Backchat Magazine Sep. 2014 | Page 12

ABOUT PAST ISSUES ADVERTISE PANDORA PROJECT CONTACT Our first cover girl needed to set the standard for all those who follow... This is exactly what Tatum Roberts is best known for - being a leader in all aspects of her life, and for speaking up where she feels her voice needs to be heard. And we totally heart her for it! Our cover girl was born in London of South African parents, making her a British citizen. In 2011 at the age of eleven, she moved to South Africa with her family. Moving countries is not easy... leaving close friends and most things she had grown to know and love behind her. “It was hard,” I’ve always had this country in my heart... says Tatum, “but my extended family live in South Africa, and I’ve always had this country in my heart, so I tried to keep my chin up and stay positive.” Settling into Chester House Primary School, adjusting to a different system and forming new friendships was tough on her. “I knew absolutely no one, so my first day was really awkward. I had to sit out of the Afrikaans class, because I’ve never learnt it!” Through all this upheaval, Tatum kept her head up, her work standards high and put her best foot forward. She excelled academically, immersed herself in cultural activities and of course sport. “I made friends through sports.” explained Tatum. A natural, allround good sportswoman, Tatum joined Durbanville hockey club, as well as playing for her school. She added swimming and tennis to her school sports for Summer, started surfing and even joined Clifton life saving team, taking part in nipper tests and regular ocean swims. “I see sport as a way of being social, and having fun!” says Tatum, “When I lived in London, I also did gymnastics and dancing. So I really think that sport CONTENTS TAKE ACTION