Lucien Thomas is the owner AfriMealz, a company that provides nutritious, soy-based meals to the underprivileged. Their products offer great value for money, easily giving a family of five a meal for just over two Rand per serving. Lucien shares his top tips and favourite spots in his suburb of Kraaifontein.
Which area do you live in? Kraaifontein in the Northern Suburbs. The properties were cheap and big when we moved here 15 years ago, just before the property boom. We are surrounded by farms, there’s plenty of greenery and views of the distant mountains – in fact, we observe the snow on the mountain peaks in winter. Everything from going to the beach or the mountain is less than 30 kilometres away.
Is there an organisation in your community doing something special? Kraaifontein Tehuis Home for the Aged. I admire the dedication and support the staff give to the elderly of our communities. There are no distinctions between health condition, race and age – everyone is treated equally with the same empathy. I normally race the elderly in wheelchairs when I deliver goods to them!
Best way to spend a Sunday? Sunday starts with a 5 kilometre walk with friends from our church at 5:30AM. After the walk, my family and I prepare to attend divine service at our church (New Apostolic Church). Everyone pitches in for lunch (but not everyone helps with cleaning the kitchen), followed by movies and listening to music – the best way to relax on a lazy Sunday and forget about Monday.
Favourite neighbourhood eatery? Bossa at the Buh-Rein Estate – the food is fabulous, the vibe relaxed and “happy hour” is long – luckily I’m just a kilometre Uber drive away.
Best cycling spot? Majik Forest for cycling in a nature reserve. For hiking I enjoy Tokai Forest because of the scenery, and being able to enjoy a braai afterwards, and a walk on Blouberg Beach is always good, with plenty of ice cream parlours around!
The best experience in Cape Town and Surrounds? Most definite KFM K-Day. It is a family filled day of fun and enjoying our local musical talents. We have attended every year since it moved to Meerendal Wine Estate.
