Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world (Wilkinson & Gathani, 2021) and in South Africa, 1 in every 27 women face the risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime (National Cancer Registry, 2023). These figures reveal an alarming reality for women around the world and in South Africa. However, NGO’s [...]
Some women are born with a natural instinct to nurture. Lorraine Matshego, Head Therapist at Amani Spa at Shepherd’s Tree, found her path organically through childhood and instinctual healing—massaging her family, experimenting with make-up, and being told by those around her, “You’re gifted with people.” In 2018, she formalised that gift by completing her Cosmetology [...]
In this month’s Amani Star, we shine the spotlight on Sunette van der Merwe, Group Operations and Business Development Manager at Amani Spa & Wellness. Sunette brings three decades of experience across hospitality, spa management, and wellness leadership — across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Her story is marked not only by personal [...]
In this month’s Amani Star, we shine the spotlight on Sunette van der Merwe, Group Operations and Business Development Manager at Amani Spa & Wellness. Sunette brings three decades of experience across hospitality, spa management, and wellness leadership — across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Her story is marked not only by personal [...]
At the end of 2024, a shared dream took root. Tourvest Integrated Tourism Group, the Tourvest Foundation, AHA Hotels and Lodges, Nkambeni Safari Camp, the Nkambeni community, and Amani Spa & Wellness came together to launch a six-week Spa Therapist Skills Training and Development Programme. While the core training lasted six weeks, the full journey—including [...]
It’s no secret that the way we start our morning can set the tone for the rest of the day. How we spend those first moments after we wake up can dictate everything from our energy levels to our mood and productivity. But let’s face it: sticking to a routine when we’ve barely had our [...]
Himanshu Semwal’s journey into wellness was not just a career move; it was a calling. Born in the mountainous state of Uttarakhand, India, his path could have led him to engineering, as his family initially hoped. But deep down, he felt a pull towards something greater—something rooted in ancient wisdom. At 18, he made a [...]
The human brain is one of the most complex and fascinating organs in our body. Weighing just about one kilogram, it serves as the command centre for thought, emotion, movement, hormone regulation and behaviour. Protected within the skull and bathed in cerebrospinal fluid, the brain is the very essence of what makes us human—governing our [...]
March is a time to celebrate women, and in doing so, we honour one of our most powerful abilities—creativity. Women are natural creators, not just in the literal sense of bringing life into the world, but in the way we shape ideas, nurture relationships, innovate solutions, and express ourselves. However, in a society that values [...]
For many, a shower or bath is more than just a daily necessity—it’s a cherished ritual. Across centuries, bathing has symbolised relaxation and self-care, from the Romans soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Bath to Cleopatra indulging in luxurious milk and honey baths. Today, bath time remains a cornerstone of well-being, offering a moment to [...]
