How Does That Prawn Land on Your Plate?

Next time you order prawns, stop and consider where they come from. Behind that succulent bite lies a complex global supply chain. With growing concerns over overfishing, habitat destruction and unethical labour practices, the question isn’t just whether prawns are delicious; it’s whether they’ve been responsibly sourced. So, what should you be looking for when choosing prawns, and how do you know if your next order is a sustainable one?

For Marco Coelho, head of procurement at Ocean Basket, prawn sourcing begins with strict sustainability criteria, working only with suppliers certified by globally recognised bodies like the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Global G.A.P. These certifications ensure compliance with standards for environmental conservation, social responsibility and product traceability.

By partnering with farms that prioritise sustainable aquaculture practices, Coelho minimises the environmental impact of prawn farming. These farms implement efficient water management systems, reduce pollution through careful effluent management, and protect biodiversity in the ecosystems they operate within.

Ocean Basket sources prawns primarily from Ecuador and Nicaragua, pioneers in sustainable prawn farming and the two regions renowned for their high-quality Vannamei shrimp. These prawns are prized for their sweet flavour and consistent quality, making them a favourite among diners.

Both Ecuador and Nicaragua have invested heavily in sustainable aquaculture practices, with many farms certified by the ASC. Located along the Pacific coast, these countries benefit from ideal farming conditions, including clean water, favourable climate and ample space for aquaculture. Such natural advantages contribute to the superior taste and texture of the prawns.

“We’re drawn to these regions not only for the quality but also because of their commitment to responsible farming practices,” Coelho adds.

The journey of Ocean Basket’s prawns from farm to fork involves meticulous care at every stage. Farmers use sustainable feed to minimise waste and employ renewable energy sources to reduce carbon footprints. Regular visits to farms and processing plants ensure compliance with Ocean Basket’s stringent standards.

During transportation, prawns are kept fresh through insulated packaging and temperature-controlled containers. Quality checks are conducted throughout the journey to guarantee that the prawns arrive in South Africa in pristine condition.

“We work with logistics partners to optimize shipping times and routes. This ensures the prawns retain their flavour and texture while maintaining the highest food safety standards.”

Sustainable prawn farming benefits the environment, but also uplifts local communities. Farms in Ecuador and Nicaragua create meaningful employment opportunities, offering safe working conditions and fair wages. The ripple effect extends to families and local economies, ensuring that prawn farming contributes to long-term community development.

Ocean Basket is committed to staying ahead of trends in sustainable seafood sourcing. From innovative technologies like recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to the adoption of alternative protein sources for prawn feed, the brand is actively contributing to a more sustainable future.

Consumers, too, are increasingly demanding transparency and traceability in their seafood. Ocean Basket meets this demand by choosing suppliers who demonstrate accountability and environmental responsibility.

“When you enjoy prawns at Ocean Basket, you’re supporting a supply chain that values quality, sustainability, and community. It’s seafood you can feel good about,” Coelho concludes.

South African rock legends, Prime Circle, announce the official album launch event for their eighth studio album, "The World We Know". The event will take place on 1 March 2025 at The Venue, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, ahead of their German tour, and will celebrate the release of their powerful new single, “Standing Over Me”, along with its official music video. 

The single, released early in Feb to radio in South Africa and Germany, addresses the experience of abuse and the resolve to rise above it, delivering a message of resilience and empowerment. “This song is about reclaiming your power,” says Gavin Edwards, the band’s seasoned new vocalist. “It’s a reminder that no matter what you’ve been through, you have the strength to rise above it and move forward.” “Standing Over Me” showcases the band's powerful heavy rock style, a sound that always electrifies audiences during live performances, and has been a clear favourite on streaming platforms.

After a 7-year hiatus from releasing new albums, The World We Know marks a bold new chapter for Prime Circle, blending their signature rock sound with fresh energy and introspective lyricism. The album, which debuted on all streaming platforms in November 2024, features 10 tracks, including the powerful singles “Better Days” and “What We Got”. Both singles have made a significant impact, currently playing on 27 radio stations across South Africa and amassing over 41 million impacts, according to Radiomonitor SA.

The album launch event promises to be an unforgettable night of music and celebration. Fans will experience The World We Know live, including a performance of “Standing Over Me”, alongside other favourites from the album and Prime Circle’s extensive catalogue of hits. “We’re beyond excited to share this new music live with our fans,” says bassist Marco Gomes. “This album represents a new era for Prime Circle, and we can’t wait to celebrate it together in Johannesburg.”

Produced by longtime German collaborator Timon Seidl, and engineered by SA’s Howie Combrink, The World We Know showcases Prime Circle’s evolution while staying true to their rock roots. The album features a mix of powerful anthems, introspective ballads, and genre-blending tracks that reflect the band’s growth and commitment to creating music that resonates globally. The past year has seen a remarkable transformation for Prime Circle with the addition of Gavin Edwards. This renewed energy has propelled them beyond their initial plans for an EP, resulting in a full-length album and a wealth of new material for the future.

Prime Circle features Gavin Edwards on vocals and guitar, Marco Gomes on bass, Dale Schnettler on drums, Neil Breytenbach on keyboards, and Dirk Bisschoff on guitar.

Whether it is romantic love, family love, or simply love for yourself, there is a strong bond between coffee and love. A cup of coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a gesture, a shared moment, and often a bridge that fosters meaningful connections. From quick pick-me-ups to heartfelt conversations, coffee is a reminder that joy can be found in the smallest rituals of our daily lives. Here’s how you can use coffee to nurture relationships and create meaningful experiences: 

Coffee Dates: Small gestures, Big impact 

Inviting a friend over for a casual coffee date is a great way to show love and connect. Everyone appreciates a little effort and thoughtfulness behind the cup of love. This small gesture can be more impactful than any grand display of affection. Whether it’s a cozy chat at home or a quick rendezvous at a local café, the simplicity of a coffee date often leaves a lasting impression.

Quality Time: Savour the moment 

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to slow down and savour the moment is more important than ever. What better way to spend time with your loved one than over a freshly brewed cup of Douwe Egberts pure indulgence? 

Acts of service: Love in every sip 

Few things say “I care” quite like thoughtful gestures. This Valentine’s Day, surprise your loved ones with their favourite coffee before they’ve even left the comfort of their bed. The warmth of a freshly brewed cup, prepared with love, is a simple yet profound way to show affection. 

Physical touch: Cozy and Close

Coffee and physical touch may not seem like an obvious pairing, but picture this: a chilly morning, a steaming mug of coffee, and a cozy cuddle on the couch. Sharing this simple ritual strengthens bonds and creates a sense of comfort and support. Just be careful not to spill that precious brew!

Gifting: Elegant and Thoughtful

Not mad about wrapping gifts? Understandable – it can take a lot of effort to make a present look professional. A jar of Douwe Egberts coffee, with its elegant glass design and stopper-style lid, is a perfect choice. It’s not just coffee; it’s a gift filled with love and memorable moments.

Through these small yet meaningful gestures, coffee becomes more than a drink—it becomes a medium to express love and appreciation. Whether you’re building new memories or reinforcing old ones, there’s no better way to experience love than over a cup of Douwe Egberts coffee. Let every sip remind you that even in the hustle of life, there’s always time to savour love.

The Forum proudly announces the opening of The Forum Hyde Park, an elegant new events venue that combines sophistication with versatility in the heart of Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Perched on the seventh floor with sweeping city views, this stylish venue accommodates up to 400 guests, catering to high-end corporate events, luxury private gatherings, exclusive dinners, and grand banquets.

Chosen for its prime location in Hyde Park—a hub known for high-end shopping and convenient parking—the venue’s design is inspired by the lush surrounding trees. The space integrates wood, green accents, and ample natural light to enhance Johannesburg’s scenic views. "We selected a soft, warm, neutral palette with green marble accents to add visual interest without overpowering," says Philippe van der Merwe, Co-Founder of Tonic Design.

"Our vision was to create a dynamic, indoor-outdoor space that feels intimate but luxurious," says Glynis Hyslop, Managing Director of The Forum. Her favourite features include the stack-back doors that seamlessly integrate the inside and outside spaces, creating a fluid environment ideal for any occasion. And the beautiful green marble bars on the two levels.

The main area boast intricate plasterwork, a homage to artist Cecil Skotnes, who originally designed a mural for Hyde Park. Crafted by Tonic Design and brought to life by artisan’s Dudley & Sons, this distinctive feature brings a touch of South African artistry to the venue. The space is further enriched by two magnificent pieces by Karel Nel, curator at the Norval Foundation, and sculptures by acclaimed artist Walter Oltman.

Tonic Design was chosen for their clean, modern aesthetic and their ability to capture the venue's architectural essence. Signature elements include the expansive nine-meter ceiling, large windows, and a beautifully landscaped garden surrounding the reception area, where stack-back windows and doors reveal breath-taking views.

“Our goal was to create an elegant ballroom space with design details that serve as a subtle backdrop for countless future events. The ceiling and frieze design in the main space are focal points we carefully refined. As you move through the venue, volumes open up, and the ceiling details come together to reveal the design story,” adds van der Merwe. “Because of its prominent, elevated position, the ceiling’s design even draws attention from passing motorists.”

This project was one of collaboration and a great team that included contractors Zabicon who pulled off a few miracles in a very tight deadline, Dudley & Son were responsible for taking the ceiling and frieze design and making it even better than imagined, Paul Pamboukian lighting for their lighting design and Tim Steyn was responsible for the  landscaping.

The Forum Hyde Park is set to become the premier choice for those seeking a sophisticated, versatile venue for unforgettable events in Johannesburg.

 Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Tems has announced South African sensation Elaine as a special guest on her "Born In The Wild Tour", plus MTV Base joins as an official media partner!

Elaine joins the "Born In The Wild Tour" as a special guest, bringing her soulful voice and chart-topping hits to the stage. Known for her breakthrough EP Elements and her distinctive style, Elaine has captivated audiences locally and internationally. Her presence on the tour is set to add an unforgettable South African flair to this extraordinary event.

"Partnering with Tems for this highly anticipated concert is a momentous occasion for us.  At MTV Base, we are always eager to support and showcase African artists who are shaping the future of music. This concert represents the power of music to connect us all, and we're thrilled to be a part of this unforgettable experience" said Monde Twala, SVP and GM of Paramount Africa.

Tems will perform at The Dome, Nasrec, Johannesburg, which opens in January 2025. This highly anticipated concert promises to showcase Tems signature sound and powerful stage presence, making it a must-see event for fans. Powered by Y and MTV Base. Another Big Concerts Experience.

The Maslow Sandton’s new Executive Sous Chef, Thokozane Shongwe, has honed his craft in several hotel kitchens across Johannesburg for the past twenty years, combining this training with a blend of formal education and competition exposure.

Shongwe, 38, is no stranger to the world of food. “I grew up in the butchery trade; my father was a butcher in Tembisa and I was dissecting entire carcasses from the age of 15.” This early immersion in meat processing, combined with a hands-on kitchen start as a sculler in a hotel kitchen after matric, laid the foundation for his career. He completed a professional cookery qualification through a learnership, and a City and Guild qualification from the HTA School of Culinary Art.

“I was introduced to competitions at an early age, and it developed my confidence. It has always been a journey of learning, making decisions - maybe some wrong, but all contributing to making me who I am today.”

He describes his style of cuisine as Afro-fusion, merging African flavours with traditional cooking techniques such as French influences, to create innovative dishes. “My signature dish, pap n vleis, is an ostrich steak herb-crusted with pap arancini, chakalaka purée, and a spinach cream.” At home with his children, Shongwe makes various pastas, from carbonara to chicken, exposing his children to different flavours to develop their palates.

Formerly an Executive Chef at a three-star hotel in Johannesburg, Shongwe has cooked for famous people including a former president of South Africa, the King of Swaziland and musicians Pharrell Williams, Ne-Yo.

Having learnt from great chefs during his career such as Siyabulela Kobo, Junior Culinary team coach for the SA Chefs Association, who showed Shongwe the potential of what food could be; and the former president of the SA Chef Association, James Khoza, who showed humbleness in leadership in spite of all he has achieved, he laments the new generation of chefs. “There is currently a shortage of chefs coming into the industry, and people don’t want to work hard to hone their skills. It takes time, yet today’s younger generation are not patient and willing to work the lines to develop their crafts. The shortage of chefs also means these youngsters are often put into positions they are not ready for.”

As a result, Shongwe places great importance on nurturing his team and is focused on developing The Maslow’s chefs from entry-level to senior-level to their best ability, while running a kitchen that adheres to the highest hygiene standards. “I stay motivated by knowing that knowledge doesn’t have a limit – you can always improve yourself. My end goal is to be the best version of a chef, passing on knowledge to the next generation.”

Together with The Maslow’s Executive Chef Ofentse Morake, Shongwe is focused on developing a new menu for the first quarter of 2025, with emphasis on meat cooked on an open flame “for smoky, wood-fired flavours that are both colourful and light on the palate”.

“I love the adrenalin and rush of being in service, and the fulfilment on people’s faces when they are enjoying their food.”

When he’s not in the kitchen, Shongwe enjoys reading books and spending time with his kids.

Shongwe is enthusiastic about his new role as part of The Maslow’s kitchen team, which is responsible for conferencing, special events including weddings and baby showers, the renowned buffet breakfast, in-room dining as well as the Lacuna Bistro and Bar.

“I’m really enjoying working with my new brigade. I feel at home, and we’re working together to achieve something exceptional.”

Masterminds@Play, the latest initiative from Mindful Masterminds, has officially opened its doors at Fourways Mall. This dynamic, woman-owned business is on a mission to empower South Africa’s next generation through the transformative combination of technology, innovation, and play.

Led by CEO and founder Avashna Ramnarain, Masterminds@Play strives to build a community where every child becomes a hero, every woman is empowered, and every leader prioritises Africa's future. 

The opening of the Masterminds@Play store marks the launch of a transformative learning space, where technology and play come together to inspire creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. The superhero-themed mini-city encourages children to discover their unique strengths and build resilience. With state-of-the-art VR technology and STEM-focused zones such as Virtual Visionaries and the Super Science Lab, children can enhance their critical thinking skills, embrace technology, and gain confidence through immersive learning experiences.

“As a collective of forward-thinking, diverse minds, we are committed to nurturing a more inclusive and harmonious society. Our goal is to positively shape young minds, focusing on children, women, diversity, inclusion, and equitable employment to nurture future leaders in Africa,” says Ramnarain.

She explains that Masterminds@Play balances digital innovation with real-world play. “Children can engage in experiences that spark curiosity and creativity, for example, the Tree of Knowledge for reading and the Imagination Station for role-play, nurture confidence, and social skills.”

In line with its mission, Masterminds@Play has garnered the attention of prominent sponsors, including Epson, & Lenovo. Epson’s interactive laser projectors have enabled the venue to create dynamic learning environments in which children can engage with digital content in a highly interactive way. 

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Masterminds@Play,” says Timothy Thomas, Country Manager at Epson South Africa. “It combines our leading projection technology with their vision for educational innovation. Through this partnership, we’re helping create engaging, interactive environments where children can explore, learn, and grow.”

Lenovo provides the tech backbone for many of the activities, equipping the store with the PC hardware necessary to run its experiences smoothly. Yugen Naidoo, General Manager at Lenovo South Africa, shares, “At Lenovo, we believe in the power of technology to transform lives. Partnering with Masterminds@Play allows us to support the next generation of innovators with the tools they need to thrive in a tech-driven world. Together, we empower children to unlock their full potential through immersive learning experiences.”

In addition, Nestlé has generously agreed to donate Milo towards Masterminds@Play’s Free Expression Fridays social responsibility program through which children receive complimentary meals along with access to technology, ensuring that they engage their minds while receiving the nourishment they need to succeed. This initiative also provides access to underserved communities, making a meaningful impact across various socioeconomic backgrounds. The inclusive environment is designed to inspire creativity and growth while promoting community development.

The store’s offerings don’t stop at individual visits. Masterminds@Play caters for group bookings, birthday parties, and corporate venue hire, creating a tech-driven environment for training and events. With this holistic approach, the business ensures that learning is not only accessible but also engaging and empowering for children in grades one to 12, from all backgrounds.

Masterminds@Play envisions its new store as a catalyst for community enrichment and cohesion. Beyond providing technology learning, the space aims to cultivate family bonding through shared experiences, and the onsite store offers technology and educational toys to continue learning at home. Moreover, it also serves as a platform for local artisans to showcase their work, thereby contributing to the local economy. 

 Celebrating 21 years of this fan-favourite, this season’s line-up features the largest PSL selection ever, with both classic flavours and innovative new creations to delight your senses.

“We’re not just bringing back the original Pumpkin Spice Latte; we’re celebrating what it represents – originality, authenticity, and embracing life’s quirks and imperfections. These values are at the heart of Starbucks,” says Adrian Maizey, CEO of Starbucks South Africa.

A Springtime Celebration of Flavour

This year’s PSL range is the most extensive yet, featuring a mix of familiar classics and bold new blends. Enjoy the signature Pumpkin Spice Latte in both hot and iced versions or discover new favourites like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and Pumpkin Cream Iced Chai Latte – perfect for those warm spring days.

Returning seasonal treats, such as the Salted Maple and Caramel Latte (hot and iced) and the Salted Maple Caramel Cream Cold Brew, are back by popular demand. Each drink has been thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the season and Starbucks’ philosophy of embracing progress over perfection.

More Than Just a Beverage – A Tradition

The PSL has evolved into more than just a seasonal offering; it’s a tradition. This year, Starbucks celebrates the 21st anniversary of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, a drink that has become a beloved part of the brand’s identity and a seasonal staple around the world. Starbucks invites long-time fans and newcomers alike to be part of the ongoing PSL journey by sampling each unique flavour.

“The asymmetry of our Siren logo is a reminder that true beauty lies in imperfections, and our drinks reflect this philosophy. It’s not just about the finished product but the journey that got us there,” adds Maizey.

Nicci Boutiques has partnered with PinkDrive this Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a beautiful initiative that drives awareness around breast cancer, and educating women - and men - around breast cancer. 

The initiative sees Nicci Boutiques stores nationwide offering lovely limited-edition, locally-made bracelets, with the proceeds going to PinkDrive to further enable its reach and impact.

Breast cancer is a universal disease, one that can be combatted through education and awareness. “Through information and access to health services, together, we can tackle the prevalence of breast cancer. We encourage people to think pink this October and beyond,” says Niki Breger, Co-Founder of Nicci. 

“PinkDrive is incredibly grateful for the ongoing partnership with Nicci, which goes beyond raising funds but is a collaboration to increase awareness of breast cancer and encouraging all women to get screened,” shared Nelius du Preez, Operations Manager at PinkDrive. 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October has been designated as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" in South Africa, reflecting a nationwide drive by both public and private sectors to combat this debilitating disease that impacts all races and classes. 

Most foreign tourists want to visit one of SA’s game parks to see the big five. This is understandable as lions, gnus, wildebeest, etc. do not roam the green pastures of their home countries. Unfortunately, viewing in game parks must be done from the safe confines of a vehicle.

For people who really enjoy a walk in the veld, there is an amazing nature reserve right in the heart of Joburg - Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and Joburg Heritage site. It is possible to walk here because the reserve only boasts the small big five (Leopard tortoise, Buffalo weaver, Ant lion, Elephant shrew and  Rhino beetle) which pose no danger. You will not see large game here as they were hunted to extinction many years ago. A small elusive creature you may catch a glimpse of could be a slender mongoose. Endemic snakes are rarely seen as they escape very quickly into the long grass when they feel the vibrations of footsteps. This is a good incentive to stay on the paths! Bird lovers are also in for a treat. Over 200 birds have been recorded at Melville Koppies.

A walk in Jozi’s veld includes a meander through grasslands, cool forested areas, rocky ridges with panoramic views, a bubbling little river and even an archaeological site. Maps are provided for the 5km trail which loops around the reserve.

The vegetation is all indigenous to the area and survives frost, drought, fire, rain, grazing and thin acidic soils. A unique tree at Melville Koppies is the Parinari capensis which is so paranoid about threats that the whole tree has gone ‘underground’ for protection, except for the canopy of leaves that spread like a carpet on the surface. The ridges also support sweet-smelling Wild Apricot creepers and edible fruit of Stamvrug trees.  After winter fires, pre-rain spring veld flowers dot the veld in splashes of bright colour. In summer the different grasses come into their own. By autumn the grassveld is a shimmering haze of shades of gold. Only 2% of grasslands like these at Melville Koppies are preserved in South Africa. This makes the 50ha Joburg reserve with its rich biodiversity so important to protect for future generations.

‘Koppies’ means little hills which is a misnomer as Melville Koppies is actually part of a series of ridges that run east to west for about 50kms, part of the ancient exposed 3 billion year-old Witwatersrand Supergroup.  Rivers and streams flow north from this ‘Ridge of White Waters’ into the warm Indian Ocean and south to the cold Atlantic. The quartzite rocks of the ridges protect unique trees and shrubs from the fires that often sweep through the grasslands. The grassy valleys in between are composed of softer shale.

The heritage of Melville Koppies is crowned by the best, well-preserved 500-year-old iron smelting furnace in South Africa. This was used by the early Sotho and Tswana farmers who had migrated from the north of Africa. In addition, tools of Early, Middle and Late Stone Age people have been found at Melville Koppies by archaeologists. Modern man has also left traces of his efforts at gold prospecting. Fortunately these were unsuccessful otherwise Melville Koppies could have been flattened by a mine dump.