GLOBETROTTING CRICKETER WAYNE PARNELL AND AISHA BAKER HOLIDAY IN THEIR HOMETOWN
Toasting his return to the Proteas, cricketer Wayne Parnell and his entrepreneur-influencer wife Aisha Baker take five in a famous oceanfront hotel that’s risen from the ashes.
All-rounder Wayne Parnell and wife Aisha Baker are entering the Summer in top gear, with him being back in the Proteas squad and Aisha online again after a holiday from social media to focus on family.
The couple have a soft spot for Cape Town’s hidden gem, Tintswalo Atlantic, which has just returned from a devastating fire a few years ago so seized the opportunity to return ahead of the festive season. The lodge where Aisha went into labour with her first born is a welcome retreat for the duo who are in need of some one-on-one time as they’ve been apart for months.
This comfort zone in such a naturally tough environment is a good parallel for the life which Wayne and Aisha have made for themselves in tough, competitive professions.
The couple met through a blind Whatsapp group and neither being the kind to shy away from playing what’s in front of them, they’d soon set a first date and the rest is history.
In the influencer space, Aisha is credited as the OG and from it she has created an enduring businesses.
“I started being a social media influencer in 2009, which feels like forever ago. Back then, brands were not working with bloggers or influencers at all and we literally had to go and knock down doors and pitch to brands to get them to work with us. Now, more than 10 years on, the industry in South Africa has really grown. I’m really proud to have been a part of that and to have opened doors for other people that can now work with cool local and international brands, and make money from being a social media influencer,” shares Aisha.
In terms of current career goals, Aisha is working on her Baked Collection a clothing brand which is entirely produced in Cape Town and employs local female seamstresses; speaking to her passion of empowering South African women, boosting the economy and keeping people employed.
Tintswalo is a firm favourite for the couple to take time off together, especially with Wayne’s career taking him from playing English county cricket to the Indian Premier League and other T20 leagues.
“Being back here in Cape Town is very special. Newlands Cricket grounds is one of the most iconic grounds in the world and for me to be back here playing for Western Province… and playing at this beautiful venue is awesome,” says Wayne before adding, “We have a great fan base and can hopefully do something really special for the people of Cape Town and Western Province, and bring some silverware back here again.”
Book your stay at Tintswalo Atlantic for a well deserved break by emailing reservations@tintswalo.com or call +27 21 773 0900.
