Actress and model Jena Dover tells us about life in sophisticated Hyde Park.
In an increasingly fast-paced city environment, with the ever constant hustle and bustle, finding a home that is a sanctuary and a source of inspiration is rare. With its enviable homes and serene surrounds, Hyde Park is one of Johannesburg’s best-established suburbs. The suburb is also home to South African actress and model, Jena Dover.
Jena, who has lived in Hyde Park for three years, says the suburb is a beautiful mix of grand charming homes and older complexes. It’s perfect for families and for people looking for a quieter life outside of the Sandton CBD. “Hyde Park is tidy and the residents are mobilised towards keeping it safe and beautiful, thus making it an appealing place to call home,” says Jena.
Jena began her career in the fashion industry at the age of five. Thanks to her ruby-coloured locks, she was discovered by a photographer in a local shopping mall. After a number of commercial appearances, her hosting role on the children's TV program KTV turned her into a household name.
Since then, Jena has appeared on a number of magazine covers, with notable campaigns including being the face of Woolworths Studio W, Pantene and Schwarzkopf. She has featured in film productions including the critically acclaimed local film Jozi as well as blockbuster film Safe House.
She frequents Hyde Park Corner, dubbed the centre for discerning shoppers for its mixture of luxury fashion brands and well-known South African retail brands. Even buying milk at the mall is a luxury experience. Jena particularly loves the food festivals and fashion events that are regularly hosted there.
With its beautiful homes and manicured lawns, Hyde Park is a constant source of inspiration. Whenever I feel fatigued in my life’s endeavours, I can always look to my own suburb to fuel the ambition.
Jena Dover
Hospitals nearby:
- Genesis Clinic
- Mediclinic Morningside
- Mediclinic Sandton
- Netcare Rosebank Hospital
- Tara Hospital
Best in food:
- DW13: for a date night with a partner
- Mastrantonio in Illovo
- Saxon Hotel: for sundowners
- Southern Sun Hyde Park: for Friday aperitif
- Tashas at Hyde Park Corner: for breakfast
Top schools:
- Crawford College
- Hyde Park High
- Kingsmead College
- Crawford Pre-Primary School
- Rosebank Primary School
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a beautiful tour of the Sandton area in this video:
