Words by: Carla Louise Gailey
Nicola is the definition of a local girl who embodies all things DURBAN. Naturally, I had to lock in some time with the digital queen to chat about what she loves most about KZN.
C: Nicola, thanks for chatting with me, I just love everything about you and what you stand for. Tell me, what keeps you busy from 9-5?
N: I am a digital content creator by profession. I am a digital content producer at East Coast Radio and I also create content for a few businesses and events in KZN. A typical day in my life incorporates some form of fitness which is so easy because we live in the most beautiful place in the world and the weather is almost always so great. I then put on my girl boss pants and slay the workday like a digital queen. Every day I like to make sure I do something fun, whether it may be baking some delicious brownies, going for a sundowner cocktail or beautiful dinner at one of our local spots or watching a cult classic movie with my dashing boyfriend.
C: Tell us a bit about yourself?
N: I am a jack of all trades. I’ve most likely coached your daughter, blown a whistle at you while you swam out the bathing area, reposted your Instagram story, been the brains behind your favourite laugh-out-loud radio moment or even seen you out on the town. I thrive on connecting with people and sharing experiences. Adventuring and exploring fuel me, but no matter how far you took the girl out of Durban, you can’t take Durban out of the girl.
C: How long have you lived in KZN?
N: KZN is my home and I have been fortunate enough to live here since 2012 when I was in grade 5. Fun fact, I spent my early years growing up in Botswana.
C: What is your favourite part about living in KZN?
N: Our province has a bit of something for everyone- you have the hustle and bustle, but if you need to smell the roses, the opportunities are endless. Our natural beauty is unmatched, and we seem to have our own time zone because nobody ever seems to be late. It’s also a place of community – we’ve been tested in so many ways in the last three years, and each time, our province binds together.
C: How long have you lived in KZN?
N: KZN is my home and I have been fortunate enough to live here since 2012 when I was in grade 5. Fun fact, I spent my early years growing up in Botswana.
C: What is your favourite part about living in KZN?
N: Our province has a bit of something for everyone- you have the hustle and bustle, but if you need to smell the roses, the opportunities are endless. Our natural beauty is unmatched, and we seem to have our own time zone because nobody ever seems to be late. It’s also a place of community – we’ve been tested in so many ways in the last three years, and each time, our province binds together.
C: Tell us about a hidden gem in KZN?
N: Hop, skip and jump your way to Thompson’s Bay in Ballito. After getting sun-soaked and having a dip at the main beach, stroll past Charlie’s pool and feel like an intrepid adventurer by walking through the hole in the wall. You may think the adventure ends then but oh no, it’s just the beginning. Scale over the jagged rock place and get the perfect Instagram snap on top of the gigantic dune. Keep going and find many more hidden gem beaches along the way. Top tip: travel lightly cause once you start hopping, you won’t want to stop.
C: Tell me about your favourite sundowner/happy hour spots in KZN?
N: With so many places to go when it’s Gin o’Clock, it’s so hard to pick just one. Recently, I’ve been working on my cocktail skills but, before I boast about my mediocre mixology, I have three hotspots for you to check out across KZN. On the North Coast, I frequent Good Vibes, the atmosphere – well, it’s self-explanatory. In the heart of KZN, Backyard in the Umhlanga Arch is a perfect after-work joint with great drink specials and local DJs on decks. Down on the South Coast, has to be C-Bali. From the range of drinks to the world-beating sushi – it is a total winner.
C: What, in your opinion, is an absolute must-see in KZN?
N: Few places allow you to access nature as easily as the 031 does. Just a short drive from Durban, you can experience the awe and wonder at the MacIntosh Falls at Giba Gorge. When you see the grand waterfall, your heart will skip a beat and of course, will make the long trek worth it. It’s a must-see!
C: What is your favourite LOCAL KZN brand/business/restaurant – it can be anything that is native to KZN!
N: Almost every morning you can catch me doing my “hot girl walk” on the Umhlanga Promenade. Following this, I further my yoga practice at Manifest Yoga Studio with Jaime Prentice’s stellar class. I then reward myself with a tasty smoothie at Good Things Cafe, which is a footstep away from the heated yoga class.
C: If you had to choose a weekend getaway spot in KZN – where would it be?
N: KZN is SA’s finest province for getaways. We are so lucky that there are so many great spots just down the road. The South Coast is my personal fave, particularly the stretch between Southbroom and Port Edward. There are many quaint and bespoke stores, fantastic restaurants, fun activities and diverse coastlines. It just feels so authentic.
C: Are you involved in any passion projects in KZN?
N: I’m fiercely passionate about creating awareness around water safety and making access to swimming more equitable. Since I was 14 I have been involved in volunteering at learn-to-swim development programs and various campaigns. In collaboration with the Umhlanga rocks surf lifesaving club, I have also spearheaded various learn-to-swim development programs in under-resourced communities. I’ve been fortunate enough to have shared this knowledge beyond the confines of KZN, and am looking forward to my next swimming program in the coming months with the help of Cabana Beach and Wimpy.
C: What is your favourite artsy/cultural activity to do in KZN?
N: Music moves me. Considering our incredibly rich tapestry of local music, a great gig is never too far away. If there’s a live show you’re going catch me there, even if it’s in the muddy trenches of Splashy Fen. Unless it’s a rugby match, if Stu Berry is running the show, then consider me there.
C: A key moment in your life…?
N: There was once a boy whose DMs I slid into, now he’s my best friend, my rock and my heart. Our love story has been a whirlwind, and we’ve developed a two-person support system despite the external pressures that come with working in the public eye. He’s obsessed with me too, which helps.
C: What do you think is a misconception people have about KZN?
“Durban is a sleepy place”, is one of the biggest misconceptions. No matter where you are there is always something to do. You just need to know where to look. I recommend Purely Local, East Coast Radio or my Instagram DMs to give you the scoop. I’ll change your mind!
C: Describe KZN in one word…
N: Home
