Shannon Manuel

Senior Features Writer at GQ South Africa

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Articles

Will the “Caveman Skincare Method” save your skin barrier?

3 weeks ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

Shannon Manuel | June 5, 2025TikTok has sparked countless beauty and skincare trends, many more about clicks than credibility. One recent trend gaining attention is the so-called “Caveman skincare method”, popularised by a TikTok user. Is this extreme approach really the secret to healthy, glowing skin? Dr Alek Nikolic, renowned aesthetic skin specialist and owner of SkinMiles, weighs in.
What strength really looks like - a mental health check-in

3 weeks ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

When we think of male strength, we often think of being strong and silent. For years, the idea of masculinity has been about "toughing it out". Don't complain. Don't cry. Keep your head down and carry on. But while this mindset might seem admirable on the surface, it has a cost: for many men, it results in poor mental health.
How small businesses can become more attractive to private capital investment

3 weeks ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

In a tough funding climate, many South African entrepreneurs might be wondering what they can do to make their businesses more appealing to investors. With signs of recovery in the venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) sectors, there is growing interest in scalable, well-governed SMEs that show potential for high growth. However, competition for funding remains fierce, and founders must be prepared to meet increasingly rigorous investor expectations.
Introducing our Music & Creativity issue cover stars Slikour, Tbo Touch & Kwesta

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

GQ South Africa's latest cover celebrates the convergence of music, culture, and innovation, spotlighting three titans of South African hip-hop: Slikour, Tbo Touch, and Kwesta. This collaboration with Apple Music forms part of the "Sounds of Africa" initiative, a global campaign launched in celebration of Africa Month, highlighting the vibrant musical landscapes of cities like Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, Accra, and Dar es Salaam.
Vaping myths you’ve probably heard (and what’s actually true)

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

Over the last decade or so, vaping has seen a dramatic rise in popularity. Vaping involves an e-cigarette that uses a battery to heat up a special liquid into an aerosol that the user inhales. While there's been a lot of research conducted over the years on the dangers of smoking, the same is not true of vaping, which is often seen as a safer alternative.
Why everyone’s talking about the Deep Plane Facelift - SA surgeon breaks it down

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

Kris Jenner’s “new face” has everyone talking - and it’s widely speculated to be the result of a deep plane facelift, a procedure now dubbed the gold standard in facial rejuvenation. Let’s not even get into how Khanyi Mbau’s face broke the internet. The demand for natural-looking, sophisticated facial transformations has reached an all-time high, both globally and here in South Africa.
The workout you’re already doing (but not giving yourself credit for)

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

Let’s be honest: when most guys think about fitness, they picture lifting heavy at the gym, logging miles on a treadmill, or squeezing in a HIIT class between meetings. The idea of exercise has been boxed into this neatly packaged thing we “do”—with memberships, apps, and matching athletic gear to prove it. But here’s the truth: some of the best workouts don’t happen under bright lights or next to a protein shake. They happen in your daily routine. Carrying groceries up three flights of stairs.
Sip, safari & stargaze on the perfect winter getaway along South Africa’s coast

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

While winter is often associated with cozying up indoors, South Africa’s cooler months offer a unique opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes without the crowds or peak-season prices. From the golden savannas of the Eastern Cape to the misty vineyards of the Garden Route, this season unveils a quieter, more intimate side of the country.
The science of smiles - Laughter Coach Bronwyn Kilroe on healing through humour

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

Shannon Manuel | May 26, 2025Meet Bronwyn Kilroe, Cape Town’s beloved certified Laughter Coach and founder of Laughter Sessions. Trained by Dr. Madan Kataria—the pioneer of Laughter Yoga—Bronwyn turned her own burnout from a demanding media career, including directing SABC’s Free Spirit, into a mission to spread joy through science-based laughter therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed & mentally exhausted from fitness culture?

1 month ago | gq.co.za | Shannon Manuel

We’re told that movement is medicine — that exercise boosts endorphins, sharpens focus, and builds confidence. But what happens when the thing that’s supposed to energise us begins to drain us emotionally? As fitness has evolved from a private health choice into a cultural identity — and in some cases, a competitive sport or performance — more people are quietly struggling with emotional burnout from the very routines meant to help them thrive.