Hey there!
I'm Zuraida
Integrative Wellbeing Strategist
Life's true wealth isn't always material
Growing up in a small simple town, I learned early on that life's true wealth isn't always material. When I was 13, my father unexpectedly passed away. This heart-wrenching experience instilled in me a sense of the value of time, realizing that not only is time life’s ultimate currency but its seriously unpredictable. Much of my youthful days were spent alone in the stillness of nature, near a park with a river, swings and roundabouts. There, I dreamt of my future.
At the time I was inspired by leading journalist, Christiane Amanpour, this desire to become a journalist was further ignited by my passion to explore, share, listen to and investigate other people's stories. Upon reflection I realise that this was all part of my inherent desire to connect deeply with others. It was clear, coming from a tiny town, this little girl with grit, had big goals. As a teenager I was already working part-time, and by grade 12, I was paying for my own school fees. It was in those quiet moments in nature that I learned the power of stillness, allowing my mind to actively envision and strategize my future.
this desire to become a journalist was further ignited by my passion to explore, share, listen to and investigate other people's stories
My tenacity bore fruit
Life doesn’t always go according to plan, but I believe whichever way it does go, it’s always in our favour. Fresh out of high school, I juggled three jobs while ardently training for a spot in radio, persevering even after facing multiple rejections. My tenacity bore fruit when I made media history as the first female to host a daytime slot on South Africa’s beloved national radio station, 5FM. That was just the start. I became the host of the international reality TV show, Big Brother, among many other hit shows. I also clinched the title of the inaugural season of Strictly Come Dancing. From navigating the dusty roads of a quaint farm town to basking in the city lights of studios and sets, I often still wonder: “was that journey truly mine”?
I began to reflect more, on my purpose and what it means to be mindful, conscious and considered -
to find a way to live in awareness.
Fast forward… Becoming a parent to two wonderful children changed me in the most meaningful way. The trajectory of my journey became less about the outer, external flashlights and media accolades and more about my inner journey, my service to others, the life I wanted to live and the legacy I wanted to leave behind. I began to reflect more, on my purpose and what it means to be mindful, conscious and considered -to find a way to live in awareness. In my 40s, I felt an innate pull towards Psychology. This was not surprising to me as people from diverse backgrounds and ages have always been comfortable confiding in me for as long as I can remember.
Coupled with the gratitude that my media achievements signified, I yearned for academic recognition. My desire for knowledge remains, I wanted to discover more; I wanted a degree. To be honest, in my family, tertiary education was a luxury; my parents hadn’t even finished high-school, no one else carried degree qualifications. I was determined to rewrite this narrative, to break this generational cycle. So, I embarked on a journey of further study -starting with Psychology. Firstly, I had to begin at the beginning, I had to apply to university and prepare myself and my family for this life shift. University was a sanctuary of knowledge. Immersed among young minds, that were half my age, I explored the humanities of Critical Diversity studies, Functional Medicine, Yoga, Meditation, Breathwork Therapy and the art behind science. This journey awakened in me a deep-seated passion for continual learning and personal development. I've come to realize that as we evolve, so should our knowledge and understanding.
Continual learning is the bedrock of personal growth and expansion.
Today, with not one but three degrees to my name and countless certifications, I’ve successfully shattered the generational norm of my family. I feel that in the act of pushing our own boundaries and seeking knowledge, we inspire those around us and those who come after us to do the same. I’d like to believe that my departed parents are looking down, their hearts beaming with pride and smiling.
Reflecting on my journey, every discovery, every connection, every trial and triumph, every still moment shaped me to serve.
Reflecting on my journey, every discovery, every connection, every trial and triumph, every still moment shaped me to serve.
My mission is to leverage my experiences to help you navigate yours. I advocate for continuous growth, healing, and meaning by harnessing the transformative power that stillness can bring. Through mastering the art of stillness, I discovered that breath regulation is the cornerstone of thriving, a subtle yet profound force that grounds us amidst life's whirlwinds, propelling us steadily towards our dreams. Each challenge I faced finely tuned my ability to support you better. Here I am, ready to accompany you in your quest for a fuller, richer life, empowering you to breathe through barriers and beckon the vibrant life you envision.
With Love
Zuraida
