Bubbly here, bubbly there, sunny skies and with “cloud chaser” as the theme. White accents and dresses flowed to and fro, brisk strides carried guests into the beautiful Hamptons, leading them into the sisterhood connections & catch-ups which filled the space with laughter and warm embraces. The elegance of it all could have easily been mistaken for moments straight out of a lifestyle magazine cover. Yet beneath this aesthetic ease lay something deeper, making way for raw, uncomfortable conversations that are necessary in the pursuit of balance between work and wellness.
True to the event’s theme, The Sisterhood Connect Wellness and Work Brunch delivered an experience that stirred hearts and ignited conviction about the ways women navigate the layered demands of life and work. The goal was to ignite a critical conversation at the close of the first quarter of the year, one centered on intention and on how our lives respond to our desire for balance. It questioned whether it is truly possible to efficiently balance: effective professional lives, good health, external demands, freedom from burnout and the cultivation of everyday creativity.
Led by our programme director, Roslynne Toerien,the day was not simply about moving through a programme, but about invoking a sense of rest while gently easing into critical conversations. It created space for reflections and meaningful takeaways. It called for vulnerability within oneself and for honouring the true essence of sisterhood by holding space for others. Ros embodied this vision fully, in outstanding programme direction and in poetry, setting the tone for the women gathered and especially for the panel, who not only chose vulnerability but led with it.
Comforter Ngwenya, Lesego Mpyana and Pinky Mhlungu left no stone unturned. They spoke to the importance of self-management, the cost of ambition and non-ambition and how the fullness of who we are, spiritual, emotional and physical, matters in the rat race of life. They shared deeply personal experiences as mothers, sisters, aunts, godmothers,friends, wives and everything in between. Tears were shed, laughter echoed and the seriousness of professional, corporate, and internal ambition was explored and felt through every moment of storytelling. Thobile Tops Mkhwanazi facilitated the conversation with clarity and a willingness to be real, personal and tender; a posture of facilitation she prides herself on. This approach inspired powerful takeaways. In the words of Phumelele Myeza, an emerging brand owner: “This day marked a significant turning point for me. I came to the realization that I, too, must live beyond life’s obstacles. After a period of feeling lost, I now feel that I have regained a sense of direction.
Similarly, Nokuthula Magwaza, a nationally renowned and award-winning respected business leader, reflected on the “6 degrees of connection” she has encountered at recent events, including The Work & Wellness Brunch. Emotional & Spiritual Wellness Listening to your nervous system. Scanning your body. If something feels off, it is a signal, something is not aligned. Spiritual Wellness Start your day with daily devotion from the Word of God. Feed your spirit first; it will flow into your mind, your body and your overall well-being. Wellness is Choosing to Stop When you feel burnt out, emotionally, physically or mentally; pause. Unplug. Switch off. Take time for yourself. What an honour it is to receive takeaways from women at different stages of their professional journeys and endeavours, yet all leaving feeling seen and certain that they belong in this space of safety. That is the essence of all Sisterhood Connect Experiences, and in this context, our Work and Wellness Brunch. If you look closely and vulnerably, choosing to lean into the intention behind this convening, you will find that you too have a home in this union of women from all walks of life.
Set against a serene ambiance, The Hamptons, nestled in the heart of the bustling energy of Umhlanga Rocks, provided an opulent yet relaxing backdrop. Guests were welcomed with flowing bubbles courtesy of Steenberg, alongside the warm hospitality of national Steenberg Ambassador and respected wine sommelier, Mandla “Mawine” Mathonsi, setting the tone for a day of mindfulness and wellness.
Our design curator created an intimate and intentionally comfortable space, a value that PM Creative led by the founder Phindile Mahlangu is known for and is deeply committed to delivering. Not just decor, but a feeling, an experience that settles and lingers. As guests arrived and the flow and pleasantries of the morning began, before the event unfolded, our panel speakers were driven by our official car sponsor, Volvo Cars Umhlanga, CMH Group. A brand that values quality, storytelling and prides itself on its evolving, safe and future-forward offerings. It is a brand grounded in the present, yet always preparing you for the future. So it’s an honour to form part of this value and we look forward to this unfolding partnership stewarded by Thandeka Biyela and what it is set to bring.
The programme flowed seamlessly, thoughtfully curated by the team, while guests indulged in delicacies from Ubucubu Home Industries. The event was beautifully captured by Shanta Productions, offering a visual experience we hope you will witness for yourself at the next installment of our Work and Wellness offering.
By: Hlengiwe Mabaso
Sisterhood Connect