There are more cultures in SA than there are colours in the rainbow, but one thing we all share is our ability to find humour in everyday life.

Comedian Marc Lottering says South Africans somehow find the time to laugh amid the chaos – and about the chaos! “It’s our way of surviving. And obviously, that’s a good thing for me, business-wise!”

When asked what family tradition he remembers best from his childhood, he is quick to say, “Christmas!” His dad was a pastor and Lottering remembers the new clothes for Christmas day, accompanied by the ‘lunch that would not end’. “There was also the nativity play performed by the kids in church. I always played a ‘role with words’,” he says with a laugh.

On the iconic SA braai, he says – with characteristic humour – that he sometimes sighs when he goes to a braai because it means that he may have to wash his [big] hair the next day.

Lottering’s summary of the people around the coals:

• The braaimaster – don’t even try to challenge this individual.
• Those who bring cheap meat but help themself to the most expensive meat.
• People who drink a tad too much (start drinking at home already) and want to have a heart-to-heart with anyone ready to listen.
• Someone who leaves with a Tupperware stacked with meat and salads ‘for the people at home’.

“These are the things that make my heart smile,” he says.

Entrepreneur, DJ, producer, kwaito star and husband of media personality Gugu Khathi, Mthokozisi ‘DJ Tira’ Khathi says it is ‘beautiful to be a South African’. However, he adds that life is not easy. “We have to push every day for a better tomorrow.” Life is always sweeter around a braai fire, however. “SA braais mean togetherness, a good time, sharing of jokes and realising at the end we have to live for the moment and enjoy life, no matter our circumstances.”