At 30, the utterly engaging Mpoomy Ledwaba is South Africa’s biggest wellness influencer, with 700,000 followers on Instagram alone. Her first book, How Did We Get Here? has just been released, so we fired off some questions to find out what makes her tick when she’s not building an empire.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year.
Sheesh, that’s a tough one. I’ve got through some great reads, but I especially enjoyed The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim.
How do you keep fit?
My schedule has been very unpredictable this year, but one thing I have been consistent with, no matter which country I am in, is brisk walking. I aim for 10,000 steps a day and use this time to pray, collect my thoughts, and reflect.
Weekday, lowkey restaurant go-to? What do you order?
To be honest, I am not a fan of restaurants. I really love a home-cooked meal, but nothing beats the mince on toast at Naked in Morningside.
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
I am a huge fan of Thando Ngwenya. For my 30th birthday, I gifted myself a piece by him, and our home feels complete. His art has a way of speaking to dreams that seem far-fetched, but through art he makes them feel possible.
What do you regret most?
I always regret bingeing on ice cream and sugar … the bloating afterwards is never worth it!
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
Does Google Calendar count as an item? That said, I have a water bottle next to me 24/7.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Morris Chestnut and Chris Brown.
Three songs that you’d take to a desert island?
Aretha Franklin – You’re All I Need to Get By, Brenden Praise – God, You Keep on Blessing Me and Luther Vandross – Power of Love.
Cover: Animation by Currency.
