“The bravest thing I’ve done…”
By eight South African personalities
Hannerie Visser Food concept designer
“I believe in doing scary things that push me out of my comfort zone, and starting my own business twice did exactly that. Suddenly, you’re not guaranteed an income, clients or work, and are responsible for employees, but it truly is the greatest feeling.”
Tanya Nefdt ENCA lifestyle reporter
“While working on a story, I agreed to be blindfolded and have different animals put into my arms. What I thought was a cute tortoise turned out to be a huge iguana, one of the scariest reptiles ever! When I opened my eyes, I let out a shriek, but was proud of not tossing the poor thing in the air and running away. I won’t agree to be blindfolded again.”
Julia Tsile Model
“Three years ago, I went shark-cage diving in Durban – 40 metres under the ocean. The guide tipped out the bait, and within 10 minutes we were surrounded by sharks. They were so close that I could see their shiny dark-grey skin and, with the guide’s permission, I was able to reach out and touch them. If I’d thought about what could’ve gone wrong, I would have never done it, but in the excitement and with the rush of adrenaline, I didn’t stop to consider the dangers.”
Danilo Acquisto TV and radio presenter
“In September 2010, I left my law studies for the big bad world of media, despite my parents advice. I had no skills or experience, and the fact that I’m ADD didn’t help, but I took the leap and auditioned for Hectic Nine-9 knowing that even if I didn’t get it, I was foregoing my life plan to pursue a lesssecure position as a TV presenter.”
Nkhensani Nkosi Fashion designer
“The two bravest things I’ve done was jumping out of a plane at 11 000 feet, as part of the skydiving experience that I gave my husband as a gift, and giving birth. Both entailed not knowing what to expect and being aware that anything could go wrong. I just had to have faith that it would all work out well and that the end result would be amazing.”
Chad Saaiman Singer/songwriter
“I quit my captaincy of Rygersdal football team 11 years ago to pursue a career in music, even though I had the potential to go pro. I spent the first year building contacts and performing wherever I could. I now have my own label and talent management company with my brother, so I’m glad I chose my passion.”
Takkies Maswanganye Choreographer
“My fear of snakes is so extreme that seeing them on TV makes me hide behind the couch cushions. A few years ago, I was training in LA when I came across a man on the street with a huge albino python, and I decided to hold it. It was terrifying, but I conquered my fear – even if it was just for a moment.”
Nicola Breytenbach Actress
“Although I’m quite adventurous, I’m scared of heights, so when I agreed to go hang-gliding during a holiday in Switzerland with my husband and family, I really had to face up to my fear. I did it because I didn’t want to be the only one missing out on the spectacular views from the top, and it turned out to be one of the most exhilarating things I’ve ever done.”