CELEB Q & A
CAN YOU SHARE A SETBACK THAT LATER PROVED ESSENTIAL?
I went through a very public and prolonged media and legal battle linked to a charity associated with Mrs South Africa. It lasted years, drained enormous emotional energy, consumed time and cost millions. At the time, I felt angry at the injustice, because the intention behind the charity was genuinely to do good. But I learnt it was essential to deal with
CINDY’ S FAVOURITE PHRASE:
“ Walk and talk – let’ s move.”
HAS TRAVEL EVER MARKED A TURNING POINT EMOTIONALLY OR CREATIVELY?
Moving to Australia created one of the biggest personal shifts of my life. Leaving South Africa made me realise just how deeply African I am. Only when you leave home do you fully understand the cultural rhythms that shaped you. it and grow from challenges regardless how big, small, or even bizarre.
WHAT SHOULD WOMEN UNDERSTAND ABOUT REINVENTION?
Reinvention is slow. Very slow at first. It starts small – but if you stay consistent, it gains momentum.
WHICH CAREER TRANSITION FELT MOST DESTABILISING?
My entire adult life has unfolded publicly – from Miss South Africa 24 years ago, to more than 10 television shows, to entrepreneurship, marriage, motherhood, and reinvention.
The failures shaped me. The successes kept me going.
I am more proudly South African now than ever before. I will always return, always keep homes there, and always spend time there. It’ s one of the greatest countries in the world.
HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH TRAVEL CHANGED OVER TIME?
I now travel intentionally in different ways. I take one solo trip every year – usually a meditation, yoga, or silent retreat. Those trips have been some of the most life-changing experiences of my life.
Girls’ trips with close friends are essential. Couples’ getaways with my husband are deeply special. And family holidays are wonderfully chaotic adventures.
Living between Australia and South Africa, I see myself as a global citizen now. IB
18 INBOUND SA / APRIL 2026