The best way to get to know Joburg is to hang out with an insider. In our Ask a Local series we chat to some of our favourite Joburg city people to get the lowdown on what makes Joburg unique. This week, Golden Horn award-winning actress Jo-anne Reyneke gives us her take on the city.
Jo-Anne Reyneke is an award-winning actress and mother-of-two. Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg Jo-anne burst into the spotlight as the bubbly receptionist Pearl on prime-time soapie Muvhango. Since October 2018 Jo-Anne is now the newest member of the prime-time soapie Isidingo (The Need), while some of her other best known TV roles include playing the ballsy chartered accountant Busi Duma in telenovela High Rollers and Prudence Oliphant, the uptight office manager for Redemption Records on popular soapie Rhythm City.
What brought you to Joburg and makes you stay here?
I came to Joburg to pursue an acting career, then I started a family and have started raising my kids in this big city. They call it Home.
Favourite Joburg suburb?
Northcliff. The views from up there are breath taking, and it seems like a nice place to raise kids.
One thing no one would expect to hear about Joburg?
That it has amazing weather and even better people.
Favourite bar or afterwork hangout spot?
My favorite chill spot is Joanna’s Melt Bar in Melville, it has a bar atmosphere with amazing food and drinks.
Favourite place to relax in the city?
My house. No need for makeup and I can pass out whenever I want! I’m a big indoor girl, if it’s not my house, then it’s one of my friends’ houses. It is where I feel most comfortable.
Must see Joburg sights for a first time visitor?
Definitely Vilakazi Street in Soweto for the African cuisine and the atmosphere. They should also visit the Northcliff water tower, it’s a really underrated Joburg sight that is the perfect place for a picnic with a gorgeous view.
Favourite restaurant or cafe?
Lucio’s Pizzeria on Beyers Naude Drive. It’s a small Italian restaurant that feels like an escape. The interior has been made to look like Italy, you forget that you are still in Joburg.
Your favourite Joburg person?
(Actor, choreographer and TV personality) Somizi. He has made himself who he is in this town. The whole of Joburg loves and adores him.
Top tip for a first-time visitor to Joburg?
Company is everything. It can be the difference between enjoying a place, and never going back there.
Best things about Joburg?
The opportunities. There is so much happening here and that creates a lot of jobs for all people of all ages.
Worst things about Joburg?
The crime. Raising kids here is difficult, one has to always be vigilant.
If you didn’t live in Joburg where would you like to live?
Durban. The winters are more bearable, and I miss the ocean and the air there.
Three words that describe this city…. Big, Fast, Beautiful.
Keep up with Jo-Anne on Twitter at @JoAnneReyneke and Instagram at @joannereyneke.
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