC, and I fell in love with the my dad didn’t have “My Nigerian side
since the inception sport,” he says. “When I moved to Craddock, one, I had to take played a significant
of his rugby career, the school I attended only had rugby, so that on my mom’s. This role, especially in
establishing himself was perfect for me. My grandmother cleaned made me an outsider using bold colours.
as a formidable houses, and when she was working too much in Xhosa culture, Today, my style,
force on the field. and couldn’t afford to look after me, I was always perceived while appreciated,
His explosive speed, sent to find my father in Johannesburg when as the foreign kid. might not be
agility, versatility, I was 12 years old. He had a new family and Living in an informal something others
passion, and wasn’t too happy about me showing up on his settlement of shacks, would wear. I love
commitment to his doorstep. At this point, I was obsessed with I stood out, and sticking out, people
craft have captured playing rugby, but my father, who is a Nigerian my siblings and I looking at me asking
the attention of Jew, was very strict about not playing rugby were often teased ‘where did you get
rugby enthusiasts on Saturdays, the holy Shabbat. Every time as foreigners. This that?’ The colours
worldwide, earning he would go on about disobeying and playing feeling intensified in I incorporate also
him recognition and rugby on Saturdays. places like Craddock, pay homage to my
admiration from fans “But I kept playing and ended up getting a traditional small Nigerian roots,
and fellow players a scholarship to Jeppe High, a prestigious town, where our shaping the influence
alike. boys’ boarding school with a rugby culture. differences were on my style.”
His journey in My father did not want to be involved and more apparent, We ask him for
the sport has been our relationship soured. I went to Jeppe on and we felt left out, his thoughts on
characterised by a scholarship as a yearly boarder and I had especially since their G-STAR’s
dedication, hard nothing – I was always borrowing supplies and the local guys were collaboration with
work, and a relentless things from others and had to hustle most of less exposed to the Nigerian superstar
pursuit of excellence. the time for resources that I needed. It was a outside world.” Burna Boy, to which
In addition to really tough time in my life.” he responds, “Burna
his professional While he was excelling at rugby at Jeppe, An unorthodox Boy is a renowned,
reputation, he has his father passed away, his death taking a toll style groundbreaking
also cultivated a on him despite their non-existent relationship “When I relocated artist from Africa,
personal one through by that point. Affecting his grades, he found to Johannesburg, I and G-STAR is a
his distinctive style himself falling off the path a bit, until he met found the Nigerian globally recognised
and unwavering Kobie and Leyla Smook, a local couple, who environment to be brand. It’s a perfect
commitment took him in when he was in grade 11. entirely different,” match, bringing
to showcasing “They were like my parents. They took says Dayimani. “The together two
creativity, me to where I am today. I eventually got degree of Nigerian influential figures
consistently pushing contracted for the Under 19 Lions and played heritage didn’t
boundaries with his for them in Johannesburg. In 2021, I got matter there, and
fashion choices. contracted to come and play for the Stormers they had a unique
Dayimani features in Cape Town. That season we won the United way of expressing
as the cover star Rugby Championship Cup an international themselves – bold,
of this issue in competition with international clubs around confident, and

37
collaboration with the world and that’s where my career took off.” loud. It was a
G-STAR, a brand When asked about his experience flashier scene where
I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G - S TA R

shaping the world “The

with their own
unique styles. The colours I
partnership between incorporate
the African giant and
G-STAR is the only also pay
thing that makes homage
sense, and that’s what
I love about it.
to my
“My favorite piece Nigerian
from the collection
is the high-level
roots,
military coat. It’s a shaping
limited edition and the
not available in all
stores, but it’s a piece influence
that I truly love. It’s on my
versatile and suitable
for any occasion. It’s style”
formal yet adaptable,
and quite attention-
grabbing – you can
wear it on a date this observation,
night, for a night out he acknowledges
at the club, or on a it wholeheartedly.
cold day; it’s not just Dayimani points out
a winter coat. When that rugby has long
people see you, it been a conservative
appears that you’re sport, emphasising
fitting in, but you’re conformity and
actually standing discouraging actions
out, and that’s my that might be
style,” he says. deemed arrogant or
“The best way to showy. Despite this,
describe my style he has chosen not
is ‘unorthodox.’ It’s to conform to these
for people who are expectations. His
trying to shake up goal is to challenge
environments that stereotypes and
are meant to be a demonstrate that it’s Vest, BB Trench Coat,
5620 3D Wide Jeans
certain way— for okay to be authentic
those who don’t – whether expressing PREVIOUS SPREAD
Avernus Flat Brim Cap,
conform to the oneself through Vest and BB Wide Pants
rules. I aim for a appearance or
style that challenges discussing
people’s thinking, mental health.
something that’s high “I aim to to reveal different facets of their identity or shows that you’re hating me because of the way
fashion, creative, and demonstrate that not mental struggles due to fear of judgment and you were raised.”
unpredictable. only is it acceptable labeling. I aspire to dismantle these barriers
There is a definite but commendable to and convey that if we embrace authenticity, Sound mind and the status
dichotomy between stay true to oneself allowing everyone to pursue their desires of success
the masculine while excelling in without judgment, then we can openly discuss In the demanding world of sports, where
sport of rugby rugby. By breaking personal challenges. I want to encourage physical prowess often takes center stage,
and Dayimani’s away from rigid individuals, especially men, that it’s okay to be the significance of mental health in athletes
flamboyant personal stereotypes, my themselves, and expressing oneself will never is increasingly recognised as a critical
fashion sense. goal is to highlight be considered taboo. component for overall well-being and peak
When asked about that being a straight “Moreover, I aim to transcend the narrow performance.
man who wears nail perception that a rugby player’s identity is “One thing that I feel South African sports
polish or explores solely defined by their on-field persona. Some is behind on is that, because it’s so competitive
various aspects of people raise question about the way that I and performance-driven, people tend to forget
personal expression dress, viewing it negatively. I aim to express that athletes are just regular individuals with
is not only acceptable myself and demonstrate to those raised with lives outside of sports, especially in rugby. A
but essential. certain expectations that you may appreciate team gains recognition for its success, and

38
Many individuals, me on the rugby field when I play, but the when a player excels, attention is directed
especially in the moment you judge me based on my clothing, it towards them. Conversely, when a player is
rugby world, hesitate reveals biases rooted in your upbringing. It just struggling or vying for a spot on the team, they
 I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G - S TA R

often go unnoticed, society assumes failures on social media, and we impose to earn money and Alongside this, I aim
and their challenges they are doing immense pressure on ourselves. However, return to rebuild in to be the best dad,
are disregarded. well. This mindset when you take a moment to reflect and look Craddock – which I not just by words
People primarily needs to evolve. I at yourself ten years ago, considering where accomplished, by the but as a role model
focus on successful am committed to you were and what you aspired to, you begin way. The proudest leaving a legacy for
players – the ones dismantling the to realize that the life you’re living now is moment of my life my kids. I want them
actively playing,” notion that success precisely what you were striving for. And in is living the dream I to grow up seeing
says Diyamani. is solely about that realisation, you are successful.” once imagined. my impact on men’s
“It’s crucial appearance and “Living in fashion and rugby
to maintain an achievements. People Fatherhood and future dreams the moment, I without me having to
identity beyond should be recognised He says the experience of being a first-time surprise myself tell them.”
sports. Athletes as individuals – are dad as indescribable. “Realising that this every day with new What he hopes
need to remember they doing well, are little person is my responsibility and will possibilities. It’s that readers take
their humanity and they okay, are they become what I invest in raising, growing tricky because one away from his story
acknowledge a life facing challenges? up to be a future dad or grandfather – it’s a often takes things for is that anything is
outside the game. Returning to profound thought. It’s both an exciting and granted, but looking possible. “Despite
Many struggle when his earlier remark bittersweet journey that I genuinely love and back, I realise how numerous failures,
they cease playing about how men at eagerly anticipate every day. It motivates me blessed I am.” you just need to be
because they have his level of success to be a better man,” he expresses. Apart from His next career right once. Success
defined themselves are perceived, when fatherhood, he identifies the proudest moment dream and step overshadows past
solely by their sport asked if he considers in his life as the present, acknowledging is playing for the failures, and people
for an extended himself successful, that it may sound like a cliché. “Every day, Springboks. “I can will pay attention
period. Suddenly, he responds that I’m living beyond the wildest dreams of my feel it’s close, and when it works out.
they find themselves personally, he does, grandmother, mom, and family. In the past, I’m staying patient Believe In your
unrecognised but others looking at my aspirations were for a simple life – leaving for that call. I’ll keep goals, despite the
in public, and it him might not share my hometown, securing a basic job, owning applying pressure circumstances
requires significant the same view. a house, and sending my kids to school. Even because I believe it’s that may
adjustment. Now, “I come from the when I was in Johannesburg, my dream was just a matter of time. surround you.”
they must navigate shacks of Joe Slovo.
life based on their I’m not exaggerating
qualifications or when I say that only
experience rather 0.01% of people
than their athletic make it out of Joe
prowess. Slovo. It’s a rarity.
“Mental health For someone to
is a substantial emerge and appear
concern, yet it is on TV is one in a
often not taken billion. It’s unheard
seriously. While of. Reflecting on my
everyone encourages journey, if someone
dialogue, it becomes were to ask if I would
challenging when the do it again, I’d tell
environment lacks them that I don’t
support. This is what think I could make it
I aim to highlight out again; it was too
– if people criticise tough.
how I dress, imagine “Success, to me,
the difficulty for isn’t solely about
someone grappling external perceptions.
with mental health It’s about where I “Success,
issues. Can we started and where
realistically expect I am now. Success,
to me,
them to open up? for me, is being able isn’t solely
“Men, in to provide for my about
particular, often family and assist
feel judged by their them in overcoming external
contributions in challenges. We often percep-
terms of money get influenced by
and success. Their society’s definition of tions. It’s
worth is frequently success – luxurious about
tied to their role as cars, Instagram
providers, and their posts, and the like. where I
well-being often goes We forget to assess started and
unquestioned. As our own progress.
long as they fulfill “No one
where
Avernus Flat Brim Cap,
their provider role, showcases their I am now.” Vest and BB Wide Pants
I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G - S TA R

40 BB Hooded Vest,
Wide Pants

The iconic
collaboration:
Burna Boy
and G-STAR
join forces
G - S TAR L AUNCHED
AN EL EC T RIF YING
C OL L AB OR AT ION WI T H
GR A MM Y AWARD -
WINNING UNI VER S AL
MUSIC AL TAL EN T
B URNA B OY, the king of
Afro-Fusion, currently making
waves across the globe.
Burna Boy is not
only renowned for his
groundbreaking music, but
also for his impeccable fashion
sense. A great match with
G-STAR, because both the
artist and the brand continually
reinvent themselves and follow
their own path.
This collaboration redefines
the boundaries of music
and fashion, celebrating the
intersection of creativity
and innovation. Since its
inception in 1989, G-STAR
has been committed to the
craft of culture, driven by a
relentless pursuit of creativity.
This partnership with Burna
Boy exemplifies the brand’s
dedication to pushing
boundaries and carving its
unique path in the industry.
The collaboration represents
a fusion of two powerful
cultural forces, highlighting the
global appeal of both G-STAR
and Burna Boy. By combining
Burna Boy’s magnetic energy
with G-STAR iconic denim.
Burna Boy’s influence
I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H G - S TA R
Nigerian talent: an ultra-long style, engineered to be the
denim military coat combined
with a relaxed take on the
ultimate boyfriend fit. With a
back panel twisted towards
iconic Elwood. And a hooded
sleeveless statement jacket
with matching loose jeans. The
the front alongside an artfully
bowed leg and loose feel. The
Lenney underlines that the 70’s
utilitarian looks are completed
with the new leather Benson
are back. Low-rise and boot-
cut, with a slight opening from
Lea Boots.
With utilitarian origins
running throughout, technical
the knee.
In celebration of the
campaign, G-STAR launches a
details meet strong silhouettes.
It features two new jeans fits;
The Bowey is a 3D women’s
range of monochrome graphic
tees with a unisex fit, made
from 100% organic cotton.
extends beyond his music;
he’s also made significant
contributions to African
fashion. Embracing his Nigerian
heritage, Burna Boy has
become a style icon, blending
traditional African attire with
modern fashion trends. His
bold and eclectic fashion
choices reflect his cultural
pride and confidence, inspiring
fans across the continent and
beyond.
His partnership with G-Star
Raw showcases his passion for
sustainable fashion and African
craftsmanship. Through this
collaborations, Burna Boy not
only promotes African fashion
on a global scale but also
empowers local artisans and
designers.
Burna Boy says “Denim isn’t
just fabric; it’s an extension of
who I am. Like my music, it’s
personal, a dialogue between
me and myself. Every stitch,
every fade tells a story. G-STAR
gets that. They’re not about
following trends; they’re about
challenging norms, just like me.
Our connection goes beyond
fashion; it’s about pushing
boundaries and embracing
authenticity. So, why not ride
the wave with G-STAR? It’s a
match made in denim heaven.”
G-STAR designed two
limited edition, premium
Japanese denim looks for the
FUNDAMENTAL
FORMS OF
ETHICAL
 SEX & RELATIONSHIPS | ESSENTIALS

THERE’S A BIG DIFFERENCE

BETWEEN POLYFIDELIT Y AND DON’T
ASK, DON’T TELL, AFTER ALL
Words by Ashwin Rodrigues

NON-MONOGAMY,
EXPLAINED
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 4 3
E T H I CA L N O N - M O N O G A M Y
I S S O M A I N S T R E A M T H AT
I T ’ S BA S I CA L LY BA S I C.
These days, it’s like, monogamy?
One person for life? Now that is
some hardcore kinky shit. But
despite making its way to your
Instagram discovery page through
poly influencers and celeb gossip
mags thanks to Will Smith and Jada
Pinkett Smith, there are levels to
this game—even if you’ve described
yourself as poly on dating apps.
“Most of them have absolutely no
clue what poly really means or what
they’re signing themselves up for,”
says NYU professor of sexuality
Zhana Vrangalova of many people
she sees new to the scene.
While it’s fine to experiment with
relationship formats, quite often
people jump into the poly scene—
often guys hear about the idea of
having more than one girlfriend—
and end up hurting themselves and
their dating partners in the process.
So, while labels aren’t required, if
you, or you and your partner, are
considering opening up, it can be
handy to know what’s on the menu.
“Knowing the general expectations
and agreements that come with
that particular label can be helpful,”
Zhana says.
So we rounded up and explained
11 of the most fundamental forms
of ethical non-monogamy, (ENM),
the umbrella that encompasses the
spectrum of open relationships.
(Technically, there is an open
relationship format that is not
considered ethical non-monogamy,
and that is called cheating. Some
people do get off at the secrecy
involved in cheating and prefer it to
versions that require honesty and at
times tough conversation. But we’re
guessing we don’t have to explain
that one.)

“While labels
aren’t required,
if you, or you and
your partner, are
considering opening
up, it can be handy
to know what’s on
the menu”
1
Polyamory
Polyamory is Ancient Greek
for “many loves.” In this
often-attempted relationship
format, which genuinely does
feel like coming home and works
wonders for many proud poly
people, you form romantic and
sexual relationships with more than
one partner. Many are called. Few
can serve.
2
Hierarchical Poly
Hierarchical polyamory
usually involves a couple.
They’re each other’s
number one, emergency contact,
and “primary partner,” but they
can see other people (secondary
partners). And those second
partners better know their place.
Kidding! But really, hierarchical
polyamory derives its name from
the fact that there is a hierarchy of
partners, and one comes first.
3
Solo Poly
In solo poly, all partners
are considered equal.
Sure, there are differences
in each connection, and every
relationship is unique, but if a solo
I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y A D O B E S TO C K
poly person must name anyone as
their primary partner, they usually
name themselves.
4
Polyfidelity
It’s called polyfidelity
when three or more
people have sex and
date one another, so more than one
person, but constrict the love to the
group. Such a closed polycule may
exist in the form of a throuple.
5
Relationship
Anarchy
Screw your rules and
reliance on romance.
Relationship anarchists consider
all their partnerships equally valid
whether they bone or not. So, a
relationship anarchist may have a
spouse, a nesting partner (someone
they live with), a girlfriend, a
boyfriend, a platonic life partner,
and whoever else they want, and
they’re all equal, and they’re so much
more punk than the pumpkin spice
latte-sipping poly crowd.
6
Throuple
A throuple, also called
a triad, is a romantic
and sexual relationship
between three people. Get it? It’s just
like a couple but with three people.
Everyone has sex, sometimes all at
once, other times one-on-one. Like
any relationship format, all partners
involved negotiate the specifics
(and a therapist to help guide this
can be handy). There are closed
relationships (see: poly fidelity) and
open ones.
7
Closed V
The closed V is a
polyamorous relationship
in which two people share
a romantic and sexual bond with the
third but not with one another.
The third, the centre of attention,
that lucky scoundrel, is called “the
hinge” of the V. It’s a V and not a
triangle because the two others
don’t touch. While the two ends,
or “metamours” (your partner’s
partner), don’t have sex, the term
closed V often assumes that they are
otherwise close and connected.
8
Open Relationship
“Open relationship” is
sometimes used as an
umbrella term to include
all the other fine formats you’ve
learned about here. However, on its
own, an open relationship usually
indicates that a couple is okay with
sex with others but not love or
anything that could topple their
partnership. This differentiates
it from polyamory. Sometimes,
couples only play together, such
as swingers, through threesomes,
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 4 5
SEX & RELATIONSHIPS | ESSENTIALS
or even the infamous one-penis
policy. Other times, each partner
can play separately. For folks who
experience more emotional than
sexual jealousy, it’s a valiant effort
that can work. The trouble is that
even when we say that we’ll separate
sex from love, our hearts and bodies
don’t always listen. (Honestly, one
should expect drama from any type
of ethical non-monogamy, but isn’t
the same true for monogamy? We
are flawed humans and must try to
live our truths the best we can with
the minimum harm done.)
9
Don’t Ask
Don’t Tell
Sometimes couples want
to share all the details.
It might turn them on and make
their sex life better as a result. Other
people don’t want to hear it. The
latter group prefers the slightly
outdated, but still existing, “don’t
ask, don’t tell.” It’s self-explanatory—
even if someone eventually usually
does ask, or tell.
10
Mono-
gamish
Monogamish is
a term coined by
the sex writer Dan Savage.
It refers to couples who are generally
monogamous but have, let us say,
a healthy understanding of human
sexuality. Monogamish couples are
usually devoted to one another but
agree that occasional sex outside of
the relationship isn’t the end of
the world.
11
Swingers
Unless you’re at the
notorious Hedonism
couple’s resort
surrounded by horny boomers,
swingers are, to be blunt, a dying
species. Swinging, also known as the
“Lifestyle,” traditionally refers to a
couple who swaps or has sex with
other couples. While plenty of Gen
X, Millennial, and Gen Z couples
enjoy this lowercase “l” lifestyle, and
couples have been porking other
couples since antiquity, the use of
the term “swingers” seems to be
going out of fashion.
(If you ask us, it’s time to give the
good ole’ fashioned horny
swingers a comeback bigger than
square-toe shoes.)
Beyond the racetrack,
Samkeliso “Sam Sam”
Thubane exudes a
reserved and laconic
demeanor. However,
when the rubber
meets the road, he
undergoes a remarkable
transformation, evolving
into an adrenaline junkie

Words by Luthando Vikilahle


IN T RODU CING
S A MKEL IS O “ S A M
S A M ” T HUB ANE,
T HE SP IN M AE S T RO
F RO M T HE VIBR AN T
CI T Y OF MB O MBEL A ,
MP UM AL ANG A .
The Red Bull Shay’ iMoto
champion boasts an illustrious
origin as the son of the revered
businessman Myboet Thubane
and Gladness Sedibe.
Affectionately known as
Sam Sam in the motorsport
spinning community, he
initially gained recognition on
quad bikes before effortlessly
transitioning those skills to
the captivating art of spinning.
Reflecting on his triumph in
e.tv’s ‘So You Think You Can
Spin’ competition in 2017, he
nonchalantly quips, “Eh, well,
what can I say?”
During that competition,
Sam Sam walked away with
a substantial R250,000
prize after showcasing his
extraordinary skills. His
performance not only garnered
the most public votes but also
outshone 300 contestants from
PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED
across the nation.
The young champion from
Mahushu village, located just
outside the safari town of
Hazyview in Mpumalanga, has
become a household name
in his province. Additionally,
he holds the distinction of
being the youngest spinner
in the game, earning him the
status of a crowd favourite at
events spanning South Africa,
Swaziland, and Zimbabwe.
He attributes his passion
for the sport primarily to his
love for quadbikes, which he
used to ride through the dusty
streets of his hometown. “I
then started attending local
spinning shows as a spectator.
I somehow convinced my father
to buy me my first E30,” says
the reigning champ.
Beyond the exhilaration of
spinning, Sam Sam credits the
sport for keeping him on the
right path, making it a powerful
force for positive change in his
life. Sam Sam aspires to inspire
a new generation of spinners,
turning this passion into a
professional career at Red Bull
Shay’ iMoto 2024, set to take
place in March in Cape Town.
“I’m nervous about the
upcoming RedBull competitions
but all I can say is I’m ready to
hand over to the next champ,”
he adds.
The world of spinning is
more than just squealing
rubber, roaring engines,
dizzying revs, and clouds of
smoke – it’s a pulsating blend
of drifting and
personal expression.
Spinning originated as
the ‘ultimate sendoff’ in the
townships of Soweto for fallen
gangsters during the Apartheid
era and has transformed over
“This motorsport,
embraced by the
people, is
a captivating
fusion of skill
and spectacle”
G Q PA R T N E R S H I P
the decades into Africa’s
premier motorsport. This
motorsport, embraced by the
people, is a captivating fusion
of skill and spectacle.
Picture this: drivers skillfully
locking their cars into a spin,
accompanied by screeching
tires and billowing smoke, only
to exit the vehicles and execute
jaw-dropping manoeuvres on
the bodywork or dangle upside
down from the windows with
their heads just millimeters
above the ground.
For Sam Sam and fellow
spinners, the ultimate goal
is to captivate the audience
with high-octane theatrics.
Intriguingly, expensive hi-tech
cars are not prerequisites for
success; the classic BMW
325i, known on the streets
as iGushushe, remains the
pinnacle choice for serious
contenders.
Spinning is more than just
a motorsport; it is the pride
and joy of a community deeply
rooted in South African culture
for over 30 years. From its
humble beginnings in the
townships to its current status
as Africa’s biggest motorsport,
spinning represents a
celebration of skill, passion,
and the indomitable spirit of
the South African people.
 Culture, grooming, motoring and fashion.
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 GEAR

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 4 9

I N 1 9 52 T H E 30 0 S L
R AC I N G S P O RTS CA R
BECAME THE FIRST VEHICLE IN A TRADITION LASTING RIGHT UP
TO THE PRESENT DAY. And 72 years later, I am in the newest Mercedes
roadster, thinking about the iconic predecessors of this yellow SL43 AMG
and fondly recalling the memories I had with some of them.
For more than seven decades the famous SL abbreviation has stood for
‘superlight’ - ‘superleicht’ in German, from the 300SL racer (W194) of 1952,
to the the latest SL in the 232 model series from AMG.
Each generation in this line-up of exciting ancestors writes its own
chapter in the history of the inventor of the automobile. After the immediate
success of the SL racing car, the interest in a production version was huge.
Mercedes reacted with the 300SL Coupé (W198), the legendary Gullwing
sportscar, in 1954. Only 1 400 units were produced and nowadays they fetch
well over one million Euros, if you’re lucky enough to find one for sale.
In the same year, the open-top sportscar 190 SL (W121) was launched.
In 1957 the 300SL Roadster (W198) followed the Gullwing Coupé. In
1963, the 230SL (W113) replaced both the 300SL and the 190SL roadster.
It is my personal favourite of them all and one of the most beautiful cars
ever designed. The optional hardtop with the high windows and the
characteristically concave-shaped roof, supported by narrow pillars,
resembled the roofs of Asian temples, resulting in a nickname, which stuck:
Pagoda, or Pagode in German. A couple of years ago I took part in a classic
car rally in Northern Germany in one of the Mercedes museum’s 280 SLs.
It was an epic trip back in time.
The SL model of J.R. Ewing/Dallas fame, the R107, made its debut in the
spring of 1971. For the first time in SL history, 8-cylinders were used, in the
“Each generation in the SL line-up writes its own
chapter in the history of the inventor of the automobile”
350 SL and 450 SL derivatives. The R107 was
built for a record 18 years.
The R129 followed in 1989. Innovations
were the automatic roll bar and a 12-cylinder
top model, the SL 73 AMG, with a 7.3-litre V12
powerplant and an asounding-for-the-time
386kW on tap.
In 2001, the next generation with the internal
code R230 was introduced. The vario steel roof
was a first in the SL lineage, combining both a
convertible and a coupé in one vehicle. And in
one of those, a 2008 SL 63 AMG, I had one of my
most exhilarating driving experiences ever. After
a four-day AMG racing driver’s course in the
green hell of Nürburgring, I took I it all the way
down into the Alps on a mountainous, rubber-
burning fun trip to remember. The result was
a seven-page spread in GQ that’s still one of my
most favourite motoring features ever.
And yes, I did enjoy the successor to this
model, as well. In January 2012, just in time
for the SL’s 60th birthday bash, the R231
was unveiled in the US of A and I had the
opportunity to drive it in Southern California,
close to the border with Mexico. I remember
having been stopped by a US border patrol
Chevy Blazer. The uniforms were wondering
what a German, living in South Africa, sitting in
a posh, black 12-cylinder convertible was doing
in this particular area. Well, he definitely didn’t
intend to cross into Mexico, that’s for sure!
Now I am making more memories, in the
new SL 43, entirely built by AMG, like its bigger
siblings, the SL 55 and SL 65. The SL line-up is
the third full-AMG car by Mercedes-Benz, after
SLS and GT. While the 55 won’t be coming to SA,
the 63 will, in the second half of 2024. And yes,
it will have the glorious 4.0-l. V8 with 430kW,
not the inline 4cyl. with 280kW of the 43 I am in
right now.

By the way, contrary to what people say out there, it is not the first SL
with only four pots, the 190 SL (W121) had a 1.9-litre four-cylinder.
Now, 62 years later, it is back, supported by an electric turbo, derived
from F1, an engine that’s well known and loved in the A45 AMG.
While the 43 might be the most expensive four-cylinder vehicle in the
country, it will be the most affordable SL. It looks as stunning as the
8-cylinder. I love the long 300SL-style hood and the soft top. Definitely
an homage to earlier SLs.
And if you forget about the V8 for a while, like I did, going up
Franschhoek Pass or along Clarence Drive, the ‘entry-level’ SL 43 is a fun
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
M E R C E D E S - B E N Z S L 4 3 A M G | ESSENTIALS
car to drive. Thanks to rear-wheel drive, 35kg
less than a 63 and Sport plus, on narrow roads
like this you can’t use any more power anyway.
Besides, I rarely have the urge to drive 315km/h
on our roads.
Nevertheless, South African buyers in this
price category, will most probably go for the
much more powerful and significantly more
aggressive-looking top model, the upcoming
SL63 AMG. I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
MERCEDES-BENZ
S L 4 3/ 5 5/6 3 A M G
> > ENGINE 43: 2.0-litre electric turbo 4cyl.,
rear-wheel drive/55 & 63 4.0-l. biturbo V8, all
wheel-drive, all three paired with a 9-speed auto
> >POWER 280/350/430kW & 480/700/800Nm
> > TOP SPEED 275/295/315km/h 0-100km/h
4.9/3.9/3.6 seconds > > PRICE FROM 43:
R2 493 847, 55 (not available in SA) & 63
(available in SA later in 2024).
MERCEDESBENZ.CO.ZA
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 5 1
 ESSENTIALS | T H R E A D S
After 50 years the iconic Suzuki Jimny has received an additional two doors. GQ
motoring editor Dieter Losskarn travelled to neighbouring Botswana to see how
the longer one behaves in the bush.
IF A MERCEDES G-CLASS AND A MINI HAD
A LOVE CHILD, THE JIMNY WILL BE THE
RESULT OF THOSE ACTIONS. Albeit Suzuki
disagrees, stating the name originates from
the early LJ days, when someone mentioned,
that the very compact 4x4 looks like a cross
between a Jeep and a Mini. In pictures, one
of the world’s smallest SUV appears so much
bigger than in reality. While the previous model
was rather feminine, the current Jimny is not.
Introduced five years ago, it was a resounding
success, commanding long waiting lists at
dealerships worldwide.
And now it is even better. For the first time in
50 years Suzuki is offering a five-door version.
Ideal for families, or when you need more space
for overlanding. Despite its more practical
packaging, Suzuki has avoided ‘softening’ the

Jimny, keeping the marque’s go-anywhere DNA
intact. While the company has impressive new
models, like Fronx or Baleno, the Jimny doesn’t
share their chassis and suspension components.
They’ve thankfully kept it traditional and
original: short overhangs, ladder-frame chassis
with body-on-frame construction, solid front
and rear axles with coil springs. It’s a set-up
that leands the five-door formidable off-road
ability. The wheelbase has been stretched to
2 590mm and the overall length increased by
340mm to 3 820mm.
The five-door comes in GL and GLX
specification, with a choice of five-speed manual
or four-speed auto transmissions.
Another challenge for the engineers was to
make it look as similar as possible in appearance
to the existing three-door model – they
succeeded here as well. At a glance, you don’t
even realise there are two more doors. It still
looks like the legend it is. Thanks to the upright
grille, round headlights, square edges and the
spare wheel hinged on the rear door.
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED; MOTOPRESS
The five-door models are equipped with
195/80 on/off road tyres on 15-inch alloy wheels.
In SA the new Jimny will have a 50:50 split rear
bench, an additional power socket in the luggage
compartment and a multi-function steering
wheel that’s height adjustable. In GLX livery the
steering wheel is leather-cladded, which feels
much nicer than the plastic one. The GLX also
features a larger infotainment screen.
Suzuki offers an exclusive two-tone paint
option for the new model range, matching
S U Z U K I J I M N Y F I V E - D O O R | GEAR
‘WITH
chiffon ivory metallic, kinetic yellow and sizzling
red metallic with a roof painted a pearlescent
bluish black.
All five-door models also have a design
feature allowing the front seats to fold down flat
and combine with the folding rear seats to offer
THE FIVE-
space for two beds. Very useful for overlanders,
who tend to sometimes sleep in their vehicles, DOOR,
when necessary.
And what about the off-road abilities of the
elongated Jimny? Well, don’t you worry, because
SUZUKI HAS
little has changed mechanically, they are as good
as in the regular one. First of all you’ve got no KEPT THE
MARQUE’S
electronic switches for four-wheel drive and
low range. Instead there is a good old shifter
underneath the gear lever. From rear-wheel
drive you can change into 4x4 at speeds of up
to 60km/h. To manually engage low-range you
have to stop, though. The Jimny features hill
PROPER
hold assist as well as hill descend control, and its
short overhangs are still better than those of the 4X4 DNA
legendary Jeep Wrangler. Speaking of which, in
SA the Suzuki 4x4 outsells the American and the
New Land Rover Defender, combined.
INTACT’
The Jimny has a faithful cult following in
South Africa, impressively demonstrated at
last year’s gathering in Clarens in the Free State,
where 800 South African Jimny owners met to
establish a new Guiness World Record.
And I can tell you, the new Jimny fared
awesomely on those sandy tracks and rocky
outcrops in Botswana’s Tuli region thanks to
great departure, approach and break-over angles
and a useful 210mm of ground clearance. Even
on the most difficult and deeply rutted routes
– some places I could barely reach on foot it
was so steep and slippery – the longer little one
put in an impressively composed performance,
simply crawling over these formidable obstacles
in low range.
With the newest Jimny model, Suzuki once
again avoided the cross-over softie route of most
of the 4x4/SUV competition. In my opinion the
five-door version will be even more popular than
SUZUKI JIMNY
the very successful three-door one. > > ENGINE 1.5-litre 4 cyl. petrol, paired
with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto
> > POWER 75kW and 130Nm
> > GROUND CLEARANCE: 210mm
> > PRICE R429 900 (GL MT)
to R479 900 (GLX AT)
WWW.SUZUKI.CO.ZA
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 5 3
 GEAR | F O R E C A S T
Is the EV hype coming to an end,
or is there another sustainable
individual mobility solution for
the near future? We sampled
an EV, a plug-in hybrid and a
modern diesel back-to-back to
see which holds the answer
Words by Dieter Losskarn
RANGE ANXIE T Y
5 4 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
W H E N L A S T D I D YO U
A L M OS T RU N O U T O F
F U E L? Literally going on fumes.
Maybe during your trip through
Namibia? When the map showed
a petrol station, and it wasn’t there
anymore. This feeling of not being
able to reach your destination is
rare in an internal combustion-
engined vehicle. In an EV it is
omnipresent. The scientific term
for this situation is range anxiety.
Even in Europe, where there
is a comprehensive charging
infrastructure, you’ll get it
sometimes, but only in more
remote areas. In SA the situation
M E RC E D E S - B E N Z
> > ENGINE 2.9-litre inline six-cyl.,
is much more stressful. Not only
do we have very few charging
stations, but if there is one (or
two), they are not really fast.
Whereas in Europe they range
between 150kW and 350kW, we
can be lucky to find the odd 60kW
one, pushing out 40kW on a good
day. If the station is in operation
at all – and not occupied by
another EV.
Fully electric, like the really
attractive Volvo C40 I recently
had for a week, works when you
live in an urban area. And having
a charging station at home and
one at work helps.
To ease range anxiety, more
manufacturers offer plug-in
hybrids. The last one I tried was
surprisingly in a Land Rover
Defender, a car you really want
to take on an adventurous
bush trip immediately. As the
name suggests, plug-ins are
plugged into your electrical
GLE 400D
twin-turbo diesel
> > POWER 243kW & 700Nm
> > TOP SPEED 245km/h
0-100km/h 5.7 seconds
> > PRICE R1 729 950
MERCEDESBENZ.CO.ZA
 V O LV O C 4 0
> > ENGINE two electric motors, combined with a
one-speed gearbox (electric) > > POWER 300kW &
660Nm 0-100km/h 4.7 seconds > > RANGE:
360km (driving normally > > PRICE R1 324 000
VOLVOCARS.COM

MANAGEMENT
outlet overnight and the next
morning you have about 60km
of electric range, improving your
fuel economy and boosting your
power on acceleration. But like
an EV, it is not something you’d
necessarily want to overland in.
For this, nothing beats a
powerful, economic and clean
diesel. The Defender D300 has
a brilliant 3.0-litre V6 one, the
Mercedes GLE 400d, which
I drove after the EV and Plug-in
hybrid, has one as well but with
an inline six.
With bio diesel, those oil
burners would run emission-free,
but the production of this kind
of fuel is not sustainable on a
large scale because the corn used
for producing it is a major food
source and requires a great deal
of water to grow.
Then there are synthetic
fuels. They do have the potential
L A N D RO V E R D E F E N D E R
X- DY N A M I C H S E I N G E N I U M P H E V
> > ENGINE 2.0-litre 4cyl., turbo-charged petrol, combined
with an 11kW electric motor, paired with an 8-speed auto
> > POWER 297kW & 640Nm > > TOP SPEED 191km/h
0-100km/h 5.6 seconds > > GROUND CLEARANCE 218mm,
290mm off road (air suspension)
> > WADING DEPTH 900mm > > PRICE FROM
R2 135 900 (as pictured: R2 274 200)
LANDROVER.CO.ZA
to replace fossil fuels, but not
without huge investments into
technology and infrastructure.
Those capital inputs are currently
going almost exclusively to EV
development. The future of
mobility is not just EVs, it is a
combination of everything that
is possible. And I haven’t even
mentioned hydrogen yet…
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 ADVICE | WEALTH

Curiosity and cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency has revolutionised how we view and carry out financial
transactions. Here’s a snapshot of what you need to know

I N T H E PA S T D ECA D E ,
Words by Shannon Manuel
THE ASCENT OF DIGITAL CURRENCIES HAS BEEN REMARKABLY SWIFT, disrupting
conventional financial systems and capturing the interest of both investors and technology
enthusiasts. When venturing into the realm of cryptocurrency, it’s only natural for
newcomers to have a multitude of questions. The first and most obvious frequently asked
question typically revolves around the definition of cryptocurrencies.
Hannes Wessels, General Manager of Southern & Francophone Africa at Binance, guides
us through some of the most intriguing questions Binance has encountered over the years,
shedding light on the quirks and mysteries of the crypto world. Binance, the world’s leading
blockchain ecosystem and cryptocurrency infrastructure provider, offers a diverse suite of
financial products and services, including the largest digital asset exchange by volume.
So, what exactly constitutes cryptocurrency? ‘It’s important to highlight that there »

F O R E X P E RT A D V I C E V I S I T | GQ.CO.ZA 57
 WEALTH | ADVICE

exist numerous cryptocurrencies, around 22,000 to be

precise. Nevertheless, Bitcoin stands out as the most widely
acknowledged and employed, thanks to its groundbreaking
inception in 2009,’ he says.
December 2023 witnessed a historic milestone for
Bitcoin (BTC) miners as they attained a record-breaking
monthly revenue. As reported by Stocklytics.com, the
month saw an impressive total revenue of $1.6 billion.
‘While certain cryptocurrencies prioritize security and
cost efficiency, others exhibit faster transaction speeds and
are better tailored for intricate financial dealings. What
makes Bitcoin special is that it operates on a decentralized
public blockchain, meaning a central authority doesn’t
control it. Instead, transactions are verified by the network
of computers, known as nodes. In addition, anyone can join
the network and help secure it.’
‘There is a common confusion when it comes to
blockchain and Bitcoin, which are not the same thing.
Blockchain serves as the underlying technology that powers
cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Think of
blockchain as simply a database created on a spreadsheet.
One feature that does single out blockchain is that you
cannot delete or change any of the cells on the database. You
can only add to them – which is why blockchains are called
append-only.’
‘Each cell in the database is referred to as a block, making
it logical that a group of cells is termed a blockchain. Blocks
can only be linked if the new one incorporates a digital
fingerprint of the old one, resulting in them becoming Misconceptions
cryptographically bound. The unalterable nature of
blockchains is attributed to the presence of this fingerprint; about the nature of
any modification to a block alters the fingerprint.
Furthermore, due to the interconnected nature of the cryptocurrency
chain, any adjustment affects every single block, rendering
any manipulation immediately evident. Essentially, a ALTHOUGH BLOCKCHAIN AND CRYPTOCURRENCIES
blockchain operates as a digital ledger, akin to a spreadsheet HAVE BEEN HOT TOPICS FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW,
shared across multiple computers.’ many people around the globe still possess either a very
In delving into the realm of cryptocurrency, he superficial understanding of this subject or none at all,
emphasises the importance of embarking on a learning leading to various misconceptions and false beliefs.
journey. He recommends establishing a trading While some false beliefs about cryptocurrencies are
methodology, formulating a trading plan, comprehending harmless, others can sow confusion or even panic, fueling
risk management, engaging in responsible trading practices, fear, uncertainty, and doubt, and making people suspicious
and maintaining a commitment to ongoing education. of digital assets for no good reason. Tackling such harmful
‘The journey to wealth in the cryptocurrency world misperceptions is an essential component of promoting
demands seriousness and responsibility. Many traders fail crypto literacy.
because they do not take trading seriously enough. Many This is not to say that the crypto ecosystem is flawless. It
traders fail because they approach it as a get-rich-quick is a fast-moving space that constantly challenges newcomers
scheme. In reality, this is similar to gambling without proper to exercise critical thinking and conduct thorough research.
preparation. Successful traders, on the other hand, aren’t However, to yield optimal results, this research should be
gamblers; they are disciplined and accountable for their
‘ T H E J O U R- informed by a sound understanding of the fundamentals
actions. To consistently profit in cryptocurrency trading,
N E Y TO rather than by popular myths and common fallacies.
one must approach it with a thoughtful and responsible W E A LT H I N
mindset.’ T H E C RY P TO - Myth: Digital assets don’t
Regarding the prevention of crypto scams, he notes C U R R E N CY have intrinsic value
that scammers frequently exploit the trust established by WO R L D People new to crypto (or outside of it) often argue that
companies in the field. They may pose as experts promising D E M A N DS most digital assets are not backed by anything tangible or
to multiply funds or employ high-pressure tactics such as S E R I O US N E S S by any form of ‘hard’ fiat currency – excluding stablecoins,
fake Bitcoin giveaways to manipulate users, especially those AND RESPON- of course. In their logic, ‘not being backed’ is synonymous
vulnerable in a particular moment. SIBILIT Y’ with ‘not having any value.’ However, most fiat currencies

58 F O R E X P E RT A D V I C E V I S I T | GQ.CO.ZA

aren’t backed by physical assets either.
Take US dollars or British pounds, for
example. Neither of these currencies
is backed by any physical assets – they
are simply issued by governments,
and it is ‘faith’ in the respective
government that makes up a huge
part of a fiat currency’s value.
Just as people see value in fiat
money because they have faith in
governments, users increasingly
appreciate digital currencies as
they place faith in the technology
underpinning them. The value
here comes from open-source code
available to absolutely anyone to
view and verify for themselves,
eliminating the need to trust a third
party, which can be self-interested or
corrupt. These are two quite different
foundations of trust, yet both can be
considered reasonable.
The other component of a
currency’s value is the level of its
acceptance and adoption. While the
adoption of digital currencies as a
payment tool may still be limited,
their acceptance and usage for payments are growing year
by year. Crypto’s use cases also go far beyond payments and
the facilitation of commerce. Crypto can be used as a store
Want to
learn more?
C RY P TO C U R R E N CY P O D CA S TS
O F F E R A N E XC E L L E N T AV E N U E for
crypto investors, traders, and enthusiasts
to delve deeper into the industry, gain
insights from experts, and stay abreast of
the latest crypto developments. The finest
crypto podcasts provide an opportunity
to connect with like-minded individuals,
enabling you to expand your network and
discover growth opportunities. Below,
we’ve highlighted three of the top crypto
podcasts worth exploring to enhance your
understanding of the crypto space.
F O R E X P E RT A D V I C E V I S I T | GQ.CO.ZA
ADVICE | WEALTH
of value, similar to commodities like gold, of which bitcoin is the best example. Bitcoin is a
scarce asset – only 21 million will ever be created – and so it is intrinsically disinflationary
(unlike fiat currencies, whose value can be diluted by monetary policy).
Finally, smart-contract-enabled assets can be used to create a virtually unlimited number
of utilities in the online realm, including distributed governance, digital art, novel financial
products, and unique virtual experiences, to name just a few.
So the next time someone says digital currencies have no intrinsic value, it may be worth
pointing out that disintermediation, payments, store-of-value capacity, and technological
innovation are all – in and of themselves – intrinsically valuable.
Furthermore, digital asset adoption rates are steadily on the rise. Stop to think about it,
and this myth is no myth at all.
Fact: The value of a currency, whether fiat or digital, comes from mass acceptance and
adoption – and in the case of digital assets, these rates are going up consistently.
Myth: Crypto isn’t real money
When people refer to ‘real money,’ they typically have in mind a medium of exchange and
unit of account, which, importantly, can be utilised in various commercial activities.
Crypto skeptics often presume that digital assets are not employed for everyday
purchases. In the simplistic view of some, the realm of digital assets is confined to
speculative trading of tokens and little else. However, contrary to popular belief, crypto is
actively used as ‘real money’ on a daily basis worldwide.
Since the historic first-ever exchange of bitcoin for a tangible good (two pizzas!) in 2010,
individuals worldwide have utilised crypto to acquire products and services – often essential
ones in situations and locations where fiat money was not readily available. In recent years,
with the growing integration of crypto into traditional payment systems and methods,
numerous services have emerged, enabling people to spend their crypto even at merchants
who prefer payment in fiat.
Fact: Crypto is being used to buy and sell real-world assets and commodities daily.
The Pomp Podcast Unchained Empire
The Pomp Podcast The Unchained Podcast The Empire
discusses all things was launched in 2016 cryptocurrency podcast
business, finance, and and is recognised as showcases interviews
Bitcoin. The podcast has one of the longest- with top crypto founders
been downloaded over running and most and gives listeners an
50 million times. Older popular cryptocurrency in-depth look into the
episodes discussed podcasts. Each podcast crypto market. It’s one
how you can get started episode tackles various of the several podcasts
investing in the crypto crypto topics that span by Blockworks, which
industry, the blockchain NFTs, Bitcoin, Ethereum, include OxResearch
ecosystem, and crypto- DeFi, and more through for listeners who want
related news. interviews with industry to ‘think like crypto
experts. It leverages analysts’, Bell Curve,
Laura’s journalistic which breaks down
approach and is known important crypto themes,
to ask guests hard- and On the Margin, a
hitting questions that podcast that tackles
help shed more light on crypto- and macro
the crypto market. finance-related topics
like asset management
and markets.
59
Legally
Dapper
Founding partner of Humphrey & Ballard Law,
Desmond Humphrey chats with GQ about his
modern approach to law and success.

DESMOND HUMPHREY IS
T H E F O U N D I N G PA RT N E R
O F H U M P H R E Y & BA L L A R D
L AW, a boutique law firm
located in Atlanta, Georgia. His
firm has successfully recovered
millions of dollars for injured
clients. Alongside his business
partner, David Ballard, he has
been dedicated to serving the
community for over 10 years.
Humphrey is also a recurring
legal analyst on the nationally
syndicated programme,
Court TV. He is an active
member of the Georgia Bar
and holds membership in the
Northern District of the Georgia
Federal Bar.
Humphrey has earned
recognition from his peers and
has been selected to the Super
Lawyer Rising Stars for five
consecutive years (2019–2024).
This prestigious acknowledgment
is based on a comprehensive
evaluation of 12 indicators,
including peer recognition and
professional achievements in
legal practice.
GQ recently chatted with
Humphrey, delving into his
modern approach to the practice
of law and uncovering the secrets
to his success.
GQ: How and when did your
interest in the field of law
first emerge?
Desmond Humphrey: Since
the age of 8, I have dreamt of
becoming a lawyer. Growing up
the eldest of three siblings I would
find myself more often than not
defending them with legitimate
arguments to keep my parents
from punishing them. As funny as
it sounds, that’s when my passion
to help others really ignited.
GQ: How did you secure
the gig as a recurring legal
GQ PROMOTION
analyst on Court TV, and pieces that will never go out of that while achieving accolades
what valuable lessons have style. Recently, I’ve been into high and making a lot of money is
you gained from waist flare trousers with knitted great, true success is found within.
that experience? sweaters. Some of my favourite
DH: Before practising personal brands are Gucci, Loewe, Rhude GQ: After 14 years of
injury law, I practised criminal and Casablanca. Each of these marriage, what do you
defence for many years. I was brands understand me. I am a believe has been the key to
really successful in this area of dapper man who enjoys putting that success?
practice which prompted the together outfits that will be in DH: Communication,
show’s booking agent to reach style years from now. transparency, and intentionality.
out to me for a segment. After I met my wife in 2008 and
appearing for one show, the hosts GQ: What does success immediately knew she was the
and the show really liked my mean to you, and what one. After only dating for 60 days
contribution to the conversation does it look like in your I proposed and we got married 10
and invited me back multiple perspective? months later on my 21st birthday.
times to discuss legal cases. DH: The definition of success We are the true definition of when
to me has varied throughout the you know, you know! We have
GQ: In your experience, years.. but where I am today, gone on date night every Friday
what are the key challenges success to me is peace. Peace for the last 14 years! It’s a time to
facing the legal profession mentally, peace spiritually, and catch up, unwind and have a great
today, and how does your peace in my home. I have learned time. My wife is my best friend.
firm address or adapt to
these challenges? GQ: What advice would you
DH: Some of the key issues give to aspiring lawyers who
facing the legal community, aim to build a successful and
specifically the area of practice “In this profession award-winning legal career?
I’m in (personal injury) is lack of DH: DO THE WORK. And stay
honesty and transparency with there is no in your lane. It’s so easy to get
clients regarding the value of one size fits caught up in what the next firm
their case. In this profession there is doing and how much money
is no one size fits all method to all method they are making that you forget
recovering settlements for clients, to recovering the reason you became a lawyer
however there are law firms that is to help others. Master the art
would suggest it is, which is
settlements of helping others and success and
absolutely false. for clients” accolades will find you.
My law firm takes the time to
adequately review each case. We
are transparent with each and
every client about the value of
their case. We address any and all
questions they may have. We train
our staff to be transparent and
upfront with each client as well.
GQ: What other interests do
you pursue outside of your
legal practice?
DH: Fashion! My wife and I have
always bonded over our passion
for fashion. We are up to date on
all the new shows and collections.
My wife jokingly tells me that I
live in the mall. However, I simply
love looking at art from some of
these amazing designers.
Travelling is another passion of
mine. My wife and I typically take
a trip once a month. Our favourite
place to go is Paris.
GQ: Your Instagram followers
know you as ‘legally dapper’.
How would you describe your
personal fashion style?
DH: My Gucci rep refers to my
style as classic. I love to wear
 BORN
FOR

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1.5 GL MT
FROM

incl. VAT

Retail price includes 4-year/60 000km service plan.

Discover more at SuzukiAuto.co.za

Images are for illustrative purposes only.
 STYLE

ine
Samuel H eside
Words by y Tho mas Whit
phy b
Photogra
led by Jon Tietz
Sty

Th e bl ue-
co lla r ic on
of Am er ic an
sp iri t is hi tt in g
F R Y E F R O M G R E G L A U R E N ; R I N G , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N . O P P O S I T E PA G E , A L S O O N G R E G L A U R E N : WATC H , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N .
A L S O O N A A R O N D O N A L D : B O O T S , R E D W I N G H E R I TA G E ; B R A C E L E T, S U B J E C T ’ S O W N . A L S O O N C O O P E R K U P P : B O O T S ,

ne w fa sh io n
he ig ht s, so
w e in vi te d a
rig ht eo us ly
st yl is h cr ew
to pu ll on th e
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– an d ve st s,
ja cket s, an d
ki m on o ch or e
co at s – of th e
se as on

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 6 3
 STYLE

AARON
DONALD

COOPER
KUPP

GREG
LAUREN
LA RAMS DEFENSIVE
LINEMAN; LA RAMS
WIDE RECEIVER;
DESIGNER
When Kupp, the Super Bowl
MVP wide receiver, walked into
the locker room one day wearing
pieces by artisanal menswear
specialist Greg Lauren, his
Rams teammate (and future
first-ballot Hall of Famer) Donald
immediately noticed – he’d been
wearing and collecting the brand
for years. “Once AD starts saying
he knows what you’re wearing,
you’re in,” says Kupp, who picked
up his buddy’s obsession.
“Everything is done by hand,”
explains Donald. “That alone is
mind-blowing.” The duo has
since become pals with Lauren,
who considers them the perfect
clients and ambassadors. “It’s ELI
a blast working with these two
because I try to make everything RUSSELL
unique and personal, [but only]
when it’s on the person who’s LINNETZ
wearing it does it really come to DESIGNER AND
life,” he says. “It should amplify FILMMAKER
something that’s already inside The Venice Beach native’s
– and they happen to both be clothing brand, ERL, is already
pretty heroic.” in some 300 stores worldwide,
so as Linnetz preps to launch
his own web store, he wants it
ON AARON DONALD, to mark a new chapter. All the
COOPER KUPP, AND pieces he’s designed for it will
GREG LAUREN be made in California. “For me,
it never was about clothing
all clothing production, it was about
GREG LAUREN storytelling,” says Linnetz, who
is also writing a feature film
about college life that’s set in
the ’70s. “And so it’s super
exciting to work with American
artisans to create something
that feels more authentic as
I discover what I want to say.”

vintage quilt from

MELET MERCANTILE
subject’s own jeans
ERL

6 4 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
 STYLE

he Beatles
weren’t particularly
known for their blue
jeans – the suits and
boots and haircuts
loom larger in the
popular imagination.
But they did contribute a few poetic lines to
denim’s rich cultural history. Ringo Starr shares
with me one example in particular, when the
Fab Four strolled across Abbey Road. Ringo,
John, and a shoeless Paul wore suits, while
George brought up the rear in a dark denim
shirt and groovy flared jeans. The composition
was impromptu. “That’s what we put on that
day,” the Beatles rhythm man says with a shrug.
“Paul looked like he was looking for a job,”
he says, laughing. But denim-clad George?
“George,” he says, “was just cool.”
What was true then is still true now: the
perfect pair of blue jeans is the epitome of cool.
It is a style and symbol that transcends time
and all the things that divide us. “When it
comes to denim, now we’re all seeing eye to
eye,” says Hall of Fame hooper Dwyane Wade.
“She can rock it. He can rock it. They can rock
it.” Wade and Starr are two of more than
20 international denim aficionados GQ
recently gathered together in a photo studio
in Los Angeles. Everybody was asked to bring
their own favorite jeans, and they brought
plenty of their own stories, too, about the
intense emotional connections we have
to these workaday garments.
Past Lives leading man Teo Yoo recalls
how as a German-born Korean kid living in Tyla, who keenly understands denim’s universal denim went missing on a recent trip. “I loved
Cologne, he was captivated by denim-filled coming-of-age connection. “I remember being those jeans,” he says. “I tried to find them,
spaghetti Westerns on television. (Talk about young, I would beg my parents for 501s.” I tried to go buy ’em again. I couldn’t find them,
a cross-cultural mash-up.) “In South Africa, Supermodel Winnie Harlow is from Toronto so I was just like, I’m going to make me some
denim is everything,” says amapiano pop star and has been rocking Canadian tuxedos for her jeans like them, because they were fire. What
entire life. “I’m a denim enthusiast,” she says. else are you going to do?”
Turnstile bassist Franz Lyons enthusiastically What emerged in the studio is a portrait of
destroys his denim: “You get one fresh pair, the wide world of denim, a fabric that’s both
you wear ’em until dust and then you cop classic and always ripe for reinvention, that’s
another one,” he says, sporting a pair of both universal and deeply personal. Looking
“In South Africa, patched-up denim double-knees. “I did at the pale vintage Tom Ford–era Gucci jeans
almost all the repairs myself until two years Starr wore for his portrait, he says he’s reminded
denim is everything, ago, and then I needed somebody that was of the indigo uniform of his youth, when he
I remember being nice with the machine.” was a boy in Liverpool wearing jeans to the
young, I would beg Atlanta rap superstar Gunna tells me he’s factory and the Cavern Club. “Well, now it’s
been trying his hand at making his own jeans. fashionable,” he says. “So I’ve got to go back
my parents for 501s.” Why? His favourite pair of distressed designer to the closet and get the old ones out.”

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 6 5
 STYLE

RINGO
STARR
BEATLE
Coming off the Beatles’ first
UK number one hit since
1969 with ‘Now and Then’ –
“I was FaceTiming Paul the
other day and we said,
number one, brother, yeah!
Fifty-four years since the
last time!” – Starr isn’t ready
to hang up his drumsticks.
Far from it: he’s got a couple
of EPs coming out later this
year, another in the works
with T Bone Burnett, plus
a tour with his All-Starr Band
on the horizon. Starr says
he just can’t quit the feeling
of jamming with his fellow
musicians. “I love being
in a band,”he says. “If you
can play a piano, a guitar,
anything, I’ll play with
you all night.”

jacket
LEVI’S
VINTAGE
vintage jeans
TOM FORD FOR
GUCCI FROM THE
SOCIETY ARCHIVE

6 6 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
 STYLE
A L S O O N T Y L A : E A R R I N G S A N D B E L LY R I N G , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N . O P P O S I T E P A G E , A L S O O N R I N G O
S TA R R : T- S H I R T, S U N G L A S S E S , E A R R I N G S , N E C K L A C E , A N D B U T T O N S , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N .

TYLA
RISING POP
DYNAMO
At the vanguard of South
Africa’s amapiano scene,
22-year-old Tyla launched
one of the most viral songs
of 2023 with “Water”, the
jazzy dance track that
turned TikTok upside down.
Now, she’s prepping her first
album, which is sure to
include plenty more sounds
to gyrate to. “I’ve been
working on the album for
two years,” she says. “I’ve
grown a lot and I’m super
proud of it. I just feel like
it’s going to be the start of
something completely new.”

jacket and skirt

MARINE SERRE

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 6 7
TEO YOO
BREAKTHROUGH
ACTOR
Teo Yoo was born and raised
in Cologne, Germany, then
studied acting in London and
New York before moving to
Seoul to ply his craft. “I was
always curious about my own
identity as a diasporic Korean,
and finding that part of myself,
that was very foreign to me,”
he says. It took him about a
decade to master the language
and rise up a Korean cinema
call sheet. In 2023, he scored
the international breakout
he’d been working for in Celine
Song’s Past Lives, where he and
Greta Lee performed a tour de
force rendition of lovesickness
that garnered Oscars buzz.
On set, “There was some sort
of magic going on,” Yoo says.
“It felt like this perfect little
storm, what you hope for with
any production, a dream
scenario. And I think it
translates on screen.
People feel the chemistry.”

jacket DIOR MEN

shirt CLOSED
jeans BALENCIAGA
 A L S O O N T E O YO O : H AT A N D B E LT, S T Y L I S T ’ S O W N . O P P O S I T E PA G E , A L S O O N D O N N G U Y E N : T- S H I R T, S U B J E C T ’ S O W N ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N S H O E S , G U C C I ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N WAT C H , R O L E X .
A L S O O N AT I B A J E F F E R S O N : T- S H I R T, S U B J E C T ’ S O W N ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N S N E A K E R S , N I K E X L O U I S V U I T T O N L O U I S V U I T T O N X N I K E ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N H AT, F R E D S E G A L X N E W E R A C A P X M L B
D O D G E R S ; J E W E L R Y, S U B J E C T ’ S O W N . A L S O O N F R A N Z LY O N S : S U B J E C T ’ S O W N H O O D I E , C A R P E T C O M P A N Y ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N T - S H I R T, S U P R E M E ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N S N E A K E R S , N I K E X L O U I S
V U I T T O N S U P R E M E X N I K E ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N H A T, N E W E R A C A P ; S U B J E C T S O W N S U N G L A S S E S , O F F - W H I T E ; J E W E L R Y, S U B J E C T ’ S O W N .

A L S O O N I S A B E L L A L A L O N D E : S H I R T, M I A O U ; B E LT, C O L L I N A S T R A D A ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N H AT, B E E P Y B E L L A ; P U R S E , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N . O P P O S I T E PA G E , A L S O O N Z A C K B I A : T- S H I R T A N D
N E C K L A C E , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N ; S U B J E C T ’ S O W N S N E A K E R S , N I K E . A L S O O N V E R DY : S U B J E C T ’ S O W N S N E A K E R S , A I R J O R DA N ; H AT A N D N E C K L A C E , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N .
STYLE

ISABELLA

jacket PRADA
IT GIRL AND MODEL
KIEHNLE
KRISTEN
jeans R13
AND ARTIST
DESIGNER
LALONDE

shorts, stylist’s own

for Instagram”.
I originally planned.”

are other swimsuits,

with the vintage ’90s Roxy
something that is much
I feel like I’m gardening
myself within those seeds that
and fairies, and I still base
aims for ready-to-wear and

hand, are “not necessarily

Her designs, on the other
two of her swim line with
a vintage Westfalia camper
more diverse than
frogs, and mushrooms. Now,
“As an artist, I’m just

she notes, for LA girls who

the golden age of LA surf and
van and is launching season
the dreamy analogue SoCal
Kiehnle is a model and former
collabs with heady brands
mystical new directions, with
her company is sprouting in
funky pearl necklaces and
cast a spell on us all with her
The Beepy Bella founder has

hair,” she says. “I feel like

girl, no makeup, just salty
aesthetic – that natural beach
Jack’s Surfboards, inspired by
lifestyle alive. She drives
UCLA volleyball star keeping

want to feel “sexy and cute”.

skate culture. “I’m obsessed
I planted,” she says. “But now
with mushrooms and frogs
different motifs. “I started out
that will help her explore
souvenirs from her singular

we’re losing that touch.” There

such as Guayakí Yerba Mate
imaginative accessories,
a trickster,” says Lalonde.

fantasy world of fairy tales,

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 6 9
 STYLE

7 0 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
 STYLE

DWYANE
WADE
HALL OF FAME
HOOPER AND
ENTREPRENEUR
D-Wade didn’t slow down
after hanging up his jersey in
2019. It’s about “trying to
create the vision I have for
myself,” he says. Now he and
his wife, Gabrielle Union, run
Proudly, a baby care line, plus
he has a wine brand and
a clothing label – and he
just launched a podcast in
January. He’s also a Fashion
Week regular. (Donatella
A L S O O N D W YA N E WA D E : T- S H I R T, C A LV I N K L E I N ; B O O T S , B O O T S TA R ; H AT, S T Y L I S T ’ S O W N ; B R A C E L E T, M I A N S A I . A L S O O N S H E A S C A R P A : TA N K T O P, D I O R . A L L

S U N G L A S S E S , J A C Q U E S M A R I E M A G E ; B R A C E L E T ( O N L E F T W R I S T ) , S U B J E C T ’ S O W N ; B R A C E L E T ( O N R I G H T W R I S T ) , D AV I D Y U R M A N ; E A R R I N G S , M A R I N E S E R R E .

Versace is just “DV” to Wade.)

J E W E L R Y, S U B J E C T S ’ O W N . O P P O S I T E P A G E , A L S O O N E L I R U S S E L L L I N N E T Z : H I S O W N T - S H I R T S , S H O E S , A N D S K A T E C H A I N , E R L . A L S O O N W I N N I E H A R L O W :

Before this GQ shoot, he woke

DANIEL up early for yoga. “When I was
an athlete, I was up before my
MOON + CO competition,”he says.
COLOURIST TO “Now, same thing.”
THE STARS
Behind almost every celeb vintage jeans
with a radical hair LEVI’S FROM FRONT
transformation is Daniel GENERAL STORE
Moon, who wields dye, bleach,
and brushes with the skill of
an abstract painter. “We’re
color shamans,” says the
23-year salon guru who gave
Kid Cudi a tennis ball ’do and
popularised sherbet-coloured
hair in Hollywood. He and
his stylish squad are still the
best ambassadors for wavy
hues. Moon’s tip? Dress it up.
“Multicolour has a bad
reputation for being too
punky,” he says. “[But] I wear
suits and ties. I love seeing
it in a sophisticated way.”

FROM LEFT ON
KAYLA CASEY
shirt CHROME HEARTS
corset MIAOU

ON SHEA SCARPA
jacket FENG CHEN
WANG

ON DANIEL MOON
vest and jeans
GIVENCHY

ON NICOLE REBER
jacket LORO PIANA

ON OLIVIA BALOGH
corset MIAOU
jeans DIESEL

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 7 1
 STYLE

WINNIE
HARLOW
MODEL AND
ENTREPRENEUR
The supermodel has conquered
just about every peak in
fashion, reshaping the
conversation around the
industry’s beauty standards
along the way. Now she’s
becoming a different kind of
force in beauty with SPF line
Cay Skin, which she founded in
2022. “Protecting my skin from
the sun has always been really
important,” she says. “When
I decided that I wanted to go
into the skincare space, I really
wanted to do something that
was true to me – not just slap
my name on some products.”
She’s also preparing to jump
into acting. Harlow says she’s
an action-film buff. “I would
love to see myself as a
superhero – or a villain.”

vest BALLY
jeans ACNE STUDIOS

For Dwyane Wade: Barbering

by Christopher Smith; Skin by
Hee Soo Kwon using La Mer.
For Gunna: Barbering by
Bryan Lee; Hair styling by
Aliky Williams. All other men:
Hair by Will Carrillo using
Balmain Hair Couture; Skin by
Hee Soo Kwon using La Mer.
For Winnie Harlow: Hair by
Anittria Wicker; Makeup by
Adam Burrell using Rouge
Dior. For all other women: Hair
by Takuya Sugawara at Walter
Schupfer Management;
Makeup by Hadia Kabir at
Walter Schupfer Manage-
ment. Manicures by Yoko
Sakakura using Chanel.
Set design by Bryn Bowen.
Produced by Helena Martel
Seward at Lolly Would.

7 2 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
 STYLE

DON
NGUYEN,
ATIBA
JEFFERSON,
FRANZ
LYONS
PRO SKATER;
PHOTOGRAPHER;
TURNSTILE BASSIST
The trio met via skating …
and the bass guitar, which
all three play; Lyons for hardcore
outfit Turnstile. Jefferson,
skateboarding’s pre-eminent
witness, shoots their shows and
album covers. He and Nguyen
(a.k.a. “Nuge”) linked after
Nguyen became the first
skater to ollie the infamous
El Toro 20-stair (outside Irvine,
California) in 2001. They’ve
all been in bands and travelled
the world together. And now,
Nuge and Jefferson have
launched a brewing company:
Open Beer. Says Nuge, “It’s
about open-mindedness and
diversity – how skateboarding
and music are.”

From left,
ON DON NGUYEN
subject’s own jacket
and jeans SUPREME

ON ATIBA JEFFERSON
subject’s own jacket and jeans
SUPREME

ON FRANZ LYONS
jacket FERRAGAMO
subject’s own jeans LEVI’S
VINTAGE

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 7 3
 INVESTMENTS

Gucci

Marni

COS

JW Anderson

Loewe

BAG BOY Z
Thanks to menswear icons such as Jacob Elordi and A$AP
Rocky, there has been a surge in the popularity of men’s
handbags. With men’s luxury handbags continuing to Jacquemus
thrive this year, bid farewell to briefcases and messenger
bags in favour of shoulder bags and voluminous totes.
 INVESTMENT | STYLE

Since we’re transitioning from the last days of summer,

let’s consider some versatile and stylish pieces that can
seamlessly carry you into the upcoming seasons

Tom Ford R7 860

Words by Luke Diva

COS Blazer POR

COS Trousers POR

Undercover Sweater POR

H&M Shorts Saint

R249.99 Laurent
R11 238

Zara Loafers
R2 599

Dolce & Gabbana

R30 238

PRINT CRAZY
Animal prints have experienced a resurgence, thanks to designers who have
reinterpreted and elevated these timeless patterns. While animal prints may seem
intimidating to men in general, the key is to wear them in a way that aligns with your
personality, avoiding any sense of it being forced.

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 7 5
 Words b
y Shann
on M anuel

F o ll o w in g th e
su cc e ss o f
SA 20, w e go b e th e
yo n
th e b o u n d a ry w d
it h
th re e o f S o u th
Afr ic a’s b ig ge st
cr ic ke te rs –
Way n e Pa rn e ll
Kag is o Ra b a d a , an
and Zander Opperm
Photographs by
D avi d M il le r

Creative
direction
and styli
ng by Lu
ke Diva
Shirt and pants Priluxi
T-shirt Lazy Stacks

PREVIOUS SPREAD
WAYNE WEARS:
Shirt Lazy Stacks
Sunglasses Prada

KAGISO WEARS:
Shirt Priluxi
Sunglasses
Giorgio Armani

DAVID WEARS:
Shirt Lazy Stacks
Sunglasses
Giorgio Armani

IN THE WORLD OF CRICKET, these three names
resonate with excellence, skill and moments of
sheer brilliance on the field.
Since making his debut in 2014, Kagiso
Rabada has been on a winning wicket, playing
at Test, One-Day International and T20I level
for his country. Such has been his impact on the
pitch, he is today considered not just one of the
best bowlers in South Africa, but in the world.
South African batter David Miller is currently
one of the most exciting players in limited-
overs cricket due to his incredible power, hitting
exploits not only for his country, but also for the
different T20 teams he represents.
And, at just 19 years of age, Wayne Parnell
was the youngest cricketer to be nationally
contracted in South Africa’s history. Over the
course of four ODI World Cups, he has been a
stalwart of South African cricket while plying his
trade in leagues around the world.
GQ sat down with them to talk about their
exceptional athletic abilities, as well as the
resilience, camaraderie, and mental fortitude that
define their journey beyond the pitch. The three
pro athletes appear on our cover in partnership
with Betway SA20, the premier South African
T20 Cricket League.
Featuring six teams – Durban’s Super Giants,
Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town, Paarl
Royals, Pretoria Capitals and Sunrisers Eastern
Cape – the inaugural season of the Betway SA20
started in January last year. Season 2 concluded
in February this year, with the Sunrisers Eastern
Cape taking the win, beating Durban’s Super
Giants by 89 runs to claim their second title.
Rabada plays for MI Cape Town, Miller for Paarl
Royals, and Parnell for the Pretoria Capitals.
Talking about this second season, there is
a consensus that it followed through with its
promise of being better than the first.
“I thought there was a lot more traction and
it’s building a much bigger brand than the first
year,” says Miller. “The crowds are properly
getting involved. People come out in their
numbers and colours of their teams for each
game; the stadiums are packed and have really
good energy. It’s great to see packed stadiums
around South Africa again, because we haven’t
had that for a long time. It’s great playing in front
of those kinds of crowds.
“For me, the tournament is very competitive.
Each team is really, really good. The team that
finished last could beat the team at the top of
the table. There’s no easy game. Ultimately, that’s
all you want – good competition. There was a
lot of talk after the first year – are they going to
maintain the momentum going into the second
year – and they did.”
“The cricket definitely got better,” agrees
Parnell. “In season one, there was a lot of
emphasis on the overseas and Proteas players,
but it was really nice to see how some of the
domestic players developed from season one.
They were trusted with more responsibility and
bigger roles within every team.
“Ultimately every tournament or league is a
feeder system to the national team. I think in the
next couple of years we’ll start to see those guys
progress from the different franchises into the
national team. And I think as long as the SA20
stays strong, that’s going to bode well for the
Proteas team, too.”
Parnell adds that they’ve been very lucky as
almost every game was sold out for both seasons.
“On the field, we weren’t as good as we were
last season but I can’t fault the support, and not
just at the stadiums,” he says. “Kids actually want
to play cricket again. For a couple of years, they’d
want to play when the Proteas played, but now
they’re also excited about other domestic players
who play for different teams. Sparking that sort
of interest is vitally important because, hopefully,
that’s the next generation of SA20 players.”
As the conversation turns to the then
upcoming final between the Sunrisers and Super
Giants, Parnell says that while he predicted
that Sunrisers would get into the playoffs, he
thought Paarl Royals would be in, which was an
expectation many viewers had, we tell Miller.
“We started really well, we won five from six.
We were kind of flying, but then we didn’t win
another game,” he says. “The nature of the game
is momentum and we lost a couple of games
and lost our way a little bit. It is what it is, and
as Parney said, it’s a bit of a lottery. Sunrisers is a
well-balanced, well-disciplined team. You can see
when you play them; they are gelling as a team
and things are clicking, so my money’s on them
for the win.”
“Same, actually,” is Parnell’s reply. “But as
David mentioned, in both seasons the teams
that fly through the first bit of the group stages
almost slow down towards the back end. As you
mentioned, momentum in cricket is a big thing,
and we’ve seen a couple of teams not start well,
but then come through strong. So maybe that’s
a sort of KPI for all teams to take into season
three,” he laughs. “Not to start too well. Always
try to be close to the top, but don’t start too well.
Because now it’s happened to Pretoria Capital in
season one, and Paarl in season two.”
Returning to Miller’s comment about
Sunriser’s smooth team play, and when asked
about the importance of team camaraderie, both
Miller and Parnell agree that it’s vital.
“In short cricket leagues that last only a
month, it’s challenging for coaches to provide
detailed instructions. Instead, my focus is on
encouraging players to enjoy themselves, build
camaraderie, and to try and find that team spirit
as quickly as possible. In a competition of four
weeks, the guys are skillful enough, yes, we can
always improve, but for that period, it’s about
fostering a strong bond between players and
creating a winning culture, both on and off the
field. There are various ways of achieving it.
“Off the field you can do team activities,
nothing too clichéd. Our guys went go-karting
one day and it was fun but competitive. We
played a lot of soccer for warm-ups and on our
days off. Some guys enjoyed playing golf, and
there were many who played padel. We do all
these kinds of things off the field to try and
create something where there’s more than just
cricket, and you actually get to know each other
as good friends off the field. When you’re on
the field under pressure, you can draw on those
moments from off the field, if that makes sense?
You can have all these different theories and still
lose the games and not do well, but it creates
a comfortable and friendly environment that
builds confidence, good memories and a space to
learn from each other.”
Parnell says that authenticity is key when
building strong chemistry in a team. “I say
if you’re weird, stay weird. You almost don’t
want people to blend in. We’re all on a different
journey, so it comes down to having respect for
each other and bringing your own flair to the
squad. We don’t want a team of clones, we want
everyone to express themselves and have fun,
because four weeks fly by.”
Their favourite moment of the season?
“Reaching personal milestones,” says Parnell.
“Being the first South African fast-bowler to
get 300 T20 wickets was pretty special. David »
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 7 9
got 10 000 T20 runs, which is not an easy feat.
For me, I like it when my teammates do well.
So seeing Kyle Verreynne, who’s my Western
Province teammate who got picked up by
Pretoria Capitals, get 70 on debut was great. It’s
quite funny actually. Before the MI Cape Town
game in Pretoria, I joked around with him,
tapped him on the chin and said, ‘Listen, get
me 100 (runs), please’. And he got 116,” he says
laughing. “That’s always nice for me. I like seeing
my teammates do well.”
“A favourite moment for me was one game
against the Pretoria Capitals,” says Miller. “We
were defending and under pressure and ended up
winning in the last over. As a team, I think that
we drew a lot of strength from that particular
game. Personally, it’s difficult to fire off a few
milestones in my career. I always look back on
the 100 against Australia in Durban. I think it
was 119 not out and we beat Australia to win the
series. It still probably goes down as one of our
favourites. And then maybe winning the IPL.
That was a really cool feeling.”
On the opposite end, he says that there have
been some lows too, citing Welsh Fire in
the Hundred as the worst one. “Nothing
really clicked that season for Welsh
Fire. We lost eight from eight. We tried
everything and we just couldn’t win.”
“We didn’t do very well this season. We
finished last,” says Rabada. “As David said,
sometimes you try as much as you can and
you still lose. Not to get too technical, but
I don’t think we’re good enough. There are
areas of improvement. I think we are weak
in the middle order and a bit patchy in all
other departments. We couldn’t string a
good performance together more often than we
would have liked to do. It was always different
departments doing well in different games.
“The highlight for me was both our Highveld
games – one in Centurion and one at The
Wanderers. The guys’ batting display put on
a good show. That was nice to watch. Ryan
Rickelton has been batting really well and Rassie
at the top. They’ve been enjoying the conditions
up front. Other than that I’d say, I think we
struggled a bit this year.”
When asked what he would do differently
for the next season, Rabada says that whoever
is captaining needs to understand the local
players more. “In any league that you play, if the
local players are understood, it makes a huge
difference. If you look at Paarl and Pretoria
Capitals over the last year, their local players are
thriving. Not necessarily international players
who play international cricket, but the ones
who are on the brink of playing. Those are the
ones who need to be understood. And clear role
identification. I think that was perhaps lacking a
little bit on our side.”
The call of cricket
and coping with criticism
Taking a step back to where it all began, all three
say that their love of cricket happened quite
8 0 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
naturally and that there was never really one
moment of clarity when they decided that being
a professional cricketer was their true calling.
Reflecting on his cricket journey, Parnell
traces it back to casual games with friends in the
streets and progressing through primary school
and a scholarship to a great high school in PE.
Although he became more serious about cricket
during high school and played for SA under-19
and the Warriors, being a Protea wasn’t initially
a goal. Despite not having a specific moment
when he decided on cricket as a career, Parnell
emphasises that his love for the game and the
freedom it provided for self-expression has
always stuck with him.
Both Rabada and Miller share a similar
sentiment, stating that their love of playing as
much sport as possible served as a catalyst for
putting them on the path of professional cricket.
“At school, I wanted to run around outside
and play whatever sport I could,” says Rabada.
I knew that I wanted to play in the national team
or to perform at a national level in a sport. And
cricket was the one where the bug bit the most.
“You don’t know if you’re
going to make it. You feel
like you’re pretty good,
but it’s tough out there”
Especially when I got to high school – that’s when
I knew that I’m going to go for this.
“I went to boarding school, so I was out of
the house all afternoon on the field playing
soccer, rugby, cricket, hockey, tennis, squash –
whatever was available. But then from about 14,
15, the same as KG, I excelled more in cricket
than the other sports and started taking it more
seriously,” says Miller. “I played on the first team
in high school. But you still don’t really know if
you’re going to make it or not. You feel like you’re
pretty good, but it’s tough because there’s this
big wide world out there and you haven’t really
experienced it. That’s where my dream started.”
Being a member of the Proteas is no easy feat,
especially when it comes to criticism, which each
of the players is no stranger to. How do they
maintain their mental well-being?
“It’s quite tricky because I think the average
cricket fan doesn’t know that the elite players
fail more than they succeed. And I’m talking
about the top 1%. So when you come down
another level, it’s the same. And if you come
down another level, it’s the same. People don’t
understand that,” explains Parnell.
“And when you start playing you realise that,
yes, I cost the team. As much as it is a team sport,
when Dave is batting out there, it’s him and his
partner. And when KG and I are bowling, it’s only
us bowling. Yes, we have 10 other guys who will
hopefully catch the ball if it goes in the air, but
sometimes you don’t execute. Maybe you’ve got it
in your mind that you’re going to run down the
wicket, I’m going to hit for six and you get a top
edge and you’re out. Yes, you do cost your team,
but ultimately it’s about trying to stay level.
“When we were younger – and Dave and KG
would probably agree – we were more emotional.
If you have a bad game, you get really down and
if you have a good game, you probably really get
up. But as you go through your career, you learn
to stay level through good games and bad games.
And it’s more about learning from both, because
as much as winning is a sort of culture, losing is a
culture, too. So hopefully the winning culture sits
better with you and you can even call on those
memories more frequently.”
“That’s a tough one,” says Rabada. “As
cricketers, we train a lot physically and mentally,
not even thinking about the fans, but for our
own performance. Then you have the fans
as well. You want to play well because you’re
representing your country or your team and you
want to play well for them, but the first
thing that you must deal with is actually
going out and performing. Fixing your
own demons. There’s a lot of work that
goes into it mentally – we don’t just rock
up and play, it’s actually really tough.
And as the South African team, we have
been very successful over the years. It’s
just that one thing that eludes us – the
World Cup.”
He says that he does believe that
mentally there needs to be a lot more done
for players. “If you listen to some of the
great players in other sports, for example Michael
Jordan,who says ‘I’ve practised so much and I’ve
missed so many times’, it’s like Parney said. I’ve
actually failed more than I’ve actually achieved
despite all that hard work that I’ve put in behind
the scenes. Structures need to be implemented
to help players deal with and navigate mental
struggles. It’s a must in sport because we work
really hard.”
Miller highlights the individualised nature
of dealing with public scrutiny and pressure.
He reflects on his own journey, acknowledging
the challenges faced in establishing a career.
He emphasises the importance of battling
personal doubts before external criticisms.
“There’s a lot to process. People deal with it
differently and I’ve taken time to understand
that. There could definitely be more assistance
to try and declutter all of the thoughts and what’s
actually important. It’s a difficult topic because
it’s hard to manage. If you’re doing well, everyone
loves it. As soon as you do badly for two games,
people start asking questions. The only way to
deal with it is to be true to yourself. You’ve got
to put it into perspective before getting upset.
I honestly don’t care. That’s how I deal with it
now. I genuinely don’t care what people think
about my performance. I know the people who
are close to me and who care for me care for »
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Wayne’s own
 my game. So they will be honest with me about
things that I need to improve. You listen to them
for that. That’s how I feel now”
“It happens over time, though, getting to
the point David is talking about,” says Parnell.
“Because when we were young, the whole world
mattered. Regular Joe would blog ‘Oh, you’re
crap’ and you would start thinking maybe I am.
But now, your inner circle is so tight, and those
are the people who really matter. That’s who you
believe and whose feedback you use to do better.
“On top of that, you have supporters who are
not going to say something negative just for the
sake of it. But there are a lot of idiots who feel
brave behind the keyboard. Keyboard warriors
are all they are. You have people who might show
genuine disappointment, but you can live with it.
It’s what comes with the territory,” Rabada adds.
“I was going to say that,” interjects Parnell. “As
I got older, I realised that this is entertainment.
It’s the same as us going to watch soccer, rugby,
basketball, NFL. If your team loses, you have an
opinion. When I can use the same logic with fans,
it sits better with me.”
“I’ve been guilty of the same thing now and
again,” says Miller. “I’ll watch the Springboks
or Bafana or tennis, anything. And as a
sportsman I know the hard work that
goes into a player’s or team’s performance
and the difficulties of it. But still there
are times where I’m going, ‘Oh, man,
why did you pass that? Why did you hit
that shot?’ But it’s in the moment and
then you move on. I’m never going to go
up to them and say ‘Jeepers, you suck.’
So there are times where I understand
it’s just in the moment that people
are passionate and love cricket and want
us to score and all to do well, but as KG
said, there’s a few percent that hate the
whole time.”
Ego, fame and the ultimate dream
As the cricketers chat about handling criticism
and mental health, you can feel the honesty in
G R O O M I N G L E S L E Y- A N N E S O L O M O N S L I G H T I N G A S S I S TA N T L I N D I W E D I M
the room. Now, as the talk shifts to a discussion
about the other side of being famous – dealing
with all the attention – the sportsmen open up
about how they make sure fame doesn’t get to
their heads. It’s interesting to see how the same
mental strength they use to handle criticism
helps them stay grounded in the midst of all the
recognition. The general consensus among the
three is that it’s all about finding a balance.
“As a professional athlete you need a bit of
cockiness and ego because it’s such a competitive
space. Having a little bit of that is not a bad
thing,” says Parnell. “When you see a couple of
individuals go the other way, it’s a bit off-putting.
However, when you’re in any competitive space
in any industry, you definitely need a bit of self-
confidence and self-belief. There’s definitely
a very fine line between having an ego in a good
space and having it in a bad one. It’s a very
personal thing. I enjoy observing players who
stay true to themselves. Witnessing young talents
express confidence and showcase their abilities is
particularly gratifying.”
Parnell notes the positive shift in the
cricketing landscape, contrasting it with the
earlier expectations during his and Miller’s start.
“The system was very different. It was more
of a case of you needed to be a certain way,” he
explains. “And that’s how I would just roll with
it. But to see guys like KG who are a bit younger
than us, and the even younger guys now, they’re
just different and it’s really cool.
“As much as I love playing cricket and have
been for 15 to 16 seasons, it’s still temporary. It’s
going to end at some stage. And there’s more to
life outside of this cricket bubble. Family is very
important to me. Spending time with my kids
definitely grounds me,” he laughs. “If I have a bad
game or my team loses, my son always reminds
me, so it’s hard to have an ego in my house. For
me, that’s probably something that helps keep me
in check.”
“I agree,” says Rabada. “People should be
allowed to be themselves and be their own
character. You don’t want 11 guys playing as if
they were the same person. Everyone has an
ego. You’re playing at a high level of sport. You
“Cricket always finds a way
to level you. It keeps your
ego in check, just a little.
But you can’t take
anything for granted”
have confidence in yourself. You have that thing
about you. It should be encouraged, but if you
start playing for the wrong reasons, that’s when
it’s going to become a problem. But if you want
to back yourself and you want the whole world
to know, then so be it. However, at the same time
then, you’re calling for those keyboard warriors.
It comes with the territory. Whatever you do,
you must just live it. I control my ego with the
understanding that nothing is permanent.
Cricket always finds a way to level you. It does.
And it’s something that just doesn’t get old.
Cricket keeps your ego in check, just a little. But
you can’t take anything for granted.”
Miller explains his take. “As a batter, if you
do well, you go to 100. The very next game,
you’re starting on zero and it’s a new game.
You now have to do it again. If you’re really
that good, go and do it again. But you can get
out for nought the next game. It swings in
different ways. Family is a big thing for me.
I feel like I come from a humble background,
and while I’ve achieved a lot in my career, always
going back to family is refreshing. You have to be
objective and have a better perspective on things
– I get that from my family when I am with them.
I see myself as a pretty relaxed, simple guy, so it’s
pretty easy to keep my ego in check.”
He says that balancing privacy with growing
fame is a challenge for him. However, despite the
difficulties, he sees fame as a privilege resulting
from hard work and sacrifice. “There are not
many people in that position. So, if we work
really hard, we achieve a lot. In saying that, when
I’m with my family and close friends, I’m just
‘normal Dave’ – they tease me, make jokes, lots of
banter – it keeps me in check with where I need
to be with the fame.”
“We’re pretty lucky in South Africa,” says
Rabada. “There are places in the world where
cricket players can’t even go out in public
without chaos. You can live here. There will
be some people who come and ask for an
autograph or a picture, but it’s not hectic. What
can be overwhelming sometimes is when you’re
the ‘it’ topic and everyone here has been, and
sometimes I’ve asked myself ‘Jeez, what is this,
what is going on?’ Everyone wants a piece of you.
As you get older, it becomes easier and easier
to deal with privacy. I wouldn’t complain too
much about privacy as you don’t get harassed
here.”
“I think that’s spot on,” agrees Parnell.
“With my level of fame, if you want to
call it that, for me what’s always cool is
when I’m reminded by kids. For instance,
I dropped off my son at school this
morning and some random kid came
up to me and asked me what my name
was. And then my surname. And
his eyes went big and he said ‘You’re
the cricket guy!’ Something like that
really levels me. And as much as you
want to have privacy, it comes with
the territory of being in the public eye
or playing on TV. People are going to
see you. People want to come and say hi to
you. As long as it’s done in a respectful way,
I don’t have an issue with it.”
Asked what their biggest personal dreams are,
Rabada says that finding a good woman, raising
a good family and giving back are on his list.
Miller echoes his teammate in saying his biggest
dream as a man is raising an amazing family,
being healthy and having healthy kids and giving
them opportunities and being there to love and
support them.
“My biggest joy,” says Parnell, “is watching my
kids grow up and navigate the world. Hopefully
I can inspire them in a small way to follow, if not
in both of my footsteps, then just one. If I can do
that, then I’ll be happy.”
When asked about their biggest professional
dream, all three answer with absolutely no
hesitation at all – to win the Cricket World Cup.
“We know that the country and our supporters
are waiting for it, and it’s obviously something
that we want to tick off our bucket list,” says
Miller. “We’ve had some good cracks at it – it’s
hard to win a World Cup – but the hope of
achieving it stays alive.”
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 8 3
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 INDUSTRY ICON
OF THE YEAR
FAITH SEUOE

A
Words by Luke Diva

Photographs by Obakeng Molepe

OF
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 8 5
BUSINESS LEADER
OF THE YEAR
ABEDNICO MKHARI
& PARTNER

MUSICIANS OF THE YEAR

INKABI ZEZWE (SJVA & BIG ZULU)

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

MACG

8 6 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
OUR ANNUAL
G Q MEN OF
T HE YE AR
E VEN T IN
2023, in
association with
Standard Bank,
was a star-studded
affair that brought those who have
together a diverse made significant
group of influential contributions in
and accomplished various fields, such
individuals. as entertainment,
We celebrated sports, fashion,
and more. To
commemorate
the event, the
honorees posed for
portraits in the GQ
photo booth.

‘Bringing
together a
diverse group of
influential and
accomplished
individuals’

INDUSTRY ICON
OF THE YEAR
DR THEBE IKALAFENG
HUMANITARIAN
OF THE YEAR
ALI CONN
 GQ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
GQ MAN OF THE MOLIFE KUMONA
YEAR 2023 HOST & GQ FASHION DIRECTOR
KAT SINIVASAN LUKE DIVA

GUESTS GQ GROOMING
BONKO & EDITOR
LEE KHOZA ANELE GEQIWE
INDUSTRY ICONS OF THE YEAR
MAFIKIZOLO (THEO KGOSINKWE
& NHLANHLA MAFU)
 WOMAN OF
THE YEAR
UNCLE WAFFLES

DESIGNER
OF THE YEAR
LUKE RADLOFF

GAME CHANGER
OF THE YEAR
EDMUND WESSELS

M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 9 1
EDITOR’S SPECIAL
TRIBUTE RECIPIENT
THAPELO MOKOENA

LIFETIME
ACHIEVEMENT
ANGUS GIBSON

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

THEMBINKOSI MTHEMBU

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EDITOR’S SPECIAL
TRIBUTE RECIPIENT
THAMI DISH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY
 Words by Maxime Joly
Photography by Malick Bodian

We met him as a
teenage prodigy.
Now, with his PSG
teammates Messi
and Neymar gone,
and a new job as
French national
team captain,
Styled by Stella Greenspan

Kylian Mbappé is
reckoning with the
responsibilities
and privileges that
come with being
the man.

9 4 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
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SO BEGINS THE KYLIAN MBAPPÉ ERA.
At the age of 25, Kylian Mbappé is at a turning point. The lynchpin of a
newly Messi-less PSG, the captain of the French national team, and the
heir apparent to the title of the world’s best player, the question everyone is
asking is: what’s next?
Kylian Mbappé is sore. It’s November, and last night Mbappé’s Paris
Saint-Germain fought out a bitter draw with Newcastle in the Champions
League group stage at the Parc des Princes. Mbappé scored a penalty in
stoppage time, rescuing a point after a frustrating team performance. But if
he’s sour about it, Mbappé doesn’t show it, today dressed casually in a plain
black T-shirt and a loose-fitting pastel-coloured Jordan tracksuit, Hublot Big
Bang One Click peeking out from the sleeve. “Football is a complex thing
and you quickly forget the positive experiences as well as the negative ones,”
he tells me. “You always have to adapt and reinvent yourself.”
A few post-game aches are standard for Mbappé, a player who, at 25, has
somehow already played over 400 games at the summit of men’s football.
After breaking through as a teenage sensation at AS Monaco, Mbappé won
the World Cup with France at just 19. In 2017, he moved to PSG for a world-
record €180 million ($215 million), becoming one of the most expensive
jewels in an all-star stacked team that for two seasons included Neymar
and Lionel Messi. He is already Paris Saint-Germain’s all-time top scorer;
it seems likely that sooner or later, he’ll achieve the same status with the
French national team. (Along the way he became the youngest player ever to
reach the shortlist for the Ballon d’Or.)
In that time, Mbappé says, he has learned what it takes to keep his body
in peak condition: more stretching before matches, more time in the hands
of physiotherapists afterwards. “It’s all that largely invisible work that makes
it possible to string together matches and come back more easily from any
injury,” he tells me, while also emphasising that unlike some players he
prefers to draw a clear line between his professional and private life. “I have
a well-equipped home gym, but I prefer to spend as much time as possible
at the training centre and do whatever I have to do there, even if it means
staying late. Recovery is also mental. The club is work, and home is a chill
space where I’m more relaxed and where I get to spend time with my family,
who I don’t get to see often enough.”
This season marks a new era for Mbappé. In July, Messi left PSG for
Inter Miami and the MLS. A month later, Neymar moved to Saudi Arabia’s
Al-Hilal. The twin departures marked the dismantling of one of the most
electric forward lines in world football; PSG, one of the most expensively
assembled teams in Europe, has gone from a superstar-stacked squad to
T H R E A D S | ESSENTIALS
one that, according to most analysts at least, is now largely reliant on the
prodigious talents of Mbappé. “Many great players who have shaped the
history of football have left Europe this summer and we are entering a new
era,” Mbappé says. “It’s become part of the cycle of this sport and at some
point it will be my turn to leave. I’m not worried about these changes. I’m
simply thinking about continuing my career and following my own path.”
Mbappé is a player known to control every aspect of his image, and
how he presents himself to the world. But, throughout our conversation,
I can’t help but note that there’s a childlike enthusiasm about him, and his
obsession with winning. “The desire to win, to go beyond the limits of what
is possible, and to do great things is deeply ingrained in me. I think I owe it
to the education and guidance I received both on and off the pitch, which
helped me to build myself as a player and as a man,” Mbappé says. “We tend
to forget it, but we’re eternally children when we play football. The level at
which we play the game changes, but the mentality doesn’t. The passion is
constant through the years.”
Despite leading the Ligue 1 top scorer charts for five seasons in a row –
he scored 29 last year, as PSG pipped surprise challenger Lens to the title
– Mbappe has recently reiterated his intention to become a more well-
rounded player. “That doesn’t surprise me because he’s a perfectionist and
a competitor. He always wants to do more and be better in every area,”
says France coach Didier Deschamps. Heading, for example, was initially
not one of Mbappé’s many strengths, but Deschamps notes that he’s made
noticeable progress in this area, as demonstrated by the goal he scored
for France against Australia at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. “Even if the
number of goals he’s already scored is impressive, he could probably still be
a little more precise,” Deschamps says.
Mbappé has a more holistic approach to his training. “I think that
beyond the technical aspects of becoming better with, say, your left foot or
your head, what is most important is broadening your vision of the sport,”
he says. “By playing for six or seven different coaches, I’ve learned six or
seven different ways of doing my job. I developed different facets of my
game and constantly grew. The right frame of mind requires being able to
listen and adapt.” Mbappé says his own frame of mind, and his approach
to the game, have been developed through listening to the many great
athletes he’s encountered on his travels, such as Roger Federer, Kevin
Durant, Rafael Nadal, Nikola Karabatic, and Novak Djokovic. He’s starting
to embrace opportunities to take on greater responsibilities – like being
recently named captain of the French national team.
“The big difference compared to before is that then my attention was »
M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4 | GQ.CO. Z A 9 7
“THE DESIRE
TO WIN, TO
GO BEYOND
THE LIMITS
OF WHAT IS
POSSIBLE,
AND TO
DO GREAT
THINGS
IS DEEPLY
INGRAINED
IN ME”

Hoodie and T-shirt

by Dior Men
really focused on my performance and what I personally could bring to the
team,” Mbappé says. “Being captain provides me with a new broader vision.”
Four days from now, Mbappé and his teammates will make the short
trip from Paris to Le Havre, in Normandy. Mbappé is looking forward to it;
he has just bought himself a new PlayStation Portal to survive the two-and-
a-half-hour bus journey. Is he going to play FC 24? “I’m going to load it up,”
he says with a laugh.
For now, though, he has a few days to recuperate and prepare for the
next game. These moments of respite are becoming rarer, due to the recent
increase in the number of matches that top-level footballers are being forced
to play. The new 36-team format of the Champions League next season, and
FIFA’s move to a 48-team World Cup in 2026 (up from the current 32) are
likely to pile on fixtures for elite players already facing 30+ league games,
international football, and various commercially lucrative pre-season tours
abroad. A report released in June 2023 by the soccer players union FIFPRO,
emphasised that due to the lack of recovery time between games, the
physical and mental health of pro soccer players is deteriorating.
“I’m afraid we’re going to see much shorter careers… because physically
or mentally, what’s being asked of them today is simply beyond the limit,”
Raphaël Varane, Mbappé’s former France teammate, told GQ last year,
a few months after a gruelling winter World Cup in Qatar. Other players, like
Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Real Madrid’s French midfielder Aurélien
Tchouaméni, have similarly voiced their concerns; Manchester City coach
Pep Guardiola has spoken out angrily about the risk of injury.
Sure enough, injuries during the last international break in November
sidelined several global stars, including Vinicius Jr, Erling Haaland, Gavi,
and Marcus Rashford. Mbappé fears that the changes are symptomatic of a
disconnect developing between players, spectators, and football’s governing
bodies. “We’re getting closer to the NBA model, with seasons of 70 games.
Personally, I’m not against playing that many matches, but we won’t be able
to be good every time and give the public the spectacle they expect,” warns
Mbappé. “In the NBA, players don’t play every game and franchises practise
load management [allowing players to rest and prevent injury]. But if
I decided to say ‘I’m tired, I’m not playing on Saturday,’ it wouldn’t go down
well. The spectator who pays for his ticket, and who may only see you once
during the season, wants to see a performance worthy of the name, and that’s
understandable.”
“I don’t want to preach, but we need to think together about how to offer
the best possible solution so that players, spectators, and football’s governing
bodies can all embrace it.”
For now, the Paris Saint-Germain striker is thinking first and foremost
about getting through this season with his club and the Euros this summer.
After a particularly disappointing tournament in 2021, losing to Switzerland
in the Round of 16, the French team is eager to do better. “We’re one of
the most eagerly awaited teams at this tournament and we’re ready and
confident. We did very well qualifying and now our objective is to win,”
Mbappé continues. “We’ve lost some great champions this year, some
extremely important players like Hugo [Lloris] and Raphaël [Varane], but
in the end the group hasn’t been affected. That demonstrates some real
cohesion and an ability to adapt.”
There’s also the question of the Olympics, which this summer is hosted in
Mbappé’s home city of Paris. Mbappé would love to take part, and take home
an Olympic medal, but he knows the choice is not his alone. “I’ve reached
a stage in my life and my career where I don’t want to force things anymore.
1 0 0 GQ.CO. Z A | M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 4
If I’m asked, I’d love to go, but if that’s not possible, I’ll understand,” Mbappé
says. “For every athlete, the Olympics hold a special place. I wanted to go to
Tokyo [in 2020] because I want to win everything and write my name in the
history of the French team as a player who mattered.”
Mbappé intends to write his own story off the pitch, too. He is aware of
his outsized influence – other than Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and
Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, there are no players under the age of 26
with a bigger profile than he has – and wants to use it to serve his values,
not just the interests of big brands. He has never hesitated to speak out on
social issues, denouncing racism in the stands and on social media, and
challenging the football industry for exploiting the image rights of players.
Mbappé went as far as boycotting two events with sponsors of Les Bleus
early in 2022; being associated with a fast-food chain or a sports betting
operator was inconsistent with Mbappé’s plans for himself. The tug-of-
war with the French Football Federation culminated in September 2022,
when the federation said it would review an agreement that, until then, had
obliged national team players to take part in commercial initiatives without
offering them an opt-out.
Like many other athletes he admires, Mbappé is also focussed on giving
back. In 2020, he launched Inspired by KM, a foundation that supports
98 young people in the Paris region, enabling them to take part in cultural
events and leisure activities with the aim of opening their minds to new
opportunities. “I’ve always been brought up to pay it forward and share
my good fortune. Talent was key to getting where I am today, but I was also
helped by being lucky enough to meet the right people at the right time,”
he says. “Now that I’m in a position to pass it on, I want to help the next
generation as best I can.”
Mbappé cites the example of LeBron James, who he met in the US during
a Nike campaign a few years ago. “He is much further along in his career
than I am and projects outside of sport have cemented his place as a sporting
legend. Being able to ask for advice from inspiring figures like him provides
H A I R : B R I C E TC H A G A ; M A K E U P : M É L I S S A G AT E A U ; S E T D E S I G N : F E L I X G E S N O U I N ;
an opportunity to adjust my plan and create my own approach that is as
effective as possible in terms of helping young people today,” he explains
enthusiastically.
The one thing Mbappé won’t talk about yet is his future. His contract
with Paris Saint-Germain ends in June, and after seven seasons of titles
and records, as well as tensions and frustrations, the striker will once again
be faced with a dilemma: whether to persist in building a team around
him to lead PSG to its first-ever Champions League win and thus etch his
name permanently in the golden book of French football, or charting his
own course by joining another league and shining elsewhere. He has, for
several years, been linked with Real Madrid; this last summer, Saudi Arabia’s
T R A N S L AT E D F R O M F R E N C H B Y J O H N N E W TO N
Al-Hilal reportedly offered him one of the most lucrative athletic contracts
in history. Mbappé declined.
It seems that whatever decision he makes, it will be based on more
than money. He doesn’t often think about individual records (despite his
P R O D U C E D BY A P S T U D I O, PA R I S
feats, Mbappé has still never won the Ballon d’Or). Mbappé is more driven
to win the Champions League for his team, just as he devotes his energy
to finding ways to continue his growth as a player rather than listening to
criticism from the media or speculation over his future. “We’re in an age of
over-consumption, where people expect a lot from players,” he explains. But
the bars he sets for himself are far higher than those placed by anyone else.
“I’ve shown that pressure doesn’t affect me negatively, and I’d even say that
I need it to perform my best. Pressure allows me to maintain the degree of
excellence required to play at the highest level.”
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