Brümilda van Rensburg
What is the most important lesson you’ve learnt in your career? I love this by writer Kahlil Gibran: “Work is love made visible.” I’ve never thought of my work as a job, but as a calling that brings meaning and purpose to my life. In the end, that will always be love.
What is the importance of family? My family is my greatest support. My parents, Fanie and Freda, gave me unconditional love and taught me the love of God. My brother, photographer Renico, was my confidant and secondin-command, and I have huge respect for my sisters, Nancy and Fredrika. When I think of my family, pure love is what comes to mind.
How important is friendship? My relationship with my friends goes back to our high school days, and we share our splendour, desires and delights as well as our grief. It’s important to drop all accolades with your friends and simply be yourself. The ability to be completely vulnerable is of utmost importance – it aids in building life-long, healthy relationships.
Advice for tough times? When it comes to work, I believe that everyone knows the rules: the show must always go on. So personal problems are best left at home. As for trials, they will come in all areas of life, but the key is to let your light shine regardless of the circumstances. Also, try not to gossip, don’t be selfish, tell the truth, have compassion and always be respectful.
What is your message to young women? Mark Twain said, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” If you live with a sense of possibility, potential and optimism, you will discover your life purpose, and that will lead to happiness. “After every storm, there is a rainbow. If you have eyes, you will find it. If you have wisdom, you will create it. If you have love for yourself and others, you won’t need it.” – Shannon L Alder “One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving.” – Paulo Coelho “Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get – only with what you are expecting to give – which is everything.”
“Don’t let the mist of circumstances block your imagination and stop you from making new beginnings.”