By Desi Tzoneva

Born and raised on the Highveld of South Africa, he was always mesmerised by the sub-tropical coastal forests and waters of KwaZulu-Natal where he now lives. He tries to maintain a healthy balance between work and play, and spends most of his spare time surfing; practising Kung Fu; or reading. Cronjé places endless value on good food and cooking for friends or family as a way for him to show his appreciation for their love and support.

Since childhood, he has always been passionate about the outdoors, and to this day, is amazed at how wild the imagination of a child can make an average urban garden. “I’ll always stress the importance of children playing outside; getting dirty; and falling out of trees, purely from knowing what a profound impact the familiarity of the touch of nature made in my life!” he says.

Cronjé’s father and grandfather, his two most prominent role models, were not only partly responsible for fuelling his spirit of adventure, but they also nurtured his love for good stories and appreciation of good storytelling. He says that he is fascinated by stories from Africa and South Africa in particular.

He says: “My aim is to contribute to raising the awareness of the responsibility that our generation has on influencing the next generations to the importance of self-discovery and environmental awareness.”

1. What was your first job/ where did you start?
My dad used to pay me to mow the lawn when I was a youngster and my introduction to TV was as a camblebasher/ runner for SABC’s Breakfast Club.

2. What made you want to build a career in your profession?
I’ve loved ‘showbiz’ since I can remember.

3. Describe a day in your life at present.
Every day is different, but they all start with Tai Chi; a quiet cup of tea followed by little, lots or loads of the following in no specific order: surf; train; film a story; edit; rush to the airport; catch a flight; miss a flight; film a story; travel; laugh; read; play; rest one day a week; and do it all over again. I love every moment of my life.

4. How do you unwind behind the scenes? List your favourite song; movie; and book.
I surf a lot; practice Kung Fu; and spend as much time in nature as possible. My favourite song at the moment is the ‘Don’t touch me on my studio’ remix. A Chinese film, Ip Man is my current favourite and I’m desperately waiting for the sequel. I don’t have a favourite book, but the most frequently read is my Bible; diary; and I’m currently reading Dr Ian Players’ Zululand Wilderness.

5. Who would you most like to meet – dead or alive – and why?
Clint Eastwood, because I consider myself lucky.

6. What has been one of the most important lessons you have learnt?
Bend your knees.

7. What is your secret indulgence and your three ‘can’t live without’ items?
I get grumpy if I don’t surf, and I suppose I can’t live without a pocket knife; ginger; and a pen or pencil.

8. Who do you think is getting it right in the industry?
Clive Morris.

9. Which person in the industry do you think is making waves?
Jack Parrow and Sharlto Copley.

10. Who is your alter ego?
It depends on the time of year. Right now he is... oh gosh, the first rule is...

11. What is your favourite perfume?
Narciso Rodrigues.

12. Which car would best personify you, and why?
A sandmaster or dune buggy. I like customised and personalised items, and like to travel off the beaten track.

13. What is your favourite reality TV series?
All You Need is Love.

14. What’s your stance on social media?
Cut the crap and speak the truth.