Essay Prep: Reading the Essay
Ages 13 - 18
I grew up under the splendid South African sun and witnessed the birth of the rainbow nation.
As a child, my love for stories began in the shade of fragrant mango trees, with my mother reading fairy tales to me over lunch. I soaked up every word. Soon, I regaled my dad with my own elaborate tales of wonder and imagination. I could see that he was captivated, and I realized from a young age that my words needed to be heard.
My schooling led me along a scientific path. After graduating from the University of the Witwatersrand with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy, I began working at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital where my love for pediatrics blossomed. Working with children showed me the open window to a child’s mind and I began to appreciate holistic therapy.
After emigrating to Canada, I continued my work as a Physical Therapist for children. My affinity for the written word drew me into the realm of writing as I became a regular contributor to the health section of a magazine. The dawn of motherhood saw me branching out and writing about pregnancy, children, and family life.
It was the birth of my daughter that re-ignited my childhood passion for literature. Cuddling her in my arms as we read Hug by Jez Alborough over and over again, her eyes wide with enchantment, set me on a new path. We began our journey of homeschooling!
Now, many years later, with never enough bookshelves, and another pair of enchanted eyes that lights up our days, we discover the world around us. We are readers, artists, explorers, and dreamers—growing our lives one memory at a time.
Ages 13 - 18
Ages 9 - 14