Ed’s Letter
I don’t know about you, but I’m still recovering from JanuWORRY [chuckles]. No matter how hard I tried, the extra school deposits and general over-indebtedness means I’m only just beginning to catch my breath this month. If you share my sentiments, then this edition — our big budget issue — is definitely for you! Our beauty team has shopped the most affordable beauty buys that will ensure you always stay on point without reaching for that credit card. Do look out for some amazing fashion finds, too – a girl’s gotta look good! For those savvy cooks, our food editor has made baking on a budget super easy. Think instant cake mixes and clever toppings — you’ll thank me later!
With all the added pressure to stay financially afloat, we’ve added another spade in the works — social media! We’re constantly in pursuit of the Joneses lifestyle, and we’re not doing it confidentially. We’re becoming a people obsessed with humble bragging, social media compliments and likes. Turn to page 80 for an in-depth exposé on the lengths people are willing to go to for social media fame. People have literally died chasing likes, which is very disturbing.
With all the focus on self, there are a few women out there taking time out to look after others. Our Celebrate Life feature is an ode to “New Age Humanitarians” —these modern Mother Theresas are helping to build our communities. It’s okay to stand by and to not notice the plight of black societies, but these young women are rolling up their sleeves and saying, “Not on our watch!”
Our True Story features Grizelda Grootboom, a former sex slave turned author. She recounts a chilling life on the streets at the hands of various pimps who would often take her from one brothel to the next. Her story is one of resilience and courage. Reading about how she eventually managed to escape her shackles, and use her story to help and encourage other women was simply remarkable.
There’s everything for everyone in this issue! I wish you a fabulous month. Until the April issue!