Latest news with #African-inspired
IOL News
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Simphiwe Dana sparks debate on appreciation vs appropriation in African hair culture
Musician Simphiwe Dana often enlists hairstylist Tumelo Mpholo to help bring her ideas for her African-inspired hairstyles to life. Image: Instagram/Simphiwedana A lot of things may not be certain, but one thing is that African women have been celebrating their crowns and plaiting them in different ways. African women's hairstyles have become a point of discussion after multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Simphiwe Dana created a public discourse. Dana posted on social media her disappointment over not being acknowledged as inspiration behind the hairstyles on actress Nomzamo Mbatha and "Shaka iLembe". She later deleted the posts from her Instagram and X account. 'Honey, there's a difference between appreciation and appropriation. You're not the only one. I'm fed up. It's deeply disconcerting and cringe,' Dana wrote, with a picture of Mbatha from her Creme of Nature, ambassador reveal. Actress Nomzamo Mbatha was the target of Simphiwe Dana's statement over afro-centric hairstyles, where she wanted credit. Image: setlifestudiossa Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Since ancient times, hair has always been something worth celebrating and Dana has become well known for her afrocentric hairstyles that are inspired by what Africans have been doing. Hairstyles held profound significance in ancient African societies, serving as powerful symbols of an individual's status, economic standing, marital status, and social role. Beyond their aesthetic function, they also played a crucial role in spiritual divination. The late Miriam Makeba was inspired by the hairstyles of the Fulani women of West Africa after she and her husband Stokely Carmichael quit the US and moved to Guinea in the 1970s. Simphiwe Dana rocking one of her signature afro-centric hairstyles that have become a part of her artistic look. Image: Instagram/@simphiwedana The style of the Mangbetu women of the Democratic Republic of Congo have also influenced afrocentric hairstyles. To signify high status within the community, Mangbetu women tightly bind their babies' heads with cloth, fostering an elongated head shape. While Dana is right there is a difference between appreciation and appropriation and while it is well documented that throughout her over 20 year journey in entertainment, she has donned afro-centric hairstyles, and they have become a part of her artistic vision however there is no evidence linking her to the origins of the hairstyle. Countries across Africa have deep historical ties to the evolution of afro-centric hairstyles. More women are coming on the bandwagon and shows like 'Shaka iLembe' are showing the history of hair for more to see. IOL Lifestyle
What's On
a day ago
- What's On
9 incredible staycations a one-hour-drive outside of Dubai
One might think you need to take a flight for a change of scenery, but we're here to tell you that that is not always the case. For us Dubai folk, stunning, luxurious staycations await just an hour's (or a bit more) drive away from the city, offering breathtaking beach views, mountain escapes, desert hideouts, overwater villas and heritage stays. Anantara Santorini It's in the name. Anantara Santorini is perched on the edge of the Arabian Gulf's pristine blue waters, and will take you away to Grecian lanes drenched in white, blue and stone. It's a stunning crossover between raw Aegean beauty and refined Emirati elegance, and is truly an escape – a secluded spot ideally situated halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in Ghantoot. This adults-only beachfront address features just 22 sumptuous rooms and suites, sun-drenched terraces, and each coming with their own 24/7 butler. Getting there: You can drive straight to Ghantoot in about an hour and a half @anantarasantorini Casa Mikoko Another one of African-inspired UAE staycations, this one brings a touch of Zanzibar. Part of the rustic, Zanzibar-inspired Kite Beach Centre is Casa Mikoko, a glamping experience of five chalets nestled within the Umm Al Quwain mangroves. Three of the five come with their own plunge pools, serving as a delightful spot to start the day. And all boast an African-inspired aesthetic and views over the calm waters that gives staycationers a tropical and instant on-holiday feel. Book one of the chalets with private pools and live like you're staying in the Maldives with an Instagrammable floating breakfast. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 10 minutes. @ Bab Al Shams Located in a bubble of silence out by the Al Qudra Lakes, Bab Al Shams is true escape. The Bab Al Shams experience has always been a blend of modern luxury and Bedouin simplicity. At the hotel. guest can experience all those aspects of traditional life. Inspired by the Bedouin way 0f life, the stay offers an incredible experience marked with adventure with the resort's range of thrilling nomadic desert experiences. Think camel riding and falconry, and some stargazing with your very own telescope if you book the pool villas. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @babalshamshotel The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Dessert One of two luxurious Ritz-Carlton staycations in RAK, this desert retreat blends Bedouin traditions with five-star luxuries to create an experience that feels worlds away from the city. Set amongst the beauty of a protected desert reserve, picturesque scenery and rich local heritage backdrop villas that come with private pools and gourmet dining. The desert activities range from horse riding and camel treks to wildlife drives, archery and stargazing. There's also the unique sensory Rainforest spa experience with 16 different hydrothermal stations Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @ritzcarltonalwadidesert JA Hatta Fort Hotel Tucked into the rugged Hajar Mountains, JA Hatta Fort Hotel is a charming mountain escape just over an hour from Dubai, offering a refreshing change of pace from the city's buzz. One of the UAE's only mountain staycations, the property is surrounded by natural beauty and blends rustic charm with laidback luxury, with chalet-style rooms, private terraces, and lush gardens dotted with peacocks. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply relaxing by the pool, it's the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about an hour and 20 minutes. @jahattaforthotel The Chedi Al Bait The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is a collection of five heritage houses that were once owned by local families and have now been transformed into 65 elegant guestrooms and suites while carefully preserving the historical former homes of distinguished local families have been enhanced with luxury touches befitting of a five-star hotel, while keeping the brand's historic design DNA. Inside the guestrooms and suites, you will find a perfect blend of Arabic and Asian design elements. Experiences include a majlis, spa, museum and library. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about half an hour. @thechedialbait Najd Al Meqsar Arguably one of the most unique staycations in the UAE, Sharjah Collection has transformed a former traditional mountain village into a beautiful heritage hotel of just seven 'Kareen Houses', each with a bedroom. Perched on a mountain top in scenic Khorfakkan on Sharjah's East Coast, you'll count rolling hills and dense forests among your neighbours. So, if peace and quiet are high on your staycation agenda, this is one spot to bookmark. Much of the original features remain at Najd Al Meqsar, in the lobby and communal areas, the restaurant, and the guest rooms. Hand-hewn wooden beams, stone walls, and a thatched roof all add to the traditional charm. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about an hour and 20 minutes. @najdalmeqsar Faya Retreat This is one boutique stay you can have to yourself entirely. Basically, privatise the whole space. The Mysk Al Fayah Desert Retreat allows you to have an exclusive space just for yourself, your family and friends. Amenities at this spot include a private pool, an all-day dining restaurant, barbecue facilities, a wellness centre and non-smoking rooms. There's much to do in the area of Mleiha, and 5 king-sized private bedrooms with terraces to fill out. Take part in stargazing, explore archaeological and World UNESCO Heritage sites, go biking and make incredible memories with your close group. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @staykuae Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Villas Set along the shores of Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Villas offers a barefoot luxury escape with front-row views of the sea. Designed for privacy and relaxation, each beachfront villa comes with its own private pool, sun loungers, and open-air living spaces that blur the line between indoors and out. Whether you're paddleboarding at sunrise or dining under the stars, this is coastal glamping reimagined with comfort in mind. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 30 minutes. @babalnojoum_hudayriyat Images: Socials
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Founders of National Waterpark Day, Celebrates Ninth Annual Holiday July 28 Across All U.S. Locations
WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, home to America's Largest Indoor Waterparks, and the founders of National Waterpark Day, will celebrate the ninth annual holiday on July 28. The celebration will feature a fun-filled day of family-friendly festivities at all four of its award-winning resorts. Established in partnership with the National Day Calendar in 2017, this celebration spotlights the adventure, excitement and memory-making power of waterparks nationwide. 'When we started National Waterpark Day, our goal was simple: inspire families to come together, unplug and enjoy some uninterrupted fun,' said Travis Nelson, President of Kalahari Resorts. 'Watching our guests embrace that spirit year after year reminds us why we created this celebration in the first place.' On July 28, Kalahari resort locations in Wisconsin Dells, WI, Sandusky, Ohio, Pocono Mountains, PA and Round Rock, Texas will have on-site foam parties and live DJs spinning poolside tracks, exciting games and giveaways, foodie pop-ups, family poolside activities, meet-and-greets with everyone's favorite Kalahari characters, and more. On July 28 only, guests can also dive into a 24-hour flash sale offering up to 30% off overnight stays, $10 off waterpark day passes, 10% off cabana and bungalow rentals, and 30% off fall 2025 season passes when they use the promo code WATERPARK. 'Whether it's our flagship Wisconsin Dells location or our newest resort in Texas, National Waterpark Day is the perfect time for families to dive into summer,' added Nelson. 'From the sun-drenched outdoor pools that lets guests soak up every ray to the mega slides in our indoor waterpark that keep the excitement flowing, Kalahari gives families the flexibility to craft their ultimate waterpark getaway.' For more information on National Waterpark Day activities or to book your stay, please visit About Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, WI, Sandusky, Ohio, the Pocono Mountains, PA, Round Rock, Texas, and opening soon in Spotsylvania, VA, deliver a beyond-expectations waterpark resort and conference experience all under one roof. The African-inspired Kalahari Resorts, privately owned by the Nelson family, are home to America's Largest Indoor Waterparks. Todd and Shari Nelson, the founders of Kalahari Resorts, were honored with an induction into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame in 2023. All Kalahari Resorts feature well-appointed guest rooms and suites, the full-service Spa Kalahari, a fun-filled family entertainment center, on-site signature restaurants, unique retail shops and a state-of-the-art convention center. For more information, members of the media are encouraged to visit
TimesLIVE
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Kaizer Chiefs launch jersey rooted in ‘African art, creativity' for 2025-26
Kaizer Chiefs launched their jersey for the 2025-26 season on Monday. The new kit was announced in posts on the club's social media and at an event at the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena. 'After finishing the previous season on high with the lifting of South Africa's foremost cup competition trophy [the Nedbank Cup], Kaizer Chiefs and their globally renowned technical sponsor, Kappa, have unveiled new African-inspired home and away kits, designed to continue the club's forward momentum for the upcoming 2025-26 season,' Chiefs said. Now available in stores and online. — Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 21, 2025 'Entering its third year, the partnership between Amakhosi and the Italian sportswear brand will present another striking set of strips for Chiefs to wear on the field of play. 'More than that, these stunning new offerings merge football with culture, as both home and away tops represent a bold celebration of the game beyond the pitch. The designs are rooted in African art, creativity and are the heartbeat of the community. Please watch @MorningLiveSABC from 08h00 this morning #Amakhosi4Life | #KCKappa | #KCJersey | — Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 21, 2025 'The jerseys will be worn with pride by all generations of Kaizer Chiefs supporters for different occasions. 'The home jersey is bright and unapologetically Kaizer Chiefs, with a primarily gold body, in keeping with the hue of the Glamour Boys' traditional colours, adorned with striking black patterns on the sleeves. This classic design also includes a stylish black collar with contemporary designs that reflect the culture of Amakhosi. A new season is on the horizon 🔜🏆 and the fresh @KaizerChiefs #StaPlaya drip has officially dropped 🥶 Which kit are you rocking with Khosi ✌️, Home or Away? 👕 #ForTheFans | #Amakhosi4Life — SuperSportBet (@SuperSportBETza) July 21, 2025 'The away jersey promises to be a huge hit, following in the footsteps of its popular predecessors — the green and gold from the 2023-24 season and the black and gold of last season. 'This year's away kit introduces a striking grey and gold design incorporating subtle camouflage patterns that will excite both supporters and fashion lovers alike. It is inspired by the textures of the animal skins used to create traditional shields of African warriors. While undoubtedly fashionable, it also epitomises Amakhosi's battle-readiness for the upcoming domestic and continental season.'
Time Out
07-07-2025
- Time Out
The 2025 check-in list: here are seven of the hottest new hotel openings in Australia
Australia doesn't claim to be the city that never sleeps. We're proud to have one of the world's best work-life balances, where travellers can pack their days with epic experiences, then crash in style at one of our top-notch hotels. This year, Australia has seen a burst of stylish new hotels opening their doors, with plenty more on track to launch by the end of 2025. From a secluded safari escape to a luxury island getaway and a sustainable city stay, here are seven of the hottest new hotel openings so far. Mondrian Gold Coast Arguably the Gold Coast 's most luxurious hotel to date, this 24-storey coastal-luxe beach house marks the Australian debut of LA's innovative Mondrian group. The five-star hotel sits mere metres from Burleigh Beach, with 208 studios, suites and homes boasting breathtaking views across the Pacific Ocean and out to the Hinterlands. Guests can unwind in the magnesium plunge pool, 24-metre resort-style pool, or wellness space and spa. There's also a chic terrace eatery, an oceanfront restaurant and a pool club. 1 Hotel Melbourne In June, Melbourne gained a new, waterfront hotel that's both swanky and sustainable. Perched right on the banks of the Yarra River, this nature-inspired property marks 1 Hotel's long-anticipated debut in Australia. The sleek 277-room hotel was built using recycled materials, is draped in native greenery and heroes hyper-local produce in its signature restaurant, Here by Mike, helmed by celebrated chef Mike McEnearney. Monarto Safari Resort At the end of autumn, Monarto Safari Park – the world's largest open-range safari park – scored a brand-new luxury resort featuring 78 African-inspired hotel rooms overlooking the expansive plains of Monarto's new Wild Africa precinct. The resort pampers guests with a world-class spa, thermal plunge pool, ice bath, sauna, and two outdoor swimming pools. Plus, keep an eye out for 20 stylish glamping tents arriving later this year. The Lodge Wadjemup Rottnest Island is already one of Australia's most sought-after islands, and even more so now after the $40 million makeover of The Lodge Wadjemup. Just months after welcoming its first guests in late December, this island-inspired hotel was named by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Greatest Places to Visit in 2025. The coastal-luxe property features 109 rooms with courtyard, lakeside or pool views, plus sunset dining and top-notch conference facilities. InterContinental Brisbane Just last week, the world's first and largest luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, made its Brisbane debut, taking over the former Hilton site. The timeless 319-room property began welcoming guests on July 1 under the new brand, complete with a new signature club lounge on level 25 with sweeping views over the River City. In 2026, it's set to undergo a significant two-year luxury transformation ahead of the 2032 Olympics. Courtyard by Marriott Darwin In early July, the world's biggest hotel chain unveiled its first-ever Northern Territory property in Darwin. It's a major milestone for Marriott International, which now flies its flag in every Australian state and territory. The first stage of the 186-room hotel's renovation features slick self-check-in technology, all new furnishings and a state-of-the-art fitness centre, with a hyper-local restaurant and pool upgrade planned within the next two years. Hyatt House Melbourne A sister brand of the grand Park Hyatt Melbourne, this new southside hotel offers a more residential-style experience for longer-term stays. It's fitted with homely amenities and is located near many of the city's coolest attractions, including Albert Park Lake, Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Arts Precinct and South Melbourne Market. Bonus: it's pet-friendly, so your dog (or cat) can join the getaway too. 😱 ⭐️
