My Cape Town

MY CAPE TOWN

My Cape Town highlights the authentic, diverse, and vibrant communities of Cape Town through the voices of its locals.

Every week, we will be featuring unique Capetonians from different neighbourhoods, sharing their budget-friendly local spots, hidden gems, and personal experiences of the city.
Let’s explore #MyCapeTown together…

TOLLIE PARTON Beloved Drag Queen

Tollie Parton’s larger-than-life personality and razor-sharp wit have made her one of the country’s most beloved drag queens — and she knows how to own a stage. But between sold-out shows and when the spotlight fades, she’s out chasing the magic of the Mother City.

ISMAIL ACHMAT Bo-Kaap Artist

Self-taught Cape Town artist Ismail Achmat has made a name for himself by capturing the city’s most recognisable landmarks through his distinctive lens. A proud Bo-Kaap local, he earned the nickname “Man on the Mountain” after turning heads while painting high up on Signal Hill. His work is rooted in place, offering a vibrant, deeply personal perspective on the city he calls home.

AUNTY DIELA Adderley Street Flower Seller

For more than four decades, Faldielah “Aunty Diela” Gamildien has stood among the bright blossoms at the Adderley Street Flower Market, greeting customers with an infectious smile and a bouquet always close at hand.

RORY AVENSTRÜP actress

They say dynamite comes in small packages, and it certainly holds true for Cape Town actress and performer Rory Avenstrüp. Known for her infectious energy and signature laugh, Rory is currently captivating audiences at The Royal Countess Zingara, with shows running until May and returning in September 2026.

MARC LOTTERING Comedian

Comedy legend Marc Lottering is no stranger to the spotlight, bringing laughter to households across Cape Town. With his signature funky Afro and infectious laugh, the Woodstock local is known for his hit solo shows, including After the Beep, Marc Eugene Lottering, and My Fellow South Africans. His widely popular Aunty Merle productions have drawn in more than 800,000 theatregoers.

MATTHEW STERNE tour guide

Matthew Sterne, has dedicated his life to celebrating and sharing his deep love for Cape Town. Through his engaging walking tours, he brings the city’s past and present to life, connecting visitors to the people and places that make the Mother City exceptional.

THABELO "Turn T" TLALE DJ and Marketing Specialist

The 36-year-old Kraaifontein local first discovered her love for DJing at lockdown house parties six years ago. What began as a casual vibe soon evolved into a genuine calling. Today, Turn T is recognised for her deep, soulful and amapiano sets.

WINSTON FANI Africa’s first qualified blind tour guide

The Pinelands local never planned to become a tour guide, but after losing his corporate job during the pandemic, he began sharing his love for the city with people from all walks of life.

AAKIFAH SLARMIE viral TikTok sensation

The Deep South-based full-time student teacher and content creator loves adventure, whether she’s cold plunging in a tidal pool at sunrise, heading out for a 5km run, or taking a mindful walk.

Joe Barber’s BOETA GAMAT Comedian and theatre personality

For the first time ever, Boeta Gamat, one half of the legendary Joe Barber duo, played by David Isaacs, goes solo in the Deep South. He takes us along for the ride…

ARMANI “Mr Poppins” MINANI Hiker and philanthropist

A Rondebosch local is hiking up Lion’s Head in a suit to spark change for youth and the homeless.

ARMAND HOUGH AKA The Humans Narrative Photojournalist

When he is not chasing breaking news stories or capturing the city’s biggest events, you’ll find this Sea Point photographer seeking solace at some of the city’s top locations.

KURT SCHOONRAAD Local Comedian and Actor

The Observatory comedian has two great loves outside of the spotlight: a good laugh and a great car. And there’s no better place to enjoy both than Cape Town – the city he proudly calls home.

JAMES VOS
City of Cape Town Alderman

City of Cape Town’s Alderman James Vos escapes the hustle with family fun, whether it’s hiking, biltong shopping, or racing down a toboggan track.

CHAD SAAIMAN Artist

From street cafés to spice shops and sunset trails, musician Chad Saaiman lives for Cape Town’s rhythm -on stage and off. He’s all about vibes, views, and all things fun!

BUSI & GUGU
Tourism Entrepreneurs

When Melkbosstrand thrill-seeking sisters Busi and Gugu Ngcelwane of Twin Venture are not organising adventure tours, you’ll find them cycling or running some of the city’s best trails or embarking on a foodie adventure.