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I remember the first time I attended one of Lady Skollie’s Cape Town exhibitions. Titled ‘Bound’, her bold body of work lit up the white walls of the Everard Read Gallery. The tension in the repetitive linework of her mixed-media artworks evoked a sense of feeling in between — like being stuck between a rock and a hard place. It honoured womanhood (flora) and freedom (a kraal) while facing challenges that come with patriarchal limitations and control.  

I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how to interpret her style and process at first, but that’s because she’s in a league of her own. After some time, her bold choice of colour, god-like figures and even some ‘sexy’ fruits became familiar. Her work had a language of its own, too; one that communicated her innermost thoughts on identity politics, sex, lust and cultural norms.  

 

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Looking at her work, I knew she was someone with a complex personality. Bold yet vulnerable, perplexing yet direct, bubbly yet stands on business, Lady Skollie is as dynamic and ‘out there’ in person as the markings she makes on Fabriano paper (or wood or Perspex — whatever floats her boat at the time).  

In the same way that this bona fide badass remains ever-changing and unpredictable, freedom in South Africa has never been straight-cut. It’s loud, layered, political, deeply personal — and for women, especially women of colour, it’s still a work in progress.  

 

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Want to dive deeper into the world of Lady Skollie? Subscribe to ClubX Magazine today and get the full story!

Words: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Zhann Solomons
Styled by: Mia-Tess Smith

The post Artist Lady Skollie talks feminism & creative freedom appeared first on TFG Media.

 

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The year is 1995 and 28-year-old Pamela Anderson is at her peak: She’s the cover star of Playboy magazine, has featured in countless interviews and is the certified beach hottie on the TV series Baywatch. She’s also involved in a reckless, rock ‘n’ roll type of love with Tommy Lee.  

With her tussled, platinum blonde hair, silicone boobs, blue eyes, overly lined lips and skinny arched brows, Pamela was the ultimate sex symbol. Hollywood stereotyped her into this character, and having a sex tape leaked didn’t help counter this idea.  

However, a now 58-year-old Pamela is shedding this facade of what society created and is rewriting her narrative. She’s telling her story her way – bare faced and real. Her decision to attend a Paris Fashion Week show back in September 2023 without make-up caused quite the frenzy, as it is not very often we see public figures exposing their face in this way. This shift wasn’t just a cosmetic choice. It has evolved into a symbolic and deeply personal transformation – one that challenges the old script of Hollywood femininity and asks all of us to reconsider what it means to grow older, to be seen, and to be enough as we are. 

 

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In a recent Glamour interview, Pamela shared: “In this industry, you can get carried away and forget who you are underneath it all. That’s why I wanted to peel everything back. I don’t know what my next look or incarnation is going to be. I feel like I’m a little bit of an experiment, but I’m doing it for myself. And lucky for me, I get to be somewhat inspirational when I’m living my life authentically.”  

Curious about Pamela Anderson’s makeup-free era? Subscribe to Balanced Life Magazine and get the inside scoop!

Words: Yashna Balwanth
Photography: Getty images

The post How Pamela Anderson is rewriting her public narrative appeared first on TFG Media.

Before social-media fame, before the traditional wedding celebrations and business ventures, before their lives became something they shared with the world, Addi and Judy were simply two people who had a chance encounter and fell in love.

They come from two different worlds, with different formative experiences, and yet both were raised with the understanding that family is central to everything. Addison Logan was born and raised in the USA. “I had a strict father who taught me that can get whatever I want as long as I work hard for it. I’ve always had this feeling of wanting the best and being very hard on myself. So, that’s really shaped me.” 

Judy Frans, born in the Eastern Cape, grew up on the streets of Capricorn, near the beachside suburb of Muizenberg in Cape Town, with the steady presence of a grandmother who taught her how to love, nurture and be the mother she is today. 

To read more about this fabulous family, subscribe to Jet Club magazine today!

Words: Rughsaar Bibi Ismail
Photography: Zhann Solomons
Styling: Gasant Kellerman

The post The Logan family’s love story appeared first on TFG Media.

Before the buzz of the DC Universe, Star Wars and his iconic casting as the voice of the lead character in Mufasa: The Lion King, Aaron Pierre grew up on one of London’s council estates (or what in the US are called ‘housing projects’) to parents with ancestal roots in the Caribbean and Sierra Leone.

While he may have caught the world’s attention for his acting chops, his early ambition lay far from Hollywood fame. Young Aaron had his sights set on being “the fastest man in the world”. He idolised sprinters such as American Maurice Greene (100-metre world record holder from 1999 to 2004).  

“I actually had the privilege of meeting him once,” he told People magazine. “I remember yelling to my mom, saying, ‘There’s Maurice Greene! Do you have anything he could sign?’ This was before iPhones and selfies. So she gave me a receipt, and I ran over to him and he signed it.’ 

Aaron might not have fulfilled his athletic dreams but he still gets to put his fitness to the test in the often gruelling roles he plays.  

Acting came into his life almost by destiny. On The Jennifer Hudson Show, he shared that his acting debut was a high-school play. “I first started acting when I was about 14 or 15. The school that I went to didn’t do drama as a subject, but they did do a play every three years, and I had the opportunity to do Moby Dick — I was the narrator.  

“I remember stepping out to, I think it was bottom stage left, and I only had about three or four lines, did my piece, went backstage, and I just remember feeling overwhelmed by this feeling of ‘That is what I wanna do for the rest of my life!”  

From there he took the leap and decided to bet on himself. He joined drama programmes, he auditioned and eventually got to train at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (alma mater of Chiwetel Ejiofor, David Oyelowo and Benedict Cumberbatch).  

Want to read more about this leading man? Subscribe to Man magazine to get the full scoop!

Words: Rughsaar Bibi Ismail
Photographed: Gallo/Getty images

The post Actor Aaron Pierre is in his prime appeared first on TFG Media.

Hosted by the vibrant Zanale Potelwa, the reality competition brings together South African celebrities and everyday contestants to battle it out in a series of physical and mental challenges – all for the ultimate cash prize. 

Here are the celebrities who will be competing:  

Nadia Nakai

With hits like ‘Naaa Meaan’, award-winning rapper Nadia Nakai is instantly recognisable as one of the boldest voices in African hip-hop. Confident, competitive and full of main character energy, she’s set to bring serious star power to the island. 

 

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Lalela Mswane 

Crowned Miss South Africa in 2021, Lalela Mswane represented the country at Miss Universe and ultimately claimed the Miss Supranational crown in 2022. She is an advocate for education and empowerment and celebrated for her grace and leadership. With her discipline and sharp strategic thinking, Lalela’s confidence is sure to shine under pressure.  

 

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Francois Hougaard 

Former Springbok scrumhalf Francois Hougaard has represented South Africa on some of rugby’s biggest stages, including the 2015 Rugby World Cup. With his elite athleticism and experience under pressure, Francois is ready to tackle the challenges on the tropical island head on! 

 

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Caster Semenya 

Olympic medallist Caster Semenya won gold in the 800m at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games. She is one of Mzansi’s greatest sporting icons, making her a formidable contender in this competition.  

 

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Leandie du Randt 

Leandie du Randt is a familiar face in South Africa – an actress, model, voice artist and TV personality who’s lit up screens in countless Afrikaans film and television productions. She’s also a motivational speaker and published author. With her mix of grit, grace (and a touch of glamour, of course), Leandie is definitely one to watch this season.  

 

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Amanda Du-Pont 

Beloved television personality and founder of the beauty brand Lelive, Amanda Du-Pont has made waves for her roles in series such as Skeem Saam and Single Ladies SA, while internationally she starred in the Netflix thriller Shadow. With a background in acting, presenting and producing, Amanda’s elegance and competitive spirit will make her a fan favourite this season. 

 

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Sandile Mahlangu 

Audiences first met Sandile Mahlangu on the hit teen drama Isibaya, and he later became a household name for his role as Siya in Netflix’s smash series Blood & Water. Beyond his acting talent, Sandile has also made waves in the music world, releasing a string of hit singles. Charismatic and multi‑talented, he’s sure to surprise us with even more hidden skills in this season’s competition. 

 

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Wiseman Mncube 

Wiseman Mncube shot to fame with his award‑winning role as Sbonelo on Uzalo, and he’s been commanding attention ever since. A SAFTA winner with a knack for bringing raw emotion to the screen, we can expect Wiseman to bring that same intensity when the competition heats up. 

 

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Tropika  is on the hunt for eight everyday contestants to join the adventure and take on the celebrity challengers. Auditions kicked off on 5 March and run until 5 May 2026 – so there’s still time to throw your name in the mix and see if you’ve got what it takes. 

Here’s what you have to do: 

 

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Words: El Broide, The Platinum Club

Photography: Instagram

The post Meet the celebs of Tropika Island of Treasure season 12 appeared first on TFG Media.

 

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There’s something about the way her voice cracks with raw emotion when she sings, her powerful vocals soaring through every note like a heartfelt confession, that makes you feel seen, heard and understood. And when she acts, she completely immerses herself in the role, effortlessly switching between characters with depth and nuance.  

@cocojones luva girl 💕 link in my bio #newmusic ♬ LUVAGIRL Snippet – cocojones

But beyond the spotlight, it’s her authentic self-expression, her willingness to be vulnerable and genuine in every moment that has become a beacon of light in a world of curated perfection – and a radiant reminder that true beauty lies in being, not just becoming.  

The spark that lit 

Born Courtney Michaela Ann Jones on 4 January 1998, Coco’s early life was a symphony of sounds, rhythms and melodies. Her mother, Javonda Jones, a session vocalist, sang sweet serenades that filled their home in Lebanon, Tennessee, with warmth and harmony. And her father Mike Jones, a former NFL player, brought a sense of discipline and hard work that would later shape Coco’s approach to her craft.  

She began writing songs when she was six, recorded her first song (‘Real You’) at just eight years old and was already performing professionally by the time she was nine. Her mom taught her how to sing, saying “one more again” until it was perfect.  

 

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Growing up, she found her creative voice on stage in school plays and in the church choir, with talent competitions fuelling her passion for music.  

“When I was a kid, I just wanted to do anything. So I was like, whatever, I’ll sing about broccoli or I’ll be the broccoli! I just want to perform,” she told Marie Claire. 

It was only a matter of time before she burst onto a bigger stage, bringing her unique voice and perspective to the world.  

Want to read more about the Coco’s amazing accolades? Subscribe to ClubX Magazine today!

Words: Emma Mbuthuma
Photography: Gallo/Getty images

Also read: Langa Mavuso: The music of healing

The post Coco Jones’ journey from Disney to Grammy Awards appeared first on TFG Media.

In a season that’s all about self-definition, Langa Mavuso is stripping back everything that doesn’t feel true.

 

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After years of being celebrated for songs that simultaneously hold both heartbreak and hope in the same breath, he’s now more interested in understanding the person behind the music than the myth built around it.

 

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He speaks with earned clarity, revealing a man not afraid to face his emotions head on. This chapter of his life isn’t about performance, it’s about substance, and Langa is ready to let us in. 

To read the full story about Langa’s rise in the music industry, subscribe to Man magazine today!

Words: Rughsaar Bibi Ismail
Photography: Zhann Solomons
Styling: Mia-Tess Smith 
Shot on location at:  Banksia Boutique Hotel 

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Don’t let her petite size fool you. Serisha Barrat is all about her business — a woman determined to make a change in the world and leave a mark as she does it. From entering the workplace at just 18 to co-founding a dating app, and now modernising legal tech across the continent, Serisha’s drive is unyielding.

 

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Although life has thrown its fair share of challenges her way, she has used them as stepping stones to build herself up. “Closed mouths don’t get fed,” she says, and it’s that type of confidence that has allowed her to speak on global platforms, travel to various tech events and continue striving forward.  

 

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Winning style awards and being featured on Forbes Africa are all just the cherry on the top for her. “At my core, I’m a woman who is resilient and doesn’t give up. I strongly believe that what you go through shapes who you need to become for your goals, your dreams and your aspirations. Everything I do is rooted in my why and in being an impactful woman in business.”  

Want to read more about how Serisha is breaking boundaries in the tech space? Subscribe to Balanced Life Magazine today!

Words: Yashna Balwanth
Photographer: Zhann Solomons
Stylist: Gasant Kellerman

The post Serisha Barrat on using AI to make an impact appeared first on TFG Media.

Jhené Aiko has a silent presence that demands attention. It goes far beyond her unique physical appearance and speaks louder than the lyrics in her songs. She’s deep, she’s spiritual and she’s always growing. But what drives her to be as authentic as she is?  

 

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Unearthing her roots  

Behind her sweet appearance and calm voice, there’s so much more to Jhene Aiko Efuru Chilombo. Turning 38 in March, she’s the youngest of five siblings, who she said were “teaching me stuff I wasn’t supposed to be knowing”.  

 

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“I can be pretty vulgar,” she admitted in a 2017 interview with Breakfast Club Power 105.1 FM. “All my friends and everyone who knows me knows I’m inappropriate a lot of the time and I like to say things that people are like, “Huh?!” 

“Since I was a little girl, I’ve been getting in trouble for having a dirty mouth because I used to recite Lil’ Kim’s ‘Hard Core’ in elementary school,” she said. For someone who started out as a backing vocalist for B2K, Jhené has done well in her own singing and songwriting career.  

She shared that her 2020 album Chilombo — taken from her surname — means “wild beast” or “monster” in an African language. In an interview with Billboard News, she said, “I really resonated with that because as I come into my womanhood, I feel extra strong and confident. I’ve always been a little wild and a beast. There’s lots of meaning behind me naming the album Chilombo: number 1 is stepping into that confidence.”  

“I’m 33% African, 34% European, and 28% Asian,” she shared with the Breakfast Club team, saying that she did a DNA test through an ancestry site. Both her parents are mixed race, her great-grandmother was born in Hawaii, and she grew up with her Japanese grandfather who was the man of the house. She’s also spoken about how her spirituality has been shaped by Christianity and Buddhism.  There’s absolutely nothing vanilla about Jhene’s background.  

A few years after revealing her genetic makeup in the interview, she spoke on the Jay Shetty Podcast about how important her roots are to her. “I have been studying my family history, and I feel like most of us only know what our parents and grandparents have told us, and, you know, some families do have more information about the family and the roots and where everyone comes from. But my family is from all over, and I just remember hearing so many different things,” she said.  

When going through her family history records, she recalled learning so much about them and being able to look up and contact people who are related to her. “It’s just such a fulfilling feeling being able to connect with people who are your family who you didn’t know about,” she told Jay Shetty.  

“I think part of me feeling more grounded today is discovering that my roots are so deep and so widespread,” she added.  

Read more about Jhené self-love journey when you subscribe to Balanced Life Magazine today!

Words: Shani Tsai
Photography: Getty Images

The post Jhené Aiko on her self-love journey thus far appeared first on TFG Media.

He was a boy. She was a girl. Can I make it any more obvious? Avril Lavigne’s iconic lyrics weren’t written for them, sure, but they might as well have been. Having met by chance, locked eyes and felt that unmistakable spark, Maxine Ceasar and Dalin Oliver are the kind of couple people write entire albums and stand-up sets about. Their love was instant and effortless — they just clicked. That being said, their love story is anything but basic…  

 

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The Perfect Meet-cute  

They first crossed paths in 2021 at an event called Two Acts &A Drink at Foxy Brown restaurant in Harfield Village, Cape Town. Dalin was one of the ‘acts’, performing stand-up comedy, while she came to support a friend. (Maxine herself had performed at the same gig a month before.) Little did they know they were on the cusp of something life-changing.  

“He saw me while he was on stage and thought I was the best thing ever!” Maxine says. 

“I found my foxy brown at the Foxy Brown!” Dalin quips. “I actually knew her brother, Vaughn, through the industry and friends of mine. So I went to go say ‘hi’ to him, and I was like, ‘Who’s this?’ and he told me it’s his sister… And I was like, ‘I’m going to chise this one!”  

“It was instant chemistry,” Maxine gushes. Though, she admits, she had seen him perform before and didn’t think much then.  

 

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Chemistry meets creativity with this loving duo. Read all about their story when you subscribe to Club Magazine today!

Words: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Zhann Solomons
Styling: Gasant Kellerman

The post Inside Dalin Oliver & Maxine Ceaser’s love story appeared first on TFG Media.