Christl Weinbeck

Christl Weinbeck is a young, up-and-coming actress from Pretoria.

She studied acting at the Tshwane University of Technology and has performed in several major theatre productions.

This year, got her first TV acting role in the new show Binneland Sub Judice as Nadia Da Costa, the youngest article clerk in the law firm.

She is a dreamer, a lover of nature and beauty and a part-time vocalist in the Oh So Serious Folk Collective, which released it’s debut album and performed at Oppikoppi earlier in the year.

Questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: The lovely, sensational Miss Christl Weinbeck!!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: Im a vegetarian, speak Portuguese,collect bells and have my own language I sometimes write poetry in!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Sleeping late and indulging in dreaming, walking in nature, picnicking with loved ones and watching DVDs in bed with my guy!

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South African would you want it to be?

A: A long wood and cement house nestled in a mountain, overlooking the ocean with a waterfall as a pool!!

Stone’s throw from the beach and Snake free!!!lots of rooms to rent out to passing travellers, a long wooden walkway strewn with hammocks, a yoga/reiki/meditation room, a recording studio for the inspired, a stage for performing artists, a massive vegetable garden alongside a massive open plan kitchen with a communal dining table. Lots of pets: rabbits, pot belly pigs, ducks, chickens, fish, dogs, a donkey and, and, and…!

I’m not quite sure where I would want this magical dream house to be as I must still thoroughly explore my country but it would definately be in a quaint, community driven town/ village where time stands still.

Career

Q: You started working on Binelanders Sub Judice early this year. How has the experience changed your life?

A: It has been an incredible journey of growth, filled with challenges that I have had to learn to conquer. With no camera training prior to my role I have had to adapt, learn, understand and accept the medium while trying to create a truthfull character and keep my sanity!!

Q: What do you most enjoy about working in the local TV industry?

A: Seeing for myself what it’s really like, meeting all the faces that tell our stories and being ONE amongst them.

Q: How do you prepare before you act in your scenes?

A: Learn words thoroughly well as it allows your instinct the freedom for spontaneous and truthfull reactions. A cluttered mind suffocates a truthfull performance. Breathe!!!!

Q: What can we look forward to from you in the near future?

A: It’s been a long year. I’m going to go to the sea and dream up all sorts of incredible things to do still, and create. So, watch this space.

Q: How did you feel the first time you saw yourself performing on TV?

A: It was awkward!!!But… it was also good to study myself, those around me and what and how things are put together. Discernment is healthy. Criticism is not.

Life in South Africa

Q: What do you enjoy most about living in South Africa?

A: Being close to my dad.

Q: When asked about crime in South Africa, what is your response?

A: There is crime everywhere but my goodness is it violent in South Africa or what! There is so much bitterness, anger and guilt driving the people of this country. Talking about it upsets me. It is unfair that because of these inconsiderate, criminal people, we are forced to live such suffocated, introverted lives. We should feel free and safe in our land and amongst those around us.. It is affecting the way we socialise with one another.

Q: To which three local attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: The Union Buildings for a picnic, coffee at Cafe Ricci Church Square Pretoria then a photographic exploration through town and a road trip through the Free State!

Q: South Africa’s greatest acting export is?

A: Me, but I have not yet arrived! x

Relebogile Mabotja

Izimvo is excited to introduce Relebogile Mabotja. You may recognise her from ETV’s Rhythm City, where she plays the role of Mpumi.

Lebo got her big break when she was selected to play Mabel in Fame-The Musical at age 17, which earned her a Naledi Award for Best New Comer Female and Best Female in a musical. From there things took off and she began presenting for CrazE before appearing on Home Affairs, Generations, Zone 14 and Kompleks. Most recently she is the presenter of a new reality TV show on SABC 1 called, Dance Your Butt Off.

The show features 12 overweight constants who dance and diet and gym to shed weight for the winning prize. Lebo is also a musician who performs regularly at events and corporate functions with her band and has shared the stage with some of SA’s finest talent.

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: Actress, singer and presenter, Relebogile Mabotja.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favourite movie.

A: I absolutely hate rats. I can do snakes and am kinda ok with spiders, but rats, even just seeing them, freaks me out.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Pyjamas, couch, series re-runs and popcorn…*bliss

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South African would you want it to be?

A: My dream home combines my upbringing with my current dreams. I love comfort and to entertain people, but also love the idea of children growing up on a farm. So I see a mansion on a farm, where I can fit a plot…hehehe. Somewhere quiet but not too far from my other life.

Career

Q: You’re currently working on Dance your Butt Off on SABC1. How has the response been to the show?

A: The response has been overwhelmingly great. So many people are inspired by the show, but mostly entertained. There are a few people who are uncomfortable with the thought of overweight people dancing on TV and with myself being the presenter, but they continue to watch the show anyways.

Q: Of your achievements in the music/ acting industry, what are you most proud of?

A: I have been nominated for and have received numerous awards for my work, but I am most proud of the fact that I have had to opportunity to work with the amazing people I have admired throughout my life. I have become friends with the musicians whose music I danced to as a child and the actors I watched on screen. When that happened, I felt like, ok, I am here now, I am proud, next stop, Hollywood!!!

Q: Being a character on a regular show, do people often confuse you with that character?

A: Always. It’s something I have accepted, to the point that I may have to change my ID to have all of my names officially…hehehe

Q: What are your career plans for the near future?

A: I am dying for a new challenge and I feel that that I should look at radio. I am also a television producer, but now I want to create a show, see it till the end and know that I was all me! I would also love to go back and focus on my music and share this with the world.

Q: How did you feel the first time you saw yourself performing on TV?

A: My first time I saw myself on screen was for an interview for my first professional work in the theatre, Fame –The Musical, when I was just 17. I must have called everyone I know beforehand and when it aired, I was crazy excited! I could not believe that the country was watching me and my work. It was surreal.

Q: If you had to choose between singing and acting, which would you choose?

A: What a corner you have placed me in…I would choose singing. Music is my first love and when I perform, there is an element of acting and taking on a stage character of sort. I also feel that this is one aspect of my career that I am far from having fully explored. Let’s hope I never have to make that choice.

Life in South Africa

Q: What do you enjoy most about living in South Africa?

A: Our country is diverse and exciting. You can find wildlife, winelands, beach, sun, warm winters, occasional snow, modern city life that houses entertainment and fashion. Our people are friendly and hospitable and it’s amazing to have seen that we proved the world and ourselves wrong by putting on a world class event.

Q: When asked about crime in South Africa, what is your response?

A: Every country has crime and it is a pity that many people leave our country due to this. South Africa is a work in progress and has so much more to offer than just violence and fear. I love Mzansi to bits and will always be a proud representative of it. We have uTata Mandela, the father of the world, and no other country has anything on that!

Q: To which three local attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: Robben Island in Cape Town – It’s touching and educational and puts the reality of Madiba’s story into perspective. Orlando Cooling Towers for a Bunjee Jump – I am a huge fan of adventure sports and being there you get a view of the most famous township in our country, the amazing artwork of the heroes we have produced as well as a thrill to welcome you to the “motherland”. Kruger National Park – when people arrive to find that we don’t have lions in our back yards, it is great to take them to where our wild animals are. We host the big 5 and once a visitor has seen all of this, there’s no better way to end of the day with a braai in the park!

Q: South Africa’s greatest musical/ acting export is?

A: Our greatest living musical export would have to be Sibongile Khumalo for me. She can shift from opera, classical music, jazz to our local classics, singing in many different languages of the world…what a lady! Our acting export of course would have to be Charlize Theron. She has shone the light on our country to the rest of the world and has opened many doors to the rest of us.

Vanessa Haywood

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing talented actress, model and business woman; Vanessa Haywood.

Propelled into the international spotlight for her leading role as Tania in the 2009 smash hit District 9, Vanessa  is not only a talented actress but also a successful business woman, model and sports woman.  Some of Vanessa’s many career highlights include roles in “Hey Boy” and “Blood Diamond“, Shape Magazine’s Cover Look of the Year winner in 2007 and 4th place in the 2005 international Miss Fitness competition.

Website: http://www.vanessahaywood.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/VanHaywood
Location: Cape Town

Vanessa was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: THE “One and Only”…. Vanessa Haywood!!! Ha ha! Just kidding! Actress and business woman, Vanessa Haywood??

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite scene in a movie.

A: I am completely terrified of spiders. I have proper arachnophobia.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Riding on my mountain bike, going for a walk on the mountain, reading, watching a movie.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: Dream holiday is spent doing nothing but reading, running, cycling, sleeping and watching movies! I’m in love with the wild and grew up on various game farms so I’d love to spend time at a luxury game farm anywhere in SA!

South African Film

Q: South African film has gone through a renaissance with the recent success of movies such as Totsi and District 9. To what would you attribute the success and do you feel that enough is being done to promote South African film to local audiences?

A: We have great “movie makers” in SA! Our production companies are world-class, professional and very hard-working. We have amazing crews and very good actors. I really don’t think enough is being done for actual South African films though and they are not marketed nearly well enough!

Q: How did the District 9 adventure start for you and looking back, what did you enjoy the most from the experience? Did you ever expect it would become the international blockbuster it did?

A: It all started with an audition… and then a few call backs… and then the phone call saying “You got it!” I enjoyed every moment on set but the defining moment was definitely when we watched the pre-screening a week before the premier when my name appeared on the screen. It was surreal! We all knew that District 9 would be successful but not that it would be at number 1 world-wide for weeks and rake in so much cash!

Q: Do you have any news regarding a District 9 sequel? Do you think Tania and Wikus will ever reunite?

A: I don’t! I know it’s on the cards but nothing set in stone as yet! I hope Wikus and Tania will reunite and I hope Tania gets to kick some butt in the sequel too! Ha ha! I’m an action gal!

Q: Which young South African film makers have recently impressed you and who do you consider as South Africa’s greatest film maker?

A: Neil Blomkamp (District 9 – obviously!), Gavin Hood (Tsotsi) , Jan Turner (White Wedding)

Q: What advice would you offer those wanting a career in film?

A: Mmmm…. persevere! It is an extremely difficult industry which doesn’t depend only on how good an actor you are! It involves your education, background, networking, experience and a whole lot of luck! Set yourself a time period and if you haven’t got any roles by a certain date, it’s time to move on! You don’t want to be stuck running after your dream your whole life when it’s simply not meant to be!

Life in South Africa

Q: What do you enjoy most about being a South African?

A: I am proudly South African because we are such friendly, warm-hearted people in general! I have traveled all over the world and have lived in many places but there is no place like home! The beauty of this country is also something you cannot find anywhere else in the world!

Q: What advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: It’s not nearly as dangerous as you think! Like any other place in the world, look after your valuables and don’t visit dodgy areas. Absorb our diverse cultures, eat our food, visit our beautiful popular sights like Table Mountain and historical places like the Castle of Good Hope.

Q: Looking back, what was your favorite moment of the recent Soccer World Cup?

A: Watching the Spain – Portugal game live at Green Point stadium in Cape Town! What a vibe!?

Q: Favorite holiday destination for a relaxing holiday with family?

A: We had many family holidays on the South Coast when I was younger. I have so many fond memories of that area and those holidays!

General

Q: You have recently completed the grueling BIG 5 challenge raising money and awareness for Starfish Greathearts Foundation. Tell us about the challenge and why you selected Starfish as your charity?

A: The Big 5 involved 218km of running and cycling over a few days. 50km Mountain bike race, 100km road bike race, XTerra (off-road) Duathlon, 21km half marathon, 15km trail run. I chose the Starfish Foundation as it’s a foundation close to my heart. They look after children affected or orphaned by HIV/AIDS. I lost a friend to AIDS and her children are now all alone!

Q: Which 80′s television series remake would you most like to star in?

cheetara

A: Mmmm…. Cheetara from Thundercats! Would love to do an action film with loads of special effects and martial arts!

Q: If you could invite any three South African personalities to join you for a long weekend break, who would you invite and which destination would you pick?

A: Trevor Noah (comedian) to make me laugh and keep the group entertained! Ryan Sandes (my other half- world champion ultra marathon trail runner) cos he’s a big part of my life. Jo-Anne Strauss (Miss SA 2000) – she’s been a friend since the year we were both Miss SA finalists in 2000 and I love her to bits! I’d take them to my friend’s game farm, Kichaka in the Eastern Cape. I’ve been there with friends before and we had the best time ever!!!

Q: As a fitness athlete you placed 4th in the international Miss Fitness competition and were chosen as Shape’s 2007 cover of the year. Do you have any health and fitness secrets for those wanting to improve their overall fitness?

A: Life is all about balance! Eat well, exercise a few times a week, sleep/relax enough, laugh a lot, wear sunblock always, don’t smoke and don’t drink excessively. As far as fitness is concerned, the best thing to do is exercise regularly! Try get to gym/power walk/cycle/run at least 3 times a week.

Q: What advice would you offer parents whose children display a natural talent for the performing arts from a young age?

A: Wow! I’ve never been asked that! Well, I would never discourage my children from doing something they love. The only problem with the film industry is that it doesn’t have a lot to do with talent… your location, drama education, agent and who you know have a lot to do with your success. Your talent is only a part of the whole equation. It has a lot to do with luck which is unfair! As far as musical and dancing talent is concerned… parents must always encourage children to pursue their talents!

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Someone like Elizabeth Taylor. She’s not going to be around for much longer and she is a legend! She’s had a crazy, incredible life. I’d ask her all about her journey into film and her experiences.

We’d like to thank Vanessa for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her every success for the future.

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Tanit Phoenix

Izimvo is honoured to introduce the talented Tanit Phoenix.

As one of South Africa’s most gorgeous super models and rising international actors, Durban born Tanit began her modeling career at the young age of 15. Tanit broke on to the international scene after staring in a German commercial and soon after was crowned 1994 Woman-of-the-year by European Maxim.

Tanit’s film career includes Lord of War with Nicolas Cage, Lost Boys: the Thirst with Corey Feldman and Gallowwalker with Wesley Snipes. Tanit has recently completed the soon to be released movie adaptation of Spud in which she plays Ms Eve Wilson.

Website: http://www.tanitphoenix.co.za
IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1801063
Blog: http://www.tanitphoenix.co.za/blog

Tanit was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced if you were presenting an award at the Oscars?

A: What an honour! By then I will be a multiple award-winning actress myself and my name would speak for itself. :)

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite scene in a movie.

A: I have been studying Metaphysics, Quantum Physics, World Religion and Anthropology over the past few years, and was raised in a family of deep thinkers… philosophers. I believe Spirituality is not just an awareness that there is more in the universe than what we see every day, but that we are the very reason why everything is the way it is. We are faced with the very fact that our own conscious thoughts (wave vibrations with magnetic attractions) are creating what we see and feel in our own lives, in the world.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I travel, to 3rd world countries. I want to see the world as the people who live in the places I travel to do. Inspired by culture and music and a sense of freedom, I want to explore who I am and my limitations, so far I have learnt I have very few. The most interesting thing though is that I do not need much more than the backpack I carry. I love travelling. I have lived in the jungle with the local tribe people and worked very closely with wild animals.

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South Africa would you like it to be?

A: A self sustainable Eco friendly home, non evasive to the environment and definitely on a property that has fresh mountain water… It would be in a very tropical place away from electricity, perhaps I would buy land in South Africa to create this project but it more than likely will be in Asia or South America close the warm ocean but high up on a hill or on a mountain side surrounded by coconut palms and enough land to farm organic herbs, fruits and veggies.

I also study self sustainable living, medicinal plants and organic farming, so my dream home would comprise of efficient ways to make energy and store it, I would only use water that flowed from the mountain on my farm and only eat foods grown on my land.

To live like this really does not mean you are going backwards, but rather that you are allowing yourself to have a healthier and more energetic life. With what we know today, I have no doubt it is actually a massive advancement in evolution of our consciousness. I believe we can only evolve when we enable ourselves to think out of the normal conditions we are faced with in today’s world. And that starts from the foods we eat, to the water we drink. (What many people do not realise is that foods carry a vibration of energy and the fresher the food the higher the energy contained. Basically your brain synapses fire faster with foods that contain a higher vibrational frequency, allowing you to assimilate information at a faster rate. In essence, We heighten our IQ and can process thoughts quicker.) I find this fascinating and want to give my (future) children a chance to live the way we should be living today.

Acting in South Africa

Q: South African film has gone through a renaissance with the recent success of movies such as Totsi, District 9 and now “Life, Above All”. To what would you attribute the recent success and do you feel that enough is being done to promote South African film to local audiences?

A: I have just had this discussion with “Hollywood Reporter“, and today South Africa is very hot property. There is a lot of waves being made, we have multi talented film makers and script writers and actors waiting for their chance to show the world what they are capable of. Although, I feel our industry members are being exploited when international films do decide to shoot in SA, we earn far less than our American friends and we have no union to back us up. I do however believe this will change in time as the industry grows, and South Africa makes it mark internationally.

Q: You’ve recently wrapped production on the movie adaptation of Spud. Tell us a little about your role as the drama teacher, Mrs Eve Wilson and what it was like working with John Cleese?

A: Eve Wilson is the free-spirited drama teacher that has an affair with a 15 year old boy. I had fun with her character. She has a way about her that intrigues the boys, and she crosses the line without really thinking about the circumstances, being so open to expression and her feelings about freedom. She is recently estranged from her husband, I guess Eve starts to enjoy the flirtatious behaviour from the boys, particularly from one boy named Robert/Rambo.

John Cleese was great to work with, he hugged me a lot, haha. He truly is wonderful man, we first met when I bumped into him off set on the farm I was staying at close to the Michael house school. He asked me my name once and then started to call me Phoenix. I remember one scene where I walked onto stage on the scene rehearsal for the school play ‘Oliver Twist’. Cameras were rolling and I had Spud’s Blond wig in my hand, before I knew it I had tripped over a wooden step and went flying onto the stage, it was very comical. John then said laughing, ‘You don’t have to overact it darling.’ Everyone just burst out laughing. I almost broke my toe in the process.

Q: Can you give us an insight into the daily life of an actor? Is it really as glamorous as it seems?

A: Oh I find it tremendously glamorous, but in a different way than what you are expecting me to say. Learning pages and pages of script, getting into the mind of a character, letting it take over your own identity, and I have become so good at accents, I love playing around with tone and dialect, and then figuring out how I would emote with the words in the script. Oh I love my job! It is a lot of homework, I take my work very seriously!

For me it’s not about celebrity parties, red carpets and cameras flashing, it is about doing something that scares me, to lose myself in the mind of character I am playing, which I find myself doing more and more with every film I choose to do. My love life suffered from this, as recently my boyfriend had a hard time distinguishing me from the person I was playing. It was a big learning curve for both of us, but amazing too. To be that person in the situation that’s been scripted, that is the real thrill, to make the audience so enraptured in your performance that they carry that feeling with them for a lifetime.

Q: Which young South African actors have recently impressed you the most and who would you consider as South Africa’s greatest actor?

A: I liked working with Troye Sivan, who played the character of Spud from the film adaptation of John Van Ruit’s books. Troye grew up in Joburg and then moved to Australia, he is very polite and professional. I guess having his mom around him 24/7 helps. Young actors, models, musicians etc. who have no grounding or guiding parent, stand the chance of falling prey to bad habits and bad behaviour. I take my hat off to Troye’s mom for being so on hand with his career.

South Africa’s greatest Actor for me is still Charlize Theron. She is brilliant with her portrayal of all the characters she has played so far. I would love to shoot a film with her.

Q: If you had to select only one of your performances to represent your body of work, which would you pick and why?

A: My recent film: Death Race. It was a very intense role as it was really my first opportunity to play lead in such a huge Hollywood production by Universal Studios. I played opposite Sean Bean, Ving Rhames, Luke Goss and Danny Trejo as a military sniper who is sent to jail for killing her superior officer.

Through the journey of the film you learn why I am so hard ass, and why I slowly begin to fall in love with the lead actor played by Luke Goss. Luke is burnt alive in a car accident in one of the last scenes, and I have never put so much of myself out there before, with so much emotion in front of so many people. In the scene Luke’s car explodes, and is lying upside down in full flame. I run into the warehouse, and its revealed how I truly feel for Luke. Danny Trejo runs in and tries to hold me back while I fight him off me, in tears I scream for people to help Luke. The director was on the steady cam, shooting high-speed film, 360 degree walking around me. We shot the scene a few times, and it was exhausting, intense and scary; and so very fulfilling, I am very proud of myself. From that day I know what I am capable of and how much more I want to give. The head of Universal Studios came to me after seeing the daily’s and told me the studio is thrilled to have found me here in SA.

Q: What can we look forward to from Tanit Phoenix for the remainder of the year and beyond?

A: I have 4 movies coming out this year. I shot a short film that will be airing at Sun-dance film festival, and I have a few more films up my sleeve that I am unable to speak about right now due to their nature of being confidential. I have 2 covers coming out, Cosmopolitan and Marie Claire. I am facing my acting career head on. I feel alive and excited and so focused and I want directors and producers to take me seriously. For this reason I have taken it easy on my modelling career. Although, I do have a wonderful Woolworths lingerie campaign coming out, very HOT! I am still doing a few TV commercials here and there, but my focus now, is on being known as the top actress in SA, and taking on leading American actress’s in the states.

Life in South Africa

Q: What do you miss most about life in South Africa when away for extended periods of time?

A: The care free way of living. I love that about coming home, I feel like I can just be real and wear my flip-flops and shorts and cycle to the beach. I miss marmite and my dog Indie and my mom and her amazing hugs. I love being able to wake up in my own bed and call my sister any time of the day.

Q: When asked internationally about crime in South Africa, how do you respond?

A: It is a sad issue, but really, it’s about taking care of yourself and your belongings and being street smart! I travel to 1st, 2nd and 3rd world countries all over the world, it’s the same everywhere. So I tell internationals, if you are going to carry your camera around your neck, wear a ring on each finger, leave your house unlocked or your bags on your front seat of your car while you are away from your car, expect to get robbed.

Q: What advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: I always suggest to do a road trip! Make a list of great wine farms, the best sites to see i.e. the Kruger, and the best places for actions sports like Wind Surfing and Scuba diving, don’t leave out the Bungi jump at Bloukrans. Then start in Cape town, hire a car, take a good map and do the wilderness coastal road trip all the way up to Durban. Then head through the Karoo on the way back. It is undoubtedly the best way to see SA. Don’t forget to eat at as many seafood restaurants as you can! And try our Biltong…

General

Q: What was it about being an actress that first attracted you and if you had not become an actress, which career path do you think you would’ve selected?

A: I wanted to be an astronaut from a very young age. I have a very inquisitive mind and a wild imagination. So, naturally I wanted to travel space in search of other worlds (the possibility of other life in the universe fascinated me). I was a very shy girl growing up, with a hidden desire for self-expression. It did not take me long to get into modelling and My passion for travel took over. Travelling the world was such an eye opener. Then suddenly, While in Paris, I was stopped by a passerby. The man suggested I audition for a film called Alexander the Great. At that stage I had never taken an acting class, and it suddenly struck me, this is what I want to do. So I took his advice, rocked up at the audition, with absolutely no experience and later found out I had cast for the role that Angelina Jolie played. It was exhilarating. I then made it my mission to expand my knowledge of acting.

Q: If you could invite three actors from any era to dinner, who would you invite and what South African dish would you serve?

A: Oh only 3? Why?? I am in love with so many different actors for so many reasons.. For their different ways in portraying characters.. oh my.. Ok, then it will have to be Meryl Streep, Anthony Hopkins and Audrey Hepburn. I would serve our finest seafood: Cob, yellowtail, Tuna, salmon, oysters, calamari, crayfish, crab and prawns on the braai with an array of mouth-watering salads, butternut feta and spinach, and mielies, not to forget the traditional pap and sous! haha

Q: What advice would you offer parents whose children display a natural talent for the performing arts from a young age?

A: Support them, encourage them and be at their side when they need you. Children need to know they can be anything they set their minds on and hearts too. Anyone can be the best at something they want, as long as they have a guiding hand making sure they stay on the right path without getting lured into bad habits and bad company.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Nikola Tesla, but he is not with us anymore.. ‘Tesla built the Wardenclyffe laboratory and its famous transmitting tower in Shoreham, Long Island between 1901 and 1905. This huge landmark was 187 feet high, capped by a 68-foot copper dome which housed the magnifying transmitter. It was planned to be the first broadcast system, transmitting both signals and power without wires to any point on the globe. The huge magnifying transmitter, discharging high frequency electricity, would turn the earth into a gigantic dynamo which would project its electricity in unlimited amounts anywhere in the world.’

I would ask him what inspired him and then what he thinks of time travel.

We’d like to thank Tanit for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her every success for the future.

Reminder to follow @izimvo on twitter for regular updates and our Facebook page to submit question and interviewee suggestions. You can also follow all our previous interviewees on Twitter at http//twitter.com/izimvo/interviewees

GiGi

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing the winner of South Africa’s first celebrity Survivor; GiGi.

Recently voted as the winner of M-Net’s Survivor South Africa: Santa Caroline, GiGi beat out 14 celebrity contestants to walk away with the show’s first prize of a million Rand. By winning the competition, GiGi earned R500 000 for herself and R500 000 for Hospice, her charity of choice.

GiGi, a trained actress, has appeared in the successful Nipplecaps and G-strings stage production, sun City’s Spellbound and has been seen on the big screen in Poena is Koning. GiGi is also well-known as the owner of The Lollipop Lounge, an exotic dance club in Johannesburg.

Website: http://www.gigi.co.za
Location: Johannesburg

GiGi was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: GiGi, winner of Survivor S.A., business women and actress.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I was born with six fingers, on every hand. My father was a composer of classical music.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I particularly enjoy going to the Overberg, especially Franskraal.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South Africa would you like it to be?

A: A home away from home with all necessities that prevent you having to pack for a holiday. The Kelders outside Gaansbaai, where the whales gather to breed.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property – Looking for the ultimate home in the Western Cape? How about this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home right on the rocks with views from the lighthouse at Hangklip all the way to the lighthouse at Cape Point.

Winning Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina

Q: Congratulations on winning Survivor Santa Caroline! Now that you’ve had some time to reflect on the experience, what did you most enjoy about your time on the island and what is the one piece of advice would you offer future contestants?

A: I enjoyed the fact that there were no cell phone calls to answer or emails to write, just the silence was wonderful. The beauty of the location was also spectacular. Be prepared to be REALLY, REALLY, HUNGRY.

Q: Survivor managed to raise R2.27 million for 17 local charities including R530 000 for your charity, Hospice. Tell us about your history with Hospice, why you selected them as your charity on Survivor and what it was like giving them the winning cheque?

A: We, The Lollipop Lounge, have had a long history with them, my business partners wife passed away from cancer and we have since then pledged to help Hospice however we can.

Q: What were the greatest lessons your learnt about yourself during your time on the island and which of your fellow contestants surprised you the most in terms of breaking your initial perceptions of them?

A: I learned that one can do more than one at first perceives, if you apply yourself accordingly. It also taught me never to give up. Proverb surprised me the most as he stuck it out right to the end.

Q: Give us a little insight into daily life on the island?

A: Wake up, realise how hungry you are and try to scavenge for anything that you can possibly eat.

Q: What was the first thing you treated yourself to when you arrived home from the island?

A: A box of Quality Street chocolates and I do mean, the WHOLE BOX.

Q: What is the first thing you bought with your prize money from the show and what can we look forward to from GiGi in 2010 and beyond?

A: I am currently renovating parts of my entertainment venue and the prize money went a long way towards easing that burden, So you can all look forward to a BIGGER and Better Lollipop lounge.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: My sister-in-law was recently, senselessly murdered in Stellenbosch and I and my Business partner and several staff were held up by seven assailants at gun point and robbed. I was also assaulted during this robbery and can truly say that I feared for my life. I think I, my family and all other people in this country tend to admire the beauty from behind trellis fencing and spot lights.

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president. What advice would you offer him?

A: I would advise him to enter for the next celebrity survivor, as I think that he would have a clearer understanding of what it feels like to be so helpless and hungry. Who knows, it may inspire a man with such power to influence change on those to whom helplessness and hunger is not just a competition that will end in a month.

Q: If you were tasked with spending a portion of the Lotto revenues on improving South Africa, where would you start?

A: The Roads.

Q: What are your thoughts on the Soccer World Cup and the impact it will have on the local adult entertainment industry? Is Lollipop Lounge planning anything special for the duration of the tournament?

A: I and all of us in the industry are hoping that it will result in brisk trade and to that end, we at the Lollipop Lounge will be putting on shows that showcase the local flavor.

General

Q: If you could invite any three contestants from Survivor South Africa to Lollipop Lounge, who would your invite and who do you think will have the best time?

A: Ockert Brits, as just to see him blush would be worth it. Sade, as she is a dancer in an M Net presenters body and lastly, Sandi as she is pretty nifty with a hula hoop, shake it girl as you have certainly got it.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest impact on your life?

A: The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera.

Q: If the next Survivor South Africa were to be for South African politicians, which challenge would you start the season with?

A: The hardest tasks would be first to weed out the weak.

Q: If you could go back in time and give your eighteen-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Always do the things you fear most, as the end of fear is a certainty.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Mr Nelson Mandela. I would enjoy almost anything he has to talk about and if there were ever a person as well versed in overcoming challenges.

We’d like to thank GiGi for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her and the team at Lollipop Lounge every success for the future.

Ashley Hayden

Izimvo has the honour of introducing Survivor South Africa finalist: Ashley Hayden.

One of South Africa’s most popular celebrities, Ashley has been involved in the entertainment industry for over 15 years. Her career highlights include becoming a house hold name as an MNet continuity presenter, traveling the world  as the anchor for MNet’s travel programme Bon Voyage and hosting both the Miss South Africa and Mr South Africa pageants.

As an actress, Ashley has also been in numerous local and international productions. She has hosted corporate events, gala dinners, conferences, fashion shows, and awards evenings and is much in demand as a voice artist for television and radio.

Lookout for the details on how to win an Survivor South Africa hamper at the end of this interview.

Website: http://www.mnet.co.za/Survivor
Location: Santa Carolina

Ashley was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: I don’t really like to be introduces as anything – a name is enough! Besides, there are so many things that I do that it would get a bit ridiculous – “I’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hayden, Survivor, motivational speaker, voice artist, actress, television presenter and business woman!” Also I don’t like to be put in a box, so a name suffices!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I love taking long baths, which have to be accompanied by a cup of tea, the telephone, sudoku puzzle, book, specs and sometimes if I’m in for the long haul, chocolate!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: My home is my sanctuary, and the company of Charlie and the children – we hang out, braai, swim, play – it’s the nicest thing to do – i often feel scrutinised in public so being home is a private, comforting, cocooning space.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: Open plan, relaxed and comfortable, with loads of room for friends to come and stay. Ideally somewhere on the coast – where it doesn’t rain at Christmas!

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking for the affordable holiday home along the Dolphin Coast of South Africa? How about his R830k 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home in the Palm Lake Estate, Ballito?

Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina

Q: Congratulations on reaching the final two! What was your first reaction when you were first asked to be on Survivor South Africa and how long was it before you agreed to become a contestant?

A: My first reaction was…”are you nuts?!” Charlie was a lot keener on the idea than I was, as he is a huge fan of Survivor, and in the past, when the show has come on, I usually head for the bathroom for some uninterrupted reading in a deep tub. When I said to him ” How can I possibly leave you and the kids for a month” he looked at me and said in a very kind way “Dont worry, you wont be there that long”…! I decided almost immediately that I would prove him wrong!

Q: Your charity, The Homestead, is an organisation that helps South African street children. Tell us about your history with the organisation and what are some of the ways the prize money will benefit the children should you go on and win on Wednesday?

A: I first found out about The Homestead last year when I did the Femina Nearly Nude Calender, and the Homestead were the beneficiaries. I was so taken with what an amazing thing it is that they do that I knew I wanted to help get kids away from the means streets and back into mainstream life, so that they stand a fighting chance for a bright future.

If I win on Wednesday, the R500 000 will go towards a new house that they are building for the kids in Kayelitsha. It’s not nearly enough, but its a great start, and I hope to be able to use my celebrity (or should that be notoriety!) to be able to help raise more.

Q: During your time on the island, what were some of the things that you learnt about yourself and which of your fellow contestants surprised you the most in terms of breaking the perceptions you had of them?

A: I arrived on Santa Carolina quite prepared to heartily dislike Gigi on the basis of her profession, and ended up really liking and respecting her – reinforcing once again that you should always actually meet somebody before you make any kind of decisions about them. Dur! I feel dumb even writing this, but there it is!

I also learned that women are amazing, strong, determined creatures, and that the ability to succeed depends not on the strength of your biceps, but in the strength of your determination.

Ashley and Kaz

Q: Give us a little insight into daily life on the island.

A: We’d wake up at first light, about 4.15am, and then gradually get going. First priority was to get food, firewood etc before the heat of the day hit us. I’d then go and have my morning “bath”, a dip in the sea, accompanied by vigorous scrubbing with sand to try to get the filth off. I’d also wash my clothes in the sea.

Mornings were usually taken up with preparing to go to the challenge, which was often around mid-day (hectic, because the sun is about 42 deg C then). We’d go to challenge, and then in the intense heat of early afternoon, try to rest in a shady spot if possible.

After the challenge, we’d all head off in search of food again, and then at about 5ish we’d start the walk to tribal council. From there it was back to camp, sleep and when the sun came up the next day, we’d start all over again.

Q: What was the first thing you treated yourself to when you arrived home from the island?

A: The day after I arrived back I went down to the Fruit and veg store in our neighbourhood and bought cherries, apricots, grapes, strawberries, apples and pears. It seemed like unimaginable luxury to eat such delicious amazing fruit after a month with only boiled ground cover!

Tribal Council

Q: What are your plans for your share of the prize money should you go on to win and what can we look forward to from Ashley Hayden in 2010 and beyond?

A: Alas, the first thing I will have to do is probably give the taxman 40% of it, which frankly is a bit galling, but there it is! Then I want to take the family on a holiday – the furore surrounding the show means that I have been working quite hard, and would really love for us all to spend some fun time together.

I’m putting the finishing touches on my new Corporate Survivor presentation, which extrapolates lessons learned on the island into the business world, and examines leadership, teamwork and strategy. This will run alongside my seminars that I give on the role of women in the corporate sector.

I will also continue with what I usually do – broadcasting, MCing, Conference facilitation, voice work, and various other bits and pieces. So that’s the immediate future – from there – who knows – the Universe is wonderfully random, and presents you with opportunities that you never dreamed of (like Survivor) – I look forward to seeing what else is coming my way that I don’t yet know about!

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Fortunately, we ourselves have never been victims of crime. Friends have had break-ins and being held up by weapons, but we have not, and I think it certainly colours the way you view things – we still feel optimistic and blessed to live in this country. That is of course until certain politicians stand up and make idiots of themselves, and then I think “Oh Hell! We’re heading down the same road as Zimbabwe”

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president. What advice would you offer him?

A: I’d tell him to stop spending money on wasted things like armaments, weapons and the army, and to focus all his energies on educating the youth. Without a strong moral and fiscally sound generation of youngsters growing up right now, we will doom ourselves to more of the crime and violence we are experiencing now. I’d also tell him to give back the R200 000 from the Survivor prize money that will go off in tax, and give it to The Homestead!

Q: If you were tasked with commissioning a postal stamp depicting the beauty of South Africa and it’s people, which image would you select?

A: The faces of children of different skin colours.

Q: With less than 60 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: Get to know the locals! they know the good spots, and we are the friendliest bunch on the planet – we will ensure you have a great time!

General

Q: If you could invite any three contestants from Survivor South Africa to a dinner party, who would they be and what would you serve?

A: Sandi Schultz, Louw Venter, and Kas Pillay, because I really got on well with all of them, prior to my voting them off! I would make roasted cherry tomato pasta with fresh herbs and garlic, followed by a cold lemon soufflé and freshly ground coffee and cream and a large box of the ultra dark Lindor chocolate balls.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest impact on your life?

A: Possibly The Road Less Travelled by Scott Peck, which starts “Life is difficult..” It certainly is but once you acknowledge that it is, you go about making a plan to deal with the challenges, and then you can move forward.

Q: If the next Survivor South Africa were to be for South African politicians, which challenge from your show would you start the season with and who would you have your money on for being voted out first?

A: We’d play truth or dare. Malema would be voted out first.

Q: Which other contestant would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Pro – and how come he got to be such a cool cat?

We’d like to thank Ashley for taking the time to answer our questions.

Reminder to support Ashley during the 90 minute season finale on MNet tomorrow night at 19:30. The winner will walk away with the R500 000 for themselves and their chosen charity.

Win a Survivor South Africa Santa Carolina Hamper
Your chance to win an amazing Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina hamper consisting of Signed autograph card, a branded lip ice, branded match box and a stylish Survivor hat. All you have to do to win is one of the following:

• Simply tweet the following hashtag: #izimvo_survivor_sa
• Leave a comment on this interview
• or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

Good Luck! The winner will be drawn at 9pm after the season finale.

Karin Hougaard

Izimvo is truly honoured to introduce singer-songwriter, poet, artist, writer and actress: Karin Hougaard.

Karin has endured the test of time and has become a true icon of South African music. Since her debut as teen singing sensation in the early 1980’s, Karin has released 9 award-winning albums and has various compilations and singles to her name. Karin has also appeared in various stage productions across Europe and South Africa as well appearing in many television programs.

Karin is currently working on a various new projects including a new solo show called Die Boom which she will perform in The Netherlands.

Website: http://www.karinhougaard.co.za
Twitter: http://twitter.com/KarinHougaard
Karin’s YouTube Videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/karinhougaard
Facebook Fan Page
Location: United States

Karin was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: My first name only – nobody at a social remembers one’s last name – unless it’s one of those pain in the butts who tries to impress you by knowing everyone at the party’s names after being introduced only once! (I guess truthfully I envy being able to do that).

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: My bookshelf is arranged by theme and as far as possible I try to keep it alphabetically.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Scuba diving…if all else fails I take a bath and lie in the tub with my ears submerged!

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you want it to be?

A: I already have that little hide-away, it’s right on the water’s edge in KZN hidden on the Wild Coast. What I cherish most is the sound of the waves crashing on the beach and the Dassies and Duijkers who visit the garden.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking to build your ultimate holiday home? How about this R12m 4057m prime beach-front property in Uvongo.

South African Music

Q: Your music career started at the age of 16 when you become the youngest ever winner of the South African talent competition, Crescendo. What are your thoughts on talent competitions such as Crescendo and American Idol?

A: I think competitions are wonderful platforms for up and coming artists, however sadly more often than not mentoring is not available for a young winner. This often results in very young artists not being able to sustain a career due to a lack of experience and the skills to deal with overnight fame.

Crescendo catapulted me into a music career – but it was up to me how I utilized the opportunities. I had parents who were wise and thanks to them I attended university like any regular kid.

The downside was – being very young when I started out – I had to grow up in the public eye with very little margin for error career wise. Also becoming an adult also influenced how I looked at my music and musical choices, gradually I reinvented myself from a teen pop star into a mature more serious artist. This is not easy to do, but thankfully I seemed to have survived change.

Q: Besides an illustrious music career your are also an accomplished actress, artist and poet. Which of these disciplines have you found to be most rewarding?

A: Each of the disciplines addresses a different aspect of my creativity. Each has its own very specific challenges – I feel blessed that they compliment each other and make me a more rounded person and artist. There just is no way I can choose between them – I am the sum of all these parts.

Q: Which of your numerous accolades are you most proud of?

A: I think the fact that one of my compositions “By My” from my last album HARTSTUKKE has been recorded (separately) by 2 of The Netherland’s most prominent singers – Paul de Leeuw and Herman van Veen and there’s a third version of the song being recorded by a young Dutch artist even as we speak! I love the fact that my music transcends borders and get to take on a new life and meaning of their own.

Also the fact that one of my songs lyrics, Kruietuin is prescribed for Grade 11 Afrikaans as poetry. It’s a huge compliment.

Q: Are there any young South African acts that have recently caught your attention?

A: I love the poetry of Kabous Verwoed – he regularly performs his poetry and a few well-known SA composers wrote musical scores / musical backdrops – against which he speaks his poetry. His latest project is called “Reiswoorde”.

Q: Can you give us an insight into your creative process. What comes first, the lyrics, the melody or does it depend on the song?

A: Many things inspire me, a smell, a phrase, a sound and therefore it is very unpredictable how the process will happen. It actually varies from song to song – sometimes it’s the melody first, or a lyric first or both simultaneously! Sorry no easy recipe!

Q: What can we look forward to from Karin Hougaard in the years ahead?

A: I am currently working on my new show for the 2010/2011 concert season in Europe. It is called Die Boom / The Tree. It is multi-lingual (Dutch, Afrikaans, English) and I’m currently writing music, poetry and texts for the project. Hopefully this will (as usual) culminate in an album. Also I am due to play one of the 2 leads in a Dutch play called Juliette written and directed by Dutch artist Herman van Veen for the 2011/2012 theatre season. I’m also still painting on the sly – so hopefully an exhibition will follow sometime…

Life in South Africa

Q: What about South African life do you miss the most living in the States?

A: The ease with which all South Africans laugh and our very unique, warm sense of humor. Hearing my mother tongue and being able to express myself in it – being a word person I sorely miss Afrikaans. Naturally – it goes without saying – I miss biltong, blatjang, boerbeskuit, melktert and a good Boere Braai immensely!

Q: When asked internationally about crime in South Africa, what is your response?

A: It is always so difficult to answer I do not want to focus on the negative, there are so many great things about SA. But when asked I try to explain the vast levels of poverty we battle with and how it impacts on our society. Crime is one of the many ugly faces caused by poverty, a lack of education and the breakdown of a society’s moral fibre.

Q: Which three South African attractions would you recommend an international visitor?

A: Constitution Hill and the Apartheid museum, any of our brilliant Game Reserves, Cradle of Humankind.

Q: If you could bring anything from America back to South Africa, what would it be?

A: Their unbelievable sense of national pride and unity as a country despite the differences. Their can-do attitude. I think we as a people can do with such a continued and sustained feeling of pride and belief that we can achieve anything.

Q: South Africa’s greatest musical export is?

A: Here in the USA Honda just ran a television ad featuring the song Pata Pata, so I think few voices are so well-known in the entire world as that of Miriam Makeba.

General

Q: Which of your lyrics would you most like to be remembered for?

A: I have written many songs and each of them hold a special meaning for me personally, to me they are like children and I cannot pick a favourite. I can only hope that somewhere in the wide world someone will listen to my songs and that the lyrics will touch them and they will be remembered.

Q: Do you follow any rituals before getting up on stage to perform?

A: I take three very deep breaths and if I’m not in a play portraying a character – but singing my own concert – I take off my shoes!

Gated Community - one of Karin's paintings

Q: If you could invite any three South Africans to an intimate dinner party, who would you invite and which of your albums would you play in the background?

A: Ideally Madiba, Elizabeth Eybers (were she still alive) and William Kentridge. I will play no music since when there’s music in the background my mind keeps wandering towards it and I do not want to miss a word.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow

A: Just waking up would be very nice!

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you like to ask them?

A: If this were a hypothetical interview (because I’m not sure I want to afford him the exposure!) – Mr Julius Malema. I would like to ask him how he envisages the ideal South Africa, because I don’t get where’s he’s going with his rhetoric.

We’d like to thank Karin for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her every success for the future.

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